The silent invaders: Biofilms in neurological, cardiovascular, and metabolic diseases

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Pathology
• Immunology

Background:

• Biofilms are microbial communities encased in an extracellular matrix, traditionally associated with localized infections.
• Emerging evidence implicates biofilms in systemic disorders, extending beyond their conventional role.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the significant and often underestimated influence of biofilms on systemic diseases.
• To explore the role of biofilms in chronic inflammatory diseases, neurological disorders, cardiovascular diseases, metabolic syndromes, and cancer.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of current research on biofilm involvement in systemic pathologies.
• Analysis of mechanisms by which biofilms contribute to disease progression, including chronic inflammation and immune evasion.

Main Results:

• Bacterial biofilms are implicated in neuroinflammation and blood-brain barrier dysfunction in neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Alzheimer's, Parkinson's).
• Oral and gut biofilms contribute to cardiovascular diseases (atherosclerosis, hypertension) and metabolic disorders (insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes).
• Biofilms promote cancer progression, particularly colorectal and gastric cancers, by creating a pro-tumorigenic inflammatory environment.

Conclusions:

• Biofilms are significant contributors to systemic diseases, advancing pathology through chronic inflammation, immune evasion, and microbial translocation.
• Recognizing biofilms' role in systemic illness opens novel therapeutic strategies for chronic conditions.
• Further research into biofilm-host interactions is crucial for developing innovative treatments and improving patient outcomes.