Influence of intestinal myoelectrical activity on the growth of Escherichia coli

Intestinal bacteria, particularly those adhering to intestinal epithelial cells, are exposed to electric fields and currents generated by the muscular activity of the small intestine. This activity displays a regular pattern known as the myoelectrical migrating complex (MMC). In order to explore the possibility that these endogenous electric fields could affect bacterial growth, a digitised duodenal signal obtained via serosal electrodes from a healthy calf was recorded and then applied via platinum electrodes to Escherichia coli cultures. The culture tubes were placed within a Faraday shield, incubated at 37 degreesC with shaking, and stimulated by the electric current for 5 or 8 h. The growth of E. coli stimulated by the electric current was significantly altered compared to those of non-stimulated controls: after a period of intensive growth, inhibition of cell division was observed. This was not the case when the bacteria with Ion mutation were used. Moreover, synchronic bacterial culture could not be achieved in the presence of the MMC-related electric field. These results suggest that the myoelectrical activity of the duodenum, through action on cell membrane, can affect cell division of intestinal bacteria. Bioelectromagnetics 22:449-455, 2001. (C) 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.