Prickly Protein (IMAGE)
Caption
Images taken with a scanning electron microscope show wild-type bacteria (left) forming tight aggregates or clumps in the presence of blood proteins. In contrast, cells of the mutant strain (right) over produce a giant surface protein, have a spiky appearance, and do not clump tightly together. This clumping defect makes the mutant strain less deadly in an experimental model of the serious staph infection, endocarditis.
Credit
Alexander Horswill, University of Iowa
Usage Restrictions
Image may be used with appropriate credit for non-commercial or educational purposes.
License
Licensed content