Abstract
Biofilm infections have gained recognition as an important therapeutic challenge in the last several decades due to their relationship with the chronicity of infectious diseases. Studies of novel therapeutic treatments targeting infections require the development and use of models to mimic the formation and characteristics of biofilms within host tissues. Due to the diversity of reported in vitro models and lack of consensus, this review aims to provide a summary of in vitro models currently used in research. In particular, we review the various reported in vitro models of Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms due to its high clinical impact in chronic wounds and in other chronic infections. We assess advances in in vitro models that incorporate relevant multispecies biofilms found in infected wounds, such as P. aeruginosa with Staphylococcus aureus, and additional elements such as mammalian cells, simulating fluids, and tissue explants in an attempt to better represent the physiological conditions found at an infection site. It is hoped this review will aid researchers in the field to make appropriate choices in their proposed studies with regards to in vitro models and methods.
Highlights
Biofilms are microbial communities that grow in aggregates and represent the predominant growth form for bacteria in nature, as compared with free-floating bacteria, known as the planktonic growth form [1]
A myriad of methods to determine susceptibility of biofilms to treatments have been developed in order to understand the minimum biofilm eliminating concentration (MBEC) [96], referred to as the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) [143]
Various assessments can be used to determine the validity of any treatment for biofilm removal or prevention including colorimetric assays, qualitative microscopic analysis, and mechanical stability tests, among others
Summary
Biofilms are microbial communities that grow in aggregates and represent the predominant growth form for bacteria in nature, as compared with free-floating bacteria, known as the planktonic growth form [1]. Most of our knowledge in clinical microbiology was built on studies of bacteria grown suspended in liquid media, which favors planktonic proliferation [2]. The first reports described sessile bacteria growing attached to a surface and within a slimy substance [4]. The slimy substance, typically described as the biofilm extracellular matrix (ECM). Extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), is the hallmark of this life form [5].
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
