Biofilms Formation by Pathogenic Bacteria. Review

Abstract

Biofilm is a complex structure specific for microbial communities formed on biotic and nonliving surfaces such as prosthetic or artificial teeth; increase their resistance to stressed conditions and protect themselves. Biofilm surrounding bacterial cells had increased their resistance to antibiotics. Several microorganisms able to form biofilms on adherent surface such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Bacillus cereus. Bacillus cereus is a Gram positive, rod-shaped bacteria, found in soil but it is also isolated from plant roots and food products. Some B. cereus strains are foodborne pathogens responsible for two types of gastrointestinal diseases, diarrhea and emesis, caused by distinct toxins. Disruption of biofilm forming may be better than removing them after formation. Several strategies were used to overcome biofilm such as nanoparticles, antibiotics and chemical treatment. In this review, microbial biofilms in several fields as food industry and medicine are highlighted and methods which are used to break down biofilm.