Microbial Biofilms: Applications, Clinical Consequences, and Alternative Therapies

Abstract

Biofilms are complex communities of microorganisms that grow on surfaces and are embedded in a matrix of extracellular polymeric substances. These are prevalent in various natural and man-made environments, ranging from industrial settings to medical devices, where they can have both positive and negative impacts. This review explores the diverse applications of microbial biofilms, their clinical consequences, and alternative therapies targeting these resilient structures. We have discussed beneficial applications of microbial biofilms, including their role in wastewater treatment, bioremediation, food industries, agriculture, and biotechnology. Additionally, we have highlighted the mechanisms of biofilm formation and clinical consequences of biofilms in the context of human health. We have also focused on the association of biofilms with antibiotic resistance, chronic infections, and medical device-related infections. To overcome these challenges, alternative therapeutic strategies are explored. The review examines the potential of various antimicrobial agents, such as antimicrobial peptides, quorum-sensing inhibitors, phytoextracts, and nanoparticles, in targeting biofilms. Furthermore, we highlight the future directions for research in this area and the potential of phytotherapy for the prevention and treatment of biofilm-related infections in clinical settings.

Quantifying the Dynamics of Bacterial Biofilm Formation on the Surface of Soft Contact Lens Materials Using Digital Holographic Tomography to Advance Biofilm Research

“…Various types of pharmaceuticals are used in the form of drops to treat specific eye diseases. However, very little research has been conducted on the possibility of applying pharmacological agents directly during lens wear [ 36 , 37 , 38 , 39 ]. In addition, there are few reports of alternative, rapid, and quantitative methods assessing the effect of drug application on the development of bacterial biofilms directly on the contact lens surface.…”

An Overview of Biofilm-Associated Infections and the Role of Phytochemicals and Nanomaterials in Their Control and Prevention

“…Some of the most common biofilm infections are those caused by uropathogenic microorganisms that adhere to urinary catheters, leading to urinary tract infections (UTIs) [ 4 ]. The treatment of these diseases is difficult due to biofilm formation, cell adhesion, increased antibiotic resistance in the biofilm, and the presence of multiresistant strains.…”

“…However, their use is associated with the development of biofilm or nosocomial infections, most of which are chronic and unfortunately incurable. Infections associated with the development of bacterial biofilms can occur on both implantable and non-implantable medical devices, such as cardiac pacemakers, heart valves, artificial joints, venous and urinary catheters, endotracheal tubes, breast implants, contact lenses, intrauterine devices, biliary stents, orthodontic prostheses, and more [ 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 ]. In addition, there are infections connected with conditions unrelated to implants, including cystic fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, otitis, infectious wounds, diabetes, sinusitis, osteomyelitis, endocarditis, chronic prostatitis, and others [ 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 ].…”

Synthesis of 1,2,4‐Oxadiazole‐sulfonamide Conjugates and Their Synergistic Effect with Ampicillin as Antimicrobial Agents

“…Some of the biggest risks to public health in the twenty‐first century is the emergence of bacterial antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which happens when changes in bacteria lead to a reduction in the efficacy of the medications used to treat diseases [1] . With the emergence of the concept of bacterial resistant strain [2,3] the options for treatment have also been restricted [4] . The WHO's fourth Global Antimicrobial Resistance and use Surveillance System (GLASS) Report confirmed bacterial infections caused by pathogens of concern in 2019 have witnessed a more than sixfold increase in the number of infections reported to GLASS in 2017 [5] .…”

“…[1] With the emergence of the concept of bacterial resistant strain [2,3] the options for treatment have also been restricted. [4] The WHO's fourth Global Antimicrobial Resistance and use Surveillance System (GLASS) Report confirmed bacterial infections caused by pathogens of concern in 2019 have witnessed a more than sixfold increase in the number of infections reported to GLASS in 2017. [5] As a result, singling out of inhibitors against existing new targets has therefore become a key strategy in the development of antibacterial medicines in order to combat the worldwide burden of antibacterial resistance.…”