Physics and Astronomy Publications
Waveguide Evanescent Field Scattering Microscopy: Bacterial Biofilms and their Sterilization Response via UV Irradiation
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2013
Journal
Journal of Biophotonics
Volume
7
Issue
7
First Page
542
Last Page
551
URL with Digital Object Identifier
https://doi.org/10.1002/jbio.201300135
Abstract
Waveguide Evanescent Field Scattering (WEFS) microscopy is introduced as a new and simple tool for label-free, high contrast imaging of bacteria and bacteria sensors. Bacterial microcolonies and single bacteria were discriminated both by their bright field images and by their evanescent scattering intensity. By comparing bright field images with WEFS images, the proportion of planktonic: sessile (i.e., ‘floating’: attached) bacteria were measured. Bacteria were irradiated with UV light, which limited their biofilm forming capability. A quantitative decrease in attachment of individual, sessile bacteria and in attached, microcolony occupied areas was easily determined within the apparent biofilms with increasing UV dose. WEFS microscopy is an ideal tool for providing rapid quantitative data on biofilm formation.
