Bacillus subtilis Bacteria Generate an Internal Mechanical Force within a Biofilm.

ABSTRACT: A key issue in understanding why biofilms are the most prevalent mode of bacterial life is the origin of the degree of resistance and protection that bacteria gain from self-organizing into biofilm communities. Our experiments suggest that their mechanical properties are a key factor. Experiments on pellicles, or floating biofilms, of Bacillus subtilis showed that while they are multiplying and secreting extracellular substances, bacteria create an internal force (associated with a -80±25 Pa stress) within the biofilms, similar to the forces that self-equilibrate and strengthen plants, organs, and some engineered buildings. Here, we found that this force, or stress, is associated with growth-induced pressure. Our observations indicate that due to such forces, biofilms spread after any cut

SUBMITTER: Douarche C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4656877 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature