A Rapid Image-Based Assay for Screening Surface-Induced Bacterial Virulence

Key Points

• To develop a quick method for assessing bacterial virulence using amoebae as hosts.
• Infected amoebae were incubated with surface-attached or planktonic bacteria.
• Calcein-acetoxymethyl ester was applied to detect host cell damage.
• Fluorescence imaging was utilized to assess the extent of damage.
• The assay successfully demonstrated differences in virulence based on bacterial type.
• Fluorescence imaging indicated significant host cell damage for certain bacteria.