Interaction of Persister Cells with the Host in the Wound Environment

Author: Arthur OSullivan

Field of Study: Science, Technology, Engineering, and/or Math

Program Affiliation: Marques Lab

Faculty Mentors: Cláudia Marques

Easel: 83

Timeslot: Midday

Abstract: Bacterial re-infection of post-surgical wounds is both common and debilitating. These infections are thought to be driven by the presence of bacterial persister cells. However, the behavior of these persister cells in these environments is currently unknown. Persister cells are a stochastically produced isogenic subpopulation of bacteria with a semi-dormant, non-reproducing phenotype, resulting in tolerance to antibiotics and the ability to chronically infect hosts. This project studies the behavior of Staphylococcus aureus persister cells in human serum, synovial fluid, and deep wound fluid, comparing their growth, morphology, and susceptibility to antimicrobials, using regular cells as a control. Findings from this work are expected to progress in the resolution of wound re-infections.