Leading university research lab uses Zygo™ Optical Profilers for faster and more detailed insights into biofilm.
Image Credit: Kateryna Kon/Shutterstock.com
A leading university research lab studied bacterial biofilms to gain insights into their behavior and growth processes. Accurate biofilm measurement is essential for the lab’s work, yet the complexity and variability of biofilms pose unique challenges for conventional imaging tools.
The researchers utilized optical profiling instruments to capture high-resolution, three-dimensional images of biofilm structures. However, the process was slowed by labor-intensive sample preparation, lengthy imaging times, and computationally demanding data processing.
These challenges extended acquisition times, making timely and reproducible biofilm characterization difficult—an essential aspect of the lab’s ongoing studies.
At the same time, researchers were exploring higher-resolution imaging to better analyze the fine structures of biofilms. Given that biofilms are dynamic, there was strong interest in imaging techniques that could capture time-lapse images of bacteria during their early growth and division phases.
The research team also investigated the profiling of dynamic biofilm development, targeting specific bacterial strains such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus epidermidis, which are particularly relevant in the context of antibiotic resistance.
Coherence scanning interferometry for biofilms produces images with a larger field of view and lower measurement noise in real time. Image Credit: Zygo Corporation
With these objectives in mind, the team aimed to identify a microscopy solution that would streamline and accelerate data capture and analysis while offering higher-resolution images and real-time measurements.
The team uncovered Zygo’s coherence scanning interferometry (CSI) features outlined in the study ‘Vertical growth dynamics of biofilms’ (PNAS, 2022), where the ZeGage Optical Profiler delivered measurements with surface topography noise at sub-nanometer levels.
They discovered that the ZeGage Optical Profiler offers a revolutionary CSI solution, delivering high-resolution, non-contact measurements that maintain the integrity of biofilms while quickly providing detailed data on thickness, roughness, and structural variations.
This profiler facilitates non-destructive imaging, producing high-resolution 3D topographic images of biofilms without harming or disturbing the samples. Additionally, its capability to take measurements at various time intervals allows researchers to examine biofilms in their natural conditions and track changes over time.
Image Credit: Zygo Corporation
ZeGage provides high-resolution, non-contact measurements that preserve biofilm integrity while delivering rapid, comprehensive data on thickness, roughness, and structural changes. Image Credit: Zygo Corporation
The ZeGage Optical Profiler utilizes low-coherence interference patterns to achieve surface profile measurements with nanometer accuracy, making it well-suited for capturing the intricate topography of biofilms. It scans the entire surface area simultaneously, delivering results in a fraction of the time required by other optical profilometry methods. Thus, it provides a more thorough view of the biofilm’s structure with a larger field of view while minimizing noise.
The findings showed improved accuracy in imaging biofilm heterogeneity, as confirmed by comparative topographic studies where CSI surpassed tactile profilometers and AFM in terms of biofilm integrity and coverage.
This multi-point simultaneous scanning method is particularly advantageous for assessing heterogeneous biofilms that can exhibit significant variations across their surfaces.
Moreover, the compact, benchtop design of the ZeGage Optical Profiler provides both greater cost-effectiveness and accessibility for a wide range of laboratories. Minimal training is required, so labs are provided with accurate, repeatable measurements without the need for highly specialized personnel.
ZeGage offers high-resolution, non-contact measurements that maintain the integrity of biofilm while quickly providing detailed data on thickness, roughness, and structural changes.
Ultimately, the lab concluded that the ZeGage Optical Profiler presents researchers with a superior, user-friendly solution for biofilm measurement that would address the team’s challenges.
Image Credit: Zygo Corporation
This information has been sourced, reviewed and adapted from materials provided by Zygo Corporation.
For more information on this source, please visit Zygo Corporation.