Function of pYV Plasmid on Biofilm Formation of Yersinia enterocolitica ERL032123 in the Presence of Ca2þ

Abstract

The effect of the virulence plasmid pYV and calcium ions on biofilm of Yersinia enterocolitica biofilm formation was determined using a microtiter plate assay. Loss of the pYV plasmid prevented biofilm formation and the presence of Ca2þ enhanced biofilm formation in cultures containing the pYV plasmid. Scanning electron microscopy supported the result from the microtiter plate assay showing that in the presence of Ca2þ, the wild-type Y. enterocolitica strain formed a strong biofilm on a polycarbonate surface. The results implied that Ca2þ promotes Y. enterocolitica biofilm formation through the function of the pYV plasmid.