A Bacterial Infection Assay for Studying Anaerobic Bacteria-Host Cell Interactions

Abstract

Source: Wunsch, C. M., et al. Porphyromonas gingivalis as a Model Organism for Assessing Interaction of Anaerobic Bacteria with Host Cells. J. Vis. Exp. (2015)

This video demonstrates a technique for assessing the ability of Porphyromonas gingivalis, an anaerobic pathogenic bacterium, to adhere to and invade human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). After infecting the host cells with the bacteria, the host cells are lysed to release both adhered and internalized bacteria. When the lysate is plated in an appropriate medium, the presence of colonies indicates successful bacteria-host cell interactions.

Protocol

The following protocols will describe methods for culturing and studying the invasion by the anaerobic species, P. gingivalis; however, these protocols may be used for a number of anaerobic pathogens. Although HUVECs are used, this protocol may be used for other eukaryotic cells both immune and non-immune. 1. Anaerobic Chamber Use and Maintenance Note: P. gingivalis is an anaerobe sensitive to normal levels …

Representative Results

Figure 1. Anaerobic vinyl chamber and its components. (A) A vinyl anaerobic chamber sealed completely from atmospheric oxygen provides workspace for two individuals at a time (32 in x 78 in). It contains an incubator set at 37 °C (back middle). (B) An airlock is used for the transfer of items from the lab environment to the anaerobic chamber. Pictured is an …

Materials

Vinyl Anaerobic Chamber-Type B	Coy Laboratory Products		Model 2000 incubator
TSA II Trypticase Soy Agar w/5% Sheep Blood	BBL	221261
Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells 10-donor Pool	LifeLine Technology	FC-0044
VascuLife VEGF Medium Complete Kit	LifeLine Technology	LL-0003
TrypKit	LifeLine	LL-0013
Saponin	Riedel-de Haen	16109