Mechanomicrobiology: How Mechanical Forces Activate Staphylococcus aureus Adhesion

During colonization of biomaterials and host tissues, surface-attached bacteria are subjected to mechanical stresses, including hydrodynamic flow and cell-surface contacts. Two publications show that mechanical force activates the adhesive function of Staphylococcus aureus surface proteins, thereby providing the pathogen with a means to withstand high shear stress during colonization. During colonization of biomaterials and host tissues, surface-attached bacteria are subjected to mechanical stresses, including hydrodynamic flow and cell-surface contacts. Two publications show that mechanical force activates the adhesive function of Staphylococcus aureus surface proteins, thereby providing the pathogen with a means to withstand high shear stress during colonization.