The biofilm matrix.
The extracellular matrix is a complex and extremely important component of all biofilms, providing architectural structure and mechanical stability to the attached population. The matrix is composed of cells, water and secreted/released extracellular macromolecules. In addition, a range of enzymic and regulatory activities can be found within the matrix. Together, these different components and activities are likely to interact and in so doing create a series of local environments within the matrix which co-exist as a functional consortium. The matrix architecture is also subject to a number of extrinsic factors, including fluctuations in nutrient and gaseous levels and fluid shear. Together, these intrinsic and extrinsic factors combine to produce a dynamic, heterogeneous microenvironment for the attached and enveloped cells.
Allison
David G
DG
School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK, david.allison@man.ac.uk
D018441:Biofilms; D004777:Environment; D005109:Extracellular Matrix / Q000737:chemistry*; D011157:Population Dynamics