Dual species biofilms are enhanced by metabolite cross-feeding

Enterococcus faecalis and Staphylococcus aureus are frequently co isolated from biofilm-associated infections. A new study by Ch'ng et a/. revealed that S. aureusreleased heme feeds E. faecalis respiration, augmenting E. faecalis growth and overall biofilm biomass. Their finding further supports the theory that metabolite cross feeding is a critical aspect shaping polymicrobial biofilm interactions.

Automated summary

A new study reveals that the heme released by Staphylococcus aureus can enhance the growth and biofilm biomass of Enterococcus faecalis, supporting the theory of metabolite cross feeding in shaping polymicrobial biofilm interactions.