Bacterial coaggregation: an integral process in the development of multi-species biofilms.
Coaggregation is a process by which genetically distinct bacteria become attached to one another via specific molecules. Cumulative evidence suggests that such adhesion influences the development of complex multi-species biofilms. Once thought to occur exclusively between dental plaque bacteria, there are increasing reports of coaggregation between bacteria from other biofilm communities in several diverse habitats. A general role for coaggregation in the formation of multi-species biofilms is discussed.
Rickard
Alexander H
AH
School of Pharmacy, University of Manchester, Coupland III Building, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK. AHRickard@hotmail.com
Gilbert
Peter
P
High
Nicola J
NJ
Kolenbrander
Paul E
PE
Handley
Pauline S
PS
D018829:Adhesins, Bacterial / Q000032:analysis; D001422:Bacterial Adhesion; D018441:Biofilms / Q000254:growth & development*; D003773:Dental Plaque / Q000382:microbiology; D017753:Ecosystem; D006801:Humans; D008954:Models, Biological; D009055:Mouth / Q000382:microbiology; D013291:Streptococcus / Q000254:growth & development / Q000378:metabolism
D018829:Adhesins, Bacterial