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A Platform of Anti-biofilm Assays Suited to the Exploration of Natural Compound Libraries
Published on: December 27, 2016
New frontiers for anti-biofilm drug development
Suzana M Ribeiro1, Mário R Felício2, Esther Vilas Boas3
1S-Inova Biotech, Pos Graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil; Centro de Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Pós-graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brazil.
Abstract:
Pathogenic microbial biofilm, a consortium of microbial cells protected by a self-produced polymer matrix, is considered a worldwide challenge due to the inherent antibiotic resistance conferred by its lifestyle. Living, as it does, in a community of microbial organisms in a clinical situation, makes it responsible for severe and dangerous cases of infection. Combating this organisation of cells usually requires high antibiotic doses for a prolonged time, and these approaches often fail, contributing to infection persistence. In addition to therapeutic limitations, biofilms can be a source of infections when they grow in medical devices. The challenge imposed by biofilms has mobilised researchers in the entire world to prospect or develop alternatives to control biofilms. In this context, this review summarises the new frontiers that could be used in clinical circumstances in order to prevent or eliminate pathogenic biofilms.
Insights
Pathogenic microbial biofilms pose a significant challenge due to antibiotic resistance. This review explores novel strategies for preventing and eliminating these resilient microbial communities in clinical settings.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Pathogenic microbial biofilms are microbial cell communities encased in a self-produced polymer matrix.
- Biofilms exhibit inherent antibiotic resistance, leading to persistent and severe infections.
- Medical device colonization by biofilms is a common source of healthcare-associated infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review emerging strategies for controlling pathogenic biofilms.
- To identify novel frontiers for preventing and eliminating biofilms in clinical environments.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current research on biofilm control.
- Analysis of emerging therapeutic and preventative approaches.
Main Results:
- Traditional antibiotic treatments are often insufficient against biofilms.
- New strategies are being developed to overcome biofilm resistance.
Conclusions:
- Novel approaches are crucial for effective clinical management of biofilm infections.
- Continued research into alternative methods is essential to combat biofilm challenges.
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