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Biofilms in skin infections: Propionibacterium acnes and acne vulgaris

T Coenye1, K Honraet, B Rossel

  • 1Laboratory for Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium, Oystershell NV, Drongen, Belgium. Tom.Coenye@UGent.be

Infectious Disorders Drug Targets
|September 11, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) may form biofilms in acne vulgaris, leading to increased resistance against antimicrobial treatments. This biofilm formation is suggested by P. acnes

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Dermatology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Many human infections involve biofilms, where sessile cells exhibit high antimicrobial resistance.
  • Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) is implicated in acne vulgaris pathogenesis.
  • P. acnes is suspected to form biofilms within pilosebaceous follicles.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the potential for P. acnes biofilm formation in acne vulgaris.
  • To understand the implications of P. acnes biofilm resistance.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on P. acnes biofilm formation.
  • Analysis of P. acnes behavior in vitro and in vivo.
  • Comparison with biofilm formation in other skin pathogens.

Main Results:

  • P. acnes readily forms biofilms in vitro and on medical devices in vivo.
  • Sessile P. acnes cells show increased resistance and virulence factor production.
  • Biofilm formation is also observed for Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes.

Conclusions:

  • Evidence suggests P. acnes forms biofilms in acne vulgaris, contributing to treatment resistance.
  • Understanding P. acnes biofilms is crucial for developing effective acne therapies.
  • Biofilm formation is a common mechanism in various skin infections.

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