Biofilmy

Biofilmy, also known as biofilms, are surface-attached communities of microorganisms embedded in a self-produced extracellular polymeric substance matrix. The EPS matrix, composed of polysaccharides, proteins, and extracellular DNA, provides structure, protection, and nutrient retention. Microorganisms within a biofilm show spatial and metabolic diversity, forming microcolonies connected by water channels.

Formation occurs through stages: reversible attachment of free-floating cells to a surface, irreversible adhesion, maturation with EPS production and three-dimensional architecture, and dispersion when cells detach to colonize new sites. Factors such as surface roughness, flow, nutrients, and microbial signaling influence development. Quorum sensing regulates gene expression related to adhesion and EPS synthesis.

Biofilms are ubiquitous in natural and engineered environments. They occur in rivers and soils, on plant and animal tissues, and in industrial systems. In medicine, biofilms contribute to chronic infections and device-associated infections. In water systems and food processing, they can cause contamination and corrosion; in wastewater treatment, they enable beneficial biological processes.

Biofilms exhibit increased resistance to antimicrobials and environmental stresses due to limited penetration of compounds, slower growth rates, altered microenvironments, and cooperative interactions. This makes infections difficult to treat and cleaning challenging. Detection methods include microscopy (fluorescence, confocal), staining for EPS, and molecular methods such as 16S rRNA sequencing.

Control and management involve physical removal, mechanical cleaning, optimized flow, surface coatings that deter attachment, enzymatic or chemical treatments, and targeting quorum sensing. In some contexts, promoting beneficial biofilms by bioreactors or bioremediation is desirable. Well-known examples include dental plaque, Pseudomonas aeruginosa in lungs or on medical devices, and Legionella in water systems.