Microscope picture of a dual fluorescent E. coli biofilm: location of the bacteria (red) and expression of selected biofilm related genes (green)
Source: BAM
Microorganisms are often found in environments with fluid flow, and when they adhere to surfaces in industrial or clinical settings, they can cause a range of issues. These can include pipe blockages, corrosion, degradation of materials, food spoilage, and even potential health risks. To address these challenges, we need to better understand how biofilms form under controlled conditions. In this article, we present a novel microfluidic platform designed to study the development of biofilms, offering precise control over critical factors such as temperature, biochemical parameters, and flow. In contrast to conventional static assays or large-scale flow chambers, this platform utilizes a single-channel microfluidic flow cell, ensuring more consistent and uniform flow. The integration of microstructures capable of capturing bacteria enables the real-time observation of biofilm formation under diverse flow conditions, thereby enhancing environmental control and reducing the requirement for excessive reagents. Furthermore, the employment of flow simulations and fluorescent particle tracking to analyze bacterial movement facilitates the acquisition of precise data on flow velocity and direction at the microscale level. The incorporation of microtraps within the channel has been shown to generate localized micro-vortices, which in turn facilitate the capture of bacteria in specific areas, thereby offering insights into the way hydrodynamics impacts biofilm formation. In comparison with alternative methods, this approach provides a superior degree of control over spatial dynamics and facilitates a more detailed analysis of biofilm behavior. This enhanced understanding of biofilm formation has the potential to result in the development of more effective antimicrobial strategies, such as the creation of improved surface coatings and material modifications. Subsequent advancements may encompass the incorporation of patterned surfaces, automated imaging, and real-time chemical sensing, thereby enhancing the platform's value for studying biofilm resilience, antimicrobial resistance, and the interactions between biofilms and diverse materials.
Microfluidic Platform with Precisely Controlled Hydrodynamic Parameters and Integrated Features for Generation of Microvortices to Accurately Form and Monitor Biofilms in Flow
Keqing Wen, Anna A. Gorbushina, Karin Schwibbert, Jérémy Bell
ACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering, 2024, 10, 7, 4626–4634