Magnetically-induced elimination of Staphylococcus aureus by magnetotactic bacteria under a swing magnetic field

Magnetosome chain with intrinsic magnetic moment is located within magnetotactic bacteria MO-1. Upon applying a swing magnetic field, magnetic torque was exerted on magnetotactic bacteria MO-1. Then MO-1 cells swung along with the swing magnetic field. Upon conjugation with S. aureus, MO-1 cells possibly generated a mechanical force, which damaged S. aureus and caused their death. When used in vivo, the method can improve the healing of S. aureus-infected wound. The therapeutic method, which uses factors other than temperature, such as mechanical force, are probably favorable for clinical applications.162