title: Advanced techniques for in situ analysis of the biofilm matrix (structure, composition, dynamics) by means of laser scanning microscopy.
abstract: The extracellular constituents in bioaggregates and biofilms can be imaged four dimensionally by using laser scanning microscopy. In this protocol we provide guidance on how to examine the various extracellular compartments in between microbial cells and communities associated with interfaces. The current options for fluorescence staining of matrix compounds and extracellular microhabitats are presented. Furthermore, practical aspects are discussed and useful notes are added. The chapter ends with a brief introduction to other approaches for EPS analysis and an outlook for future needs.
authors.affiliation: UFZ, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, Brueckstrasse 3A, 39114, Magdeburg, Germany, thomas.neu@ufz.de.
authors.forename: Thomas R
authors.initials: TR
authors.lastname: Neu
authors.forename: John R
authors.initials: JR
authors.lastname: Lawrence
mesh_terms: D018407:Bacterial Physiological Phenomena; D001431:Bacteriological Techniques; D018441:Biofilms; D005109:Extracellular Matrix / Q000737:chemistry*; D018613:Microscopy, Confocal