Confusion over live/dead stainings for the detection of vital microorganisms in oral biofilms - which stain is suitable?

摘要

BackgroundThere is confusion over the definition of the term “viability state(s)” of microorganisms. “Viability staining” or “vital staining techniques” are used to distinguish live from dead bacteria. These stainings, first established on planctonic bacteria, may have serious shortcomings when applied to multispecies biofilms. Results of staining techniques should be compared with appropriate microbiological data.