Objective
Determine the functions of the identified genes and of known AMR genes with regard to adhesion strength and whole biofilm biophysical properties, including transport of antimicrobials in biofilms.
The growth of microorganisms on surfaces is greatly influenced by surface properties and cellular properties including adhesion forces and mechanisms. In turn, we hypothesize that the physico-chemical properties of antimicrobial surfaces influence the development of antimicrobial resistance. Our research will focus on adhesion force measurements of antibiotic resistant and non-resistant bacterial strains on surfaces with different physico-chemical surface properties as well as biofilm formation and eradication by combining the effect of antibiotics and antimicrobials.
Schematic representation of a microfluidic device with different inlets for growth media, antibiotics, and bacteria to allow in-depth study of biofilm formation (a). Mechanics of an Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) cantilever for the measurement of bacterial adhesion on surfaces. The adhesion of the bacterium between the AFM tip and the surface causes a deflection of the cantilever upon approaching and retrieving which is related to the intensity of the adhesion force of the bacterium (b). Source: University Medical Center Groningen