Effects of different environmental stresses on cell surface hydrophobicity of lactobacilli, bifidobacteria and propionibacteria

Hydrophobicity is strongly species- and strain-dependent; however, some general trends were observed. Specifically, an increase in hydrophobicity was associated with higher temperatures and alkaline pH (pH 8.0), while cell aging had a detrimental effect. These findings highlight the importance of cultural conditions in influencing certain properties of functional microorganisms.