In order to test the effect of binding between CsgA-Histag mutant and inorganic nanoparticles, we apply same amount of suspended QDs solution into M63 medium which has cultured biofilm for 72h. After 1h incubation, we used PBS to mildly wash the well, and the result was consistent with our anticipation: On the left, CsgA-Histag mutant were induced and thus secreted biofilm, and firmly attached with QDS and thus show bright fluorescence. Therefore, we ensure the stable coordinate bonds between CsgA-Histag mutant and QDs can manage to prevent QDs from being taken away by liquid flow. The picture was snapped by ChemiDoc MP,BioRad, false colored.
In order to prove the effect of binding between CsgA-Histag mutant and inorganic nanoparticles is distinct, we apply same amount of suspended CdSeS/ZnS QDs solution followed by the same procedure mentioned above. After 1h incubation, we used PBS washing 2 times. The picture verify out postulation: On the left, CsgA-Histag mutant were induced and its biofilm bind with QDS. CsgA biofilm cannot bind with QDs thus its red fluorescence is a lot weaker.
As for biofilm characterization, transmission electron microscopy is frequently to be used to visualize the nanofiber network. However, we found it really difficult to find out whether biofilm is well self-assemble extracellularly due to its thin and inconspicuous attributes against the background. Amazingly, after incubation with CdS nanorods , the biofilm areas are densely templated by CdS nanorods and we can easily confirm the expression of biofilm.