Biofilm formation by Mycoplasma fermentans on intrauterine devices

Antonio Rivera^1*, Lilia Cedillo¹, Silvia Giono² and Nadia Rodriguez³

¹Microbiological Research Center, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla. México.

²Bacteriology Laboratory, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, México, D.F.

³Tropical Medicine Institute Pedro Kouri, Habana-Cuba.

*Corresponding author. E-mail: jart70@yahoo.com.  Tel. (011 52) 222 2 29 55 00, Ext. 2545.

Accepted 03 June, 2009

   Abstract

Microbial biofilm are communities of sessile microorganisms formed by cells that are attached irreversibly to a substratum or interface or to each other and embedded in hydrated matrix of extracellular polymeric substances. Bacterial biofilm formation on intrauterine devices is a very important event in the pathogenesis and evolution of infections associated with the use of these medical devices. Mycoplasmas are typical surface parasites colonizing the mucous membranes of animals and man. Efficient adherence mechanisms are therefore a prerequisite for survival and, in some species, for pathogenicity. The purpose of this study was to examine biofilm formation by Mycoplasma fermentans on intrauterine devices. Intrauterine devices were placed in M. fermentans cultures during 72 h. Mycoplasmas were analyzed for biofilm formation and cell counts compared for both biofilm and planktonic cells. The examination was carried with stereoscopic and scanning electron microscope. Crystal violet staining and scanning electron microscopic analysis of intrauterine devices indicated that M. fermentans formed a biofilm. This study might allow for clearer understanding of the rate of biofilm formation and the importance of different materials, contaminating organisms, and treatments which could control the process.

Key words: Adherence, biofilm, Mycoplasma fermentans, intrauterine devices.