The Use of Atomic Force Microscopy for Cytomorphological Analysis of Bacterial Infection Agents

Abstract

Cytomorphological signs of bacterial infection agents were studied by atomic force microscopy. Analysis of the elastic mechanical characteristics of Staphylococcus spp. from the skin of patients with chronic dermatoses showed lower elasticity of S. aureus cell membrane in comparison with that of transitory flora representatives. Significant differences in characteristics of cell membrane relief and presence of fimA pathogenicity factor were detected in E. coli isolated from the reproductive tract mucosa of clinically healthy women and patients with inflammatory urogenital infections.