“…This matrix consists primarily of polysaccharides, proteins, glycolipids, phospholipids, nucleic acids and enzymes that provide nutrients for bacteria in the early stages of biofilm development (Biedroń et al, 2017). The EPS also allows retention and accumulation of organic and inorganic matter (Liu et al, 2014; Peng et al, 2010; Peng & Korshin, 2011), heavy metals (e.g., As) (Liu et al, 2014), a variety of pathogens (Feazel et al, 2009; Fish et al, 2017; Liu et al, 2017; Vaerewijck et al, 2005) and possibly microplastic particles (Novotna et al, 2019; Pivokonsky et al, 2018; Tao et al, 2023). The process of biofilm development in drinking water distribution systems is multistep, and bacteria use intercellular signaling known as quorum sensing (QS) for its efficient expansion and stable functioning (Lami et al, 2022; Liu, Ling, et al, 2016; Shrout & Nerenberg, 2012).…”