Investigação da Formação de Biofilmes in vitro pela Linhagem Acidobacteria AB23

Abstract

Biofilms are microbial aggregates enveloped in a primarily polysaccharide matrix, synthesized by one or more members of that biofilm. Pseudomonas and Staphylococcus species are known biofilm producers; however, newly discovered or less studied bacterial groups lack demonstrated biofilm-forming capabilities. Among them is the phylum Acidobacteriota, which are common soil bacteria but have few isolates in culture. The overall objective of this study was to explore the in vitro production of biofilms in the AB23 strain of Acidobacteriota. Qualitative and quantitative methods related to the production of extracellular structures associated with biofilm formation were performed, including capsule staining, Congo Red Agar (CRA), and the crystal violet assay in microtiter plates. The results demonstrated the presence of a capsule in the AB23 bacterial strain. Additionally, biofilm formation was observed in the control group: Staphylococcus epidermidis. The AB23 strain did not show growth in BHI medium, even at a more acidic pH. Assays confirmed the growth of the AB23 strain in VL-55 medium at pH 6.5, containing Congo red, showing a color change suggestive of biofilm formation. Finally, the data obtained through the microtiter plate method corroborate the previous data, suggesting the capacity of the AB23 strain to produce biofilms. This set of results suggests the capacity of the AB23 strain to form biofilms in vitro. Considering future prospects for this strain, a possible application in the area of bioremediation is envisioned.