Microbial surface component recognizing adhesive matrix molecules (MSCRAMMs) allow Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) to specifically bind fibrinogen and thus directly influence later biofilm formation and implant-associated infections. Despite significant work on understanding MSCRAMM-mediated binding of S. aureus, knowledge about the influence of MSCRAMMs on bacterial detachment under conditions of micromotion and the level of forces needed for detachment is lacking.  Herein, we employed an atomic force microscope to assess the adhesion strength via lateral force detachment studies of bacteria on fibrinogen-coated surfaces. The adhesion strength of bacteria mutants deficient in particular MSCRAMMs were also studied to determine the contribution of specific fibrinogen binding MSCRAMMs on binding strength under conditions of micromotion.  The technique developed herein can be used to determine the effectiveness of MSCRAMM-based therapies at treating device-associated infections.

Atomic force microscopy measurements of MSCRAMM-mediated resistance to bacterial detachment

244th National Meeting (2012)

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