Virulence phenotype, physicochemical properties, and biofilm formation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa on polyethylene used in drinking water distribution systems

Potable water piping has been demonstrated to serve as a reservoir for opportunistic pathogens bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In this report, we describe the characterization of P. aeruginosa strains isolated from water intended for human consumption by the presence of virulence factors. These strains expressed their suitability for adhesion and the formation of biofilms on polyethylene (PE). Also in this work, we were able to elucidate the factors intervening in adhesion and biofilm formation by showing the role of the substrate, the environment and bacteria. Strong correlation was observed between physicochemical properties especially the electron donor property and the surface percentage covered by cells. These results indicate that this property plays a crucial role in Pseudomonas aeruginosa adherence on the PE surface. In addition, if no relationship was found between the adhesion results and hydrophobicity, it means that this property was not involved in the adhesion process of Pseudomonas aeruginosa on the PE surface.