hrvatski

Bakterijski biofilmovi - stanična komunikacija

Bacteria may assume two different life forms: floating (planktonic) and biofilm forms. In biofilms bacteria exist as heterogeneous populations with various growth rates embedded in extracellular polymeric substrate, which functions as a 3D scaffold that provides stability and protection against antimicrobial treatments and immunological system of the host organism. The composition of the matrix varies with the microorganism type, local mechanical shear forces, substrate availability and the host environment. Current biofilm-targeting strategies involve physical-mechanical and chemical approaches. Quorum sensing (QS) or cell-to-cell communication represents an attractive target of antibiofilm drug discovery. Inhibition of QS-regulated gene expression lead to reduction of virulence factor secretion and biofilm formation. QS inhibition can be accomplished in different ways, by inhibiting the signal molecules production, by degrading the signal molecules or by blocking the signal receptors. Various compounds of natural and synthetic origins have been reported as efficient antibiofilm agents. They do not directly affect bacterial survival and thus the expectation is that resistance to these molecules will not readily occur. Ability of bacteria to form biofilms complicates treatment of various infections, especially those related to the use of medical devices. This enhances risks of health threats and causes a lot of industrial problems. To date, no antibiofilm drug has been registered although several of them are in clinical trials.

biofilm ; stanična komunikacija ; kronična infekcija

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