Stress conditions in the host induce persister cells and influence biofilm formation by Staphylococcus epidermidis RP62A

• Main Authors: Rafael Ovando Fraiha, Ana Paula Ramos Pereira, Eliana da Costa Alvarenga Brito, Clayton Luiz Borges, Ana Flávia Alves Parente, Renata Trentin Perdomo, Maria Ligia Rodrigues Macedo, Simone Schneider Weber
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Sociedade Brasileira de Medicina Tropical (SBMT) 2019-02-01
• Series: Revista da Sociedade Brasileira de Medicina Tropical
• Subjects: Persistence; Starvation; Virulence
• Online Access: http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0037-86822019000100608&lng=en&tlng=en

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Studies have demonstrated that pathogens react to the harsh conditions in human tissues by inducing mechanisms that promote survival. METHODS: Persistence and biofilm-forming ability were evaluated during stress conditions that mimic those in the host. RESULTS: Carbon-source availability had a positive effect on Staphylococcus epidermidis RP62A adhesion during hypoxia, accompanied by a decrease in pH. In contrast, iron limitation led to decreased surface-adherent biomass, accompanied by an increase medium acidification and lactate levels. Interestingly, iron starvation and hypoxia induced persister cells in planktonic culture. CONCLUSIONS: These findings highlight the role of host stress in the virulence of S. epidermidis.