Influence Of Biofilm Formation Research Articles

Impacts of Biofilm Formation on the Physicochemical Properties and Toxicity of Microplastics: A Concise Review

Microplastics (MPs) are of global concern due to their slow degradation in the environment and the potential of inducing adverse effects on organisms. In aquatic ecosystems, microbes routinely colonize MPs and develop biofilms on their surfaces. Biofilms are assemblages of surface-associated microbial cells that are enclosed in an extracellular polymeric substance. Emerging evidence has suggested that the development of biofilm can alter the physicochemical properties and the pollutant adsorption capability on MPs. In this article, we review the impacts of biofilm formation on MP properties, ecotoxicity, and fate. First, we summarize the environmental factors that modulate biofilm formation, as well as the unique components of biofilm on MP. Next, we review current understanding on the influence of biofilm formation on the physical and chemical properties of MPs and discuss how these changes affect their pollutant adsorption capacity. Finally, we discuss how biofilm formation on MPs affects their ingestion by organisms and nutrient cycling in aquatic environments.

Biofilm Formation and its Association with Gram Negative Sepsis Pathogenicity

Background and objectives: Biofilm formation is an important virulence factor that protects an organism from antimicrobial agents as well as host immune effectors, thus allowing organisms to invade, survive, and cause persistent-reoccurring infection in host cells. The aim of this study was to investigate the ability of sepsis-causing gram-negative bacteria to form biofilms, evaluate the association between antibiotic resistance pattern and biofilm formation, determine the role and influence of biofilm formation on pathogenicity and clinical outcome of sepsis. Methods: A prospective study conducted from October 2020 to August 2021, non-replicated gram-negative bacteria isolates were recovered from blood samples of patients with suspected bacteremia, sepsis, and sepsis shock and identified using biochemical procedures. Antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of GNB isolates were determined using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method and interpreted using CLSI guidelines. The ability of GNB isolates to form biofilm was assessed using Congo red agar and the tissue culture plate method. Results: Of the 160 Gram-negative bacteria tested, biofilm formation was seen in 73 (45.63%) isolates. Isolates are Klebsiella pneumoniae (39.73%), Acinetobacter spp. (34.25%), Escherichia coli (23.29%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (1.37%), and other non-fermenters (1.37%). Isolates were highly resistant to cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones, and the penicillin group of antibiotics. No statistical relationship was found between resistance pattern, clinical outcome, and biofilm formation. Conclusion: In the current study, we found that 45.63% of gram-negative bacteria causing sepsis were biofilm producers. Klebsiella pneumonia isolates exhibited the highest levels of biofilm formation and antimicrobial resistance. Based on the strength of biofilm formation, most isolates were weak biofilm producers, and there was no statistical correlation between the formation of biofilms and antimicrobial resistance, indicating that the formation of biofilms was not a determining factor for resistance.

Pathogenesis and Clinical Relevance of Candida Biofilms in Vulvovaginal Candidiasis.

The ability of Candida spp. to form biofilms is crucial for its pathogenicity, and thus, it should be considered an important virulence factor in vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) and recurrent VVC (RVVC). Its ability to generate biofilms is multifactorial and is generally believed to depend on the site of infection, species and strain involved, and the microenvironment in which the infection develops. Therefore, both cell surface proteins, such as Hwp1, Als1, and Als2, and the cell wall-related protein, Sun41, play a critical role in the adhesion and virulence of the biofilm. Immunological and pharmacological approaches have identified the NLRP3 inflammasome as a crucial molecular factor contributing to host immunopathology. In this context, we have earlier shown that Candida albicans associated with hyphae-secreted aspartyl proteinases (specifically SAP4-6) contribute to the immunopathology of the disease. Transcriptome profiling has revealed that non-coding transcripts regulate protein synthesis post-transcriptionally, which is important for the growth of Candida spp. Other studies have employed RNA sequencing to identify differences in the 1,245 Candida genes involved in surface and invasive cellular metabolism regulation. In vitro systems allow the simultaneous processing of a large number of samples, making them an ideal screening technique for estimating various physicochemical parameters, testing the activity of antimicrobial agents, and analyzing genes involved in biofilm formation and regulation (in situ) in specific strains. Murine VVC models are used to study C. albicans infection, especially in trials of novel treatments and to understand the cause(s) for resistance to conventional therapeutics. This review on the clinical relevance of Candida biofilms in VVC focuses on important advances in its genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics. Moreover, recent experiments on the influence of biofilm formation on VVC or RVVC pathogenesis in laboratory animals have been discussed. A clear elucidation of one of the pathogenesis mechanisms employed by Candida biofilms in vulvovaginal candidiasis and its applications in clinical practice represents the most significant contribution of this manuscript.

Characterization of biofilm-forming capacity and resistance to sanitizers of a range of E. coli O26 pathotypes from clinical cases and cattle in Australia

BackgroundThe formation of biofilms and subsequent encasement of bacterial cells in a complex matrix can enhance resistance to antimicrobials and sterilizing agents making these organisms difficult to eradicate and control. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the capacity of 40 E. coli O26 isolates of enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC, n = 27), potential EHEC (pEHEC, n = 3), atypical enteropathogenic E. coli (aEPEC, n = 8) and non-toxigenic E. coli (NTEC, n = 2) from human and cattle sources to form biofilms on different surfaces, and determine whether extracellular matrix (ECM) components (cellulose, curli), motility, prophage insertion in mlrA and cell surface hydrophobicity could influence biofilm formation. Finally, the influence of biofilm formation on the sensitivity of isolates to quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs; Profoam, Kwiksan 22) and peracetic acid-based sanitizer (Topactive Des.) for 2 min on polystyrene plate were also evaluated.ResultsBiofilm production on one surface may not indicate biofilm formation on a different surface. Biofilm was formed by different pathotypes on polystyrene (70%), stainless steel (87.5%) and glass slides (95%), however only 50% demonstrated pellicle formation. EHEC isolates were significantly more likely to form a pellicle at the air-liquid interface and biofilms on polystyrene surface at 48 h than aEPEC. Strains that don’t produce ECM (curli or cellulose), harbor a prophage insertion in mlrA, and are non-motile have lower biofilm forming capacities than those isolates possessing combinations of these attributes. Hydrophobicity had no impact on biofilm formation. After 2 min exposure, none of the disinfectants tested were able to completely inactivate all cells within a biofilm regardless of pathotypes and the amount of biofilm formed.ConclusionPathotypes of E. coli O26 showed varying capacities to form biofilms, however, most EHEC strains had the capacity to form biofilm on all surfaces and at the air-liquid interface under the conditions used in this study. Biofilms provided a protective effect to E. coli O26 strains against the three sanitizers, previously shown to successfully control the growth of their planktonic counterparts. Whether the characteristics of biofilm forming and non-biofilm forming strains observed in this study reflect their attributes within the food and meat-processing environments is unknown. Further studies that represent the food and meat-processing environments are required.

Effects of heat shocks on biofilm formation and the influence on corrosion and scaling in a geothermal plant in the North German Basin

At geothermal plants, process failures often occur due to corrosion and scaling processes. Especially after heat extraction, sulfate reducing bacteria contribute to corrosion processes by producing reduced sulfur compounds. In biofilms containing scales such as iron sulfides, corrosion processes are enhanced. In a mobile bypass system located at the geothermal plant in Neubrandenburg (North German Basin), the influence of biofilm formation on corrosion and scaling was investigated. Short-term heat shocks were successfully tested in the bypass system in order to reduce biofilm formation and thus to diminish corrosion and scaling processes.

Biofilm vs. Planktonic Lifestyle: Consequences for Pesticide 2,4-D Metabolism by Cupriavidus necator JMP134.

The development of bacterial biofilms in natural environments may alter important functions, such as pollutant bioremediation by modifying both the degraders' physiology and/or interactions within the matrix. The present study focuses on the influence of biofilm formation on the metabolism of a pesticide, 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), by Cupriavidus necator JMP134. Pure cultures were established in a liquid medium with 2,4-D as a sole carbon source with or without sand grains for 10 days. Bacterial numbers and 2,4-D concentrations in solution were followed by spectrophotometry, the respiration rate by gas chromatography and the surface colonization by electron microscopy. In addition, isotopic techniques coupled with Fatty Acid Methyl Ester (FAME) profiling were used to determine possible metabolic changes. After only 3 days, approximately 80% of the cells were attached to the sand grains and microscopy images showed that the porous medium was totally clogged by the development of a biofilm. After 10 days, there was 25% less 2,4-D in the solution in samples with sand than in control samples. This difference was due to (1) a higher (+8%) mineralization of 2,4-D by sessile bacteria and (2) a retention (15%) of 2,4-D in the biofilm matrix. Besides, the amount of carbohydrates, presumably constituting the biofilm polysaccharides, increased by 63%. Compound-specific isotope analysis revealed that the FAME isotopic signature was less affected by the biofilm lifestyle than was the FAME composition. These results suggest that sessile bacteria differ more in their anabolism than in their catabolism compared to their planktonic counterparts. This study stresses the importance of considering interactions between microorganisms and their habitat when studying pollutant dynamics in porous media.

Influence of biofilm formation on the optical properties of novel bioactive glass-containing composites

ObjectiveBioactive glass (BAG) has been suggested as a possible additive for dental restorative materials because of its antimicrobial effect and potential for promoting apatite formation in body fluids. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of bacterial biofilm on the change of colorimetric value and translucency of novel BAG-containing composites having different initial surface roughness. MethodsComposites with 72wt% total filler load were prepared by replacing 15% of the silanized Sr glass with BAG (65 mol % Si; 4% P; 31% Ca), BAG-F (61% Si; 31% Ca; 4% P; 3% F; 1% B), or silanized silica. Light-cured discs of 2-mm thickness (n=10/group) were divided into 4 different surface roughness subgroups produced by wet polishing with 600 and then up to 1200, 2400, or 4000 grit SiC. CIE L*a*b* were measured and the color difference and translucency parameter (TP) were calculated before and after incubating in media with or without a Streptococcus mutans (UA 159) biofilm for 2 wks (no agitation). Results were analyzed using ANOVA/Tukey's test (α=0.05). ResultsAll the color differences for BAG and BAG-F composite showed significant decreases with bacterial biofilm compared to media-only. The mean TP (SD) of BAG and BAG-F composite before aging [10.0 (2.8) and 8.5 (1.4)] was higher than that of the control composite [4.9 (0.8)], while the change in TP with aging was greater compared to the control with or without bacteria. BAG-F composites with the smoothest surfaces showed a greater decrease in TP under bacterial biofilm compared to the BAG composite. SignificanceHighly polished dental composites containing bioactive glass additives may become slightly rougher and show reduced translucency when exposed to bacterial biofilms, but do not discolor any more than control composites that do not contain the BAG.

Biofilm Formation and Stainless Steel Corrosion Analysis of <i>Leptothrix discophora </i>

Bioleaching and biocorrosion are based on similar biochemical processes. Microbe-surface interaction, biofilm formation and concomitant extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) production gained increasing interest in the past decades. Nowadays it is generally accepted that biofilm formation and an accompanying formation of manganese oxides by manganese oxidizing bacteria such as Leptothrix spp. account for one type of pitting corrosion of stainless steel (SS). However, little is known about biofilm formation, EPS composition of manganese oxidizing microorganisms and their influence on microbiologically influenced corrosion. Consequently, we studied biofilm formation of Leptothrixdiscophora, the biooxidation of manganese in biofilms on floating filters as well as biofilm formation on stainless steel and the involved corrosion processes. Cells were visualized by epifluorescence (EFM) or confocal laser scanning –microscopy (CLSM). Additionally, the influence of biofilm formation and biooxidation of manganese by L. discophora on the open circuit potential (OCP) and pitting potential (Epit) of stainless steel was measured using a 3 electrode setup. L. discophora grew well in biofilms on floating filters and on SS coupons and incorporated in both conditions Mn2+ in the form of MnO2 from the bulk phase into the biofilm. OCP measurements of actively manganese-oxidizing biofilms on stainless steel showed a significant ennoblement of ≥200 mV.

Biofilm formation and extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) production by Bacillus subtilis depending on nutritional conditions in the presence of polyester film.

The influence of biofilm formation as the mode of microorganism growth on degradation of synthetic polymers represents an important research topic. This study focuses on the effect of biofilm developed by Bacillus subtilis (BS) cultivated submerged under various nutrition conditions on biodeterioration of poly(ε-caprolactone) film. Polymer in the film form (thickness 0.7 mm) was incubated for 21 days either continuously or by regularly renewed system. The scission of polyester chain bonds took place in all biotic media and was enhanced by biofilm formation in nutrient-rich media.

Influence of Biofilm Formation by Gardnerella vaginalis and Other Anaerobes on Bacterial Vaginosis.

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the worldwide leading vaginal disorder among women of reproductive age. BV is characterized by the replacement of beneficial lactobacilli and the augmentation of anaerobic bacteria. Gardnerella vaginalis is a predominant bacterial species, but BV is also associated with other numerous anaerobes, such as Atopobium vaginae, Mobiluncus mulieris, Prevotella bivia, Fusobacterium nucleatum, and Peptoniphilus species. Currently, the role of G. vaginalis in the etiology of BV remains a matter of controversy. However, it is known that, in patients with BV, a biofilm is usually formed on the vaginal epithelium and that G. vaginalis is typically the predominant species. So, the current paradigm is that the establishment of a biofilm plays a key role in the pathogenesis of BV. This review provides background on the influence of biofilm formation by G. vaginalis and other anaerobes, from the time of their initial adhesion until biofilm formation, in the polymicrobial etiology of BV and discusses the commensal and synergic interactions established between them to understand the phenotypic shift of G. vaginalis biofilm formation to BV establishment.

Influence of biofilm formation in the susceptibility of Pseudomonas aeruginosa from Brazilian patients with cystic fibrosis

Biofilms play a key role in the occurrence of lung infections by Pseudomonas aeruginosa in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). In this study, we examined 40 isolates of P. aeruginosa from CF patients according to their capacity to form biofilm. We also compared their in vitro response to antimicrobials according to different modes of growth (planktonic vs biofilm) and performed molecular typing. All isolates proved capable of forming biofilm. However, there was no difference in biofilm development according to the mucoid and nonmucoid phenotypes and among isolates obtained at different periods of the chronic infection. All isolates tested for antimicrobial susceptibility in the biofilm state (BIC) were consistently more resistant to antibiotics than the same isolate tested in the planktonic state. The molecular typing indicates a considerable clonal diversity among isolates. We identified five patients harboring the same strain over different periods. These strains, however, displayed different levels of biofilm formation and BIC values for antibiotics tested. The results of the present study demonstrate that there is a marked difference in the susceptibility profile according to the mode of growth of CF P. aeruginosa, as cells tested in the biofilm state proved consistently more resistant to antibiotics.

Role of biofilm formation in the persistent colonization of Haemophilus influenzae in children from northern India

The human nasopharynx is a major ecological niche for Haemophilus influenzae colonization. Establishment of infection is critically dependent on the persistence of bacteria in the nasopharynx. Various factors are presumed to mediate this persistence and the influence of biofilm formation has been under scrutiny for a long time. In a prospective population-based study, the nasopharyngeal colonization pattern of 250 children <2 years old was traced to gain further insights into the phenomenon. The association between biofilm formation and persistence was delineated by quantitative biofilm assay, while the true nature of biofilm formers was further evaluated by electron microscopy studies. H. influenzae isolates obtained in this study, when analysed by phenotypic and genotypic means, revealed a clonal distribution of strains within the population. The biofilm formation ability of the isolates was found to be significantly associated with bacterial persistence (P<0.001). The isolates having biofilm formation ability were found to be 7.1 times more likely to persist in the nasopharynx than non-biofilm formers. This study provides direct evidence indicating the intricate relationship between biofilm formation and the persistence of bacteria. Our results emphasize the need to evaluate the potential for biofilm formation before designing preventive and therapeutic strategies.

Differences in aerodynamic characteristics of new and dysfunctional Provox®2 voice prostheses in vivo

Tracheoesophageal voice prostheses need to be replaced due to increased airflow resistance or retrograde leakage of fluid into the trachea as a consequence of biofilm formation. Previous in vitro studies show a change of aerodynamic features of biofilm covered voice prostheses after removal of the prostheses out of the patient. To assess these changes in an in situ situation, aerodynamic characteristics were measured within 45 patients at the beginning and at the end of the wearing process of the Provox 2 voice prosthesis. As a consequence, the influence of biofilm formation on aerodynamic characteristics can be evaluated. In the majority of cases, leakage through the prosthesis was the reason for replacement. No differences were found in the total flow, volume range and intratracheal pressure (ITP) of the voice prostheses measured. The airflow resistance of biofilm covered prostheses was significantly reduced compared to new clean prostheses. However, no correlation was found between the extent of biofilm and the different aerodynamic features measured. Biofilm formation on the Provox 2 is responsible for both reduction in airflow resistance and leakage through the prosthesis by deterioration of the silicone rubber material.

The role of biofilms in the mobilisation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) from the coal-tar lining of water pipes

The influence of biofilm formation on the coal-tar lining of water pipes in drinking water distribution systems was investigated in batch experiments as well as in a continuously flown circular reactor system. The nutrient source for the growth of the biofilm was only the drinking water and the coal-tar coating on the slides. The growth and existence of the biofilm was examined using different techniques. Leaching experiments showed clearly that the biofilm has protective characteristics because enhanced PAH concentrations could be detected after the removal of the biofilm from the slides. Moreover, the dosage of chlorine as a disinfectant during the reactor experiments gave indication that the chlorination resulted in a destabilisation of the biofilm which lead to elevated PAH concentrations. The results are in correspondence with observations made in real distribution systems where enhanced PAH concentrations were observed during disinfection processes. The examination of coal-tar coated water mains revealed that in addition to the protective effect of a biofilm a vast amount of the PAHs was adsorbed on particles embedded in the biofilm, e.g. from the iron oxidising bacteria Gallionella.