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Role of electrostatic interactions in cohesion of bacterial biofilms

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Abstract.

Significant decreases in the apparent viscosity of a bacterial biofilm suspension were measured following addition of sodium, potassium, magnesium, or calcium salts, whereas iron salts increased the viscosity. Electrostatic interactions contribute to biofilm cohesion and iron cations are potent crosslinkers of the biofilm matrix.

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Author notes

  1. X. Chen

    Present address: SuperSolutions, Eden Prairie, Minn., USA, USA

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Center for Biofilm Engineering and Department of Chemical Engineering, Montana State University – Bozeman, Bozeman, Montana 59717-3980, USA, USA

    X. Chen & P. S. Stewart

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  1. X. Chen
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  2. P. S. Stewart
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Correspondence to P. S. Stewart.

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Chen, X., Stewart, P.S. Role of electrostatic interactions in cohesion of bacterial biofilms. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 59, 718–720 (2002). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00253-002-1044-2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00253-002-1044-2

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