Abstract
- Biofilms are composed of populations of microorganisms consisting of single or multiple species which are surface-attached. In many bacteria surface structures such as pili, flagella, fimbriae, outer membrane proteins (OMPs) and exopolysaccharides (EPS) mediate adherence to surfaces and biofilm formation. In this study we aim to adapt and optimize a common bacterial biofilm assay for use with the model organism Flavobacterium johnsoniae [1]. This organism exhibits gliding motility over various surfaces and we wish to determine the role of surface-associated proteins in adherence and biofilm formation. Since this assay has not previously been conducted in Dr. Rhodes’ lab, we are requesting $292.85 towards the purchase of microtiter plates needed for assay development and optimization.