Biofilm consists of bacterial colonies that excrete a sticky organic texture. The colonies form when a thin layer of microorganisms and proteins adhere to a surface. They may appear as a slimy film on poorly maintained poolsides, river rocks, dishes, and countertops or, in smaller forms, may be invisible to the eye.
Biofilm consists of bacterial colonies that excrete a sticky organic texture. The colonies form when a thin layer of microorganisms and proteins adhere to a surface. They may appear as a slimy film on poorly maintained poolsides, river rocks, dishes, and countertops or, in smaller forms, may be invisible to the eye.
Biofilm Formation
Specifically, biofilms form when groups of microorganisms stick to a surface by secreting a glue-like substance. Biofilms may form on almost any material (natural and synthetic), including plastic, skin tissue, wood, and metal. While biofilms may be comprised of a single bacterial species, it is more common to find a mixture of various bacterial species alongside other microorganisms such as fungi and yeast. Biofilms create a matrix of EPS (extracellular polymeric substance) that provides additional coating and protection for the bacteria inside. The proximity of the microorganisms enables various processes, such as distributing metabolic products and removing toxic end products. As a result, biofilms possess complex structures that are highly resistant to antibiotic treatment compared to planktonic (free-floating) bacteria.Formation occurs in four distinct stages:
1. Planktonic bacteria attach themselves to a surface. At this stage, the attachment is reversible and easily eliminated with simple antibiotic 2. Gradually, the adhered bacteria form a monolayer and the initial stages of the EPS matrix, becoming irreversibly attached. 3. The bacteria matures and grows exponentially through the formation of multiple layers, resulting in the spawning of a microcolony. 4. Colonies form “mushrooms” of polysaccharides, and eventually, some of the planktonic bacteria may disperse and spread to other surfaces (liberation of cell clusters). This may involve the separation of a clump of cells or individual cells through a process known asseeding dispersal.Impact of Biofilms
These colonies may exist in various environmental settings, ranging from inside the mouth (referred to as plaque in dentistry) to contaminated water supplies and infectious surfaces in clinical settings. There are various methods and products that eliminate biofilms, but they can grow exponentially and proliferate, spreading infections in large numbers when left untreated. Some antibacterial products such as mouthwash and disinfectants may undergo vigorous testing on harmful planktonic bacteria during research and development. However, these products may prove ineffective with real-world applications, where bacterial pathogens are more likely to colonize and exist as part of a highly resistant biofilm. Bacteria in a biofilm combine (conjugate), where species of various origins communicate and take on different functions by exchanging genetic material. Researchers suggest that medically relevant plasmid-bearing strains are more likely to form biofilms, elevate infection risks, and disseminate conjugational virulence factors. Biofilms can also have adverse impacts in non-healthcare settings. Bacterial colonies may contaminate water supplies in the pharmaceutical industry. The oil industry also faces instances of the development sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) biofilms, resulting in rusted rigs and pipelines.Biofilms in Water Operations
Biofilm may cause considerable damage in pharmaceutical water operations, avoiding detection until the colony has developed into a substantial size. Such scenarios are usually only detected with point-of-use samples, where there is a need to maintain consistent monitoring and control measures to respond to and limit biofilm growth. Water operations usually provide a conducive environment for biofilm growth. These include necessary factors such as planktonic bacteria, a suitable surface for adhesion, and carbon-sourced nutrients that stimulate growth. Scientists discovered that biofilm populations only require a small supply of nutrients to survive. The hardiness of biofilms makes it possible for them to thrive in purified water systems, where nutrient levels are low. Researchers suggest that biofilm formation may serve as a bacterial survival strategy in response to low nutrient levels found in pharmaceutical environments. Through conjugation, biofilm formation enables bacterial colonies to overcome environmental threats such as osmotic shock while facilitating easier absorption of nutrients. Biofilms also occurs in natural water-based environments such as creeks and rivers, where shear stress (caused by water flow) affects bacterial populations. Areas with high shear stress across biofilm (i.e., rivers) will result in thinner layers than those exposed to lower pressure (i.e., ponds).Biofilm in Clinical Settings
Biofilms may contribute to health complications in various scenarios. Bacterial colonies may lead to pathogenic diseases like cystic fibrosis when P. aeruginosa infections remain undetected, resulting in the overproduction of matrix polysaccharide alginate that resists antibiotic treatment. Those affected may gradually experience chronic inflammation of lung tissue. According to the NIH, biofilms account for 80% of microbial infections within the body. Additionally, biofilms may attach and grow on medical devices such as catheters. The dispersal of a single or clustered bacteria from a biofilm may lead to the spread of HCAIs (healthcare-associated infections) across clinical, home-care, and hospital settings.
Dentists deal with biofilms in the form of plaque, which quickly forms and proliferates within the mouth, especially between teeth and other inaccessible areas. Oral biofilm feeds on fermentable carbohydrates such as soda and sugary substances, which increases the secretion of organic acids that erode teeth enamel, resulting in cavities.