Modern methods in microscopy for the assessment of biofilms

Abstract

Scientific imaging technique is important for the analysis and understanding of complex natural systems. A biofilm comprises any group of microorganisms which cells stick to each other and often also to a surface. It is pandemic integrated important scenario executed by microorganisms to sustain in occasionally coarse environmental conditions. It is bacterial colonies adhered to a surface and fixed in an outer polymeric substance which provides for the protection, strength, and nutrients of the various bacterial species inherited. A few techniques have been currently used for biofilm studies that have committed to broad knowledge on biofilm structure and composition. Another microscopic technique such as light and electron microscopy and new latest techniques have been enclosed using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), focused ion beam SEM, Fluorescent microscopy, high-frequency acoustic microscopy, and atomic force microscopy. In this chapter, immersed by discriminating aspects emphasizes the advantages and obstructions of several methods. Other imaging methods have been used to identify biofilm biomass and cell viability. That is why we explain different microscopy methods, including their advantages and disadvantages. This chapter summarized the more novel applications with the purpose to encourage research and new microscopic techniques in microbiology.