Comparison and evaluation of immobilization methods for preparing bacterial probes using acidophilic bioleaching bacteria Acidithiobacillus thiooxidans for AFM studies

J Microbiol Methods. 2014 Jul:102:12-4. doi: 10.1016/j.mimet.2014.04.004. Epub 2014 Apr 24.

Abstract

We evaluated different strategies for constructing bacterial probes for atomic force microscopy studies of bioleaching Acidithiobacillus thiooxidans interacting with pyrite mineral surfaces. Of three available techniques, the bacterial colloidal probe technique is the most reliable and provides a versatile platform for quantifying true interactive forces between bioleaching microorganisms and mineral surfaces.

Keywords: Acidithiobacillus thiooxidans; Adhesion; Atomic force microscopy; Bacterial probe; Immobilization; Pyrite.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Evaluation Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Acidithiobacillus thiooxidans / physiology*
  • Acidithiobacillus thiooxidans / ultrastructure*
  • Bacterial Adhesion*
  • Microbiological Techniques / methods*
  • Microscopy, Atomic Force / methods*
  • Minerals / metabolism
  • Surface Properties

Substances

  • Minerals