Structural investigation of the Candida albicans/Staphylococcus aureus dual biofilm by Mesolens 3D imaging

This body of work proposes to use the Mesolens system to study formation dynamics and cellular interactions within a dual species biofilm of Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus. A source of Healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs), these two-common skin organisms are opportunistic pathogens and are routinely identified both separately and together in infection. This study will begin with baseline structural analyses of single species biofilms prior to study of the dual species wild type biofilm, and will also investigate the impact of quorum sensing modulation and that of biofilm defective mutants on structural organisation.
HCAIs are endemic throughout hospitals worldwide and are recognised by the WHO as a serious global issue. With the continuing emergence of antimicrobial resistance in these infections, it is imperative to develop novel therapeutic strategies. To help address this growing problem, this work seeks to further structural understanding of the C.albicans and S.aureus dual species biofilm, with the long-term view of developing potential treatments.