Differential binding of biofilm-derived and suspension-grown Staphylococcus aureus to immobilized platelets in shear flow.

Background: The adhesion of Staphylococcus aureus to platelets is a critical first step in endovascular infection. S. aureus is known to form biofilms and detached cells are likely responsible for initiating bloodborne secondary infections.

Differential kinetics and molecular recognition mechanisms involved in early versus late growth phase Staphylococcus aureus cell binding to platelet layers under physiological shear conditions.

Background: Staphylococcus aureus adhesion to platelets via microbial surface components recognizing adhesive matrix molecules (MSCRAMMs) is a critical first step in vascular infection. The molecular mechanisms governing adhesion are influenced by the repertoire of MSCRAMMs expressed on the bacterial surface and the fluid mechanical shear rates present in the vasculature. We compared the predominant adhesion mechanisms between early and late growth phase S.