Confocal Imaging of Bacterial Biofilms Induced by Sputum Filtrates from Cystic Fibrosis Patients

Source: Beaudoin, T., et al. Visualizing the Effects of Sputum on Biofilm Development Using a Chambered Coverglass Model. J. Vis. Exp. (2016)This video demonstrates an in vitro method to assess how patient-derived cystic fibrosis sputum influences bacterial biofilm formation. Using chamber slides, fluorescent staining, and confocal microscopy, it reveals increased thickness, altered architecture, and higher viable biomass in biofilms grown with sputum, highlighting the role of host components in shaping biofilm development.