title: Visualization of adherent micro-organisms using different techniques.
abstract: The visualization and quantification of adherent bacteria is still one of the most relevant topics in microbiology. Besides electron microscopic techniques such as transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and environmental scanning electron microscopy, modern fluorescence microscopic approaches based on fluorogenic dyes offer detailed insight into bacterial biofilms. The aim of the present review was to provide an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of different methods for visualization of adherent bacteria with a special focus on the experiences gained in dental research.
authors.affiliation: Department of Operative Dentistry and Periodontology, University of Freiburg, Hugstetter Str. 55, D-79106 Freiburg, Germany.
authors.forename: Christian
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Hannig
authors.affiliation: Department of Hematology and Oncology, Core Facility, Albert-Ludwig University, Freiburg, Germany.
authors.forename: Marie
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Follo
authors.affiliation: Department of Operative Dentistry and Periodontology, University of Freiburg, Hugstetter Str. 55, D-79106 Freiburg, Germany.
authors.forename: Elmar
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Hellwig
authors.affiliation: Department of Operative Dentistry and Periodontology, University of Freiburg, Hugstetter Str. 55, D-79106 Freiburg, Germany.
authors.forename: Ali
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Al-Ahmad
mesh_terms: D001419:Bacteria / Q000166:cytology*; D001422:Bacterial Adhesion / Q000502:physiology*; D018441:Biofilms / Q000254:growth & development