Growth of gram-negative bacteria in a simulated ocular environment.
OBJECTIVE
Gram-negative bacteria are major pathogens in the ocular environment, especially when contact lenses are worn. The source of many of these organisms, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, is thought to be environmental.


METHODS
A defined medium is described here that resembles both tear fluid and the environment they are derived from.


RESULTS
Gram-negative ocular bacteria were found to grow successfully in this medium. Bactericidal tear proteins were added to this medium and pathogenic strains were not only able to resist their effects but were able to use them for growth.


CONCLUSIONS
Utilization of tear proteins for growth may be an important virulence factor of pathogenic bacteria in the ocular environment.
Cowell
B A
BA
Cooperative Research Centre for Eye Research and Technology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
Willcox
M D
MD
Schneider
R P
RP
D005136:Eye Proteins / Q000494:pharmacology*; D006090:Gram-Negative Bacteria / Q000187:drug effects / Q000254:growth & development*; D006801:Humans; D007781:Lactoferrin / Q000494:pharmacology; D009113:Muramidase / Q000494:pharmacology; D009883:Ophthalmic Solutions / Q000494:pharmacology*; D013666:Tears
D005136:Eye Proteins; D009883:Ophthalmic Solutions; C042434:tear proteins; D009113:Muramidase; D007781:Lactoferrin