Multi-omics technology in detection of multispecies biofilm

Abstract

Multispecies biofilms are complex communities of microbial cells, and their medicinal and ecological significance are quite difficult to understand since they mostly have high antimicrobial resistance compared to mono-species biofilms. The therapeutic strategies for pathogenic microorganisms became complicated due to the their morphogenic shift from a planktonic to a biofilm phenotype, resistant to antibiotics, dehydration, biocides, UV radiation, and host immunological reactions. The condition is further aggravated with the participation of microbes belonging to various species. The genetic exchange that occurs is still under scientific consideration. Recent studies attempt in the understanding and discovery of its complex interactions within the biofilm layer with the use of omics technology, whereby extensive attempts are being made to reconnoitre the unexplored domain of biofilm biology at the molecular level. Transcriptomics may be used as a tool for initial detection of the components of a multispecies biofilm and the antibiotic resistance rendered by them. In depth analysis of biofilm matrix and their clinical features can be accomplished by the proteomic-study, whereas metabolomic study brings a holistic approach to study the physiological and functional attributes of the multispecies biofilm. However, BiofOmics, the unique computational approach is now being used for systematic compilation, computation and analysis of all available data obtained from biofilm research. Hence, The high throughput analysis with multi-omics technology is the only option left for the critical study of polys-species biofilm to determine their eradicating measures, essential not only for health and therapeutic contexts, but also for industrial and environmental aspects.