Advanced Imaging Technique Revolutionizes Bacterial Biofilm Research

Scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have pioneered an innovative imaging technique that enhances atomic force microscopy (AFM) capabilities, enabling comprehensive visualization of bacterial biofilms. Traditionally, AFM, known as a 'touching microscope,' provides nanoscale surface detail but is limited by its small field of view. The new automated large-area AFM system overcomes this barrier by capturing both intricate cellular structures and broader biofilm architectures in a single scan. Focusing on bacterial communities that form resilient biofilms on various surfaces, researchers demonstrated that this technology reveals large-scale organization patterns previously unobservable. These insights are crucial for developing strategies to combat infections, prevent equipment fouling, and manage environmental ecosystems. The team integrated machine learning algorithms to analyze massive datasets efficiently, mapping over 19,000 individual bacteria to uncover honeycomb-like arrangements interconnected by flagella—hair-like structures assisting in attachment and growth. This approach also tested engineered nanoscale surface patterns that hinder biofilm development, opening pa...