Fabrication of Microstructured Surface Topologies for the Promotion of Marine Bacteria Biofilm

Abstract

Several marine bacteria of the Roseobacter group can inhibit other microorganisms and are especially antagonistic when growing in biofilms. This aptitude to naturally compete with other bacteria can reduce the need for antibiotics in large-scale aquaculture units, provided that their culture can be promoted and controlled. Micropatterned surfaces may facilitate and promote the biofilm formation of species from the Roseobacter group, due to the increased contact between the cells and the surface material. Our research goal is to fabricate biofilm-optimal micropatterned surfaces and investigate the relevant length scales for surface topographies that can promote the growth and biofilm formation of the Roseobacter group of bacteria. In a preliminary study, silicon surfaces comprising arrays of pillars and pits with different periodicities, diameters, and depths were produced by UV lithography and deep reactive ion etching (DRIE) on polished silicon wafers. The resulting surface microscale topologies were characterized via optical profilometry and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Screening of the bacterial biofilm on the patterned surfaces was performed using green fluorescent staining (SYBR green I) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Our results indicate that there is a correlation between the surface morphology and the spatial organization of the bacterial biofilm.

Biosynthesis enhancement of tropodithietic acid (TDA) antibacterial compound through biofilm formation by marine bacteria Phaeobacter inhibens on micro-structured polymer surfaces

“…As mentioned above, the outcome of a preliminary study by the authors 34 showed increased biomass growth on micro-structured Si surfaces over planar reference surfaces in batch reactors with magnetic stirring to emulate shear stress, and with no continuous supply of nutrients, but with rather weak significance levels. To rectify these shortcomings, this study was carried out in microfluidic flow cells, of the type shown in Fig.…”

“…Likewise, in a preliminary study the authors reported on Phaeobacter inhibens biolm formation in batch reactors on micro structured Si surfaces, and found that both honeycomb pillar arrays and honeycomb pit arrays showed increased biomass formation over planar reference surfaces. 34 This study aims to demonstrate TDA biosynthesis on microstructured surfaces and to explore the potential of such biosynthesis in aquaculture disease control.…”

“…Likewise, in a preliminary study the authors reported on Phaeobacter inhibens biofilm formation in batch reactors on micro structured Si surfaces, and found that both honeycomb pillar arrays and honeycomb pit arrays showed increased biomass formation over planar reference surfaces. 34 …”