A method for culturing Gram-negative skin microbiota

BMC Microbiol. 2016 Apr 6:16:60. doi: 10.1186/s12866-016-0684-9.

Abstract

Background: Commensal Gram-negative (CGN) microbiota have been identified on human skin by DNA sequencing; however, methods to reliably culture viable Gram-negative skin organisms have not been previously described.

Results: Through the use of selective antibiotics and minimal media we developed methods to culture CGN from skin swabs. We identified several previously uncharacterized CGN at the species level by optimizing growth conditions and limiting the inhibitory effects of nutrient shock, temperature, and bacterial competition, factors that may have previously limited CGN isolation from skin cultures.

Conclusions: Our protocol will permit future functional studies on the influences of CGN on skin homeostasis and disease.

Keywords: Bacteriology; Culture techniques; Microbiome; Skin.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Bacteriological Techniques / methods*
  • Culture Media
  • Gram-Negative Bacteria / growth & development*
  • Gram-Negative Bacteria / isolation & purification
  • Humans
  • Microbiota
  • Skin / microbiology*

Substances

  • Culture Media