Poster Presentation 2-36

Effect of Surface Attachment on Synthesis of Bacterial Cellulose

B. R. Evans^1* and H. M. O’Neill^1,2

¹Chemical Sciences Division

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

4500N Bethel Valley Road

Oak Ridge, TN 37831-6194

Phone: (865)241-3185

Fax: (865)574-1275

E-mail: evansb@ornl.gov

²Department of Biochemistry & Molecular & Cellular Biology

University of Tennessee

Knoxville, TN 37996-0840

Gluconacetobacter spp. synthesize a pure form of hydrophilic cellulose that has several industrial specialty applications. Literature reports have concentrated on intensive investigation of static and agitated cultures with media optimized for maximal growth rates that contain high nutrient concentrations. The behavior of these bacteria on semisolid and solid surfaces and the effects of environmental stress such as low nutrient or oxygen concentration on cellulose synthesis and viability have not been specifically addressed. The species Gluconacetobacter hansenii was examined for cellulose synthesis on a range of solid supports and on different concentrations of agar media. Agar concentration was found to be directly related to contiguous cellulose pellicule formation in a manner similar to the transition to swarming behavior observed for other bacterial species. Attachment of the bacteria to solid surfaces during growth on rich and minimal media was compared. Viability during long-term storage at ambient and freezing temperatures was examined for different media compositions. The ability to modulate cellulose amount and characteristics for targeted applications provides useful tools for investigation and utilization of the cellulose-synthesizing bacteria and their enzymes.