Intercepting signalling mechanism to control environmental biofouling.

Area of Science:

• Environmental microbiology
• Materials science
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Biofouling, driven by bacterial quorum sensing signals and extracellular polymeric substances, is a major issue in environmental systems, particularly membrane biofouling in water treatment.
• This process can lead to pathogenic contamination and significant global economic losses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the fundamental mechanisms of biofilm formation in various environmental niches, focusing on membrane biofouling.
• To discuss quorum sensing mechanisms, including molecular signals (acyl-homoserine lactones, AHLs) and bioelectrical signals (potassium gradients).
• To explore potential interventions for biofouled membranes, including genomic strategies and microenvironment manipulation.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on bacterial quorum sensing and biofilm formation.
• Analysis of bioelectrical and molecular signaling pathways involved in biofilm propagation.
• Exploration of genomic interventions and microenvironmental factors affecting biofilm communities.

Main Results:

• Biofilm formation is mediated by both molecular signals (AHLs) and bioelectrical signals (K+ gradients).
• The biofilm microenvironment presents several targets for intervention, such as quorum quenching bacteria, bioelectrical wave capture, siderophore arrest, and surface modifications.
• Genomic intervention strategies show potential for managing biofouled membrane microbial communities.

Conclusions:

• A novel hypothesis suggests that electro-modified membrane surfaces with negative charges can intercept quorum (AHLs) and bioelectrical (K+) signals.
• This interception mechanism is proposed to favor anti-biofouling properties in water systems.
• Understanding and manipulating these signaling pathways is crucial for developing effective anti-biofouling strategies.