Biofilms: microbial life on surfaces.
Microorganisms attach to surfaces and develop biofilms. Biofilm-associated cells can be differentiated from their suspended counterparts by generation of an extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) matrix, reduced growth rates, and the up- and down- regulation of specific genes. Attachment is a complex process regulated by diverse characteristics of the growth medium, substratum, and cell surface. An established biofilm structure comprises microbial cells and EPS, has a defined architecture, and provides an optimal environment for the exchange of genetic material between cells. Cells may also communicate via quorum sensing, which may in turn affect biofilm processes such as detachment. Biofilms have great importance for public health because of their role in certain infectious diseases and importance in a variety of device-related infections. A greater understanding of biofilm processes should lead to novel, effective control strategies for biofilm control and a resulting improvement in patient management.
Biofilm Laboratory, Division of Healthcare Quality Promotion, National Center for Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia 30333, USA. rld8@cdc.gov
Rodney M
RM
Donlan
D001419:Bacteria / Q000737:chemistry / Q000235:genetics / Q000254:growth & development* / Q000472:pathogenicity; D001422:Bacterial Adhesion; D001424:Bacterial Infections / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000382:microbiology / Q000635:transmission; D018441:Biofilms / Q000254:growth & development*; D004463:Ecology; D015964:Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial; D011634:Public Health