Bacterial extracellular matrix as a natural source of biotechnologically multivalent materials

Abstract

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is an intricate megastructure made by bacterial cells to form architecturally complex biostructures called biofilms. Protection of cells, modulation of cell-to-cell signalling, cell differentiation and environmental sensing are functions of the ECM that reflect its diverse chemical composition. Proteins, polysaccharides and eDNA have specific functionalities while cooperatively interacting to sustain the architecture and biological relevance of the ECM. The accumulated evidence on the chemical heterogeneity and specific functionalities of ECM components has attracted attention because of their potential biotechnological applications, from agriculture to the water and food industries. This review compiles information on the most relevant bacterial ECM components, the biophysical and chemical features responsible for their biological roles, and their potential to be further translated into biotechnological applications.

Hydrogen peroxide treatment induces the transposition of an insertion sequence in Deinococcus radiopugnans DY59

“…In the present additional catalase expression data, the high hydrogen peroxide resistance of DY59 is not explained by induced expression of catalase genes. DY59 strain may have a high level of constitutive catalase enzyme activity, or it may employ other mechanisms for hydrogen peroxide resistance, such as unidentified protective pathways and physiological defense systems using extracellular matrixe components such as extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), proteins, and eDNA, which aid in biofilm formation and enhance tolerance to oxidative stress, and certain transporters (Li et al, 2013;Molina-Santiago et al, 2021).…”

Anti-Biofilm Strategies: A Focused Review on Innovative Approaches

“…Extracellular polymeric substances (EPSs) play a main role in bacteria survival since they protect bacteria from antibiotics and avoid drug penetration at bactericidal concentrations [58]. The extracellular matrix is an essential component for BF formation and maturation, both in Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria [59]. Its components are similar for both bacteria types and include proteins (expressed only during BF formation), polysaccharides, extracellular nucleic acids (eDNA), and some membrane vesicles [60].…”

Curcumin-Functionalized Graphene Oxide Strongly Prevents Candida parapsilosis Adhesion and Biofilm Formation

“…The EPS is a key component of the biofilm; in fact, the EPS contributes to the absorption of nutrients and, thanks to its physio-chemical characteristics, contributes to the mechanism of tolerance towards the human immune system and antimicrobial therapies [ 6 , 7 , 8 ]. The EPS is mainly composed of water, polysaccharide, and proteins, and, to a lesser extent, extracellular DNA; the composition can vary according to the microbial species and the environment [ 9 , 10 , 11 ].…”