Challenges of biofilm control and utilization: lessons from mathematical modelling

Abstract

<jats:p>This article reviews modern applications of mathematical descriptions of biofilm formation. The focus is on theoretically obtained results which have implications for areas including the medical sector, food industry and wastewater treatment. Examples are given as to how models have contributed to the overall knowledge on biofilms and how they are used to predict biofilm behaviour. We conclude that the use of mathematical models of biofilms has demonstrated over the years the ability to significantly contribute to the vast field of biofilm research. Among other things, they have been used to test various hypotheses on the nature of interspecies interactions, viability of biofilm treatment methods or forces behind observed biofilm pattern formations. Mathematical models can also play a key role in future biofilm research. Many models nowadays are analysed through computer simulations and continue to improve along with computational capabilities. We predict that models will keep on providing answers to important challenges involving biofilm formation. However, further strengthening of the ties between various disciplines is necessary to fully use the tools of collective knowledge in tackling the biofilm phenomenon.</jats:p>

Dynamic swimming pattern of Pseudomonas aeruginosa near a vertical wall during initial attachment stages of biofilm formation

“…Pathogenic microorganisms colonize and form biofilms on various solid surfaces, causing severe environmental damage and pollution 18 . In our light sheet microscopy imaging setup, we built a chamber that allows concurrent and clear imaging of bacteria movement near a vertical wall and in regions away from the wall (Fig.…”

“…Furthermore, our imaging technique allows proper visualization of bacteria behavior near a vertical wall. Biofilms commonly form on various solid surfaces, including vertical and tilted walls, ceilings and pipes 18 . To our knowledge, many studies focused on biofilms formed on air–water interface or on a horizontal surface 19 .…”

The Role of Bacterial Biofilm in Antibiotic Resistance and Food Contamination

“…As similar findings revealed bacteria within biofilm develop different molecular strategies to protect their cells from hostile conditions such as the interaction of biofilm matrix with antibiotics that can retard or lower their activities, slow growth rates in which antibiotics will not be effective, genetic related resistance, and producing persistent cells which are tolerant to different antibiotics [38] (Figure 2). In biofilm-forming bacteria, there is a high rate of mutation that enables them to develop resistant mechanisms, and this, in turn, gives an opportunity for their genes to produce enzymes that inactivate the antibiotics or expel the antibiotics using efflux pumps [34,83]. Bacteria within biofilm produce persister cells that are metabolically inert and it is one of their mechanisms to escape from antibiotics and even they have the ability to survive in high concentration of antibiotics [84] (Figure 2).…”

Impact of environmental biofilms: Industrial components and its remediation

“…In addition, more research must be performed by researchers on nature‐inspired materials to control fouling problems. Mathematical modeling is also the alternative for industries to recognize the biofilm formation at an initial stage and its prevention based on the environmental conditions . On a practical scale, these technologies will help industries to overcome production loss and maintenance costs.…”