A fast screening method for surface layers on Gram-positive bacteria

Citation
R. Wahl et al., A fast screening method for surface layers on Gram-positive bacteria, BIOTECH LET, 23(18), 2001, pp. 1485-1490
Citations number
27
Categorie Soggetti
Biotecnology & Applied Microbiology",Microbiology
Journal title
BIOTECHNOLOGY LETTERS
ISSN journal
01415492 → ACNP
Volume
23
Issue
18
Year of publication
2001
Pages
1485 - 1490
Database
ISI
SICI code
0141-5492(200109)23:18<1485:AFSMFS>2.0.ZU;2-P
Abstract
A two-step screening method is described to identify regularly arranged sur face layers (S layers) on Gram-positive bacterial strains. A non-destructiv e release of S-layer sheets is achieved by enzymatic hydrolysis of the unde rlying peptidoglycan using lysozyme. The existence of regular S layers is t hen directly confirmed by scanning force microscopy or transmission electro n microscopy. This method requires a minimal amount of bacterial cells and may be used as a `quick test' for demonstrating the presence of S layers.