A Winogradsky-based culture system shows an association between microbial fermentation and cystic fibrosis exacerbation.

ABSTRACT: There is a poor understanding of how the physiology of polymicrobial communities in cystic fibrosis (CF) lungs contributes to pulmonary exacerbations and lung function decline. In this study, a microbial culture system based on the principles of the Winogradsky column (WinCF system) was developed to study the physiology of CF microbes. The system used glass capillary tubes filled with artificial sputum medium to mimic a clogged airway bronchiole. Chemical indicators were added to observe microbial physiology within the tubes. Characterization of sputum samples from seven patients showed variation in pH, respiration, biofilm formation and gas production, indicating that the physiology of CF microbial communities varied among patients. Incubation of homogenized tissues from an explant CF lun

SUBMITTER: Quinn RA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4817692 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature