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Non-surface Attached Bacterial Aggregates: A Ubiquitous Third Lifestyle
Yu-Ming Cai1,2
1National Biofilms Innovation Centre, Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom.
Frontiers in Microbiology
|December 21, 2020
Summary
Bacteria can exist as planktonic cells, surface-attached biofilms, or suspended aggregates. This review highlights the significance of bacterial aggregates in chronic infections and natural environments, advocating for further research into this third lifestyle.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Environmental Science
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Bacteria traditionally recognized for planktonic or biofilm lifestyles.
- Emerging evidence highlights suspended bacterial aggregates as critical in chronic infections.
- These aggregates, though biofilm-like, differ in size and formation compared to surface-attached biofilms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the characteristics of non-attached bacterial aggregates across diverse settings.
- To bridge knowledge gaps between clinical and environmental research on bacterial aggregates.
- To emphasize the importance of studying this third bacterial lifestyle.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on bacterial aggregates in natural and clinical environments.
- Analysis of studies on marine gel particles, river/lake snow, and wastewater flocs.
- Inclusion of recent technical advancements in aggregate research.
Main Results:
- Non-attached bacterial aggregates represent a significant bacterial community form.
- These aggregates are found in oceans, freshwater systems, and wastewater treatment.
- Clinical isolates often exhibit reduced surface attachment compared to type strains.
Conclusions:
- Bacterial aggregates constitute a distinct and important lifestyle.
- Further research is crucial to understand their role in health, disease, and ecosystems.
- Recognizing this third lifestyle can lead to new perspectives in microbiology and medicine.
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