15/03/2025
A biofilm is essentially a community of microorganisms that stick to each other and adhere to a surface. Here's a breakdown:
* Microbial Community:
* Biofilms can contain a single species of microorganism or a diverse mix of bacteria, fungi, and other microbes.
* Extracellular Matrix:
* The microorganisms within a biofilm produce a sticky, protective layer called an extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) matrix. This matrix acts like a glue, holding the community together and attaching it to the surface.
* This matrix provides protection to the microbes within it, protecting them from things like antibiotics, disinfectants, and the hosts immune system.
* Surface Adherence:
* Biofilms can form on a wide range of surfaces, including living tissues, medical devices, and environmental surfaces.
* Characteristics:
* Biofilms are highly organized structures.
* They enable the microbes within them to communicate with each other. This communication is often done through chemical signaling.
* Biofilms are often more resistant to antimicrobial treatments than free-floating (planktonic) microorganisms.
In essence, a biofilm is a complex and highly resilient microbial community that plays a significant role in both health and environmental processes.
