Fluorescence Spectroscopy Analysis of the Bacteria-Mineral Interface: Adsorption of Lipopolysaccharides to Silica and Alumina.

We present here a quantification of the sorption process and molecular conformation involved in the attachment of bacterial cell wall lipopolysaccharides (LPSs), extracted from , to silica (SiO) and alumina (AlO) particles. We propose that interfacial forces govern the physicochemical interactions of the bacterial cell wall with minerals in the natural environment, and the molecular conformation of LPS cell wall components depends on both the local charge at the point of binding and hydrogen bonding potential. This has an effect on bacterial adaptation to the host environment through adhesion, growth, function, and ability to form biofilms.