Bacterial Biofilm: Dispersal and Inhibition Strategies

Bacterial biofilms are communities of microorganisms residing within a polysaccharide matrix. Dental plaque, slimy coating in tanks, and algal mats on bodies of water are examples of biofilms. It is well accepted that biofilms play important role in bacterial persistence and antibiotic resistance in chronic infections. It is acknowledged that the majority of microbial cells on earth are living in distinct communities as biofilms. In fact, it is now known that 99% of all bacteria exist in biofilms, with only 1% living in the planktonic state. It has been estimated that 65% of microbial infections are associated with biofilms which constitute a microbial multicellular lifestyle and are defined as organized communities of bacteria. The structural nature of biofilms can protect the cells against antimicrobial agents and the host's defense. The microbial community inside a biofilm can also be protected against adverse conditions such as desiccation, osmotic shock, UV radiation, or exposure to toxic compounds, or predators. Due to the heterogeneous nature of biofilms, it is likely that multiple mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance can occur