To explore the role of biofilm formation on the corrosion of marine concrete structures, we investigated the attachment of biofilm on mortar surfaces in simulated seawater and the influence of biofilm on the microstru...To explore the role of biofilm formation on the corrosion of marine concrete structures, we investigated the attachment of biofilm on mortar surfaces in simulated seawater and the influence of biofilm on the microstructure of mortar surfaces. The results show that the evolution of biofilm on mortar surfaces in simulated seawater is closely related to the corrosion suffered by the mortar, and the process of biofilm attachment and shedding is continuous and cyclical. It is found that the specimens in the absence of biofilm attachment are more severely eroded internally by the corrosive medium in simulated seawater than those in the presence of biofilm attachment. For the specimens without biofilm attachment, after 60 days, gypsum forms,and after 120 days, the number of pores in the mortar is reduced. In contrast, for the specimens in the presence of biofilm attachment, gypsum could only be detected after 90 days, and fewer pores are filled. Therefore, the formation of biofilm could delay the invasion of the corrosive medium into the interior of mortar during the evolution of biofilm on mortar surfaces, mitigating the corrosion of mortars in seawater.展开更多
Staphylococcus aureus(S. aureus) is a common pathogenic bacterium in animal husbandry that can cause diseases such as mastitis, skin infections, arthritis, and other ailments. The formation of biofilms threatens and e...Staphylococcus aureus(S. aureus) is a common pathogenic bacterium in animal husbandry that can cause diseases such as mastitis, skin infections, arthritis, and other ailments. The formation of biofilms threatens and exacerbates S. aureus infection by allowing the bacteria to adhere to pathological areas and livestock product surfaces, thus triggering animal health crises and safety issues with livestock products. To solve this problem, in this review, we provide a brief overview of the harm caused by S. aureus and its biofilms on livestock and animal byproducts(meat and dairy products). We also describe the ways in which S. aureus spreads in animals and the threats it poses to the livestock industry. The processes and molecular mechanisms involved in biofilm formation are then explained. Finally, we discuss strategies for the removal and eradication of S. aureus and biofilms in animal husbandry, including the use of antimicrobial peptides, plant extracts, nanoparticles, phages, and antibodies. These strategies to reduce the spread of S. aureus in animal husbandry help maintain livestock health and improve productivity to ensure the ecologically sustainable development of animal husbandry and the safety of livestock products.展开更多
Akkermansia muciniphila is one of the commensals residing within the mammalian gut and co-evolving with the host.Numerous studies have demonstrated the benefits of A.muciniphila in ameliorating metabolic disorders,whi...Akkermansia muciniphila is one of the commensals residing within the mammalian gut and co-evolving with the host.Numerous studies have demonstrated the benefits of A.muciniphila in ameliorating metabolic disorders,while little is known about the antimicrobial potential of A.muciniphila against pathogens.Here,we examined the antimicrobial and anti-virulence properties of cell free supernatant(CFS)of A.muciniphila against Salmonella Typhimurium.CFS retarded bacterial growth and inhibited the motility of S.Typhimurium SL1344 and S.Typhimurium 14028.CFS dose-dependently reduced cell hydrophobicity and auto-aggregation of both strains.Also,CFS from A.muciniphila significantly attenuated biofilm formation.Compared with untreated bacteria,CFS-treated bacteria significantly decreased adhesion and invasion to Caco-2 cells,and reduced intracellular survival in macrophages.CFS maintained antimicrobial properties after treatment with high temperatures and various proteases,while it lost its antimicrobial activity after pH neutralization.Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry(GC-MS)confirmed that A.muciniphila produced a certain amount of acetate and propionate,and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry(UHPLCMS)identified other organic acids and metabolites in CFS.In summary,CFS from A.muciniphila exhibited anti-biofilm and anti-virulence properties against Salmonella and could be potentially utilized in the food industry for controlling Salmonella contamination and reducing infection.展开更多
The intrinsic resistance of MRSA coupled with biofilm antibiotic tolerance challenges the antibiotic treatment of MRSA biofilm infections.Phytochemical-based nanoplatform is a promising emerging approach for treatment...The intrinsic resistance of MRSA coupled with biofilm antibiotic tolerance challenges the antibiotic treatment of MRSA biofilm infections.Phytochemical-based nanoplatform is a promising emerging approach for treatment of biofilm infection.However,their therapeutic efficacy was restricted by the low drug loading capacity and lack of selectivity.Herein,we constructed a surface charge adaptive phytochemical-based nanoparticle with high isoliquiritigenin(ISL)loading content for effective treatment of MRSA biofilm.A dimeric ISL prodrug(ISL-G2)bearing a lipase responsive ester bond was synthesized,and then encapsulated into the amphiphilic quaternized oligochitosan.The obtained ISL-G2loaded NPs possessed positively charged surface,which allowed cis-aconityl-D-tyrosine(CA-Tyr)binding via electrostatic interaction to obtain ISL-G2@TMDCOS-Tyr NPs.The NPs maintained their negatively charged surface,thus prolonging the blood circulation time.In response to low pH in the biofilms,the fast removal of CA-Tyr led to a shift in their surface charge from negative to positive,which enhanced the accumulation and penetration of NPs in the biofilms.Sequentially,the pH-triggered release of D-tyrosine dispersed the biofilm and lipase-triggered released of ISL effectively kill biofilm MRSA.An in vivo study was performed on a MRSA biofilm infected wound model.This phytochemical-based system led to~2log CFU(>99%)reduction of biofilm MRSA as compared to untreated wound(P<0.001)with negligible biotoxicity in mice.This phytochemical dimer nanoplatform shows great potential for long-term treatment of resistant bacterial infections.展开更多
Slightly acidic electrolyzed water(SAEW)has proven to be an efficient and novel sanitizer in food and agriculture field.This study assessed the efficacy of SAEW(30 mg/L)at 40℃on the inactivation of foodbome pathogens...Slightly acidic electrolyzed water(SAEW)has proven to be an efficient and novel sanitizer in food and agriculture field.This study assessed the efficacy of SAEW(30 mg/L)at 40℃on the inactivation of foodbome pathogens and detachment of multi-resistant Staphylococcus aureus(MRSA)biofilm.Furthermore.the underlying mechanism of MRS A biofilm under heated SAEW at 40℃treatment on metabolic profiles was investigated.The results showed that the heated SAEW at 40℃significantly effectively against foodbome pathogens of 1.96-7.56(lg(CFU/g))reduction in pork,chicken,spinach,and lettuce.The heated SAEW at 40℃treatment significantly reduced MRS A biofilm cells by 2.41(lg(CFU/cm^(2))).The synergistic effect of SAEW treatment showed intense anti-biofilm activity in decreasing cell density and impairing biofilm cell membranes.Global metabolic response of MRSA biofilms,treated by SAEW at 40℃,revealed the alterations of intracellular metabolites,including amino acids,organic acid,fatty acid,and lipid.Moreover,signaling pathways involved in amino acid metabolism,energy metabolism,nucleotide synthesis,carbohydrate metabolites,and lipid biosynthesis were functionally disrupted by the SAEW at 40℃treatment.As per our knowledge,this is the first research to uncover the potential mechanism of heated SAEW treatment against MRSA biofilm on food contact surface.展开更多
Extracellular polymeric substances(EPS)constitutes crucial elements within bacterial biofilms,facili-tating accelerated antimicrobial resistance and conferring defense against the host's immune cells.Developing pr...Extracellular polymeric substances(EPS)constitutes crucial elements within bacterial biofilms,facili-tating accelerated antimicrobial resistance and conferring defense against the host's immune cells.Developing precise and effective antibiofilm approaches and strategies,tailored to the specific charac-teristics of EPS composition,can offer valuable insights for the creation of novel antimicrobial drugs.This,in turn,holds the potential to mitigate the alarming issue of bacterial drug resistance.Current analysis of EPS compositions relies heavily on colorimetric approaches with a significant bias,which is likely due to the selection of a standard compound and the cross-interference of various EPS compounds.Considering the pivotal role of EPS in biofilm functionality,it is imperative for EPS research to delve deeper into the analysis of intricate compositions,moving beyond the current focus on polymeric materials.This ne-cessitates a shift from heavy reliance on colorimetric analytic methods to more comprehensive and nuanced analytical approaches.In this study,we have provided a comprehensive summary of existing analytical methods utilized in the characterization of EPS compositions.Additionally,novel strategies aimed at targeting EPS to enhance biofilm penetration were explored,with a specific focus on high-lighting the limitations associated with colorimetric methods.Furthermore,we have outlined the challenges faced in identifying additional components of EPS and propose a prospective research plan to address these challenges.This review has the potential to guide future researchers in the search for novel compounds capable of suppressing EPS,thereby inhibiting biofilm formation.This insight opens up a new avenue for exploration within this research domain.展开更多
The world will benefit from more effective antimicrobial agents against oral conditions arising from the actions of biofilm forming bacteria. Also, information is lacking on the oral biofilm-forming bacterial diversit...The world will benefit from more effective antimicrobial agents against oral conditions arising from the actions of biofilm forming bacteria. Also, information is lacking on the oral biofilm-forming bacterial diversity in Southwestern Nigeria. In this study, we isolate and characterize oral biofilm producing bacteria in the oral cavities of schoolchildren in Southwestern Nigeria. We also investigate the antimicrobial properties of Macrosphyra longistyla extracts against the biofilm-formers and the toxicity of potent extracts. Samples were obtained from 109 schoolchildren aged 4 - 14 years from Lagos, Oyo and Osun States. Agar well diffusion technique was used in the antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Toxicity testing was done using brine shrimps (Artemia salina). Biofilm-formers in this study are Klebsiella sp., Streptococcus sp., Staphylococcus sp., and Micrococcus sp. Ethanol leaf extracts had the highest activity against all biofilm-producing bacteria. Ethanol stem bark extract, which elicited activity against Klebsiella only, was found to be less toxic than the ethanol leaf extract. Staphylococcus showed >10 mm susceptibility to the ethanol and aqueous extracts of Macrosphyra longistyla. Streptococcus and Micrococcus were susceptible to the antimicrobial actions of the ethanolic leaf extracts. Although the ethanol extracts of the leaves had lower minimum inhibitory concentrations than the ethanol extracts of the stem bark, toxicity studies showed ethanol extracts of the stem-bark to be more toxic than the ethanol extracts of the leaves. In conclusion, ethanolic extracts of Macrosphyra longistyla show potential as sources of antimicrobials against gram-positive, oral biofilm-forming bacteria.展开更多
Some bacteria have the ability to co-exist, proliferate and survive in a multicellular community, biofilm. Each participating bacteria can form its colonies and encases itself by a self-produced insoluble extracellula...Some bacteria have the ability to co-exist, proliferate and survive in a multicellular community, biofilm. Each participating bacteria can form its colonies and encases itself by a self-produced insoluble extracellular matrix substance (EPS). Microcolonies within biofilm are held together by interactions and bonding of the substances present in the EPS with their separation from the water channels. Similar to insoluble EPS, bacterial microcolonies release soluble exofactors that have direct impacts on the survivability, growth and antibacterial resistivity of other microcolonies made of single- or multi-species bacteria in the same biofilm. How the exofactors of microcolonies of one-type bacteria impact on microcolonies of other-type bacteria is still unclear. We studied about the role of exofactors released from Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which are common biofilm-forming pathogenic bacteria. Exofactors facilitate to transform the microenvironment where bacteria can acquire alternative lifestyle with a long survival period and resistivity to certain antimicrobial drugs.展开更多
In this article dedicated to the modeling of vertical mass transfers between the biofilm and the bulk flow, we have, in the first instance, presented the methodology used, followed by the presentation of various resul...In this article dedicated to the modeling of vertical mass transfers between the biofilm and the bulk flow, we have, in the first instance, presented the methodology used, followed by the presentation of various results obtained through analyses conducted on velocity fields, different fluxes, and overall transfer coefficients. Due to numerical constraints (resolution of relevant spatial scales), we have restricted the analysis to low Schmidt numbers (S<sub>c</sub><sub></sub>=0.1, S<sub>c</sub></sub>=1, and S<sub>c</sub></sub>=10) and a single roughness Reynolds number (Re<sub>*</sub>=150). The analysis of instantaneous concentration fields from various simulations revealed logarithmic concentration profiles above the canopy. In this zone, the concentration is relatively homogeneous for longer times. The analysis of results also showed that the contribution of molecular diffusion to the total flux depends on the Schmidt number. This contribution is negligible for Schmidt numbers S<sub>c</sub></sub>≥0.1, but nearly balances the turbulent flux for S<sub>c</sub></sub>=0.1. In the canopy, the local Sherwood number, given by the ratio of the total flux (within or above the canopy) to the molecular diffusion flux at the wall, also depends on the Schmidt number and varies significantly between the canopy and the region above. The exchange velocity, a purely hydrodynamic parameter, is independent of the Schmidt number and is on the order of 10% of in the present case. This study also reveals that nutrient absorption by organisms near the wall depends on the Schmidt number. Such absorption is facilitated by lower Schmidt numbers.展开更多
Objective:To characterize biofilm production by clinical(n=21)and environmental(n=11)isolates of Burkholderia pseudomallei and evaluate the production of proteases,hemolysins and siderophores.Methods:Initially,the 32 ...Objective:To characterize biofilm production by clinical(n=21)and environmental(n=11)isolates of Burkholderia pseudomallei and evaluate the production of proteases,hemolysins and siderophores.Methods:Initially,the 32 strains were evaluated for biofilm production in Müller-Hinton broth-1%glucose(MH-1%glucose)and BHI broth-1%glucose,using the crystal violet staining technique.Subsequently,growing(48 h)and mature(72 h)biofilms were evaluated by confocal microscopy.Finally,the production of proteases,hemolysins and siderophores by planktonic aggregates,growing biofilms and mature biofilms was evaluated.Results:All isolates produced biofilms,but clinical isolates had significantly higher biomass in both MH-1%glucose(P<0.001)and BHI-glucose 1%(P=0.005).The structural analyses by confocal microscopy showed thick biofilms,composed of multiple layers of cells,homogeneously arranged,with mature biofilms of clinical isolates presenting higher biomass(P=0.019)and thickness of the entire area(P=0.029),and lower roughness coefficient(P=0.007)than those of environmental isolates.Protease production by growing biofilms was significantly greater than that of planktonic(P<0.001)and mature biofilms(P<0.001).Hemolysin release by planktonic aggregates was higher than that of biofilms(P<0.001).Regarding siderophores,mature biofilms presented higher production than growing biofilms(P<0.001)and planktonic aggregates(P<0.001).Conclusions:Clinical isolates have higher production of biofilms than their environmental counterparts;protease and siderophores seem important for growth and maintenance of Burkholderia pseudomallei biofilms.展开更多
Salmonella and their biofilm formation are the primary bacterial causes of foodborne outbreaks and crosscontamination. The objective of the study was to investigate the potential of Salmonella phages as an alternative...Salmonella and their biofilm formation are the primary bacterial causes of foodborne outbreaks and crosscontamination. The objective of the study was to investigate the potential of Salmonella phages as an alternative technology for biofilm removal. In this work, 21 Salmonella phages were isolated from a chicken farm and slaughter plant and the phage(CW1)with the broadest spectrum was characterized. Complete genome sequence analysis revealed that the genomes of phage CW1 is composed of 41 763 bp with 58 open reading frames(ORFs)and a holin-endolysin system and it does not encode any virulence or lysogeny. A phage cocktail consisted of CW1(with the broadest spectrum of 70.49%)and CW11, M4 and M10(with a high lytic activity of more than 67.11%)was established. Treatment with the cocktail reduced the cells in the developing biofilm and mature biofilm by 0.79 lg(CFU/cm~2)and 0.4 lg(CFU/cm~2), respectively. More dead cells and scattered extracellular polymeric substances(EPS)were observed by confocal laser scanning microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Raman analysis found that carbohydrates and proteins were the identification receptors for scattered EPS. This finding suggests that this phage cockta il has potential applications for the sterilization of Salmonella biofilm during meat processing.展开更多
Denitrifying bacteria in epiphytic biofilms play a crucial role in nitrogen cycle in aquatic habitats.However,little is known about the connection between algae and denitrifying bacteria and their assembly processes i...Denitrifying bacteria in epiphytic biofilms play a crucial role in nitrogen cycle in aquatic habitats.However,little is known about the connection between algae and denitrifying bacteria and their assembly processes in epiphytic biofilms.Epiphytic biofilms were collected from submerged macrophytes(Patamogeton lucens and Najas marina L.)in the Caohai Lake,Guizhou,SW China,from July to November 2020 to:(1)investigate the impact of abiotic and biotic variables on denitrifying bacterial communities;(2)investigate the temporal variation of the algae-denitrifying bacteria co-occurrence networks;and(3)determine the contribution of deterministic and stochastic processes to the formation of denitrifying bacterial communities.Abiotic and biotic factors influenced the variation in the denitrifying bacterial community,as shown in the Mantel test.The co-occurrence network analysis unveiled intricate interactions among algae to denitrifying bacteria.Denitrifying bacterial community co-occurrence network complexity(larger average degrees representing stronger network complexity)increased continuously from July to September and decreased in October before increasing in November.The co-occurrence network complexity of the algae and nirS-encoding denitrifying bacteria tended to increase from July to November.The co-occurrence network complexity of the algal and denitrifying bacterial communities was modified by ammonia nitrogen(NH_(4)^(+)-N)and total phosphorus(TP),pH,and water temperature(WT),according to the ordinary least-squares(OLS)model.The modified stochasticity ratio(MST)results reveal that deterministic selection dominated the assembly of denitrifying bacterial communities.The influence of environmental variables to denitrifying bacterial communities,as well as characteristics of algal-bacterial co-occurrence networks and the assembly process of denitrifying bacterial communities,were discovered in epiphytic biofilms in this study.The findings could aid in the appropriate understanding and use of epiphytic biofilms denitrification function,as well as the enhancement of water quality.展开更多
Although biofilm formation may promote growth,biofilms are not always beneficial to their hosts.The biofilm formation characteristics of Bacillus cereus WPySW2 and its changes at different temperatures were studied.Re...Although biofilm formation may promote growth,biofilms are not always beneficial to their hosts.The biofilm formation characteristics of Bacillus cereus WPySW2 and its changes at different temperatures were studied.Results show that B.cereus WPySW2 promoted the growth of Neoporphyra haitanensis(an economically cultivated seaweed)at 20℃ but accelerated algal rot at 28℃.Thicker B.cereus WPySW2 biofilms covered the surface of N.haitanensis thalli at 28℃,which hindered material exchange between the algae and surrounding environment,inhibited algal photosynthesis and respiration,and accelerated algal decay.Compared with planktonic bacteria,mature biofilm cells had lower energy consumption and metabolic levels.The biofilm metabolic characteristics of B.cereus WPySW2 changed significantly with temperature.High temperature accelerated biofilm maturation,which made it thicker and more stable,allowing the bacteria to easily adapt to environmental changes and obtain greater benefits from their host.High temperature did not affect the production or increased the abundance of toxic metabolites,indicating that the negative effects of B.cereus WPySW2 on algae were not caused by toxins.This study shows that increased temperature can transform a harmless bacterium into a detrimental one,demonstrating that temperature may change the ecological function of phycospheric bacteria by affecting their morphology and metabolism.展开更多
Objective: This study focused on the antibacterial and anti-proliferative activity of extracts from Carica papaya and Cocos nucifera roots. Methodology: The minimum inhibitory concentration and the minimum bactericida...Objective: This study focused on the antibacterial and anti-proliferative activity of extracts from Carica papaya and Cocos nucifera roots. Methodology: The minimum inhibitory concentration and the minimum bactericidal concentration of the extracts on Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus mutans, and Staphylococcus aureus were deduced by the microdilution method. The anti-biofilm activity was determined on all four strains and anti-quorum sensing activity by inhibition of violacein production in Chromobacterium violaceum. Anti-proliferative activity on prostate cultured cancer cells was evaluated by MTT assay. Sterols and triterpenes were also assayed in this study. Results: The methanolic extract of Carica papaya showed the best anti-biofilm effect with a percentage inhibition of 66.10 ± 1.79. The methanolic extract of Cocos nucifera had the strongest inhibition on the production of quorum sensing (61.42 ± 0.28). In addition, the methanolic extract of Cocos nucifera roots showed the best cytotoxic effect on prostate cancer LNCaP cell lines (IC<sub>50</sub> = 26.98 ± 2.6 μg/mL) and Carica papaya on the PC-3 lines (IC<sub>50</sub> = 127.20 ± 5.99 μg/mL). The extracts were also rich in triterpenes and sterols. Conclusion: This study provides support for the ethnomedical use of Carica papaya and Cocos nucifera roots as an antimicrobial and anticancer.展开更多
In this work, we evaluated biofilm formation of Vancomycin Resistant of E. faecalis and E. faecium (VRE) in different culture media and adhesion substrate, as well as cellular hydrophobicity and presence of virulence ...In this work, we evaluated biofilm formation of Vancomycin Resistant of E. faecalis and E. faecium (VRE) in different culture media and adhesion substrate, as well as cellular hydrophobicity and presence of virulence genes. For this, 35 isolates were collected from a public hospital in Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil and identified by the Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization - Time-of-flight - Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS) technique. Biofilm formation was analyzed by the Crystal Violet (CV) method and fluorescence microscopy, cellular hydrophobicity by hydrocarbon interaction and the presence of gelE, esp and asa1 genes by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). 12 isolates were identified as E. faecalis and 23 as E. faecium. Most were obtained in Coronary Units (40.0%) and Intensive Care Unit (31.4%). E. faecium isolates were more resistant to the antibiotics tested than E. faecalis;however, E. faecalis stood out as a biofilm producer. Regarding the presence and gene frequency, it was observed that gelE (54.3%) and esp (54.3%) were the most prevalent, followed by asa1 (22.9%). When comparing the gene frequency, it was observed that gelE and esp were predominant (48.6% for both species), while asa1 was more frequent in E. faecalis (20.0%). The data presented here are worrying, because they reveal the virulence potential of isolates VRE, which contributes to the dissemination and persistence of these pathogens in the hospital environment.展开更多
Bacteria survive in nature by forming biofilms on surfaces and probably most, if not all, bacteria (and fungi) are capable of forming biofilms. A biofilm is a structured consortium of bacteria embedded in a self-pro...Bacteria survive in nature by forming biofilms on surfaces and probably most, if not all, bacteria (and fungi) are capable of forming biofilms. A biofilm is a structured consortium of bacteria embedded in a self-produced polymer matrix consisting of polysaccharide, protein and extracellular DNA. Bacterial biofilms are resistant to antibiotics, disinfectant chemicals and to phagocytosis and other components of the innate and adaptive inflammatory defense system of the body. It is known, for example, that persistence of staphylococcal infections related to foreign bodies is due to biofilm formation. Likewise, chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa lung infections in cystic fibrosis patients are caused by biofilm growing mucoid strains. Gradients of nutrients and oxygen exist from the top to the bottom of biofilms and the bacterial cells located in nutrient poor areas have decreased metabolic activity and increased doubling times. These more or less dormant cells are therefore responsible for some of the tolerance to antibiotics. Biofilm growth is associated with an increased level of mutations. Bacteria in biofilms communicate by means of molecules, which activates certain genes responsible for production of virulence factors and, to some extent, biofilm structure. This phenomenon is called quorum sensing and depends upon the concentration of the quorum sensing molecules in a certain niche, which depends on the number of the bacteria. Biofilms can be prevented by antibiotic prophylaxis or early aggressive antibiotic therapy and they can be treated by chronic suppressive antibiotic therapy. Promising strategies may include the use of compounds which can dissolve the biofilm matrix and quorum sensing inhibitors, which increases biofilm susceptibility to antibiotics and phagocytosis.展开更多
Bacterial biofilms are the bacterial aggregates that are embedded in the self-produced matrix of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) that cause persistent bacterial infections posing significant medical challenge...Bacterial biofilms are the bacterial aggregates that are embedded in the self-produced matrix of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) that cause persistent bacterial infections posing significant medical challenges. They are recalcitrant to antibiotics and host defenses which make the treatments difficult and costly. Penicillium janthinellum mutant EU2D-21 was found to produce extracellular enzyme complex (amylase, cellulase, protease) under submerged fermentation. Maximum specific enzyme activities were found to be 3.04 IU/mg, 2.61 IU/mg and 3.39 IU/mg for alpha-amylase, cellulase and protease respectively, after 8 days of incubation at 30?C. We evaluated the enzyme complex for its ability to target and degrade the biofilms of different bacteria. We found that it degraded biofilms of Escherichia coli (85.5%), Salmonella enterica (79.72%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (88.76%) and Staphyloccus aureus (87.42%) within 1 h of incubation at 50?C. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM), quantitation of biofilm removal assay and Crystal violet assay demonstrated that the enzyme complex detached the biofilm exo-polysaccharide matrix and bacteria from the cell surface. These results illustrate the feasibility and benefits of using this enzyme complex as anti-biofilm therapeutics to eradicate biofilms. This can also be used as a promising strategy to improve treatment of multidrug resistant bacterial infections.展开更多
Frequent variations of the wastewater quality and quantity and other uncertain factors are the challenges faced by many wastewater treatment plants during the operation. Sequencing batch biofilm reactor( SBBR) proce...Frequent variations of the wastewater quality and quantity and other uncertain factors are the challenges faced by many wastewater treatment plants during the operation. Sequencing batch biofilm reactor( SBBR) process provides a new idea for an effective solution to this problem. This paper introduces the basic processes and characteristics of the sequencing batch biofilm reactor( SBBR) process,and summarizes the research status of this process in wastewater treatment. Factors affecting the nitrogen and phosphorus removal effect of the SBBR process are also analyzed.展开更多
Biofilms act as a reservoir of infection, and periodically release cells in vicinity that are capable of developing new biofilm colonies and disseminate infection. Many chronic bacterial infections are serious that ar...Biofilms act as a reservoir of infection, and periodically release cells in vicinity that are capable of developing new biofilm colonies and disseminate infection. Many chronic bacterial infections are serious that are associated with biofilms and have high morbidity and mortality, partly due to their higher resistance to antimicrobial agents, and partly due to lack of strong biocides which can efficiently treat and inhibit biofilm formation. We recently demonstrated that nonequilibrium non-thermal dielectric-barrier discharge plasma (Plasma) can also be applied to control pathogens via applying treated-liquids, and these liquids acquire broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties. In present studies we demonstrated a range of plasma-activated simple chemical solutions which significantly inhibited biofilm formation by multidrug-resistant bacterial pathogens. Plasma-activated methionine solution exhibited strong inhibitory activity against the biofilms of car-bapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, metal-lo-β-lactamase (NDM1)-positive Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Enterococcus faecalis, and prevented the formation of biofilms by about 70% as compared to untreated controls in single exposure. In addition to inhibition of biofilm formation, a complete inactivation of biofilm-embedded bacterial cells was observed in less than 30 minute’s exposure to candidate plasma-activated methionine solution. These findings suggest that plasma-activated solutions have a potential to prevent biofilm formation, and as biofilm inhibitor.展开更多
基金Funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Nos. 52278269, 52278268, 52178264, 52108238)Tianjin Outstanding Young Scholars Science Fund Project (No. 22JCJQJC00020)State Key Laboratory of Green Building Materials Open Foundation (No. 2021GBM08)。
文摘To explore the role of biofilm formation on the corrosion of marine concrete structures, we investigated the attachment of biofilm on mortar surfaces in simulated seawater and the influence of biofilm on the microstructure of mortar surfaces. The results show that the evolution of biofilm on mortar surfaces in simulated seawater is closely related to the corrosion suffered by the mortar, and the process of biofilm attachment and shedding is continuous and cyclical. It is found that the specimens in the absence of biofilm attachment are more severely eroded internally by the corrosive medium in simulated seawater than those in the presence of biofilm attachment. For the specimens without biofilm attachment, after 60 days, gypsum forms,and after 120 days, the number of pores in the mortar is reduced. In contrast, for the specimens in the presence of biofilm attachment, gypsum could only be detected after 90 days, and fewer pores are filled. Therefore, the formation of biofilm could delay the invasion of the corrosive medium into the interior of mortar during the evolution of biofilm on mortar surfaces, mitigating the corrosion of mortars in seawater.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (31930106 and U22A20514, U23A20232)the National Key R&D Program of China (2022YFD1300404)+2 种基金the 2115 Talent Development Program of China Agricultural University (1041-00109019)the Pinduoduo-China Agricultural University Research Fund (PC2023A01001)the Special Fund for Henan Agriculture Research System (HARS-2213-Z1)。
文摘Staphylococcus aureus(S. aureus) is a common pathogenic bacterium in animal husbandry that can cause diseases such as mastitis, skin infections, arthritis, and other ailments. The formation of biofilms threatens and exacerbates S. aureus infection by allowing the bacteria to adhere to pathological areas and livestock product surfaces, thus triggering animal health crises and safety issues with livestock products. To solve this problem, in this review, we provide a brief overview of the harm caused by S. aureus and its biofilms on livestock and animal byproducts(meat and dairy products). We also describe the ways in which S. aureus spreads in animals and the threats it poses to the livestock industry. The processes and molecular mechanisms involved in biofilm formation are then explained. Finally, we discuss strategies for the removal and eradication of S. aureus and biofilms in animal husbandry, including the use of antimicrobial peptides, plant extracts, nanoparticles, phages, and antibodies. These strategies to reduce the spread of S. aureus in animal husbandry help maintain livestock health and improve productivity to ensure the ecologically sustainable development of animal husbandry and the safety of livestock products.
基金funded by National Key Research and Development Program of China(2022YFD2100104)Science and Technology Research Program of the Liaoning Department of Education(J2020044)+1 种基金Shaanxi Key Research and Development project(2019SF-259)LiaoNing Revitalization Talents Program(XLYC1807220).
文摘Akkermansia muciniphila is one of the commensals residing within the mammalian gut and co-evolving with the host.Numerous studies have demonstrated the benefits of A.muciniphila in ameliorating metabolic disorders,while little is known about the antimicrobial potential of A.muciniphila against pathogens.Here,we examined the antimicrobial and anti-virulence properties of cell free supernatant(CFS)of A.muciniphila against Salmonella Typhimurium.CFS retarded bacterial growth and inhibited the motility of S.Typhimurium SL1344 and S.Typhimurium 14028.CFS dose-dependently reduced cell hydrophobicity and auto-aggregation of both strains.Also,CFS from A.muciniphila significantly attenuated biofilm formation.Compared with untreated bacteria,CFS-treated bacteria significantly decreased adhesion and invasion to Caco-2 cells,and reduced intracellular survival in macrophages.CFS maintained antimicrobial properties after treatment with high temperatures and various proteases,while it lost its antimicrobial activity after pH neutralization.Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry(GC-MS)confirmed that A.muciniphila produced a certain amount of acetate and propionate,and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry(UHPLCMS)identified other organic acids and metabolites in CFS.In summary,CFS from A.muciniphila exhibited anti-biofilm and anti-virulence properties against Salmonella and could be potentially utilized in the food industry for controlling Salmonella contamination and reducing infection.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.3210190403)the Natural Science Foundation of Heilongjiang Province(No.YQ2022C016)+2 种基金the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(2022T150104and 2020M670877)the Postdoctoral Science Foundation of Heilongjiang Province(LBH-TZ2104 and LBH-Z20039)the China Agriculture Research System of MOF and MARA(No.CARS-35)。
文摘The intrinsic resistance of MRSA coupled with biofilm antibiotic tolerance challenges the antibiotic treatment of MRSA biofilm infections.Phytochemical-based nanoplatform is a promising emerging approach for treatment of biofilm infection.However,their therapeutic efficacy was restricted by the low drug loading capacity and lack of selectivity.Herein,we constructed a surface charge adaptive phytochemical-based nanoparticle with high isoliquiritigenin(ISL)loading content for effective treatment of MRSA biofilm.A dimeric ISL prodrug(ISL-G2)bearing a lipase responsive ester bond was synthesized,and then encapsulated into the amphiphilic quaternized oligochitosan.The obtained ISL-G2loaded NPs possessed positively charged surface,which allowed cis-aconityl-D-tyrosine(CA-Tyr)binding via electrostatic interaction to obtain ISL-G2@TMDCOS-Tyr NPs.The NPs maintained their negatively charged surface,thus prolonging the blood circulation time.In response to low pH in the biofilms,the fast removal of CA-Tyr led to a shift in their surface charge from negative to positive,which enhanced the accumulation and penetration of NPs in the biofilms.Sequentially,the pH-triggered release of D-tyrosine dispersed the biofilm and lipase-triggered released of ISL effectively kill biofilm MRSA.An in vivo study was performed on a MRSA biofilm infected wound model.This phytochemical-based system led to~2log CFU(>99%)reduction of biofilm MRSA as compared to untreated wound(P<0.001)with negligible biotoxicity in mice.This phytochemical dimer nanoplatform shows great potential for long-term treatment of resistant bacterial infections.
基金supported by Brain Korea (BK)21 Plus Project (4299990913942)funded by the Korean Government,Koreathe Collabo Project funded by the Ministry of SMEs and Startups (C1016120-01-02)the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) (2018007551)。
文摘Slightly acidic electrolyzed water(SAEW)has proven to be an efficient and novel sanitizer in food and agriculture field.This study assessed the efficacy of SAEW(30 mg/L)at 40℃on the inactivation of foodbome pathogens and detachment of multi-resistant Staphylococcus aureus(MRSA)biofilm.Furthermore.the underlying mechanism of MRS A biofilm under heated SAEW at 40℃treatment on metabolic profiles was investigated.The results showed that the heated SAEW at 40℃significantly effectively against foodbome pathogens of 1.96-7.56(lg(CFU/g))reduction in pork,chicken,spinach,and lettuce.The heated SAEW at 40℃treatment significantly reduced MRS A biofilm cells by 2.41(lg(CFU/cm^(2))).The synergistic effect of SAEW treatment showed intense anti-biofilm activity in decreasing cell density and impairing biofilm cell membranes.Global metabolic response of MRSA biofilms,treated by SAEW at 40℃,revealed the alterations of intracellular metabolites,including amino acids,organic acid,fatty acid,and lipid.Moreover,signaling pathways involved in amino acid metabolism,energy metabolism,nucleotide synthesis,carbohydrate metabolites,and lipid biosynthesis were functionally disrupted by the SAEW at 40℃treatment.As per our knowledge,this is the first research to uncover the potential mechanism of heated SAEW treatment against MRSA biofilm on food contact surface.
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.:81803812,81803237).
文摘Extracellular polymeric substances(EPS)constitutes crucial elements within bacterial biofilms,facili-tating accelerated antimicrobial resistance and conferring defense against the host's immune cells.Developing precise and effective antibiofilm approaches and strategies,tailored to the specific charac-teristics of EPS composition,can offer valuable insights for the creation of novel antimicrobial drugs.This,in turn,holds the potential to mitigate the alarming issue of bacterial drug resistance.Current analysis of EPS compositions relies heavily on colorimetric approaches with a significant bias,which is likely due to the selection of a standard compound and the cross-interference of various EPS compounds.Considering the pivotal role of EPS in biofilm functionality,it is imperative for EPS research to delve deeper into the analysis of intricate compositions,moving beyond the current focus on polymeric materials.This ne-cessitates a shift from heavy reliance on colorimetric analytic methods to more comprehensive and nuanced analytical approaches.In this study,we have provided a comprehensive summary of existing analytical methods utilized in the characterization of EPS compositions.Additionally,novel strategies aimed at targeting EPS to enhance biofilm penetration were explored,with a specific focus on high-lighting the limitations associated with colorimetric methods.Furthermore,we have outlined the challenges faced in identifying additional components of EPS and propose a prospective research plan to address these challenges.This review has the potential to guide future researchers in the search for novel compounds capable of suppressing EPS,thereby inhibiting biofilm formation.This insight opens up a new avenue for exploration within this research domain.
文摘The world will benefit from more effective antimicrobial agents against oral conditions arising from the actions of biofilm forming bacteria. Also, information is lacking on the oral biofilm-forming bacterial diversity in Southwestern Nigeria. In this study, we isolate and characterize oral biofilm producing bacteria in the oral cavities of schoolchildren in Southwestern Nigeria. We also investigate the antimicrobial properties of Macrosphyra longistyla extracts against the biofilm-formers and the toxicity of potent extracts. Samples were obtained from 109 schoolchildren aged 4 - 14 years from Lagos, Oyo and Osun States. Agar well diffusion technique was used in the antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Toxicity testing was done using brine shrimps (Artemia salina). Biofilm-formers in this study are Klebsiella sp., Streptococcus sp., Staphylococcus sp., and Micrococcus sp. Ethanol leaf extracts had the highest activity against all biofilm-producing bacteria. Ethanol stem bark extract, which elicited activity against Klebsiella only, was found to be less toxic than the ethanol leaf extract. Staphylococcus showed >10 mm susceptibility to the ethanol and aqueous extracts of Macrosphyra longistyla. Streptococcus and Micrococcus were susceptible to the antimicrobial actions of the ethanolic leaf extracts. Although the ethanol extracts of the leaves had lower minimum inhibitory concentrations than the ethanol extracts of the stem bark, toxicity studies showed ethanol extracts of the stem-bark to be more toxic than the ethanol extracts of the leaves. In conclusion, ethanolic extracts of Macrosphyra longistyla show potential as sources of antimicrobials against gram-positive, oral biofilm-forming bacteria.
文摘Some bacteria have the ability to co-exist, proliferate and survive in a multicellular community, biofilm. Each participating bacteria can form its colonies and encases itself by a self-produced insoluble extracellular matrix substance (EPS). Microcolonies within biofilm are held together by interactions and bonding of the substances present in the EPS with their separation from the water channels. Similar to insoluble EPS, bacterial microcolonies release soluble exofactors that have direct impacts on the survivability, growth and antibacterial resistivity of other microcolonies made of single- or multi-species bacteria in the same biofilm. How the exofactors of microcolonies of one-type bacteria impact on microcolonies of other-type bacteria is still unclear. We studied about the role of exofactors released from Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which are common biofilm-forming pathogenic bacteria. Exofactors facilitate to transform the microenvironment where bacteria can acquire alternative lifestyle with a long survival period and resistivity to certain antimicrobial drugs.
文摘In this article dedicated to the modeling of vertical mass transfers between the biofilm and the bulk flow, we have, in the first instance, presented the methodology used, followed by the presentation of various results obtained through analyses conducted on velocity fields, different fluxes, and overall transfer coefficients. Due to numerical constraints (resolution of relevant spatial scales), we have restricted the analysis to low Schmidt numbers (S<sub>c</sub><sub></sub>=0.1, S<sub>c</sub></sub>=1, and S<sub>c</sub></sub>=10) and a single roughness Reynolds number (Re<sub>*</sub>=150). The analysis of instantaneous concentration fields from various simulations revealed logarithmic concentration profiles above the canopy. In this zone, the concentration is relatively homogeneous for longer times. The analysis of results also showed that the contribution of molecular diffusion to the total flux depends on the Schmidt number. This contribution is negligible for Schmidt numbers S<sub>c</sub></sub>≥0.1, but nearly balances the turbulent flux for S<sub>c</sub></sub>=0.1. In the canopy, the local Sherwood number, given by the ratio of the total flux (within or above the canopy) to the molecular diffusion flux at the wall, also depends on the Schmidt number and varies significantly between the canopy and the region above. The exchange velocity, a purely hydrodynamic parameter, is independent of the Schmidt number and is on the order of 10% of in the present case. This study also reveals that nutrient absorption by organisms near the wall depends on the Schmidt number. Such absorption is facilitated by lower Schmidt numbers.
文摘Objective:To characterize biofilm production by clinical(n=21)and environmental(n=11)isolates of Burkholderia pseudomallei and evaluate the production of proteases,hemolysins and siderophores.Methods:Initially,the 32 strains were evaluated for biofilm production in Müller-Hinton broth-1%glucose(MH-1%glucose)and BHI broth-1%glucose,using the crystal violet staining technique.Subsequently,growing(48 h)and mature(72 h)biofilms were evaluated by confocal microscopy.Finally,the production of proteases,hemolysins and siderophores by planktonic aggregates,growing biofilms and mature biofilms was evaluated.Results:All isolates produced biofilms,but clinical isolates had significantly higher biomass in both MH-1%glucose(P<0.001)and BHI-glucose 1%(P=0.005).The structural analyses by confocal microscopy showed thick biofilms,composed of multiple layers of cells,homogeneously arranged,with mature biofilms of clinical isolates presenting higher biomass(P=0.019)and thickness of the entire area(P=0.029),and lower roughness coefficient(P=0.007)than those of environmental isolates.Protease production by growing biofilms was significantly greater than that of planktonic(P<0.001)and mature biofilms(P<0.001).Hemolysin release by planktonic aggregates was higher than that of biofilms(P<0.001).Regarding siderophores,mature biofilms presented higher production than growing biofilms(P<0.001)and planktonic aggregates(P<0.001).Conclusions:Clinical isolates have higher production of biofilms than their environmental counterparts;protease and siderophores seem important for growth and maintenance of Burkholderia pseudomallei biofilms.
基金funded by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (31872911)the National Key Research Program of China (2018YFC1603800)。
文摘Salmonella and their biofilm formation are the primary bacterial causes of foodborne outbreaks and crosscontamination. The objective of the study was to investigate the potential of Salmonella phages as an alternative technology for biofilm removal. In this work, 21 Salmonella phages were isolated from a chicken farm and slaughter plant and the phage(CW1)with the broadest spectrum was characterized. Complete genome sequence analysis revealed that the genomes of phage CW1 is composed of 41 763 bp with 58 open reading frames(ORFs)and a holin-endolysin system and it does not encode any virulence or lysogeny. A phage cocktail consisted of CW1(with the broadest spectrum of 70.49%)and CW11, M4 and M10(with a high lytic activity of more than 67.11%)was established. Treatment with the cocktail reduced the cells in the developing biofilm and mature biofilm by 0.79 lg(CFU/cm~2)and 0.4 lg(CFU/cm~2), respectively. More dead cells and scattered extracellular polymeric substances(EPS)were observed by confocal laser scanning microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Raman analysis found that carbohydrates and proteins were the identification receptors for scattered EPS. This finding suggests that this phage cockta il has potential applications for the sterilization of Salmonella biofilm during meat processing.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.41867056)the Guizhou Provincial Key Technology R&D Program(Nos.2021470,2023216)。
文摘Denitrifying bacteria in epiphytic biofilms play a crucial role in nitrogen cycle in aquatic habitats.However,little is known about the connection between algae and denitrifying bacteria and their assembly processes in epiphytic biofilms.Epiphytic biofilms were collected from submerged macrophytes(Patamogeton lucens and Najas marina L.)in the Caohai Lake,Guizhou,SW China,from July to November 2020 to:(1)investigate the impact of abiotic and biotic variables on denitrifying bacterial communities;(2)investigate the temporal variation of the algae-denitrifying bacteria co-occurrence networks;and(3)determine the contribution of deterministic and stochastic processes to the formation of denitrifying bacterial communities.Abiotic and biotic factors influenced the variation in the denitrifying bacterial community,as shown in the Mantel test.The co-occurrence network analysis unveiled intricate interactions among algae to denitrifying bacteria.Denitrifying bacterial community co-occurrence network complexity(larger average degrees representing stronger network complexity)increased continuously from July to September and decreased in October before increasing in November.The co-occurrence network complexity of the algae and nirS-encoding denitrifying bacteria tended to increase from July to November.The co-occurrence network complexity of the algal and denitrifying bacterial communities was modified by ammonia nitrogen(NH_(4)^(+)-N)and total phosphorus(TP),pH,and water temperature(WT),according to the ordinary least-squares(OLS)model.The modified stochasticity ratio(MST)results reveal that deterministic selection dominated the assembly of denitrifying bacterial communities.The influence of environmental variables to denitrifying bacterial communities,as well as characteristics of algal-bacterial co-occurrence networks and the assembly process of denitrifying bacterial communities,were discovered in epiphytic biofilms in this study.The findings could aid in the appropriate understanding and use of epiphytic biofilms denitrification function,as well as the enhancement of water quality.
基金Supported by the Zhejiang Province Nature Science Foundation of China(No.LY22C190002)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.31772871,31872540)+4 种基金the Major Scientific and Technological Project of Zhejiang Province(No.2021C02069-9)the Major Scientific and Technological Project of Ningbo(Nos.2021Z004,2021Z103)the Scientific and Technological Project of Ningbo(No.2021S063)the China Agriculture Research System of MOF and MARAthe K.C.Wong Magna Fund of Ningbo University。
文摘Although biofilm formation may promote growth,biofilms are not always beneficial to their hosts.The biofilm formation characteristics of Bacillus cereus WPySW2 and its changes at different temperatures were studied.Results show that B.cereus WPySW2 promoted the growth of Neoporphyra haitanensis(an economically cultivated seaweed)at 20℃ but accelerated algal rot at 28℃.Thicker B.cereus WPySW2 biofilms covered the surface of N.haitanensis thalli at 28℃,which hindered material exchange between the algae and surrounding environment,inhibited algal photosynthesis and respiration,and accelerated algal decay.Compared with planktonic bacteria,mature biofilm cells had lower energy consumption and metabolic levels.The biofilm metabolic characteristics of B.cereus WPySW2 changed significantly with temperature.High temperature accelerated biofilm maturation,which made it thicker and more stable,allowing the bacteria to easily adapt to environmental changes and obtain greater benefits from their host.High temperature did not affect the production or increased the abundance of toxic metabolites,indicating that the negative effects of B.cereus WPySW2 on algae were not caused by toxins.This study shows that increased temperature can transform a harmless bacterium into a detrimental one,demonstrating that temperature may change the ecological function of phycospheric bacteria by affecting their morphology and metabolism.
文摘Objective: This study focused on the antibacterial and anti-proliferative activity of extracts from Carica papaya and Cocos nucifera roots. Methodology: The minimum inhibitory concentration and the minimum bactericidal concentration of the extracts on Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus mutans, and Staphylococcus aureus were deduced by the microdilution method. The anti-biofilm activity was determined on all four strains and anti-quorum sensing activity by inhibition of violacein production in Chromobacterium violaceum. Anti-proliferative activity on prostate cultured cancer cells was evaluated by MTT assay. Sterols and triterpenes were also assayed in this study. Results: The methanolic extract of Carica papaya showed the best anti-biofilm effect with a percentage inhibition of 66.10 ± 1.79. The methanolic extract of Cocos nucifera had the strongest inhibition on the production of quorum sensing (61.42 ± 0.28). In addition, the methanolic extract of Cocos nucifera roots showed the best cytotoxic effect on prostate cancer LNCaP cell lines (IC<sub>50</sub> = 26.98 ± 2.6 μg/mL) and Carica papaya on the PC-3 lines (IC<sub>50</sub> = 127.20 ± 5.99 μg/mL). The extracts were also rich in triterpenes and sterols. Conclusion: This study provides support for the ethnomedical use of Carica papaya and Cocos nucifera roots as an antimicrobial and anticancer.
文摘In this work, we evaluated biofilm formation of Vancomycin Resistant of E. faecalis and E. faecium (VRE) in different culture media and adhesion substrate, as well as cellular hydrophobicity and presence of virulence genes. For this, 35 isolates were collected from a public hospital in Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil and identified by the Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization - Time-of-flight - Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS) technique. Biofilm formation was analyzed by the Crystal Violet (CV) method and fluorescence microscopy, cellular hydrophobicity by hydrocarbon interaction and the presence of gelE, esp and asa1 genes by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). 12 isolates were identified as E. faecalis and 23 as E. faecium. Most were obtained in Coronary Units (40.0%) and Intensive Care Unit (31.4%). E. faecium isolates were more resistant to the antibiotics tested than E. faecalis;however, E. faecalis stood out as a biofilm producer. Regarding the presence and gene frequency, it was observed that gelE (54.3%) and esp (54.3%) were the most prevalent, followed by asa1 (22.9%). When comparing the gene frequency, it was observed that gelE and esp were predominant (48.6% for both species), while asa1 was more frequent in E. faecalis (20.0%). The data presented here are worrying, because they reveal the virulence potential of isolates VRE, which contributes to the dissemination and persistence of these pathogens in the hospital environment.
文摘Bacteria survive in nature by forming biofilms on surfaces and probably most, if not all, bacteria (and fungi) are capable of forming biofilms. A biofilm is a structured consortium of bacteria embedded in a self-produced polymer matrix consisting of polysaccharide, protein and extracellular DNA. Bacterial biofilms are resistant to antibiotics, disinfectant chemicals and to phagocytosis and other components of the innate and adaptive inflammatory defense system of the body. It is known, for example, that persistence of staphylococcal infections related to foreign bodies is due to biofilm formation. Likewise, chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa lung infections in cystic fibrosis patients are caused by biofilm growing mucoid strains. Gradients of nutrients and oxygen exist from the top to the bottom of biofilms and the bacterial cells located in nutrient poor areas have decreased metabolic activity and increased doubling times. These more or less dormant cells are therefore responsible for some of the tolerance to antibiotics. Biofilm growth is associated with an increased level of mutations. Bacteria in biofilms communicate by means of molecules, which activates certain genes responsible for production of virulence factors and, to some extent, biofilm structure. This phenomenon is called quorum sensing and depends upon the concentration of the quorum sensing molecules in a certain niche, which depends on the number of the bacteria. Biofilms can be prevented by antibiotic prophylaxis or early aggressive antibiotic therapy and they can be treated by chronic suppressive antibiotic therapy. Promising strategies may include the use of compounds which can dissolve the biofilm matrix and quorum sensing inhibitors, which increases biofilm susceptibility to antibiotics and phagocytosis.
文摘Bacterial biofilms are the bacterial aggregates that are embedded in the self-produced matrix of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) that cause persistent bacterial infections posing significant medical challenges. They are recalcitrant to antibiotics and host defenses which make the treatments difficult and costly. Penicillium janthinellum mutant EU2D-21 was found to produce extracellular enzyme complex (amylase, cellulase, protease) under submerged fermentation. Maximum specific enzyme activities were found to be 3.04 IU/mg, 2.61 IU/mg and 3.39 IU/mg for alpha-amylase, cellulase and protease respectively, after 8 days of incubation at 30?C. We evaluated the enzyme complex for its ability to target and degrade the biofilms of different bacteria. We found that it degraded biofilms of Escherichia coli (85.5%), Salmonella enterica (79.72%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (88.76%) and Staphyloccus aureus (87.42%) within 1 h of incubation at 50?C. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM), quantitation of biofilm removal assay and Crystal violet assay demonstrated that the enzyme complex detached the biofilm exo-polysaccharide matrix and bacteria from the cell surface. These results illustrate the feasibility and benefits of using this enzyme complex as anti-biofilm therapeutics to eradicate biofilms. This can also be used as a promising strategy to improve treatment of multidrug resistant bacterial infections.
文摘Frequent variations of the wastewater quality and quantity and other uncertain factors are the challenges faced by many wastewater treatment plants during the operation. Sequencing batch biofilm reactor( SBBR) process provides a new idea for an effective solution to this problem. This paper introduces the basic processes and characteristics of the sequencing batch biofilm reactor( SBBR) process,and summarizes the research status of this process in wastewater treatment. Factors affecting the nitrogen and phosphorus removal effect of the SBBR process are also analyzed.
文摘Biofilms act as a reservoir of infection, and periodically release cells in vicinity that are capable of developing new biofilm colonies and disseminate infection. Many chronic bacterial infections are serious that are associated with biofilms and have high morbidity and mortality, partly due to their higher resistance to antimicrobial agents, and partly due to lack of strong biocides which can efficiently treat and inhibit biofilm formation. We recently demonstrated that nonequilibrium non-thermal dielectric-barrier discharge plasma (Plasma) can also be applied to control pathogens via applying treated-liquids, and these liquids acquire broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties. In present studies we demonstrated a range of plasma-activated simple chemical solutions which significantly inhibited biofilm formation by multidrug-resistant bacterial pathogens. Plasma-activated methionine solution exhibited strong inhibitory activity against the biofilms of car-bapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, metal-lo-β-lactamase (NDM1)-positive Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Enterococcus faecalis, and prevented the formation of biofilms by about 70% as compared to untreated controls in single exposure. In addition to inhibition of biofilm formation, a complete inactivation of biofilm-embedded bacterial cells was observed in less than 30 minute’s exposure to candidate plasma-activated methionine solution. These findings suggest that plasma-activated solutions have a potential to prevent biofilm formation, and as biofilm inhibitor.