Evolving concepts in biofilm infections

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Medical Science

Background:

• Biofilm formation is a critical survival strategy for numerous pathogens linked to chronic infections like cystic fibrosis pneumonia, otitis media, rhinosinusitis, and urinary tract infections.
• Biofilms are surface-associated microbial communities encased in an extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) matrix, contributing to resistance against host immune responses and antibiotic treatments.
• Despite their prevalence in chronic diseases, in vivo biofilm development outside of dental plaques remains under-investigated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent efforts in examining the biofilm phenotype in vivo.
• To discuss the challenges associated with defining and identifying biofilms in clinical settings.
• To explore the implications of in vivo biofilm characterization for understanding persistent microbial infections.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies investigating in vivo biofilm phenotypes.
• Analysis of challenges in defining and detecting biofilms in clinical samples.
• Discussion of the significance of in vivo biofilm research.

Main Results:

• Biofilm formation is a common characteristic of pathogens involved in persistent, treatment-resistant chronic infections.
• In vivo studies face significant challenges in accurately defining and visualizing the biofilm phenotype.
• Understanding in vivo biofilms is crucial for developing effective therapeutic strategies against chronic infections.

Conclusions:

• Biofilms are crucial for pathogen persistence in chronic diseases, conferring resistance to therapies.
• Defining the in vivo biofilm phenotype presents considerable methodological and interpretational challenges.
• Further research into in vivo biofilms is essential for advancing treatment paradigms for chronic infectious diseases.