@article {pmid42981386,
year = {2026},
author = {Trinquier, AE and Slama, F and Liu, J and Pham, L and Stolt, L and Wang, JD},
title = {Direct regulation of a tRNA modification enzyme by ppGpp links stress signaling to translational control and biofilm development.},
journal = {Science advances},
volume = {12},
number = {45},
pages = {eaek6976},
pmid = {42981386},
issn = {2375-2548},
mesh = {*RNA, Transfer/metabolism/genetics ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; *Bacillus subtilis/genetics/physiology/metabolism ; *Guanosine Tetraphosphate/metabolism ; *Signal Transduction ; *Protein Biosynthesis ; *Stress, Physiological ; Ribosome Profiling ; Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics ; Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial ; Codon ; Ribosomes/metabolism ; Mutation ; },
abstract = {Transfer RNA (tRNA) modifications influence decoding efficiency and translational fidelity, yet how they are integrated into bacterial signaling networks remains poorly understood. Here, we identify a direct connection between stress signaling and codon-specific translational regulation. We show that the alarmone guanosine tetraphosphate (ppGpp) directly inhibits MnmE (TrmE), a conserved tRNA-modification GTPase required for methylaminomethyl (mnm) modification of wobble uridine. High-resolution ribosome profiling in Bacillus subtilis revealed that loss of MnmE selectively increases ribosome pausing at AAG codons and reprograms translation of a subset of genes, including small open reading frames. Among these is a previously unrecognized AAG-containing leader peptide that controls expression of the biofilm repressor AbrB. Consistent with this mechanism, mnmE mutants exhibit constitutive extracellular matrix production and bypass the biofilm defect of a relA mutant. Together, these findings establish a pathway linking ppGpp signaling, tRNA modification, codon-specific translation, and multicellular development.},
}

*RNA, Transfer/metabolism/genetics
*Biofilms/growth & development
*Bacillus subtilis/genetics/physiology/metabolism
*Guanosine Tetraphosphate/metabolism
*Signal Transduction
*Protein Biosynthesis
*Stress, Physiological
Ribosome Profiling
Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics
Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial
Codon
Ribosomes/metabolism
Mutation

@article {pmid42981400,
year = {2026},
author = {Huang, X and Liszczyk, ED and Prasad, R and Mitchell, ME and Wang, Z and Liu, Y and Saluja, S and Wang, M and Jackson, RA and Dahl, P and Eguiluz, RA and Malvankar, N and Yan, ECY and Olson, R and Zhou, HX and Yan, J},
title = {A biofilm-derived peptide as an underwater adhesive.},
journal = {Science advances},
volume = {12},
number = {45},
pages = {eaei1795},
pmid = {42981400},
issn = {2375-2548},
mesh = {*Biofilms ; *Adhesives/chemistry ; *Peptides/chemistry ; *Vibrio cholerae/physiology/chemistry ; Microscopy, Atomic Force ; Molecular Dynamics Simulation ; Animals ; Surface Properties ; },
abstract = {Wet adhesives that perform under water have broad applications in industrial and biomedical settings. To date, molecular designs for underwater adhesives have largely been inspired by marine animals including mussels and barnacles. Here, we propose bacterial biofilms as an alternative source of inspiration for underwater adhesives. Specifically, we demonstrate the application potential of a peptide derived from biofilms formed by the notorious pathogen Vibrio cholerae. We characterize the ability of this biofilm-derived peptide to adsorb onto various surfaces and to glue wet surfaces by using a combination of confocal microscopy, molecular dynamics simulations, atomic force microscopy, lap shear tests, and spectroscopic tools. We further show that the peptide can coaggregate with microspheres acting as an effective flocculant. Our results open new design possibilities for underwater adhesives inspired by natural biofilms.},
}

*Biofilms
*Adhesives/chemistry
*Peptides/chemistry
*Vibrio cholerae/physiology/chemistry
Microscopy, Atomic Force
Molecular Dynamics Simulation
Animals
Surface Properties

@article {pmid42982137,
year = {2026},
author = {Yin, Y and Liu, S and Xu, F and Zhu, D and Wang, X and Liu, Y and Shen, F and Huang, Y and Qi, Y and Luo, Q},
title = {Enzyme-driven Janus nanomotor for enhanced diabetic wound healing via deep penetration-mediated biofilm eradication and hypoxia alleviation.},
journal = {Journal of controlled release : official journal of the Controlled Release Society},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {115523},
doi = {10.1016/j.jconrel.2026.115523},
pmid = {42982137},
issn = {1873-4995},
abstract = {Diabetic chronic wounds represent an urgent clinical challenge due to persistent biofilm infections, tissue hypoxia, and impaired healing, leading to prolonged morbidity and high healthcare burden. Herein, we develop a self-propelled Janus nanomotor (GCO@AM) to overcome the biofilm barrier and modulate the diabetic wound microenvironment. The nanomotor consists of an Au/Pt-coated spherical head functionalized with an S. aureus-targeting peptide and an enzyme-loaded mesoporous silica rod tail. Under the acidic and hyperglycemic biofilm microenvironment, a cascade reaction involving glucose oxidase (GOx), catalase (CAT), and calcium peroxide (CaO2) generates oxygen gas (O2) in situ, producing asymmetric propulsion that drives directional motion toward S. aureus. The generated O2 alleviates local hypoxia, while the Au/Pt head catalyzes O2 into bactericidal superoxide radicals (O2[•-]) for bacterial elimination. GCO@AM exhibits enhanced biofilm penetration, achieving a 15.2-fold increase in penetration depth compared with non-motile nanoparticles, and eradicates 99.98% of bacteria within S. aureus biofilms in vitro. In diabetic wound models, GCO@AM effectively removes biofilm infections, relieves hypoxia, reduces inflammation, promotes angiogenesis and collagen deposition, and achieves a wound closure rate of 98.20% within 10 days. This work establishes a biofilm-responsive self-propelled nanomotor that integrates targeted delivery, antibacterial therapy, and microenvironment modulation for treating chronic biofilm-associated wounds.},
}

@article {pmid42983418,
year = {2026},
author = {Roßbach, J and Sasse, C and Bürgers, R and Bunz, O},
title = {Candida albicans adhesion, biofilm formation and gene expression on conventional, milled and 3D-printed denture base materials: an in vitro study.},
journal = {BMC oral health},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42983418},
issn = {1472-6831},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Candida albicans/physiology/genetics ; *Denture Bases/microbiology ; *Printing, Three-Dimensional ; Surface Properties ; Humans ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning ; Cell Adhesion ; *Dental Materials/chemistry ; In Vitro Techniques ; Spectrometry, X-Ray Emission ; Gene Expression ; Materials Testing ; Fungal Proteins/genetics ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Denture base materials are colonized by Candida albicans, and surface properties influence microbial adhesion. Evidence on subtractively and additively manufactured materials remains limited. This in vitro study examined surface characteristics of conventional, milled and 3D-printed denture base materials and their association with C. albicans adhesion, biofilm formation and gene expression.

METHODS: Specimens of eight conventional, milled and 3D-printed denture base materials were polished to an arithmetic surface roughness (Ra) below 0.2 μm and characterized by surface free energy (SFE), scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Initial adhesion of C. albicans DSM 1386 (2 h) was quantified by fluorescence staining. For the materials with the highest and lowest adhesion (Temp Basic, Denture Gingiva Basic Mono), 24-h biofilm formation was quantified by crystal violet staining, and ALS3 and EFG1 expression by RT-qPCR after 2, 4 and 8 h, additionally in two oral clinical isolates. Data were analyzed using (Welch) ANOVA with post hoc tests and one-sample t-tests (α = 0.05).

RESULTS: Temp Basic showed a significantly lower SFE than all other materials (p ≤ 0.012) and the highest mean initial adhesion, which differed significantly from PalaXpress, V-Print dentbase and Denture Gingiva Basic Mono (p ≤ 0.018). Biofilm biomass after 24 h did not differ between Temp Basic and Denture Gingiva Basic Mono (p = 0.261). In the reference strain, ALS3 and EFG1 expression was significantly higher on Denture Gingiva Basic Mono after 4 h (pALS3 = 0.009; pEFG1 = 0.038), but not after 28 h. Both clinical isolates likewise showed higher expression after 4 h, without significance in clinical isolate 1; clinical isolate 2 was tested in a single experiment.

CONCLUSIONS: Within the limitations of this in vitro study, SFE alone did not explain material-dependent differences in initial C. albicans adhesion, and higher initial adhesion was not associated with greater biofilm biomass. ALS3 and EFG1 expression after 4 h was higher on Denture Gingiva Basic Mono, significantly in the reference strain and in the same direction in two clinical isolates. Confirmation under clinically relevant conditions, including a salivary pellicle and multispecies biofilms, is required.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Candida albicans/physiology/genetics
*Denture Bases/microbiology
*Printing, Three-Dimensional
Surface Properties
Humans
Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
Cell Adhesion
*Dental Materials/chemistry
In Vitro Techniques
Spectrometry, X-Ray Emission
Gene Expression
Materials Testing
Fungal Proteins/genetics

@article {pmid42983633,
year = {2026},
author = {Babu, KR and Sobhana, KS and Alex, A and Neethu, KP and Jayasree, VS and Ranjith, L and Jasmine, S and Joshi, KK and George, G},
title = {PhPV1.2, a novel Autographivirales bacteriophage infecting biofilm forming Vibrio parahaemolyticus: genomic insights and characterization.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42983633},
issn = {1471-2180},
mesh = {*Vibrio parahaemolyticus/virology/physiology ; *Genome, Viral ; *Bacteriophages/genetics/isolation & purification/classification/physiology/ultrastructure ; Phylogeny ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; Microscopy, Electron, Transmission ; Genomics ; DNA, Viral/genetics ; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration ; Base Composition ; India ; },
abstract = {Vibrio parahaemolyticus, a Gram-negative, halophilic bacterium, is a common causative agent of gastroenteritis linked to the consumption of undercooked or raw seafood. The growing prevalence of bacterial strains, including that of V. parahaemolyticus, has raised serious concerns and has evoked interest in alternative solutions, such as the use of lytic bacteriophages for phage therapy. In this study, we report the isolation of a biofilm forming, V. parahaemolyticus strain PV1.2 and its specific lytic bacteriophage, designated PhPV1.2, from a tidal pool in Puthuvype, Kochi, located on the southwest coast of India. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis revealed that PhPV1.2 possesses an icosahedral capsid, 53 ± 5 nm in diameter with a very short non-contractile tail. One-step growth curve analysis indicated a latent period of 105 min and a burst size of 60 plaque-forming units (pfu) per infected cell. The adsorption constant of the phage was estimated as 4.6 × 10[- 9] mL min[- 1]. PhPV1.2 demonstrated thermal stability up to 76 ℃ and retained infectivity across a pH range of 5 to 11, however, its viability declined markedly at temperatures above 70 ℃ and at extreme pH values (< 3 or > 11). Whole genome sequencing using an Illumina 2 × 150 bp paired end approach followed by de novo assembly revealed a 42.5 kbp dsDNA genome with a G + C content of 47.79%, housing 61 predicted protein-encoding open reading frames (ORFs). Comprehensive genomic characterization and comparative analyses, including phylogeny based on conserved marker genes and whole genome, proteomic clustering using ViPTree, and average nucleotide identity (ANI) as well as intergenomic similarity assessments, identified PhPV1.2 as a novel species within the order Autographivirales (class Caudoviricetes). The complete genome sequence of PhPV1.2 has been deposited in the NCBI GenBank database under the Accession no. PQ511476.},
}

*Vibrio parahaemolyticus/virology/physiology
*Genome, Viral
*Bacteriophages/genetics/isolation & purification/classification/physiology/ultrastructure
Phylogeny
*Biofilms/growth & development
Microscopy, Electron, Transmission
Genomics
DNA, Viral/genetics
Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
Base Composition
India

@article {pmid42983643,
year = {2026},
author = {Goudarzi Shams Abadi, B and Alizadeh Behbahani, B and Jooyandeh, H and Hojjati, M and Vasiee, A and Taki, M},
title = {Metabolic, enzymatic, and probiotic profiling of Lactococcus lactis LBM15: inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus biofilm and virulence genes, and GPR-based prediction.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42983643},
issn = {1471-2180},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Lactococcus lactis/genetics/isolation & purification/metabolism/enzymology/physiology/classification ; *Staphylococcus aureus/genetics/drug effects/pathogenicity/physiology ; Humans ; *Probiotics/pharmacology ; Caco-2 Cells ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Yogurt/microbiology ; Bacterial Adhesion ; Virulence/genetics ; Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Interactions ; Virulence Factors/genetics ; Listeria monocytogenes/drug effects ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics ; },
abstract = {This study characterized a Lactococcus lactis strain (LBM15) isolated from traditional yogurt and evaluated its probiotic, antimicrobial, and anti-biofilm attributes, along with its physiological robustness and safety-associated characteristics. The isolate was identified by 16S rRNA sequencing (99% similarity) and exhibited a carbohydrate utilization pattern typical of dairy L. lactis, including efficient fermentation of common hexoses and β-glucosides. Enzymatic profiling revealed high phosphatase and peptidase activities, supporting its metabolic adaptation to milk environments. The strain demonstrated notable tolerance under simulated gastrointestinal and environmental stress conditions and maintained substantial growth at pH 4.0-5.5, values decreasing only slightly from 8.60 ± 0.11 Log CFU/mL to 6.80 ± 0.06 Log CFU/mL after 3 h. It exhibited strong surface hydrophobicity (59.5 ± 3.0% for chloroform) and auto-aggregation (73.0 ± 2.5% in 24 h), both promoting adequate adhesion to Caco-2 cells and competitive exclusion of Staphylococcus aureus. Cell-free supernatants (CFS) showed broad antibacterial activity, most notably against S. aureus and L. monocytogenes, with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values of 15 and 30 mg/mL, respectively. qRT-PCR demonstrated significant downregulation of S. aureus virulence genes (mecA, agr, icaA, spa, and hla), consistent with the observed reduction in biofilm biomass. The strain also exhibited strong antioxidant potential, moderate cytotoxicity against MCF-7, HeLa, and HT-29 cancer cells, and substantial cholesterol assimilation (54.50 ± 2.80% in 0.2% bile concentration). HPLC confirmed the production of lactic (11.30 ± 0.19 mg/mL), acetic (4.49 ± 0.10 mg/mL), and formic (2.00 ± 0.05 mg/mL) acids. Also, in this study, a Gaussian Process Regression (GPR) model was used to predict acidity and bile salt. The model delivered excellent predictive accuracy, evidenced by low Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) values (1.39% for bile, 2.54% for acidity) and high R[2] scores (0.98 and 0.94, respectively), with predictions closely mirroring empirical observations. Collectively, these findings indicate that L. lactis LBM15 exhibits promising in vitro probiotic-associated, anti-pathogenic, and antioxidant properties. Its combined probiotic and anti-biofilm activities, supported by data-driven modeling, suggest that it exhibits promising in vitro probiotic-associated properties for food biotechnology applications.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Lactococcus lactis/genetics/isolation & purification/metabolism/enzymology/physiology/classification
*Staphylococcus aureus/genetics/drug effects/pathogenicity/physiology
Humans
*Probiotics/pharmacology
Caco-2 Cells
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Yogurt/microbiology
Bacterial Adhesion
Virulence/genetics
Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Interactions
Virulence Factors/genetics
Listeria monocytogenes/drug effects
Bacterial Proteins/genetics

@article {pmid42985124,
year = {2026},
author = {Bagchi, D and Majumdar, A and Kotta-Loizou, I and Buck, M},
title = {Biofilm-Controlled Molecular Crosstalk: Nitrogen Fixation, Arsenic Transformation and Antibiotic Resistance.},
journal = {International journal of microbiology},
volume = {2026},
number = {},
pages = {4307970},
pmid = {42985124},
issn = {1687-918X},
abstract = {Biological nitrogen fixation, arsenic biotransformation and antibiotic resistance are conventionally studied separately, yet the environmental biofilm-bacteria's dominant organisational state in soils, sediments and rhizospheres-supplies a shared physicochemical and genetic context in which the three can intersect. The extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) matrix imposes steep oxygen, redox and metabolite gradients across micrometre scales and demonstrably shelters oxygen-sensitive nitrogenase, retains arsenic-transforming enzymes (ArsC, ArsM and AioA) and elevates horizontal gene transfer (HGT) frequencies orders of magnitude above planktonic conditions. Individual circuits are genetically established in single organisms-RpoN coactivates pslA and nifA and the non-coding RNA NfiS stabilises nifK and katB transcripts, in Pseudomonas stutzeri A1501-but their assembly into one programme linking surface commitment, diazotrophic activation and oxidative stress defence, with additional c-di-GMP and ArsR stimulon input under arsenic stress, is proposed, not demonstrated. Arsenic-driven coselection of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) is the best-supported limb, operating through cross-resistance (RND efflux), co-resistance (ars-ARG colocation on Tn21, Class 1 integrons, IncP/IncQ plasmids) and coregulation (ArsR stimulon, SOS-derepressed intI1), whereas the proposal that diazotrophy-derived ammonium supports S-adenosyl-l-methionine supply for ArsM-mediated methylation rests on gene coenrichment and rate correlation rather than direct flux measurement. This review integrates these processes into a single biofilm framework, classifies each proposed linkage by the evidence behind it, identifies candidate trifunctional mobile elements carrying ars, nif and ARG cassettes in hyperaccumulator rhizospheres and paddy soils and specifies the minimum spatially resolved single-cell dataset (bacterial-MERFISH, par-seqFISH and SIP-NanoSIMS) needed to test the proposed couplings.},
}

@article {pmid42985573,
year = {2026},
author = {Mezher, RT and Abbas, RR and Jabbar, HA and Akbari, M and Kashi, M and Chegini, Z and Shariati, A},
title = {High Prevalence of vanA-Positive Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococcus faecalis and Enterococcus faecium: Antibiotic Resistance, Biofilm Formation, and Virulence Profiles.},
journal = {Health science reports},
volume = {9},
number = {11},
pages = {e73468},
pmid = {42985573},
issn = {2398-8835},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Data on antimicrobial resistance (AMR), biofilm formation, and virulence traits in clinical Enterococcus isolates from central Iran remain limited. This study evaluated AMR profiles, biofilm-forming capacity, and the prevalence of virulence and resistance genes in clinical Enterococcus isolates from Arak, Iran.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty Enterococcus isolates obtained from 250 clinical specimens were analyzed. Antimicrobial susceptibility was determined by disk diffusion and E-test. Biofilm formation was quantified via the crystal violet microtiter plate assay. PCR was performed to detect virulence genes (acm, ace, gelE, efaA, esp) and vancomycin resistance determinants (vanA, vanB).

RESULTS: PCR confirmation identified Enterococcus faecalis (66%, n = 33) and Enterococcus faecium (34%, n = 17). Overall, 70% of the isolates were vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) and carried the vanA gene. Notably, all E. faecium isolates demonstrated 100% resistance to vancomycin, ciprofloxacin, and levofloxacin. Regarding biofilm production, 82% of E. faecium isolates were moderate producers, with no strong producers observed, whereas 64% of E. faecalis isolates were strong biofilm formers. The efaA, gelE, and ace genes were significantly more prevalent in E. faecalis, whereas acm was predominantly detected in E. faecium. Furthermore, the presence of gelE and efaA was significantly associated with strong biofilm formation (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS: While E. faecalis was the predominant species, E. faecium exhibited a significantly higher burden of AMR. The alarmingly high prevalence of vanA-mediated vancomycin resistance, coupled with species-specific virulence traits and robust biofilm capabilities, underscores the urgent need for stringent infection control measures and continuous molecular surveillance in healthcare settings.},
}

@article {pmid42986396,
year = {2026},
author = {Parveen, R and Saraf, SK and Datt, N},
title = {Mannosylated nanostructured lipid carriers of thiabendazole against Pseudomonas aeruginosa lung biofilm infection: in vitro and in vivo characterization, with relevance to cystic fibrosis.},
journal = {Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's archives of pharmacology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42986396},
issn = {1432-1912},
abstract = {This study aimed to develop mannosylated nanostructured lipid carriers loaded with Thiabendazole for intravenous delivery to prevent lung biofilm formation. Mannosylated NLCs combine the targeting capabilities of mannose-functionalized carriers with the favorable physicochemical properties of NLCs. Mannose-coated NLCs (MCT-NLCs), prepared via microemulsification using Glyceryl monostearate, olive oil, and Geraniol, had an approximate size of 240 nm, a zeta potential of about - 32.5 mV, an entrapment efficiency of 96%, and released about 84% of the drug within 24 h. Microscopy showed spherical particles under 250 nm, supported by thermal and diffraction analyses. TEM and IR spectra confirmed surface mannose. In vitro, they demonstrated sustained drug release compared to free drug. After IV administration, these NLCs reduced bacterial counts and minimized lung tissue damage in rats infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa over seven days, demonstrating improved initial in vivo results, though they did not eradicate the infection. This study did not evaluate the formulation's safety, as it is a repurposed work. In vivo, the NLCs significantly lowered bacterial load and inflammation in a rat model of inhaled Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms relevant to cystic fibrosis over seven days, indicating potential to reduce bacterial contamination and tissue damage, although their targeting mechanism and ability to cure were not confirmed.},
}

@article {pmid42977122,
year = {2026},
author = {Yu, S and Liu, Z and Wang, S and Wu, J and Lin, X and Yi, K and Huang, J and Li, X},
title = {Regulation of biofouling in quorum sensing membrane bioreactors: mechanistic analysis from the mixed liquor to the biofilm cake.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {136171},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.136171},
pmid = {42977122},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Membrane biofouling is a key factor limiting the long-term application of membrane bioreactors (MBR); it is complex in composition, comprising both inorganic and organic substances. Quorum sensing (QS)/quorum quenching (QQ) has been shown to regulate microbial behaviour in MBR by modulating the secretion of signalling molecules. Many high-quality publications show that QS offers a new perspective on biofouling in MBR. However, the specific mechanisms by which QS influences membrane biofouling have not been summarised. This review synthesises the existing literature to demonstrate the relevance of QS/QQ and to summarise the categories of QS signalling molecules and their functions. To clarify the role of quorum sensing in mixed liquor, this paper examines the complex mechanisms by which QS drives the evolution of activated sludge and the formation of membrane biofilms, and establishes the links between QS, mixed liquor, activated sludge, and membrane biofilms, elucidating its unique bridging role. The paper discusses behavioural changes in QS microorganisms in order to elucidate the microscopic origins of biofouling in membranes, thereby enabling effective control of biofouling.},
}

@article {pmid42977429,
year = {2026},
author = {Wu, X and Zhao, H and Wang, S and Du, L and Feng, Z and Wang, H and Liu, Y},
title = {Oxidative mechanism of dielectric barrier discharge plasma on Bacillus cereus biofilm and its impact on the quality of dried cantaloupe.},
journal = {Food research international (Ottawa, Ont.)},
volume = {245},
number = {Pt 5},
pages = {120965},
doi = {10.1016/j.foodres.2026.120965},
pmid = {42977429},
issn = {1873-7145},
mesh = {*Bacillus cereus/physiology/drug effects/metabolism ; *Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Cucumis melo/microbiology/chemistry ; *Oxidative Stress ; Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism ; *Plasma Gases/pharmacology ; Oxidation-Reduction ; Lipid Peroxidation ; Hydrogen Peroxide/metabolism ; *Food Microbiology/methods ; Antioxidants ; Reactive Nitrogen Species/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Bacterial biofilms, characterized by strong adhesion and resistance, are widespread throughout food production and processing and pose a significant hazard to the food industry. This study investigated the mechanism of oxidative damage induced by dielectric barrier discharge plasma (DBD) in Bacillus cereus (B. cereus) biofilms and evaluated its potential application in cantaloupe drying. The results showed that DBD treatment (80 kV, 180 s) reduced viable B. cereus counts in biofilms by 6.27 Log CFU/glass. Intracellular ROS, RNS, H2O2 and MDA levels increased, whereas SOD and CAT activities decreased, indicating that plasma induced intracellular oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation in B. cereus. Lipidomic analysis revealed that both the DBD and H2O2 treatments induced bacterial membrane lipid oxidation. Specifically, DBD treatment generated high concentrations of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) that penetrated the cell membrane barrier, resulting in extensive oxidation and degradation of lipogenic glycerophospholipids (GP) and glycerides (GL). DBD treatment of dried cantaloupe surfaces also enhanced the antioxidant activity of the product. GC-IMS analysis suggested that 2 min of DBD treatment effectively retained the original sweet, fruity aroma without generating additional volatile compounds. In conclusion, the DBD plasma effectively inactivated the B. cereus biofilms on glass and dried cantaloupe while maintaining the quality attributes of dried cantaloupe. These findings provide a theoretical basis for microbial control in dried fruit and vegetable products.},
}

*Bacillus cereus/physiology/drug effects/metabolism
*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Cucumis melo/microbiology/chemistry
*Oxidative Stress
Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism
*Plasma Gases/pharmacology
Oxidation-Reduction
Lipid Peroxidation
Hydrogen Peroxide/metabolism
*Food Microbiology/methods
Antioxidants
Reactive Nitrogen Species/metabolism

@article {pmid42977505,
year = {2026},
author = {Göbel, J and Fünfhaus, A and Genersch, E},
title = {Flagella-Mediated Biofilm Formation and 3D Swarming Drive Virulence in the Honey Bee Pathogen Paenibacillus larvae.},
journal = {Environmental microbiology},
volume = {28},
number = {11},
pages = {},
pmid = {42977505},
issn = {1462-2920},
support = {//Ministries Responsible for Agriculture of the German Federal States of Brandenburg, Saxony-Anhalt, Saxony, and the Senate of Berlin, Germany/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; *Flagella/genetics/physiology/metabolism ; Bees/microbiology ; *Paenibacillus larvae/pathogenicity/genetics/physiology ; Virulence ; Larva/microbiology ; Virulence Factors/genetics/metabolism ; },
abstract = {American foulbrood, a devastating bacterial disease affecting honey bee larvae, represents a major threat to apiculture worldwide. Its etiological agent, the Gram-positive, endospore-forming bacterium Paenibacillus larvae, has therefore been extensively studied to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying its pathogenicity and to identify key virulence determinants. In the present study, we identified the peritrichous flagella of P. larvae as a novel and important virulence factor of the genotype ERIC II. A flagella-deficient mutant was generated and shown to exhibit multiple defects in vitro associated with biofilm formation, including altered biofilm architecture, reduced adhesion, impaired floating capacity and loss of swarming motility. Survival assays using honey bee larvae, complemented by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analyses of infected larvae, further demonstrated the crucial contribution of flagella to virulence in vivo by mediating biofilm formation on the larval midgut epithelium as well as three-dimensional swarming during epithelial invasion.},
}

Animals
*Biofilms/growth & development
*Flagella/genetics/physiology/metabolism
Bees/microbiology
*Paenibacillus larvae/pathogenicity/genetics/physiology
Virulence
Larva/microbiology
Virulence Factors/genetics/metabolism

@article {pmid42978030,
year = {2026},
author = {Wen, J and Yao, Y and Hu, X and Li, R and Tan, Z and Zhang, T and Briandet, R and Habimana, O},
title = {The microbiome bottleneck in seahorse aquaculture: a conceptual framework linking biofilm ecology, probiotics and larval survival.},
journal = {Animal microbiome},
volume = {8},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42978030},
issn = {2524-4671},
abstract = {Extremely high mortality during early juvenile development remains the primary constraint to establishing sustainable aquaculture protocols for threatened seahorse species (Hippocampus spp.). Despite sustained efforts focused on nutritional optimisation, water quality control and pathogen suppression, survival rates have improved only marginally, suggesting that key underlying drivers remain insufficiently addressed. This conceptual review posits that juvenile mortality fundamentally constitutes a microbial ecological challenge, in which conventional rearing environments generate dysbiotic states that selectively favour opportunistic pathogens while failing to support protective microbial communities. Here we propose a microbiome-centric conceptual framework that reconceptualises the larval rearing unit as a dynamic microbial ecosystem, in which biofilm formation, microbial succession and host-microbe interactions collectively shape disease risk and larval survival. By integrating insight from biofilm ecology, probiotic research and biofloc technology, we synthesise dispersed findings to interpret larval mortality as an emergent outcome of disbiotic rearing environments, rather than isolated pathogenetic events. Emphasis is placed on ecological mechanisms, such as niche preemption, competitive exclusion and quorum quenching, rather than on taxonomic inventories of candidate probiotics. Finally, we translate this framework into a structured research agenda by identifying key knowledge gapes, testable hypothesis and operational implications for hatchery practices. By shifting the focus from pathogen eradication to microbial ecosystem engineering, this conceptual synthesis provides a foundation for more resilient and predictable seahorse aquaculture systems, offering a perspective applicable to other sensitive marine larval cultures.},
}

@article {pmid42978420,
year = {2026},
author = {Ge, Q and Ye, T and Ma, S and Jiang, L},
title = {Transposon mutagenesis identifies lon, csgF, and rfbF as critical genetic determinants of biofilm architecture and adhesion in multidrug-resistant Salmonella Typhimurium.},
journal = {The FEBS journal},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/febs.70770},
pmid = {42978420},
issn = {1742-4658},
support = {25ZXZSSS00170//Laboratory Major Project of Tianjin in 2025/ ; 82572592//National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) Program/ ; },
abstract = {Salmonella Typhimurium relies on biofilm formation to withstand environmental stressors, resist antimicrobials, and establish persistent host infections. However, the genetic networks governing biofilm development remain poorly understood. Here, we assessed the biofilm-forming capacity of 708 S. Typhimurium isolates. Among them, 88.56% formed biofilms, with 3.81% classified as strong producers associated with extensive multidrug resistance. To elucidate underlying genetic determinants, we performed EZ-Tn5 transposon mutagenesis on a strong biofilm-producing clinical isolate (15E341), generating ~ 5000 mutants. Phenotypic screening and whole-genome sequencing identified three distinct loci-lon, csgF, and rfbF-whose disruption significantly impaired biofilm formation without affecting planktonic growth. Confocal and electron microscopy (LSCM and FESEM) revealed severely compromised 3D biofilm architecture and defective surface colonization. Furthermore, these mutants exhibited significantly reduced adhesion to Caco-2 epithelial cells, glass, and silicone. Transcriptomic analysis revealed a distinct regulatory shift, characterized by marked upregulation of flagellar assembly pathways and downregulation of fimbrial genes. In a murine model, the mutants exhibited attenuated virulence, evidenced by increased host survival and significantly reduced bacterial colonization in the cecum, liver, and spleen. Notably, whereas CsgF is an established curli-assembly factor and Lon is a well-characterized stress and virulence regulator, RfbF, an O-antigen biosynthesis enzyme, emerged as a previously undercharacterized determinant of biofilm capacity in S. Typhimurium. Collectively, these findings highlight multi-gene coordination in biofilm development and identify pathways that warrant further investigation for disrupting persistent Salmonella infections.},
}

@article {pmid42979208,
year = {2026},
author = {Xu, Q and Liu, S and Xi, J},
title = {Phage therapy against Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm infections: challenges and advanced strategies.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1899503},
pmid = {42979208},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Bacteriophage therapy offers a potential solution for treating multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections, especially those involving biofilms that reduce antibiotic effectiveness. However, successful in vitro results often don not lead to consistent clinical success due to various challenges. These challenges are categorized into four areas: biofilm and bacterial defenses, phage ecological limitations, host-related pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic issues, and manufacturing and regulatory hurdles. In biofilms, phage activity is collectively shaped by extracellular matrix composition, receptor accessibility, and biofilm spatial structure. Dense matrix components including exopolysaccharides and extracellular DNA (eDNA) form a key barrier to phage penetration, while biofilm thickness further modulates phage access to target cells. Additionally, bacterial anti-phage mechanisms and prophage resistance decrease effectiveness, particularly in genetically diverse strains. Phage cocktail effectiveness is influenced more by replication dynamics, receptor compatibility, and dosing schedule than by the number of phages. Imbalanced replication and shared receptor targets can lead to inter-phage competition, reducing biofilm clearance compared to single-phage therapy. In vivo, phage activity is affected by bacterial receptor expression, mucus, immune response, and biofilm gradients that foster resistant subpopulations. Phage-antibiotic combinations can improve outcomes, but their interactions vary from synergistic to antagonistic based on dosage, timing, and bacterial strain, with resistance resensitization effects being highly variable. Clinical development is hindered by non-standardized production, simplistic preclinical models, and inconsistent regulations, though Artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) could aid in screening and optimizing phage cocktails, limited by data quality. This review discusses advanced strategies to address these barriers, with a primary focus on engineered phages, sequential administration regimens, AI-driven therapeutic design, and standardized manufacturing practices. Overall, this work aims to inform the optimization of phage therapy and support its progression toward a mainstream clinical option for chronic, drug-resistant P. aeruginosa biofilm infections.},
}

@article {pmid42979503,
year = {2026},
author = {Nouri Gharajalar, S and Hesari, P and Firouzamandi, M and Akbari, R},
title = {Effects of agr genotype on biofilm-forming ability in Staphylococcus pseudintermedius isolates from broiler chickens.},
journal = {Veterinary research forum : an international quarterly journal},
volume = {17},
number = {8},
pages = {573-579},
pmid = {42979503},
issn = {2008-8140},
abstract = {The Accessory Gene Regulator (agr) operon as part of the quorum-sensing system, is responsible for regulating numerous virulence factors in Staphylococci. Furthermore, the ability of the opportunistic pathogen Staphylococcus pseudintermedius to form biofilm is a significant contributor to chronic diseases. Our aim was to evaluate of the association between different agr groups and the expression of the icaD gene related to biofilm formation among S. pseudintermedius isolates from nasal samples. Fifty nasal swabs were collected from broiler chickens and phenotypic and molecular tests were performed to isolate S. pseudintermedius from the samples and investigate their agr genotype. The biofilm production capacity of the isolates was determined using both a microtiter plate assay and amplification of the icaD gene. The S. pseudintermedius was detected in the 86.84% of samples. The assessment of agr typing results revealed that most of the strains (69.70%) were classified in agr group I. The relative frequency of biofilm producing S. pseudintermedius isolates was 75.76% and all of them harbored the icaD gene. The expression level of the icaD determinant was significantly higher among isolates in agr group I than other agr groups. These results suggest that broiler chickens may act as a reservoir for the transmission of S. pseudintermedius to humans which should be considered a potential zoonotic bacterium capable of producing different virulence factors like biofilms.},
}

@article {pmid42979710,
year = {2026},
author = {Bernard, L and Baud, D and Stojanov, M},
title = {Bacterial vaginosis as a polymicrobial biofilm ecosystem: microbial interactions, host responses and therapeutic challenges.},
journal = {Critical reviews in microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-18},
doi = {10.1080/1040841X.2026.2753785},
pmid = {42979710},
issn = {1549-7828},
abstract = {The vaginal mucosa is a hormonally responsive barrier ecosystem in which epithelial integrity, immune tone and microbial composition are interconnected. In eubiotic states, estrogen-supported, Lactobacillus-dominated communities help maintain low pH, reinforce epithelial barrier function and modulate mucosal immunity through lactic acid and antimicrobial metabolites. Disruption of this equilibrium can lead to bacterial vaginosis (BV), a polymicrobial dysbiosis characterized by depletion of lactobacilli and formation of structured biofilms adherent to the vaginal epithelium. Genomic, transcriptomic and metabolomic studies increasingly support the view that BV reflects a spatially organized, metabolically integrated biofilm network rather than simple bacterial overgrowth. Gardnerella species are considered key early colonizers, forming an epithelial scaffold that recruits secondary anaerobes. Interspecies cross-feeding, glycan degradation, amine production and density-dependent regulation contribute to biofilm maturation, antimicrobial tolerance and persistence. These biofilms degrade mucus and weaken epithelial integrity through cytolytic and enzymatic activities, triggering low-grade mucosal inflammation with limited neutrophilic infiltration, favoring recurrence and increasing susceptibility to sexually transmitted infections and adverse reproductive outcomes. This review examines the establishment and organization of BV-associated polymicrobial biofilms in bacterial vaginosis, key interspecies interactions and virulence mechanisms, experimental approaches used to study these communities and implications of biofilm persistence for recurrence and emerging therapeutic strategies.},
}

@article {pmid42980744,
year = {2026},
author = {Ng, YS and Chan, DJC},
title = {Retraction Note: Thermal Effect on Algae, Biofilm and Their Composition Towards Membrane Distillation Unit: A Mini-review.},
journal = {Molecular biotechnology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1007/s12033-026-01620-y},
pmid = {42980744},
issn = {1559-0305},
}

@article {pmid42980948,
year = {2026},
author = {Singh, B and Dhir, A and Rout, PR and Mamane, H and Sharma, SG},
title = {Bioremediation potential assessment of the developed Microalgae-Bacterial Biofilm using 3D-printed PLA carriers.},
journal = {World journal of microbiology & biotechnology},
volume = {42},
number = {11},
pages = {},
pmid = {42980948},
issn = {1573-0972},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Polyesters/chemistry ; *Microalgae/metabolism/growth & development/physiology ; Biodegradation, Environmental ; Biomass ; *Printing, Three-Dimensional ; Wastewater/microbiology/chemistry ; Bioreactors/microbiology ; *Bacteria/metabolism/growth & development ; Nitrogen/metabolism ; Water Purification/methods ; },
abstract = {The high energy demand of conventional wastewater treatment and the depletion of freshwater resources call for cost-effective and sustainable treatment solutions. Microalgae-based systems have gained attention due to their dual role in nutrient removal and biomass valorization. This study investigates a Coupled Microalgae-Bacterial Biofilm (CMBB) system for the bioremediation of primary-treated domestic wastewater, developed by immobilizing an indigenous microalgae-bacterial consortium on in-house-designed three-dimensional (3D) printed polylactic acid (PLA) carriers. After 5 days of enrichment, each carrier accumulated 231 ± 7.83 mg of biomass. The carriers were evaluated in laboratory-scale batch reactors (1.2 L working volume; n = 3) at 50%, 75% and 100% surface-area coverage over a 7-day treatment cycle. The 75% coverage gave the highest organic removal: after a hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 5 days it removed 87.21 ± 2.1% of total COD, 81.82 ± 2.15% of soluble COD (sCOD) and 69.32 ± 3.2% of BOD5, and BOD5 removal rose to 76.14% after day 7. At all coverages, ammoniacal nitrogen was removed by 95-98%, nitrate by about 65-69% and phosphate by about 83% within 7 days. Nitrate did not accumulate, which indicates that nitrogen removal was dominated by assimilation into algal-bacterial biomass, possibly together with simultaneous nitrification-denitrification, rather than by nitrification alone. Effluent tCOD fell below the 80 mg/L irrigation-reuse limit within 3 days at 75% and 100% coverage, and BOD5 fell below 30 mg/L by day 7. Under the same experimental conditions, the attached biofilm performed efficiently in removal of tCOD, sCOD and BOD5 than free (suspended) consortium cells. Combining indigenous consortia with engineered 3D-printed carriers is a promising low-energy route to decentralized wastewater treatment, nutrient recovery and water reuse; pilot-scale validation under field conditions is the next step.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Polyesters/chemistry
*Microalgae/metabolism/growth & development/physiology
Biodegradation, Environmental
Biomass
*Printing, Three-Dimensional
Wastewater/microbiology/chemistry
Bioreactors/microbiology
*Bacteria/metabolism/growth & development
Nitrogen/metabolism
Water Purification/methods

@article {pmid42967782,
year = {2026},
author = {Yu, Q and Wang, Y and Li, Y and Wang, J},
title = {Microfluidic gradient generator based on serial injection mode and EIS sensing for rapid biofilm antibiotic resistance analysis.},
journal = {Analytica chimica acta},
volume = {1426},
number = {},
pages = {346339},
doi = {10.1016/j.aca.2026.346339},
pmid = {42967782},
issn = {1873-4324},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; *Microfluidic Analytical Techniques/instrumentation ; Gentamicins/pharmacology ; Dielectric Spectroscopy/instrumentation ; Electrodes ; },
abstract = {Biofilms are highly organized microbial communities formed under specific environmental conditions, and their strong antibiotic resistance poses major challenges in clinical treatment and environmental management. Traditional resistance testing methods suffer from cumbersome procedures, high sample consumption, and lack of real-time monitoring. Here, a microfluidic platform integrating a serial injection mode, a multi-stage concentration gradient generator, and electrochemical impedance sensing was developed for rapid, parallel analysis of biofilm resistance. The chip was fabricated by soft lithography and oxygen plasma bonding, integrating five interdigitated-electrode culture chambers; two syringe pumps delivered LB medium and gentamicin through the serial injection and gradient generator, and EIS signals were recorded using a five-channel multiplexer connected to an electrochemical workstation. Its novelty lies in three aspects: (i) a serial injection mode that forms a three-layer fluid structure, doubling the interfacial contact area and enhancing diffusive mixing without external energy input or complex chaotic structures; (ii) a connecting-channel width offset (Δw = 125 μm) that overcomes pressure-gradient dilution and enables a stable linear gradient of 24.3-91.8% (5-18 μg/L gentamicin); and (iii) an integrated interdigitated-electrode EIS system for real-time, label-free monitoring of biofilm formation and drug response across five concentrations. The mixing index increased from 46.6% at the initial section to 91.4% at the outlet. The normalized impedance of a 72-h mature biofilm was 0.311, decreasing to 0.007 after 24 h treatment with 18 μg/L gentamicin, indicating near-complete biofilm removal, whereas the 5 μg/L group remained at 0.174. Confocal fluorescence imaging agreed with the EIS results, validating the platform. This platform enables parallel resistance analysis of five drug concentrations with low sample consumption, offering a simple, real-time, and parallel-analysis solution for biofilm resistance assessment and antimicrobial screening.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
*Microfluidic Analytical Techniques/instrumentation
Gentamicins/pharmacology
Dielectric Spectroscopy/instrumentation
Electrodes

@article {pmid42968551,
year = {2026},
author = {Kıray, E and Raheel, NM},
title = {A different approach to vaginal-derived probiotics: anti‑quorum sensing and anti‑biofilm activities of exopolysaccharides.},
journal = {Future microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-11},
doi = {10.1080/17460913.2026.2753047},
pmid = {42968551},
issn = {1746-0921},
abstract = {AIMS: This study aimed to characterize the physicochemical properties of exopolysaccharides (EPS) produced by vaginal Lactobacillus casei L2, Lactobacillus plantarum L4, Lactobacillus crispatus L5, and Lactobacillus rhamnosus L17 strains and to evaluate their antimicrobial, antibiofilm, anti-quorum sensing (anti-QS), and antiproliferative activities under in vitro conditions.

METHODS: EPS production was quantified using the phenol-sulfuric acid method, with glucose as a standard. Antimicrobial activity was assessed against selected Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Antibiofilm activity was evaluated by quantitative assays and visualized using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Anti-QS activity was determined using Chromobacterium violaceum ATCC 12,472 as an indicator strain. Antiproliferative effects were analyzed in the MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell line.

RESULTS: All EPS preparations exhibited varying degrees of antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity, with L17 demonstrating the strongest biofilm inhibition. EPS derived from L2 and L17 strains showed marked quorum sensing inhibitory effects. In the MDA-MB-231 cell line, EPS from L2 and L17 reduced cell viability in a dose-dependent manner, with maximal inhibition observed at 85 µg/mL.

CONCLUSIONS: These findings demonstrate that EPS derived from vaginally derived Lactobacillus spp. species possess strain-dependent biological activities, particularly in antibiofilm effect and regulation of quorum sensing. Further structural and mechanistic studies are needed to elucidate their functional potential.},
}

@article {pmid42969892,
year = {2026},
author = {Wavhale, RD and Banerjee, SS},
title = {Micro/nanomotors for biofilm inhibition: insights into propulsion modes, biofilm interactions, design strategies and translational challenges.},
journal = {Journal of materials chemistry. B},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1039/d6tb01169a},
pmid = {42969892},
issn = {2050-7518},
abstract = {Bacterial biofilms present a major challenge to traditional antimicrobial therapies because of their dense extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) matrix, metabolic heterogeneity, and intrinsic resistance mechanisms, which severely limit drug penetration and efficacy. Recent progress in micro/nanomotors (MNMs) has opened new opportunities for the successful delivery of therapeutics to the complex biofilm microenvironment by penetration and disruption. Here, the recent progress in MNM systems designed to tackle biofilm-associated problems, with particular emphasis on propulsion strategies that enable effective operation within the viscous and heterogeneous biofilm microenvironment, is summarised. Importantly, this review highlights the relationship between the physicochemical properties of the MNMs and the biofilm microenvironment factors influencing them. Also, the recent in vivo studies of MNMs, offering valuable perspectives on the translational potential of these systems for prospective clinical applications, are presented in detail. Finally, the current challenges and future directions for the rational design of MNMs to manage biofilm infections are outlined.},
}

@article {pmid42972222,
year = {2026},
author = {Gong, X and Zeng, Y and Li, W and Wang, Y and Wang, N and Zhang, N and Huang, A and Long, H and Xie, Z},
title = {CdgH-mediated c-di-GMP signaling orchestrates biofilm development through VpsT paralogues and VpsR in Vibrio alginolyticus.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42972222},
issn = {1471-2180},
support = {ZDYF2022XDNY349//Hainan Province Science and Technology Special Fund/ ; 32060835//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32260927//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2019RC106//Natural Science Foundation of Hainan Province/ ; },
mesh = {*Vibrio alginolyticus/genetics/metabolism/physiology ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; *Cyclic GMP/analogs & derivatives/metabolism ; *Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial ; Signal Transduction ; *Phosphorus-Oxygen Lyases/metabolism/genetics ; Escherichia coli Proteins ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Vibrio alginolyticus is an opportunistic pathogen that significantly affects both aquaculture and public health. The second messenger cyclic-di-GMP (c-di-GMP) plays a central role in regulating key bacterial behaviors such as motility, biofilm formation, and secretion systems expression, thereby enhancing environmental persistence and virulence. However, the c-di-GMP regulatory network in V. alginolyticus remains poorly defined, limiting our understanding of its pathogenicity and adaptive strategies.

RESULTS: We demonstrate that overexpression of the diguanylate cyclase CdgH increases intracellular c-di-GMP levels, which in turn promotes biofilm formation, rugose colony morphology, and Congo Red binding. RNA-seq and molecular analyses revealed that the extracellular polysaccharide synthesis locus rbr (regulation of biofilm formation and rugose morphology) is essential for the development of c-di-GMP-dependent biofilms and associated rugose colony phenotypes. Across Vibrio species, VpsT-like proteins-most of which contain a conserved c-di-GMP-binding motif, W[F/L/M][T/S]R-are important transcriptional regulators. V. alginolyticus encodes three VpsT-like proteins (VA3545, VA3546, and VA2703). Here, we identified VA3545 (RbrT) and another regulator, VpsR, as key positive regulators of biofilm formation. Genetic and expression analyses indicated that VpsR likely functions downstream of RbrT in the biofilm regulatory pathway, whereas VA3546 (RbrN) and VA2703 (RbrO) exhibited opposing effects. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) confirmed direct binding of c-di-GMP to both RbrT and VpsR, with the conserved arginine residue within the WLSR motif being essential for RbrT function. Furthermore, elevated c-di-GMP levels suppressed swarming motility by downregulating flagellar synthesis genes. Notably, high c-di-GMP also significantly altered the transcription of several core conserved genes associated with type II and type VI secretion systems (T2SS/T6SS) in V. alginolyticus.

CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest distinct roles for VpsT homologs and VpsR in biofilm development and show transcriptional regulation of key secretion system genes by c-di-GMP, offering new insights into the pathogenicity and environmental adaptation of V. alginolyticus.},
}

*Vibrio alginolyticus/genetics/metabolism/physiology
*Biofilms/growth & development
*Cyclic GMP/analogs & derivatives/metabolism
*Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial
Signal Transduction
*Phosphorus-Oxygen Lyases/metabolism/genetics
Escherichia coli Proteins

@article {pmid42973044,
year = {2026},
author = {Vilumbrales Garcia, R and Mugge, RL and Elsouht, M and Molina, V and First, M and Lee, J and Ganesh, H},
title = {Biofilm-induced drag in natural seawater.},
journal = {Biofouling},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-13},
doi = {10.1080/08927014.2026.2746545},
pmid = {42973044},
issn = {1029-2454},
abstract = {The mechanisms underlying the drag produced by soft biofilms are complex due to the interaction between the flow and the biological communities. To fully understand this phenomenon, hydrodynamic studies need to be paired with biological analysis involving the characteristics of what is present on the drag-producing surfaces. Here, the drag production and biological characterization of flat inert PVC plates exposed to natural seawater for up to 14 weeks are analyzed. At successive growth stages, biofilm samples were collected and drag forces were measured using a turbulent channel flow. Although biofilm age dominated drag penalty, this varied widely for plates grown under nominally equal conditions, ranging from 20% to 60% for 14-week biofilms tested at 3 m s[-1]. While bacterial community composition within biofilms varied significantly with both age and shear disturbance frequency, biofilm age was the primary driver of community structure. Communities were dominated by Planctomycetia, Bacteroidia, and Alphaproteobacteria, with shifts in relative abundance over time. Genus-level patterns indicated successional changes and revealed that taxa within the class Alphaproteobacteria may be resilient to multiple shear disturbances. Overall, biofouling composition may be identified as a contributing factor to the wide variance in drag measurements, although other aspects, such as fouling arrangement and volume, can also produce drag variations.},
}

@article {pmid42973069,
year = {2026},
author = {Salih Doğan, H and Orbayoğlu, GA and Karaynir, A and Ali, S and Doğan, Y and Yalçin, M and Hoşbul, T and Bozdoğan, B},
title = {Recombinant depolymerase DP21 from Klebsiella phage GADU21 exerts Dual-Antibiofilm and biofilm-disrupting activity against multiple bacterial species.},
journal = {Biofouling},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-16},
doi = {10.1080/08927014.2026.2749592},
pmid = {42973069},
issn = {1029-2454},
abstract = {Phage-derived depolymerases are promising antibiofilm enzymes. In this study, intact and disintegrated GADU21 phage were first tested for their ability to disrupt mature biofilm using the crystal violet assay. Disintegrated phage was more active on biofilms than intact phage. The dp21 gene encoding the depolymerase was then amplified from GADU21, cloned into pET30a, and expressed in E. coli BL21. Purified rDP21 (∼105 kDa) was characterized for antibiofilm activity at different pH values, residual activity following thermal pre-incubation, and Mg[2+] dependence, with biofilm degradation and prevention capacity also shown by SEM and CLSM. rDP21 exhibited antibiofilm activity at pH 4-10 and retained partial activity after pre-incubation at temperatures up to 70 °C. Importantly, rDP21 did not affect planktonic growth of the tested bacteria, supporting a matrix-targeting rather than bactericidal mode of action, while significantly reducing preformed biofilm biomass and inhibiting biofilm formation by P. aeruginosa, K. pneumoniae, E. coli, P. mirabilis, S. epidermidis, S. aureus and E. faecalis by 58-59%, 49-50%, 46-47%, 30-34%, 33-31%, 30-24%, and 26-33%, respectively. SEM and CLSM images confirmed pronounced disruption of biofilm. These properties support its potential use as an effective antibiofilm agent.},
}

@article {pmid42975134,
year = {2026},
author = {Do, E and McManus, CJ and Mitchell, AP},
title = {Two Ume6 target gene classes in the biofilm regulatory network of Candida albicans.},
journal = {mSphere},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0069426},
doi = {10.1128/msphere.00694-26},
pmid = {42975134},
issn = {2379-5042},
abstract = {Biofilm formation by the fungal pathogen Candida albicans is a major source of infection. The biofilm regulator Ume6 forms complexes with partner transcription factors Efg1, Ndt80, and Upc2 to drive expression of biofilm-related genes. Here, we present chromatin immunoprecipitation with sequencing data for Ume6-chromatin association in both wild-type and efg1Δ/Δ ndt80Δ/Δ upc2Δ/Δ backgrounds. Ume6 associates with two promoter region classes. For one class, Ume6 association is significantly decreased in the efg1Δ/Δ ndt80Δ/Δ upc2Δ/Δ background. This class includes 577 genes, many with well-established roles in biofilm formation or the related process of filamentation. For the second class, Ume6 association is unperturbed in the triple mutant background. This class includes 534 genes, some with roles in iron homeostasis (e.g., SFU1) and ergosterol synthesis (e.g., ERG11), which may contribute to the impact of Ume6 on ndt80Δ/Δ mutant azole drug sensitivity. It also includes FLO9, a putative adhesin gene that is required for the emergent biofilm state produced by efg1Δ/Δ ndt80Δ/Δ double mutants. The data show that Ume6 binding to about half of its targets requires known partners, and Ume6 binding to about half of its targets does not. Ume6 may bind to the latter set of promoter regions independently of any partner, or perhaps with additional partners that have yet to be discovered.IMPORTANCEBiofilm formation has a central role in infection by the fungal pathogen Candida albicans. Here, we focus on a key regulator, Ume6, that can drive biofilm formation. It is known to form protein complexes with three partner transcription factors, and here, we investigate Ume6-promoter binding in the presence and absence of those partners. Ume6 binds to two promoter classes: one depends on known partners, and many associated genes have roles in biofilm formation. The second class is independent of known partners, and some associated genes are functionally connected to iron metabolism and ergosterol synthesis. The second class may mediate effects of Ume6 on azole drug sensitivity. Our results suggest that Ume6 may bind to some promoter regions independently of any partner, or perhaps with additional partners that have yet to be discovered.},
}

@article {pmid42976506,
year = {2026},
author = {Yin, X and Yan, X and Wang, L and Zhang, L and Xu, S and Liu, S and Chen, H},
title = {Methane-driven tellurite reduction in a membrane biofilm reactor: performance and synergistic mechanisms.},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {309},
number = {Pt B},
pages = {127255},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2026.127255},
pmid = {42976506},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {Tellurite (Te(IV)) is a highly toxic metalloid pollutant, yet its methane-driven bioremediation remains poorly understood. Here, anaerobic methane oxidation was coupled with Te(IV) reduction in a methane-based membrane biofilm reactor (MBfR). The system achieved a Te(IV) removal rate of 35 mg-Te L[-1]·d[-1] with an efficiency exceeding 95%, the highest value reported for methane-driven tellurite reduction. XRD and XPS analyses confirmed that the reduction product was predominantly as elemental tellurium (Te[0]) nanocrystals. Batch experiments demonstrated that methane served as the dominant electron donor and that acetate may serve as an intermediate linking methane oxidation to Te(IV) reduction. qPCR analyses further revealed a 19.5-fold increase of the candidate reductase gene dsrB, which was positively correlated with Te(IV) removal (p < 0.01). Concurrently, Candidatus Methylomirabilis maintained a relatively stable abundance of 10.7% throughout the long‑term operation, while Desulfosporosinus increased from 0.5% to 16.1% in Stage 6, becoming a dominant genus. Based on these findings, two coexisting pathways are proposed, namely direct reduction of Te(IV) by DAMO microorganisms and indirect reduction via acetate-mediated syntrophy between DAMO microorganisms and metal-reducing bacteria. Overall, this study reveals methane as a driver of tellurite bioreduction through synergistic interactions, offering new insights into the coupled biogeochemical cycling of methane and tellurium.},
}

@article {pmid42967751,
year = {2026},
author = {Miao, Z and Li, Z and Cheng, H and Wang, X and Su, Y and Wang, B and Cheng, H and Sun, J and Li, H and Ye, X and Sun, B},
title = {Biofilm-mediated spatial persistence shapes fungal-to-bacterial succession in baijiu fermentation.},
journal = {Food research international (Ottawa, Ont.)},
volume = {245},
number = {Pt 4},
pages = {120954},
doi = {10.1016/j.foodres.2026.120954},
pmid = {42967751},
issn = {1873-7145},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Fermentation ; *Fungi/metabolism ; *Food Microbiology ; *Alcoholic Beverages/microbiology ; *Lactobacillales/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Microbial succession from fungal to bacterial communities occurs widely in spontaneous food fermentations, however, the regulators that drive these fungal to bacterial succession still remain unclear. Here, we identified a stage-resolved shift from early fungal dominance to late lactic acid bacteria (LAB) dominance in the typical Chinese baijiu fermentation. Meanwhile, metatranscriptomic patterns further showed that fungal-associated starch-degrading functions dominated early, whereas LAB-associated sugar transport, glycolysis and lactate production prevailed in middle-late stages. Alongside declining starch, persistent acidity and increasing moisture, biofilm-related functions were enriched and mainly linked to LAB via BFC analysis, suggesting biofilm adaptation as a core ecological feature of late-stage persistence. Furthermore, multiscale simulations and phenotypic assays further corroborated that CellModeller simulations indicated the surface growth enhanced LAB spatial persistence and protein-level simulations showed LAB biofilm machinery was adapted to the acidic niche, with phenotypic assays indicating superior acid survival of attached over planktonic cells. Therefore, these results indicated that fungal-to-bacterial succession was contributed to by biofilm-mediated spatial persistence during the late stage, alongside stage-wise metabolic reorganization. These findings provide a comprehensive framework for understanding microbial succession in spontaneous solid-state food fermentation, and identify candidate molecular nodes of the biofilm pathway for future hypothesis-driven studies.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Fermentation
*Fungi/metabolism
*Food Microbiology
*Alcoholic Beverages/microbiology
*Lactobacillales/metabolism

@article {pmid42967757,
year = {2026},
author = {Francisco, CG and Marques, JPR and do Prado-Silva, L and Brancini, GTP and Saraiva, HFRA and Guimarães, LHS and Braga, GÚL},
title = {The pillars of (biofilm) creation: widefield deconvolution epifluorescence microscopy reveals a novel developmental model for filamentous fungal biofilms.},
journal = {Food research international (Ottawa, Ont.)},
volume = {245},
number = {Pt 4},
pages = {120980},
doi = {10.1016/j.foodres.2026.120980},
pmid = {42967757},
issn = {1873-7145},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; Microscopy, Fluorescence/methods ; Hyphae/growth & development ; Mycelium/growth & development ; Spores, Fungal/growth & development ; Imaging, Three-Dimensional ; Models, Biological ; },
abstract = {Previous three-dimensional (3D) analyses of filamentous fungal biofilms have suggested an organized mycelial structure. By using Widefield Deconvolution Epifluorescence Microscopy (WDEM), we describe a novel structural model for fungal biofilms that could help explain important aspects of their biology, such as antimicrobial resistance and tolerance. WDEM has provided the most detailed and visually striking 3D images of fungal biofilm architecture to date, revealing highly organized mycelial development and distinct exopolysaccharide structures. A few hours after conidial germination, originating from the substrate-adherent mycelium, groups of hyphae converge to form numerous cylindrically-arranged bundles that grow vertically. These hyphae secrete a substantial amount of exopolysaccharides that fuse them, creating a cohesive, hyperboloid-shaped chimney structure. These exopolysaccharide chimneys are numerous, their formation happens continuously throughout development, and they are distributed across the entire biofilm. As the biofilm matures, the openings of adjacent chimneys coalesce, isolating the vegetative mycelium growing between them from the external environment. We propose that this isolation establishes that exchanges with the exterior occur through the chimney flues, allowing them to become molecular filters and to regulate the inflow of xenobiotics. This highly organized architecture reveals a previously unknown level of structural complexity in sessile submerged fungal biofilms.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
Microscopy, Fluorescence/methods
Hyphae/growth & development
Mycelium/growth & development
Spores, Fungal/growth & development
Imaging, Three-Dimensional
Models, Biological

@article {pmid42965712,
year = {2026},
author = {Bhuiyan, MNI and Reza, MS and Mim, F},
title = {Quorum sensing beyond the virulence switch: communication, biofilm plasticity, and anti-virulence strategies in Staphylococcus aureus.},
journal = {Archives of microbiology},
volume = {209},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42965712},
issn = {1432-072X},
mesh = {*Quorum Sensing ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; *Staphylococcus aureus/pathogenicity/genetics/physiology ; Virulence ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial ; Trans-Activators/genetics/metabolism ; Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology ; Humans ; Host-Pathogen Interactions ; Animals ; Signal Transduction ; },
abstract = {The accessory gene regulator (agr) quorum-sensing system coordinates important aspects of Staphylococcus aureus virulence, including the expression of secreted toxins and enzymes and the transition between surface-associated and dispersal-associated behaviours. Yet, agr is not a universal binary switch: its output depends on agr type, strain background, environmental conditions, regulatory cross-talk, biofilm stage, host context, and the distribution of signalling states among individual cells. This review synthesized evidence on the molecular logic of agr, its context-dependent relationship with biofilm formation and dispersal, spatial and single-cell heterogeneity, host-pathogen interactions, and emerging anti-virulence approaches. Experimental studies demonstrate that agr signalling can promote biofilm dispersal, that disrupting biofilm organization can alter agr-regulated virulence expression, and that single-cell activation can be heterogeneous. Other findings, including direct host-signal sensing by regulatory systems in non-staphylococcal pathogens and the effects of quorum quenching in other species, are relevant comparative examples but do not establish equivalent mechanisms in S. aureus. The review therefore distinguishes direct S. aureus evidence from cross-species analogies and proposed therapeutic hypotheses. We use "communication-state engineering" as a conceptual framework for evaluating whether an intervention changes the distribution of bacterial phenotypes in a clinically favourable direction, rather than judging efficacy solely by reduced agr activity. Candidate approaches include autoinducing-peptide analogues, inhibitors of AgrA or associated regulatory nodes, natural products, microbial signalling interference, quorum-quenching enzymes, ClpP-directed anti-virulence agents, and combination treatments. Important limitations remain: much evidence is derived from in vitro systems or animal models, the effects of agr inhibition on biofilm persistence are context-dependent, and clinical benefit has not been established for agr-directed therapy. Progress requires temporally resolved biofilm assays, single-cell and spatial measurements, mechanistic controls for growth inhibition, and testing in relevant infection models.},
}

*Quorum Sensing
*Biofilms/growth & development
*Staphylococcus aureus/pathogenicity/genetics/physiology
Virulence
Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial
Trans-Activators/genetics/metabolism
Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology
Humans
Host-Pathogen Interactions
Animals
Signal Transduction

@article {pmid42966286,
year = {2026},
author = {Ukolobi, O and Jacob, JN and Akpo, MO and Edo, GI and Agbo, JJ and Orogu, JO and Yousif, E and Jikah, AN and Akpoghelie, PO and Oghroro, EEA and Essaghah, AEA and Ahmed, DS and Makia, RS and Umar, H and Alamiery, AA and Fuwape, IA},
title = {Fungal biofilm-associated infections in immunocompromised African populations: A narrative review of Candidozyma auris emergence, antifungal resistance mechanisms, and laboratory detection algorithms.},
journal = {Diagnostic microbiology and infectious disease},
volume = {117},
number = {1},
pages = {117711},
doi = {10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2026.117711},
pmid = {42966286},
issn = {1879-0070},
abstract = {Candidozyma auris the abbreviation C. auris is retained throughout has become one of the most concerning hospital-acquired fungal infections over the past decade, colonizing the environment and skin for extended periods, exhibiting multidrug resistance, and forming biofilms that are resistant to both the host immune response and antifungal treatments. Sub-Saharan and North African medical institutions have a unique set of risks: a significant HIV-positive population, widespread malnutrition, high rates of tuberculosis co-infection, the appearance of critical care units, and diagnostic laboratories that often lack the tools to accurately identify emerging yeast species. This paper aims to analyze the current understanding of the emergence and prevalence of C. auris infections in African healthcare facilities, discuss the properties of biofilm formed by this yeast that facilitate its persistence and resistance to treatment, examine the features of immunosuppressed African patients who are at the highest risk of C. auris colonization and infection, and identify the available laboratory tests that can be used to diagnose this fungus in African hospitals. A narrative review has been performed to gather the evidence on the emergence of C. auris in African healthcare facilities and describe the general trends in its clinical presentation. The data were retrieved from reports and research articles published in peer-reviewed journals, utilizing resources such as national and multinational surveillance records, World Health Organization documents, and scientific publications from regional reference labs that investigate the clinical characteristics and treatment of C. auris infections and report on the local epidemiology of this yeast. Four principal findings emerge. First, documented African activity is concentrated in South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria and Egypt and is dominated by clade III and clade I, but the apparent continental increase conflates genuine transmission with rapidly improving detection capacity and should not be read as an incidence estimate. Second, fluconazole resistance is consistently high across African series (of the order of 85-90%), amphotericin B resistance is elevated relative to global pooled estimates (approximately 15-35%, highest in the clade III-dominated South African series), whereas echinocandin resistance remains below 5% but is no longer negligible. Third, biofilm growth confers a reversible, largely non-genetic tolerance matrix-mediated drug sequestration, biofilm-induced efflux upregulation and persister-cell dormancy that raises effective inhibitory concentrations by one to more than two orders of magnitude above planktonic values, so routine susceptibility reports systematically understate the drug exposure required in device-associated infection. Fourth, the dominant diagnostic constraint across the continent is not the absence of technology as such but systematic misidentification by the conventional biochemical panels that remain the mainstay of African yeast identification; this is addressable through a tiered algorithm anchored on a low threshold of suspicion rather than on universal access to mass spectrometry or sequencing. We conclude that C. auris preparedness in Africa is best pursued not as a vertical, pathogen-specific programme but as an explicit extension of the antimicrobial resistance surveillance, laboratory strengthening and infection prevention frameworks already under construction across the region, with tiered diagnostics, antifungal stewardship, biofilm-aware clinical management and the systematic evaluation of natural product-derived adjunctive agents as the immediate priorities.},
}

@article {pmid42966539,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, Z and Lu, K and Li, Z and Wu, Y and Wang, L and Wang, Y and Wang, M},
title = {Defect-engineered Fe-Ti anodes with oxygen-vacancy-associated spin activity promote electroactive biofilm formation and interfacial electron transfer.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {136155},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.136155},
pmid = {42966539},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Extracellular electron transfer (EET) across the biofilm-anode interface governs current generation and electron recovery in microbial fuel cells (MFCs). Although engineering the electronic structure of bioanodes offers a promising strategy for accelerating EET, the contribution of electrode spin states remains poorly understood. Here, oxygen-vacancy-rich, spin-polarized Fe-Ti anodes (SP-Fe-Ti) and vacancy-suppressed, spin-depressed controls (SD-Fe-Ti) were prepared and then compared to determine how their distinct electronic structures influenced electroactive biofilm development and interfacial electron transfer during 73 d of MFC operation. Our results showed that SP-Fe-Ti increased the full-period mean current density and the stable-period mean current density. The cumulative charge density of SP-Fe-Ti increased from 2780.7 ± 600.0 to 5163.2 ± 459.2 kC m[-2], 1.86 to 4.5-fold higher than that of SD-Fe-Ti. Voltammetric and impedance analyses revealed SP-Fe-Ti had a stronger turnover, non-turnover, and EPS-associated redox responses for SD-Fe-Ti, together with a lower fitted interfacial resistance. The spin-active interface of SP-Fe-Ti also promoted biofilm development, increasing the attached protein content by 3.30-fold, selectively enriching bound extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), and decreasing the membrane-compromised cell fraction from 63.29 ± 5.26 % to 26.49 ± 1.67 %. More importantly, SP-Fe-Ti-derived EPS exhibited a normal apparent kinetic isotope effect, KIE(H/D), of 2.94, whereas SD-Fe-Ti-derived EPS showed a pronounced inverse response of 0.050, indicating potentially distinct protonation- and hydrogen-bond-dependent redox environments. Collectively, these findings highlight spin‑electronic engineering as a promising avenue for tuning microbe‑electrode interactions and improving microbial bioelectrochemical energy conversion.},
}

@article {pmid42967741,
year = {2026},
author = {Ren, L and Zhang, Y and Sensheng, LV and Nychas, GE and Yang, X and Liu, Y and Dong, P and Zhou, G},
title = {Airborne volatile metabolites from Pseudomonas fluorescens exacerbate low-temperature biofilm formation of Listeria monocytogenes: underlying mechanisms and meat safety implications.},
journal = {Food research international (Ottawa, Ont.)},
volume = {245},
number = {Pt 4},
pages = {120933},
doi = {10.1016/j.foodres.2026.120933},
pmid = {42967741},
issn = {1873-7145},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Pseudomonas fluorescens/metabolism ; *Listeria monocytogenes/physiology/growth & development ; *Volatile Organic Compounds/metabolism ; Food Microbiology ; *Cold Temperature ; Animals ; *Red Meat/microbiology ; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration ; Cattle ; },
abstract = {Persistent biofilms of Listeria monocytogenes (Lm) shaped through interbacterial interactions on food-contact surfaces represent a recurrent contamination reservoir during chilled meat processing. However, the contribution of airborne interactions to this risk remains poorly understood. In this study, Lm biofilms were formed under volatile compounds (VCs) released from Pseudomonas fluorescens (Pf) in a two-compartment noncontact coculture system and were characterized for biofilm formation and transfer to beef surfaces at 10 °C and 4 °C. Results found that Pf VCs significantly favored the development of Lm biofilms compared with control groups, with maximum biofilm biomass and corresponding viable cell counts of 3.48 OD570 and 7.22 log CFU/cm[2] on 7 d at 10 °C, and 3.47 OD570 and 7.53 log CFU/cm[2] on 13 d at 4 °C, respectively (P < 0.05). Interestingly, the VCs caused the culture medium of Lm to become alkaline (pH > 8). Further verification revealed that the increased biofilm phenotype was reproduced in pH-adjusted medium, together with the disappearance of the VCs effect under pH-buffered conditions, implying that medium alkalization served as a key microenvironmental relay linking Pf VCs to enhanced Lm biofilm formation. Transcriptomic analysis further supported aforementioned results at cellular function level, which suggested Pf VCs reprogrammed Lm biofilm cells toward surface adaptation at 10 °C and metabolic persistence at 4 °C, involving motility, chemotaxis, transport, protein synthesis, carbon metabolism, and amino acid biosynthesis pathways. In addition, the biofilm formed in the presence of VCs exacerbated cell transfer of Lm to beef surfaces, especially during the first contact, with transfer rates of 40.96% at 10 °C and 63.43% at 4 °C, significantly higher than those of the control groups (24.77% and 45.90%, respectively; P < 0.05). Overall, the present study clarified the mechanism underlying interactions mediated via VCs between Pf and Lm, offering critical theoretical support for developing cold-chain biofilm control interventions targeting airborne interbacterial communication.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Pseudomonas fluorescens/metabolism
*Listeria monocytogenes/physiology/growth & development
*Volatile Organic Compounds/metabolism
Food Microbiology
*Cold Temperature
Animals
*Red Meat/microbiology
Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
Cattle

@article {pmid42957134,
year = {2026},
author = {Harsent, R and Cattoir, V and Pascoe, MJ and Pertusati, F and Maillard, JY},
title = {Enterococcus spp. dry surface biofilm resilience to disinfection.},
journal = {The Journal of hospital infection},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhin.2026.10.022},
pmid = {42957134},
issn = {1532-2939},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Dry surface biofilms (DSB) are increasingly recognised as reservoirs of healthcare-associated pathogens that contribute to environmental persistence and transmission. However, the susceptibility of enterococcal DSB to disinfectants remains poorly understood.

AIM: To evaluate the efficacy of commonly used disinfectants against enterococcal DSB and identify best practices for their removal.

METHODS: The efficacy of benzalkonium chloride (BZC), sodium dichloroisocyanurate (NaDCC), sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), a complex cationic formulation, and two peracetic acid (PAA)-based formulations was assessed against hydrated and dry surface biofilms of clinical and reference strains of enterococci in standard efficacy test procedures. The effects of disinfectant concentration, contact time, mechanical wiping, biofilm format, and surface material were also investigated.

FINDINGS: Most BZC and NaDCC treatments failed to achieve the ≥4 Log10 CFU/mL reduction, whereas selected PAA formulations consistently met this threshold. Increasing PAA concentration and contact time significantly improved efficacy. Mechanical wiping enhanced NaOCl performance, increasing bacterial reduction by a mean of 1.61 Log10 CFU/mL, while a commercially available disinfectant wipe achieved a mean reduction of 5.31 Log10 CFU/mL. Susceptibility varied with disinfectant chemistry and with the type of surface materials. Hydrated biofilms were less susceptible than DSB following BZC treatment, whereas no significant differences were observed with most PAA treatments. Likewise, BZC and NaDCC efficacy was generally lower against DSB on stainless steel compared to polycotton or polyester, but not following PAA treatment.

CONCLUSION: Enterococcal DSB exhibit substantial tolerance to several commonly used disinfectants, while selected PAA formulations consistently achieved accepted efficacy thresholds. Mechanical wiping significantly improved disinfectant performance, supporting the combined use of oxidising disinfectants and physical biofilm disruption for effective surface decontamination.},
}

@article {pmid42958801,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, Z and Su, W and Muhammad, M and Wang, Y and You, X and Ren, F and Li, M and Ju, J and Zhao, B and Liu, D},
title = {Contribution of ferrous iron transporter FeoB to iron utilization, membrane stability and biofilm formation in Aeromonas hydrophila.},
journal = {Journal of microbiology (Seoul, Korea)},
volume = {64},
number = {10},
pages = {e2605004},
pmid = {42958801},
issn = {1976-3794},
support = {C2019205044//Natural Science Foundation of Hebei Province/ ; ZD2018070//Hebei Provincial Higher Education Science and Technology Research Project/ ; YQ2014026//Outstanding Youth Fund Project of the Hebei Provincial Department of Education/ ; L2016Z03//Hebei Normal University/ ; XCXZZBS202653//Graduate Innovation Research Program of Hebei Normal University/ ; },
mesh = {*Aeromonas hydrophila/genetics/pathogenicity/metabolism/physiology ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; *Iron/metabolism ; Animals ; *Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; *Cation Transport Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Mice, Inbred BALB C ; Virulence/genetics ; Mice ; Gram-Negative Bacterial Infections/microbiology ; Gene Deletion ; Cell Membrane/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Aeromonas hydrophila (A. hydrophila) is an infectious agent that can infect both fish and humans, posing significant threats to aquaculture and public health. Iron acquisition is essential for bacterial survival, colonization, and pathogenicity, as it is crucial to many metabolic and enzymatic processes. Ferrous iron transporter B (FeoB) is a major component of the bacterial iron uptake system, mediating the transport of ferrous iron (Fe2+) and playing a key role in cellular iron homeostasis. The present study elucidates the role of FeoB in iron utilization, bacterial physiology, and pathogenicity of A. hydrophila ATCC 7966. A stable feoB-deleted mutant strain (AhΔfeoB) and its complemented strain (CΔfeoB) were constructed. Our results demonstrated that deletion of feoB impaired ferrous‑iron accumulation and substrate affinity, significantly increased sensitivity to clindamycin, sodium deoxycholate, and oxidative stress, reduced biofilm formation, and downregulated biofilm-associated genes. Furthermore, loss of the feoB gene resulted in abnormal cellular morphology and altered expression of 12 out of 15 tested virulence-related genes. Unlike in previous reports, AhΔfeoB showed no significant differences in growth characteristics, hemolytic activity and virulence in a BALB/c mouse infection model under iron-limited conditions. Moreover, DIA-based proteomic analysis revealed that feoB is a core protein essential for iron homeostasis, and its deletion profoundly impacts bacterial metabolism, adaptability, and iron transport. These findings emphasize the central role of FeoB in iron homeostasis and in the regulation of critical physiological functions in A. hydrophila ATCC 7966.},
}

*Aeromonas hydrophila/genetics/pathogenicity/metabolism/physiology
*Biofilms/growth & development
*Iron/metabolism
Animals
*Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism
*Cation Transport Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Mice, Inbred BALB C
Virulence/genetics
Mice
Gram-Negative Bacterial Infections/microbiology
Gene Deletion
Cell Membrane/metabolism

@article {pmid42961522,
year = {2026},
author = {Nazari, M and Kardan, R and Ahmadi, A and Abolhasani, FS and Hemmati, J},
title = {A comprehensive review of mixed-species biofilm infections and innovative therapeutic strategies.},
journal = {Molecular biology reports},
volume = {53},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42961522},
issn = {1573-4978},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; Humans ; Quorum Sensing/drug effects ; *Coinfection/microbiology/therapy ; Animals ; Bacteria ; CRISPR-Cas Systems ; Phage Therapy/methods ; },
abstract = {Mixed-species biofilm infections are important causes of persistent and difficult-to-treat infections. Compared with monospecies biofilms, mixed-species communities contain microorganisms with different physiological and genetic characteristics that interact through metabolic cooperation, chemical signaling, competition, and modification of the local environment. These interactions, together with the EPS matrix, physiological heterogeneity, and HGT, can increase antimicrobial tolerance, contributing to treatment failure and infection recurrence. Polymicrobial biofilms are associated with chronic wounds, respiratory infections, catheter- and device-associated infections, and other persistent infections. However, treatment of polymicrobial biofilms remains challenging because their complex structure and interspecies interactions can reduce antimicrobial efficacy. This review summarizes the clinical significance, formation, and persistence of mixed-species biofilms and discusses recent therapeutic strategies for their control. We also discuss recent approaches for controlling polymicrobial biofilms, including natural compounds, QS inhibition, CRISPR-Cas-based approaches, biofilm matrix targeting, metabolic and nutrient disruption, nanotechnology, and phage therapy. Recent studies show that these approaches can inhibit biofilm formation, disrupt established biofilms, enhance antimicrobial activity, and selectively target specific microbial populations. However, their effectiveness varies with microbial composition, biofilm maturity, matrix characteristics, and treatment conditions. Overall, current evidence supports the development of targeted and combination-based strategies for mixed-species biofilms. Further studies using clinically relevant models are needed to exactly define treatment efficacy and support the translation of these approaches into clinical practice.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
Humans
Quorum Sensing/drug effects
*Coinfection/microbiology/therapy
Animals
Bacteria
CRISPR-Cas Systems
Phage Therapy/methods

@article {pmid42963458,
year = {2026},
author = {Rajendran, T and Dhinakarasamy, I and Amith, V and Kumar, R and Bhoopathy, S and Chandrasekar, A and Varadharajan, RK and Louis, SA and Sivaraj, A and Viswanathan, J and Baskaran, S and Chandrasekaran, K},
title = {Genomic insights into environmental adaptation and metabolic versatility of Acinetobacter junii IK2 isolated from marine biofilm.},
journal = {Antonie van Leeuwenhoek},
volume = {119},
number = {11},
pages = {},
pmid = {42963458},
issn = {1572-9699},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Acinetobacter/genetics/isolation & purification/metabolism/physiology/classification ; *Genome, Bacterial ; *Seawater/microbiology ; *Adaptation, Physiological/genetics ; Whole Genome Sequencing ; Genomics ; Phylogeny ; },
abstract = {Biofilm formation is ubiquitous in the marine environment, driven by microbial colonization on submerged surfaces, and poses ongoing challenges to maritime industries. In this study, whole-genome sequencing (WGS) was carried out for Acinetobacter junii IK2, a strain isolated from the biofilm formed on stainless steel coupons immersed in a seawater microcosm setup to elucidate its genomic features and biofilm-forming potential. The genome consists of 3,215,808 bp with a GC content of 38.63%, assembled from Illumina-generated sequencing data. A total of 2990 protein-coding sequences (CDS), 10 rRNA genes, and 63 tRNA genes were predicted. Functional annotation through COG, GO, and KEGG databases resulted in the classification of 2909, 2389, and 2960 unigenes, respectively. Genome analysis identified the presence of thirteen genes associated with biofilm development, including the pgaABC operon, two-component systems (barA, ompR), and global regulators (crp, csrA, dksA), suggesting potential for biofilm formation. Genes such as oxyR, yfiB, yiaD, and pal further support oxidative stress resistance, adhesion, and envelope stability. The biofilm-forming ability of Acinetobacter junii IK2 was further validated using a crystal violet microtiter plate assay, confirming its ability to form biofilms. Additionally, 35 virulence genes, 6 multidrug resistance genes and 25 insertion sequences suggest enhanced survival, pathogenicity and genetic plasticity, reinforcing biofilm-mediated persistence. These genomic features provide insights into potential adaptive mechanisms that may contribute to the environmental adaptation of A. junii IK2 and offer insights into its role in the marine environment.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Acinetobacter/genetics/isolation & purification/metabolism/physiology/classification
*Genome, Bacterial
*Seawater/microbiology
*Adaptation, Physiological/genetics
Whole Genome Sequencing
Genomics
Phylogeny

@article {pmid42963827,
year = {2026},
author = {Bhattacharyya, D and Chatterjee, D and Panda, AP and Ghosh, AS},
title = {Rv0783c of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Acts as a Proton-Motive Force Dependent Multidrug Efflux Transporter Involved in the Efflux of Structurally Unrelated Antibiotics and Enhancing Biofilm Formation.},
journal = {Molecular microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/mmi.70131},
pmid = {42963827},
issn = {1365-2958},
support = {Grant #BT/PR40383/BCE/8/1561/2020//Department of Biotechnology, Government of India/ ; Grant #TN:AP:204//M/s Albert David Limited/ ; },
abstract = {Despite multiple treatment strategies and extensive research on resistance mechanisms, tuberculosis (TB) remains a major global health concern, largely because of the rise of multidrug-resistant (MDR) and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) TB. Among various mechanisms complicating the situation, active antibiotic export via efflux pumps is particularly significant, yet largely unexplored. Mycobacterium sp. encodes numerous transporters, many of which are overexpressed in clinical isolates or under drug stress. Here, we examined the possible role of Rv0783c, a putative transporter that is reportedly overexpressed in drug-stressed conditions. Rv0783c conferred resistance to multiple structurally diverse antibiotics, fluoroquinolones and anti-TB drugs in the heterologous hosts, namely, Escherichia coli and Mycobacterium smegmatis. Reduced drug accumulation and active efflux of ethidium bromide (EtBr) confirmed its transport activity, which in turn gets nullified upon using the proton-motive force blocker, CCCP (Carbonyl Cyanide m-Chlorophenylhydrazone). On the other hand, its expression enhanced biofilm formation, linking antibiotic resistance to persistence-associated phenotype. Furthermore, site-directed mutagenesis confirmed the presence of crucial interacting residues with antibiotics that were identified by in silico analysis. Overall, we demonstrate the role of Rv0783c in the extrusion of first and second-line anti-TB drugs and enhancing biofilm formation.},
}

@article {pmid42964140,
year = {2026},
author = {R More, K and Rhodes, JD and Bakaletz, LO and Goodman, SD},
title = {Structure-based minimization of a high-mobility group protein B1 (HMGB1) B box peptide uncouples anti-NETotic activity and anti-biofilm function.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1970789},
pmid = {42964140},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; Humans ; *HMGB1 Protein/chemistry/genetics/pharmacology/metabolism ; *Neutrophils/immunology/metabolism/drug effects ; *Extracellular Traps/metabolism/drug effects/immunology ; Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism ; Protein Kinase C/metabolism ; *Peptides/chemistry/pharmacology ; NADPH Oxidases/metabolism ; Structure-Activity Relationship ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: We previously showed that human HMGB1 has anti-biofilm activity localized to a 97-amino-acid B-Box-derived peptide (mB Box-97), engineered with a C106S mutation to reduce HMGB1's proinflammatory properties while retaining anti-biofilm function. This peptide also suppresses NETosis by inhibiting neutrophil protein kinase C (PKC) activity. Here, we tested whether the anti-biofilm and anti-NETotic activities of mB Box-97 could be separated into distinct shorter peptides by constructing truncated variants containing Helix 1 of the B-Box (with the C106S mutation), with or without the A Box-B Box linker region, and by introducing mutations at key DNA-binding residues.

METHODS: Anti-NETotic activity was assessed in human neutrophils, including peptide binding to PKC, effects on PKC activity, and downstream NADPH oxidase (NOX) activation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and NETosis. Biofilm disruption and bacterial growth effects were tested against pathogenic bacteria.

RESULTS: Peptides combining the linker with Helix 1 and C106S significantly inhibited NETosis while preserving anti-biofilm activity, via PKC binding/inhibition, reduced NOX activation, and lower ROS. Removing the linker preserved anti-biofilm activity but abolished anti-NETotic activity, yielding a 29-amino-acid anti-biofilm-only peptide. Conversely, adding DNA-binding mutations to the linker-Helix 1 peptide abolished anti-biofilm activity while retaining anti-NETotic function.

CONCLUSIONS: Anti-NETotic and anti-biofilm activities of HMGB1-derived peptides can be structurally separated: the linker plus Helix 1 are required for anti-NETotic activity, while Helix 1 alone suffices for anti-biofilm activity. These compact 42- and 29-amino-acid peptides are readily synthesizable, promising candidates for biofilm- and NET-mediated inflammatory diseases, and further support PKC as a target for NETosis inhibition.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
Humans
*HMGB1 Protein/chemistry/genetics/pharmacology/metabolism
*Neutrophils/immunology/metabolism/drug effects
*Extracellular Traps/metabolism/drug effects/immunology
Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism
Protein Kinase C/metabolism
*Peptides/chemistry/pharmacology
NADPH Oxidases/metabolism
Structure-Activity Relationship

@article {pmid42964163,
year = {2026},
author = {Xu, J and Zhou, Y and Bao, W and Ma, Z and Shang, Z and Zhang, H and Wang, W and Li, B and Bai, Y and Zhang, J},
title = {Piceatannol enhances polymyxin B efficacy against Escherichia coli O157:H7 via inhibition of biofilm formation.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1933569},
pmid = {42964163},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Escherichia coli O157:H7 (E. coli O157) poses a severe global health threat, particularly due to its ability to form recalcitrant biofilms and the paradoxical exacerbation of life‑threatening haemolytic uraemic syndrome by conventional antibiotics. This study identifies piceatannol as an effective agent that suppresses E. coli O157 biofilm formation in vitro and acts as an adjuvant to enhance antimicrobial efficacy.

METHODS: The effects of piceatannol on biofilm formation, swarming motility, and exopolysaccharide (EPS) and protein production were evaluated in vitro. Pharmacological screening identified an effective combination with polymyxin B, which was validated in a murine infection model by assessing bacterial loads in visceral organs (liver and spleen), ileal villous morphology, and survival rates.

RESULTS: Piceatannol suppressed biofilm formation by inhibiting swarming motility and reducing EPS and protein production, thereby weakening biofilm integrity and enhancing antimicrobial efficacy. In vivo, the piceatannol-polymyxin B combination reduced bacterial loads in visceral organs, restored ileal villous morphology, and improved survival more effectively than monotherapy.

DISCUSSION: These findings establish piceatannol as an effective adjuvant that enhances polymyxin B efficacy against E. coli O157. By disrupting biofilm integrity and sensitizing bacteria to polymyxin B, the piceatannol-polymyxin B combination represents a promising strategy for treating E. coli O157 infections.},
}

@article {pmid42964396,
year = {2026},
author = {Isawumi, A and Addo, GK and Bugase, EW and Ayerakwa, EA and Abban, MK},
title = {An Exploratory Study on the Antibiotic Potentiation Activity of Riboflavin Against Biofilm-Forming Multidrug-Resistant Salmonella and Shigella Clinical Isolates.},
journal = {International journal of microbiology},
volume = {2026},
number = {},
pages = {1772416},
doi = {10.1155/ijm/1772416},
pmid = {42964396},
issn = {1687-918X},
abstract = {Shigella and Salmonella strains have been implicated in neonatal sepsis, food poisoning, and bacteremia. Their increasing resistance to antibiotics has undermined treatment options, constituting a public health crisis. In addition, the scarcity of new antibiotics contributes to multidrug-resistance (MDR). Hence, there is a need to potentiate antibiotics to mitigate MDR. This study assessed riboflavin's activity to potentiate antibiotics against biofilm-forming MDR Shigella and Salmonella spp. Disk diffusion, microbroth-dilution, chequerboard, and time-kill assays were used to determine resistance profiles and riboflavin-antibiotic activity. Biofilm-formation and bacterial viability (after riboflavin-antibiotic challenge) were determined with crystal-violet and macrophage infection assays, respectively. Strains exhibited > 80% resistance to fluoroquinolones and carbapenems, with 160-640 μg/mL MIC ranges. At 40-80 μg/mL riboflavin, there was a twofold reduction in bacterial survival, with meropenem-riboflavin exhibiting significant reduction. Meropenem + riboflavin was highly synergistic in four MDR isolates (an FIC of 0.075). Biofilm formation was altered (from strong to weak phenotype) with 40 μg/mL riboflavin-antibiotic treatment. There was a 40%-70% reduction in bacterial survival in THP-1 cells treated with meropenem-riboflavin after 3 h, and complete clearance between 24 and 48 hpi. Overall, the study showed that riboflavin potentiated fluoroquinolones, meropenem, and enhanced clearance in THP-1 assays.},
}

@article {pmid42964449,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, Z and Zheng, K and Tang, Y and Zhang, Z and Zhong, Z and Wang, D and Chen, Z and Wang, Y and Chen, Z and Feng, P and Huang, W and Liu, M and Hao, Y and Yu, F and Wang, G and Yi, M and Deng, X},
title = {Immunomodulation and biofilm disruption of piezoelectric materials in bone infection.},
journal = {Frontiers in cell and developmental biology},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1976300},
doi = {10.3389/fcell.2026.1976300},
pmid = {42964449},
issn = {2296-634X},
abstract = {Bone infection remains a persistent clinical challenge due to biofilm formation, antibiotic resistance, and impaired bone regeneration. This manuscript focuses on the application of piezoelectric biomaterials in the treatment of bone infection and systematically elucidates their ability to convert in vivo mechanical stimulation into localized electrical signals and, in catalytically active systems, promote reactive oxygen species generation, thereby enabling efficient bacterial eradication and biofilm disruption. We further synthesize recent evidence showing that piezoelectric stimulation can modulate the infection-associated immune microenvironment and support osteogenesis and angiogenesis. Rather than considering antibacterial, immunomodulatory, and regenerative effects as parallel functions, we integrate them into a stage-adaptive therapeutic framework in which early biofilm disruption, bacterial eradication, and antimicrobial immune activation are followed by oxidative-stress control, inflammation resolution, pro-reparative immune remodeling, angiogenesis, and osteogenesis. This pathophysiology-oriented perspective highlights the potential of piezoelectric materials to coordinate the sequential therapeutic requirements of infected bone repair. Finally, current challenges and future perspectives regarding material design optimization, mechanistic understanding, and clinical translation are discussed.},
}

@article {pmid42965081,
year = {2026},
author = {Biernasiuk, A and Ostrowska-Leśko, M and Malm, A and Korga-Plewko, A},
title = {Mechanism of anti-biofilm thymol activity in oral Candida albicans strains - phenotypic and genotypic level.},
journal = {Journal of oral microbiology},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {2741862},
doi = {10.1080/20002297.2026.2741862},
pmid = {42965081},
issn = {2000-2297},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Recently, the incidences of superficial infections caused by Candida albicans has been increasing. In turn, the limited number of available antimycotics has led to the search for new antifungals.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the antifungal activity, especially the anti-biofilm effect, of thymol (THY) towards oral C. albicans isolates from hemato-oncological patients.

DESIGN: The studies included: (1) the evaluation of the minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum fungicidal concentration of THY against C. albicans as found using the broth microdilution method; (2) its effect on biofilm inhibition and reduction, as assessed by way of a similar technique with crystal violet staining; (3) the interactions of THY with yeast cellular structures, as brought to light via sorbitol and ergosterol tests; (4) its influence on the filamentation as revealed through the use of an optical microscope and (5) the impact on the expression of selected biofilm genes, as determined by quantitative real-time PCR.

RESULTS: THY showed good or moderate anticandidal activity with fungicidal effect. The concentrations required to inhibit the formation or eradication of mature biofilm were higher. These results suggest that THY may likely have an effect on the cell membrane and filamentation at C. albicans. Exploratory RT-qPCR analysis indicated a directional increase in BCR1 expression under biofilm-forming conditions (unadjusted p = 0.010), but this result did not remain statistically significant after Benjamini‒Hochberg correction (q = 0.080). ALS3, HWP1 and NRG1 showed non-significant directional trends, and no gene revealed a statistically significant change under planktonic conditions.

CONCLUSION: THY demonstrated a multidirectional mechanism of anticandidal action, which may suggest its promising effect in the prevention and treatment of oral infections.},
}

@article {pmid42965710,
year = {2026},
author = {Cortés-Sotres, DR and Xiqui-Vázquez, ML and Reyes-Carmona, SR and Barrera-Olvera, NG and Baca, BE and Mancilla-Simbro, C and Ramírez-Mata, A},
title = {RDAR biofilm formation and in silico analysis of putative amyloid proteins in Azospirillum baldaniorum Sp245.},
journal = {Archives of microbiology},
volume = {209},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42965710},
issn = {1432-072X},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism/chemistry ; *Amyloidogenic Proteins/genetics/metabolism/chemistry ; *Azospirillum/genetics/physiology/chemistry/metabolism ; Polysaccharides, Bacterial ; Computer Simulation ; Extrachromosomal DNA ; Microscopy, Confocal ; Amyloid/genetics ; },
abstract = {Azospirillum baldaniorum Sp245 is a plant growth-promoting rhizobacterium (PGPR) whose ability to benefit host crops depends on robust root colonization, a process driven by the transition from a planktonic state to a sessile, biofilm-associated lifestyle. This study investigated the capacity of A. baldaniorum Sp245 to form Red, Dry, and Rough (RDAR) morphotype biofilms. Through macroscopic evaluation and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), we visualized the presence of exopolysaccharides, putative amyloid proteins, and extracellular DNA (eDNA) within the RDAR biofilm matrix using Calcofluor White (CFW), Thioflavin S (TS), and Propidium Iodide (PI) fluorescent probes, respectively. Furthermore, formic acid treatment of extracellular matrix proteins extracts suggests the presence of resistant, putative amyloid proteins. Because genomic screening revealed the absence of homologs of a canonical curli-dependent amyloid system, we performed a genome-wide in silico analysis to identify genes encoding alternative biofilm-associated proteins. Using the Staphylococcus aureus Biofilm-Associated Protein (Bap protein) as a reference, we identified 20 candidate proteins characterized by extensive domain reiteration and diverse architectures, including bacterial immunoglobulin (Ig-like) domains, VCBS repeats, SWM motifs, DUF4347, PKD domains, and RTX β-roll structures. Three-dimensional modeling indicates that these candidates possess elongated, filament-like conformations with repetitive β-strand motifs typical of amyloid-like assembly and calcium-dependent adhesion. These findings suggest that in the absence of traditional curli machinery, A. baldaniorum Sp245 could be using a diverse, domain-rich repertoire of alternative matrix proteins to facilitate cell surface interactions, coordinate structural stability, and establish the RDAR biofilm morphotype. Ultimately, this study establishes a foundation for understanding the role of amyloid proteins in Azospirillum biofilm matrix formation and offers new insights into the potential mechanisms of bacterial persistence and ecological fitness in the rhizosphere.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism/chemistry
*Amyloidogenic Proteins/genetics/metabolism/chemistry
*Azospirillum/genetics/physiology/chemistry/metabolism
Polysaccharides, Bacterial
Computer Simulation
Extrachromosomal DNA
Microscopy, Confocal
Amyloid/genetics

@article {pmid42955126,
year = {2026},
author = {Lee, HJ and Lee, EB},
title = {Marine-derived quorum sensing inhibition as an anti-virulence strategy against biofilm formation and antibiotic tolerance in Aeromonas hydrophila.},
journal = {Molecular biology reports},
volume = {53},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42955126},
issn = {1573-4978},
support = {RS-2025-00523220//National Research Foundation of Korea/ ; RS-2025-02373103//Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries/ ; },
mesh = {*Quorum Sensing/drug effects ; *Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Aeromonas hydrophila/drug effects/pathogenicity ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Chromobacterium/drug effects ; Virulence/drug effects ; Plant Extracts/pharmacology ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Seaweed/chemistry/metabolism ; Molecular Docking Simulation ; Indoles ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Biofilm formation by Aeromonas hydrophila complicates infection control and is associated with reduced antibiotic susceptibility. Seaweed metabolites may interfere with quorum sensing, offering potential antivirulence approaches. This study compared three seaweed extracts for antibacterial, antibiofilm, and quorum sensing inhibitory activities.

METHODS AND RESULTS: Representative compounds reported from Ecklonia cava, Codium fragile, and Grateloupia elliptica were docked against AhyR. Biological assays assessed environmental effects on biofilm formation, antibiotic susceptibility, and extract effects on biofilms and swarming in A. hydrophila, alongside violacein inhibition in Chromobacterium violaceum. Biofilm biomass was quantified by crystal violet staining. Gene expression was examined by quantitative real-time PCR after seven days of repeated exposure to extracts at half the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). Sub-inhibitory florfenicol exposure enhanced biofilm formation, particularly at 35 °C; biofilm biomass peaked at 1% NaCl in salinity assays. Florfenicol and amoxicillin MICs were 128-fold and eightfold higher in biofilm-derived cells than in planktonic cells, respectively. Docking predicted possible AhyR interactions. E. cava showed the strongest antibacterial and antibiofilm activities and swarming inhibition. G. elliptica produced the largest violacein inhibition zone at half MIC (14.13 ± 1.30 mm) and reduced luxS, hcp, recA, rpoS, ompA, and acrB expression after repeated exposure.

CONCLUSIONS: The extracts showed distinct activity profiles, with E. cava exhibiting the strongest antibiofilm effects and G. elliptica the strongest quorum sensing inhibition. G. elliptica warrants further investigation as an antivirulence candidate. Its active constituents and direct effects on AhyR require validation.},
}

*Quorum Sensing/drug effects
*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Aeromonas hydrophila/drug effects/pathogenicity
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Chromobacterium/drug effects
Virulence/drug effects
Plant Extracts/pharmacology
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Seaweed/chemistry/metabolism
Molecular Docking Simulation
Indoles

@article {pmid42955164,
year = {2026},
author = {Wong, KY and Chung, PY and Ooi, IH and Low, ML and Neoh, HM},
title = {Alpha-amyrin-chitosan nanoparticles for the prevention of biofilm-associated infections caused by methicillin-resistant and vancomycin-intermediate Staphylococcus aureus.},
journal = {World journal of microbiology & biotechnology},
volume = {42},
number = {11},
pages = {},
pmid = {42955164},
issn = {1573-0972},
support = {PRGS/IMU/PF/KPT23, Project ID: 495832-500360//Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE), Malaysia/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Chitosan/chemistry ; *Nanoparticles/chemistry ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Oleanolic Acid/pharmacology/analogs & derivatives/chemistry ; Humans ; *Staphylococcal Infections/prevention & control/microbiology ; *Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects ; Vancomycin/pharmacology ; *Vancomycin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects ; Drug Liberation ; Particle Size ; },
abstract = {Medical devices such as artificial implants, prosthetic joints, and catheters are integral to modern healthcare but are increasingly compromised by infections caused by multidrug-resistant, biofilm-forming Staphylococcus aureus. Alpha-amyrin (AM) has previously demonstrated significant reductions in biomass and metabolic activity of methicillin-resistant and methicillin-sensitive S. aureus (MRSA and MSSA) and laboratory-generated vancomycin-intermediate S. aureus (VISA), with minimal cytotoxicity toward mammalian cells. However, its poor bioavailability limits clinical translation. To overcome this limitation, AM was encapsulated within chitosan nanoparticles to enhance delivery to bacterial cells embedded in biofilms. This study evaluated the physicochemical characteristics of the AM-loaded chitosan nanoparticles, and their antibacterial, antibiofilm, and cytotoxic effects against MRSA clinical isolates and VISA strains. Encapsulation efficiency was quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography, and in vitro drug release was determined using the sample-and-separate method. Antibacterial and antibiofilm activities were evaluated using established assays, while confocal scanning laser microscopy was used to evaluate bacterial viability within biofilms on silicone surfaces. The AM-loaded nanoparticles were uniformly dispersed, exhibited favorable particle size and surface charge, and achieved high encapsulation efficiency. Release studies showed an initial burst followed by sustained AM release. The nanoformulation demonstrated inhibitory antibacterial activity and concentration-dependent antibiofilm effects across 0.5-256 µg/mL. Confocal imaging revealed substantial reductions in viable bacterial cells, biofilm density, and surface coverage on nanoformulation-coated silicone. Overall, the AM-chitosan nanoformulation represents a promising strategy for preventing and managing medical device-associated infections caused by multidrug-resistant S. aureus.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Chitosan/chemistry
*Nanoparticles/chemistry
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
*Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Oleanolic Acid/pharmacology/analogs & derivatives/chemistry
Humans
*Staphylococcal Infections/prevention & control/microbiology
*Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects
Vancomycin/pharmacology
*Vancomycin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects
Drug Liberation
Particle Size

@article {pmid42948752,
year = {2026},
author = {Huang, Y and Chen, H and Wu, J and Huang, X and Zhang, Y and Ren, A and Wu, X and Huang, C and Xie, W and Zu, D and Shen, C and Xu, F and Chang, Y and Yang, L and Zhou, H and Sun, P and Xu, J and Liu, J and Li, S and Zheng, J},
title = {Machine learning-driven discovery of aniline phenylacetate derivatives as LasR-targeted biofilm inhibitors against Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections.},
journal = {Acta pharmaceutica Sinica. B},
volume = {16},
number = {10},
pages = {6852-6874},
pmid = {42948752},
issn = {2211-3835},
abstract = {Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm infections pose a severe clinical challenge due to antibiotic resistance driven by quorum sensing (QS). As the master regulator of the P. aeruginosa QS hierarchy, LasR controls biofilm initiation and key virulence factors, establishing it as a high-value therapeutic target. Here, we developed a machine learning pipeline integrating graph neural networks, pharmacophore modeling, molecular docking and molecular dynamics, and determined that the aniline-phenylacetic acid derivative (compound 2g) is an effective LasR inhibitor. 2g demonstrated exceptional biofilm inhibition (IC50 = 0.14 ± 0.08 μmol/L) without bactericidal activity (MIC >256 μmol/L). and bound LasR with high affinity (K D = 38.97 μmol/L). Mechanistically, transcriptomics revealed selective suppression of LasR-regulated virulence pathways, reducing pyocyanin production and bacterial motility. Notably, 2g synergized with antibiotics in vivo, reducing effective doses of ciprofloxacin and tobramycin by 1000-fold and 500-fold, respectively, while potently suppressing resistance evolution. Pharmacokinetic profiling further demonstrated favorable oral bioavailability (26.8%) and a wide safety margin. This work establishes 2g as a machine learning-optimized LasR inhibitor with potent antibiofilm activity and synergistic antibiotic enhancement, offering a translatable strategy against multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa infections.},
}

@article {pmid42951148,
year = {2026},
author = {Xi, J and Dou, Q and Cui, Y and Zhang, L},
title = {Carbon dots enhance biofilm-electrode electron transfer for nitrite-independent ammonia oxidation.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {136148},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.136148},
pmid = {42951148},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Low biofilm conductivity limits electron transfer at the cell-electrode interface, constraining nitrogen removal in microbial electrolysis cell (MEC)-anammox systems. Herein, we developed a carbon dots (CDs)-modified biofilm to improve electron transfer and support sustained nitrogen removal. Nanoscale CDs bearing abundant surface functional groups were incorporated into the extracellular matrix, forming conductive connections between microbial cells and the anode. CDs incorporation reduced interfacial electron-transfer barriers and facilitated electron extraction. Internalized CDs further enhance intracellular metabolism to increase heme c, NADH, and ATP levels, which in turn improves the biosynthesis of extracellular polymers (EPS). EPS accumulation may provide an anchoring matrix that supports CDs retention and conductive network stability. The engineered system achieved 95% total nitrogen removal and a stable current density of 1.15 mA cm[-2]. This work demonstrates a simple, cost-effective and efficient route to improve bioelectricity generation of anammox, offering promising opportunities for sustained wastewater treatment and energy recovery.},
}

@article {pmid42951152,
year = {2026},
author = {Hu, Z and Liu, X and Wang, H and Ding, Y and Qiu, C and Ma, C and Ding, G and Duan, S and Yan, H and Xu, P and Xu, R and Huang, Q and Luo, Y and Qin, X and Zhu, D and Qian, J and Zhou, W},
title = {Insights into the formation mechanism of algal biofilm mediated by acyl homoserine lactone molecules in soy sauce wastewater.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {136150},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.136150},
pmid = {42951152},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Algal biofilm has received increasing attention owing to its superior resource recovery capacities and cost-effective harvesting approach. However, the mechanism underlying algal biofilm formation in soy sauce wastewater (SW) is still poorly understood. This study investigated different biofilm systems and demonstrated that the synergistic effect of native bacterial community in SW and green algae promotes the nutrient removal efficiencies (>85%) with maximum algal biofilm biomass (56 g m[-2]). Through concentration optimization, exogenous addition of 200 ng L[-1] N-butyryl-homoserine lactone (C4-HSL) enhanced algal biofilm yield by 65.3%. Multi-omics analyses further revealed that C4-HSL enhanced algal biofilm formation by modulating pathways related to microbial metabolism, environmental information processing, and protein biosynthesis, while regulating the photosynthesis, protein processing, and transport to supply the necessary proteins and energy for algal biofilm. This study provides valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying C4-HSL-mediated enhancement of algal biofilm formation in SW treatment, which has significant implications for advancing microalgae-based wastewater treatment and resource recovery technologies.},
}

@article {pmid42952281,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, G and Zhou, Y and Liu, Y and Zeng, Y and Liu, J and Wang, J},
title = {Hollow Convective Carrier Design Enhances Biofilm Retention and Mass Transfer for Improved Nitrification Performance.},
journal = {Water environment research : a research publication of the Water Environment Federation},
volume = {98},
number = {11},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/wer.70639},
pmid = {42952281},
issn = {1554-7531},
support = {2026A1515011009//Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation of Guangdong Province/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms ; *Nitrification ; *Bioreactors/microbiology ; *Waste Disposal, Fluid/methods/instrumentation ; },
abstract = {This study developed a novel carrier configuration (i.e., hollow convective carrier [HCC]) to enhance biofilm retention and mass transfer in biofilm-based wastewater treatment. The HCC was fabricated by stitching two layers of permeable nylon mesh to form internal hollow compartments, enabling biofilms to grow within protected spaces while maintaining diffusive and convective transport. Long-term reactor operation showed that HCC-based pure biofilm systems achieved faster start-up and better performance than single-layer convective carriers (CCs) and commercial polyethylene carriers (PEK5). The superior performance was mainly attributed to the improved biomass accumulation and mass transfer. HCC-based reactor exhibited higher biofilm densities (2.4-4.1 g/m[2]) than CC (1.6 g/m[2]) and PEK5 (0.6 g/m[2]) carriers. Biofilms on the surface and inside the hollow compartments of HCC carriers had high nitrification activity and also accumulated more slowly-growing bacteria of Nitrospira than CC and PEK5 carriers. Nitrate tracer experiments confirmed that substrates could penetrate the thick convective biofilms on HCC carriers, with a mass transfer flux of 61.3 mg-N/(m[2] h) and overall mass transfer coefficient of 1.58 × 10[-6] m/s. Both mass transfer flux and overall coefficient in convective biofilms increased linearly with mixing intensity, supporting the role of convective transport in alleviating diffusion limitations. Overall, the hollow convective design integrates enhanced biofilm retention with improved substrate accessibility, providing a promising carrier strategy for stable and efficient treatment in biofilm reactors.},
}

*Biofilms
*Nitrification
*Bioreactors/microbiology
*Waste Disposal, Fluid/methods/instrumentation

@article {pmid42953010,
year = {2026},
author = {Iwanami, N and Matsumoto, A and Yamamoto, R and Tomita, K and Kouzuma, A and Watanabe, K},
title = {Overexpression of the endogenous diguanylate cyclase gene dgcS enhances biofilm formation by Shewanella oneidensis MR-1 on electrodes.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1957821},
pmid = {42953010},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {In microbial electrochemical technologies, Shewanella oneidensis MR-1 efficiently generates electric current via biofilm formation on electrodes. A previous study demonstrated that the deletion of the diguanylate cyclase gene dgcS inhibits biofilm formation on electrodes and current generation in MR-1. However, the molecular mechanisms by which dgcS expression and subsequent cyclic dimeric guanosine monophosphate (c-di-GMP) signaling affect these processes remain unexplored. Here, we investigated the effects of dgcS overexpression on current generation, electrode-associated biofilm formation, and the intracellular concentration of cyclic AMP (cAMP), a second messenger that induces the expression of extracellular electron transfer (EET)-related genes in MR-1, to examine the potential coordinated regulation of intracellular c-di-GMP and cAMP levels. In an electrochemical flow cell (EFC), the dgcS-overexpressing (dgcS-OE) strain exhibited significantly higher intracellular c-di-GMP concentrations than the vector control (VC) strain, forming more biomass-rich biofilms on the electrode and generating higher current. However, current generation normalized to electrode-associated biomass did not differ significantly between the dgcS-OE and VC strains, suggesting that dgcS overexpression did not increase EET activity per biomass. Moreover, intracellular cAMP levels were not significantly different between the dgcS-OE and VC strains, and the transcription levels of adenylate cyclase (cAMP synthase) genes and EET-related genes in the dgcS-OE strain tended to be reduced to 0.3- to 0.6-fold of those in the VC strain. Collectively, these findings suggest that dgcS overexpression and the associated elevation of intracellular c-di-GMP levels enhance the electrogenic performance of MR-1 primarily by promoting biofilm development on electrodes, while weakly repressing the transcription of genes related to cAMP signaling.},
}

@article {pmid42953379,
year = {2026},
author = {Han, Y and Deng, K and Chen, R and Chen, F and Yao, K and Ye, Y and Du, Z and Shentu, X},
title = {NIR-responsive carbon monoxide nanoplatform for synergistic antibacterial and anti-inflammatory therapy of refractory keratitis and biofilm-infected wounds.},
journal = {Materials today. Bio},
volume = {41},
number = {},
pages = {103727},
pmid = {42953379},
issn = {2590-0064},
abstract = {Drug-resistant bacterial biofilms hinder the treatment of persistent infections by limiting drug penetration and reducing bacterial susceptibility through their dense extracellular matrix and active signaling networks. Herein, we developed a near-infrared (NIR) light-responsive, bacteria-targeting nanoplatform, termed UCMSP-CL, for localized carbon monoxide (CO) delivery and biofilm eradication. UCMSP-CL disrupts biofilm architecture and adheres to bacteria through electrostatic interactions and enzyme-substrate recognition. Subsequent NIR irradiation triggers local CO release, which induces severe bacterial metabolic exhaustion by inhibiting the bacterial respiratory chain, depleting ATP and compromising membrane integrity, while exerting potent anti-inflammatory effects. In murine models of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) keratitis and infected skin wounds, NIR-irradiated UCMSP-CL markedly reduced bacterial burden, promoted biofilm clearance, alleviated local inflammation, and accelerated tissue repair. These findings establish a controllable platform that couples antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities, offering a potential strategy for treating biofilm-associated and drug-resistant infections.},
}

@article {pmid42953731,
year = {2026},
author = {Allkja, J and Bairoliya, S and Bakri, A and Short, B and Brown, JL and Delaney, C and Smith, P and Short, RD and Jenkins, T and Cao, B and Williams, C and Ramage, G},
title = {The role of the microbiome in diabetic foot ulcers: Biofilm community dynamics differ with healing outcomes.},
journal = {Biofilm},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {100405},
pmid = {42953731},
issn = {2590-2075},
abstract = {Diabetic foot ulcers often develop into non-healing chronic wounds due to their high risk of infection resulting from exposure to various microbes, combined with a lowered immune response due to the patient's diabetic status. Recently, an increased understanding of the polymicrobial nature of chronic wound infections has given rise to questions on the role of the microbiome on healing outcomes. In our study, we aimed to investigate the microbiome composition and its pathological influence in 128 patients using the Oxford NanoPore Sequencing platform and the 16S rRNA region for sample amplification. Overall, the most abundant genera and species present in the microbiomes of these patients resembled other published studies, namely Cutibacteria, Staphylococcus and Pseudomonas. A key factor in healing outcomes was the presence of fungi, which was strongly correlated with pathogenic anaerobes such as Prevotella bivia and associated with negative outcomes. While we could not determine a direct causal link between fungi and outcomes, the data strongly suggests that fungal presence plays a role in the composition of bacterial communities in the wound environment and is potentially enabling infection persistence. Furthermore, we observed that certain bacterial species were present in all outcomes, but part of different microbial networks, hinting that healing success could be determined by these associations established in the community rather than presence of a specific pathobiont. In conclusion, while an initial look at the composition can provide an insight into the most abundant genus/species present in certain outcomes, when investigating deeper we see that associations among different taxa may play a more significant role in determining healing. We postulate that interfering with these interactions could potentially be the key to tipping the balance towards positive healing outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid42945706,
year = {2026},
author = {Lu, Z and Zhou, Z and Feng, L and Zhu, J},
title = {Psl exopolysaccharide regulates biofilm formation and environmental adaptation in Pseudomonas fluorescens PF07.},
journal = {Microbiological research},
volume = {315},
number = {},
pages = {128786},
doi = {10.1016/j.micres.2026.128786},
pmid = {42945706},
issn = {1618-0623},
abstract = {Pseudomonas fluorescens PF07, a prevalent psychrotrophic spoilage bacterium, relies heavily on robust biofilm formation to persist in food environments and exert spoilage effects. Nevertheless, the distinct contributions of exopolysaccharides to its biofilm maturation and stress adaptation remain unclear. Herein, we systematically characterized the genetic determinants and biological functions of three exopolysaccharides (Psl, alginate and PNAG) in modulating PF07 biofilm development and resistance to food-processing-associated stressors. Single, double, and triple deletion mutants targeting the pslB, alg8, and pgaC genes were constructed to evaluate the contributions of these biosynthetic systems, and transcriptomic analysis was performed to explore the underlying responses. Deletion of pslB markedly impaired biofilm formation, pellicle development, and extracellular matrix production, whereas deficiency of alg8 or pgaC caused only minor phenotypic changes compared with the wild-type strain, indicating that Psl is the primary structural determinant of the PF07 biofilm matrix. Furthermore, double- and triple-mutants lacking pslB exhibited more severe reductions in biofilm biomass and thickness, suggesting that alginate and PNAG make supplementary but secondary contributions to the Psl-dominated biofilm matrix. In addition, ΔpslB exhibited substantially reduced biofilm formation under low temperature and ionic stress and decreased tolerance to sodium hypochlorite and benzalkonium chloride, in contrast with limited alterations for the Δalg8 and ΔpgaC mutants. Consistently, catalase and superoxide dismutase activities were significantly weakened in the ΔpslB mutant but largely unaltered in the Δalg8 mutant, indicating that Psl deficiency was associated with reduced antioxidant enzyme activities and suggesting a potential role of Psl in the antioxidant response of PF07. Transcriptomic analysis further revealed significant changes in genes associated with stress adaptation and metabolism, including the upregulation of aqpZ, the downregulation of osmY, and alterations in multiple metabolism-related genes. Thus, these findings demonstrate that Psl is a pivotal structural polysaccharide in the biofilm matrix of P. fluorescens PF07 and plays critical roles in biofilm structure and tolerance to cold, ionic, and oxidative stresses, providing new insights into potential strategies for controlling P. fluorescens biofilms in food-processing environments.},
}

@article {pmid42946263,
year = {2026},
author = {Duduku, S and Keerthi, NS and Ramaswami, S},
title = {Emergence of high partial nitritation-anammox activity in high-rate nitrifying packed bed biofilm reactor under near-mainstream conditions: Insights into microbial activity and interactions.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {136145},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.136145},
pmid = {42946263},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Although partial nitritation and anammox (PN/AMX) has been successfully established for treating sidestream wastewater, low NH4[+]-N concentration and suppression of nitrite oxidizing bacteria (NOB) are challenges in mainstream wastewater. This study reports the emergence and assessment of PN/AMX-associated activity in single-stage high-rate nitrifying packed bed biofilm reactor (PBBR), operated for ∼ 400 days, with an influent NH4[+]-N concentration close to mainstream, i.e., 100 mg-N/L, under relatively low hydraulic retention time (∼1.6 h). With gradually increasing volumetric ammonium loading rates (V-ALR) from 300 to 1500 g-N/m[3]·d during initial stages of operation, dominance of ammonium oxidizing bacteria (AOB) and NOB was achieved, offering complete nitrification. During prolonged operation at V-ALR of 1500 g-N/m[3]·d, a gradual reduction in dissolved oxygen (DO) saturation in the bulk liquid (at constant aeration rates) to below 45% coincided with NO2[-]-N accumulation, reduced NO3[-]-N formation, and emergence of inferred PN/AMX associated activity. Under DO limited conditions, a peak inferred AMX activity of around 30 mg-N/L·h was observed, with an estimated activity-based doubling time of ∼ 28 d. Microbial community analysis was consistent with these observations, wherein significant reduction in abundance of NOB (Nitrospira) was observed during AMX phase (4.6%) as compared to high-nitrification stage (59.8%). Also, during the AMX phase, the reactor was enriched with Candidatus Brocadia genus with a relative abundance of 20.9%. While these preliminary observations suggest the potential of PBBR for high-rate PN/AMX associated activity, further systematic investigations and validation using real wastewater are needed.},
}

@article {pmid42946547,
year = {2026},
author = {Drago, L and De La Motte, LR},
title = {Chronic Wounds as Biofilm Ecosystems: Modernizing Microbiology Beyond Planktonic Paradigms.},
journal = {Advances in wound care},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {21621918261501846},
doi = {10.1177/21621918261501846},
pmid = {42946547},
issn = {2162-1918},
abstract = {SIGNIFICANCE: Chronic wound infections, including diabetic foot infections, are increasingly recognized as biofilm-associated polymicrobial ecosystems rather than simple planktonic infections. However, routine microbiological workflows remain largely optimized for acute infections, creating a mismatch between laboratory diagnostics and the biological organization of chronic infection.

RECENT ADVANCES: Growing evidence from biofilm biology, microbial ecology, and molecular microbiology has demonstrated that chronic wound infections are characterized by structured microbial communities, physiological heterogeneity, and enhanced antimicrobial tolerance. Advanced diagnostic approaches have improved understanding of microbial diversity and biofilm-associated persistence beyond what is captured by conventional culture alone.

CRITICAL ISSUES: Conventional microbiological workflows may incompletely resolve the microbial populations most relevant to chronicity, recurrence, and treatment failure. Key limitations include sampling strategy, tissue processing, incubation conditions, anaerobic recovery, and reliance on planktonic susceptibility testing. The discrepancy between minimum inhibitory concentration-based testing and biofilm-associated antimicrobial tolerance highlights an important gap between laboratory assessment and infection biology.

FUTURE DIRECTIONS: Modernization of chronic wound microbiology requires a transition from pathogen-centered planktonic models toward biofilm-aware, ecosystem-oriented approaches. Integration of optimized sampling, culture-based diagnostics, selective molecular tools, surgical source control, and antimicrobial stewardship may improve diagnostic resolution, support more rational antimicrobial use, and enhance long-term clinical outcomes.[Figure: see text].},
}

@article {pmid42947133,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, S and Lei, J and Liu, X and Ou, Z and Tong, B and Liang, H and Wu, D and Zhang, Z and Wei, J and Wang, H and Xu, H and Peng, S and Qian, Y and Chen, Z and Jia, Y and Tan, L and Xie, L and Yang, C and Feng, X},
title = {Microwave-responsive thermoelectric microneedles for efficient biofilm eradication and sustained repair of infected wounds.},
journal = {Journal of nanobiotechnology},
volume = {24},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42947133},
issn = {1477-3155},
support = {No. 82272459//The National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; No. 2026AFC1425//Hubei Provincial Natural Science Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Microwaves ; Animals ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Mice ; Zinc Oxide/chemistry/pharmacology ; Microneedle Drug Delivery ; *Wound Healing/drug effects ; Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology ; Nanocomposites/chemistry ; *Wound Infection/therapy/microbiology ; Needles ; Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism ; Bismuth/chemistry/pharmacology ; },
abstract = {Infected wounds present a high clinical incidence, and current treatments are inadequate in both effectively eliminating bacterial biofilms and continuously promoting tissue regeneration. To address these challenges, we develop a microwave-responsive thermoelectric nanocomposite of zinc oxide-bismuth telluride (ZnO-Bi2Te3) via hydrothermal synthesis for the treatment of biofilm infected wounds. The heterointerface within the nanocomposite enhances phonon scattering, while the ZnO component provides additional charge carrier transport pathways, collectively significantly improving the thermoelectric conversion performance. Under microwave irradiation, the ZnO-Bi2Te3 rapidly generates substantial amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS), enabling efficient penetration and eradication of biofilms with an antibacterial rate of 99.2%. After irradiation ceases, the ZnO-Bi2Te3 utilizes the wound-environment temperature difference to continuously produce thermoelectric signals. The continuous thermoelectric signals, in synergy with the release of zinc ions, activate the MAPK pathway and promote protein synthesis, processing, and transport, thereby enhancing cell migration, differentiation, and angiogenesis, leading to continuous tissue regeneration. In a mouse model of MRSA-biofilm infected wounds, the ZnO-Bi2Te3 loaded microneedles effectively clear the infection and accelerate healing. This study develops a microwave-responsive thermoelectric system for infected wounds through efficient biofilm clearance and sustained pro-regeneration.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Microwaves
Animals
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Mice
Zinc Oxide/chemistry/pharmacology
Microneedle Drug Delivery
*Wound Healing/drug effects
Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology
Nanocomposites/chemistry
*Wound Infection/therapy/microbiology
Needles
Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism
Bismuth/chemistry/pharmacology

@article {pmid42948233,
year = {2026},
author = {Atighehchian, M and Shabani, M and Abedinifar, Z and Manoochehri, Z and Zarei-Ghanavati, M},
title = {Molecular Identification of Biofilm-producing Staphylococcus aureus in Contact Lens Storage Solutions.},
journal = {Journal of ophthalmic & vision research},
volume = {21},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42948233},
issn = {2008-2010},
abstract = {PURPOSE: This study aimed to evaluate the presence of biofilm-producing Staphylococcus aureus in contact lens storage solutions (CLSS) used for both cosmetic and vision-correcting purposes. Microbiological assays and molecular methods were used to detect biofilm-associated genes, specifically icaA and icaD. The findings could provide molecular evidence of contamination in CLSS and identify behavioral risk factors associated with biofilm-forming strains.

METHODS: A total of 162 CLSS samples were collected from asymptomatic students living in dormitories and hospital staff. Bacterial isolation and identification were performed using standard culture methods and biochemical tests. Biofilm formation was evaluated phenotypically, and molecular confirmation of S. aureus and biofilm-associated genes (icaA and icaD) was performed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Associations between contamination and lens type, and also user behaviors, including lens-washing practices, showering, and swimming while wearing lenses, were analyzed.

RESULTS: This study evaluated 162 CLSS samples from 162 asymptomatic participants (mean age: 24.8 ± 4.2 years). Of these, 148 subjects (91.35%) were females. Staphylococcus aureus contamination was detected in7 of 162 samples (4.32%),and 4 of the 7 isolates (57.14%) carried biofilm-associated icaA and icaD genes. Staphylococcus aureus contamination was found in 5 of 108 CLSS used for vision-correcting purposes (4.62%; P = 0.53). Contamination was significantly associated with lack of lens washing before wearing, which occurred in 4 of 141 participants (2.83%; P = 0.005), and lack of hand washing before handling contact lenses, which was observed in 7 of 159 participants (4.40%; P = 0.043).

CONCLUSION: This study provides molecular evidence that CLSS can act as reservoirs for biofilm-producing S. aureus. The detection of icaA- and icaD-positive strains highlights the risk of persistent contamination and the potential development of contact lens-related infectious keratitis. Modifiable behaviors, especially proper lens washing, may significantly reduce the risk of contamination with biofilm-producing S. aureus.},
}

@article {pmid42948688,
year = {2026},
author = {Asghari Ozma, M and Fallahi Alileh, N and Moaddab, SR},
title = {Antibacterial Activity, Biofilm Inhibition, and Modulation of Virulence-Associated Gene Expression by Probiotic-Derived Cell-Free Supernatants Against Multidrug-Resistant Serratia marcescens.},
journal = {Infection and drug resistance},
volume = {19},
number = {},
pages = {647738},
pmid = {42948688},
issn = {1178-6973},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Multidrug-resistant (MDR) Serratia marcescens is an important opportunistic pathogen associated with persistent healthcare-associated infections, partly because of its capacity to form biofilms and express virulence-associated factors. Probiotic-derived cell-free supernatants (CFSs) contain secreted metabolites that may provide non-antibiotic approaches for controlling resistant bacteria. However, comparative data on bacterial- and yeast-derived CFSs against S. marcescens remain limited.

METHODS: CFSs were prepared from Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG, Bacillus coagulans, Bifidobacterium longum, and Saccharomyces boulardii. Metabolite profiles were examined by GC-MS. Antibacterial activity was assessed by disk diffusion and broth microdilution. Biofilm-formation inhibition was evaluated by crystal violet staining at 1/2 and 1/4 MIC. Expression of fimA, bsmA, and shlA was examined by qRT-PCR, and HEK293 cell viability was assessed by MTT.

RESULTS: All four CFSs inhibited S. marcescens growth in a concentration-dependent manner. L. rhamnosus GG showed the greatest activity, with a MIC/MBC of 0.375/0.75 mg/mL and a 26-mm inhibition zone at 12 mg/mL. At 1/2 MIC, biofilm-formation inhibition was 71%, 57%, 47%, and 32%, respectively. All four CFSs significantly reduced fimA and bsmA expression, whereas shlA expression was significantly reduced by L. rhamnosus GG, B. coagulans, and B. longum, but not by S. boulardii. HEK293 cell viability remained above 80% under the tested conditions.

CONCLUSION: Probiotic-derived CFSs demonstrated antibacterial and biofilm-formation inhibitory activities and were associated with reduced expression of selected virulence-associated genes in S. marcescens. L. rhamnosus GG-derived CFSs showed the strongest overall activity, supporting further mechanistic and in vivo studies.},
}

@article {pmid42931160,
year = {2026},
author = {Sung, K and Park, M and Chon, J and Kweon, O and Khan, S and Foley, SL},
title = {Proteomic Insights into Antibiotic Resistance and Biofilm Adaptation of Staphylococcus epidermidis to Subinhibitory Levofloxacin, Rifampicin, and Combination Treatment.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {10},
pages = {},
pmid = {42931160},
issn = {2076-0817},
support = {E0781511//United States Food and Drug Administration/ ; },
mesh = {*Staphylococcus epidermidis/drug effects/physiology/metabolism ; *Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Rifampin/pharmacology ; *Levofloxacin/pharmacology ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Proteomics ; Bacterial Proteins/metabolism ; *Drug Resistance, Bacterial ; *Proteome/analysis ; Adaptation, Physiological ; Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Staphylococcus epidermidis biofilms are inherently tolerant to antimicrobial treatment, contributing to the persistence and recurrence of biofilm-associated infections. In this study, we examined the phenotypic and proteomic responses of S. epidermidis ATCC 35984 biofilms following exposure to subinhibitory concentrations (1/8× MIC) of levofloxacin, rifampicin, and their combination. Phenotypic analyses revealed clear differences among the treatments. Rifampicin significantly reduced the number of viable biofilm-associated cells, whereas levofloxacin alone had little effect. The combination of rifampicin and levofloxacin produced the most pronounced antibiofilm activity, significantly reducing both biofilm biomass and viability. These findings were supported by confocal laser scanning microscopy, which showed the greatest loss of viable cells and biofilm integrity in the combination-treated biofilms. Label-free quantitative proteomic analysis demonstrated distinct treatment-specific adaptive responses. Rifampicin, either alone or in combination with levofloxacin, triggered broadly increased abundance of proteins involved in translation, energy production, amino acid and nucleotide metabolism, ATP-binding cassette transport, and quorum sensing. In contrast, levofloxacin predominantly suppressed proteins associated with central metabolism, transcription, translation, and biosynthetic pathways. Hierarchical clustering further showed that the proteomic profile of the combination treatment closely resembled that of rifampicin alone, suggesting that rifampicin was the dominant driver of proteomic remodeling. Expression pattern network analysis identified a conserved stress-response signature comprising Fhs, YdaG, PerR, and YcsE across all treatment conditions. Notably, the multidrug efflux pumps NorA and NorC showed decreased protein abundance across all treatment conditions, indicating a potential reduction in efflux-mediated resistance under sub-MIC antibiotic exposure. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that rifampicin retains substantial antibiofilm activity at subinhibitory concentrations and elicits extensive metabolic adaptation, whereas levofloxacin primarily induces a metabolically repressed state. The enhanced activity of the rifampicin-levofloxacin combination appears to arise from complementary effects on biofilm viability and cellular physiology. This study provides new insights into the adaptive responses of S. epidermidis biofilms to sublethal antibiotic stress and highlights the potential of rifampicin-based combination therapies for the management of biofilm-associated infections.},
}

*Staphylococcus epidermidis/drug effects/physiology/metabolism
*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Rifampin/pharmacology
*Levofloxacin/pharmacology
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Proteomics
Bacterial Proteins/metabolism
*Drug Resistance, Bacterial
*Proteome/analysis
Adaptation, Physiological
Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial/drug effects

@article {pmid42931204,
year = {2026},
author = {Malaş İren, H and Mete, E},
title = {Type III Secretion System Genotypes and Biofilm-Forming Capacity of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Bloodstream Isolates: An Exploratory Analysis of the exoU-Fluoroquinolone Association.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {10},
pages = {},
pmid = {42931204},
issn = {2076-0817},
support = {2020TIPF006//Pamukkale University Scientific Research Projects Coordination Unit./ ; 2020TIPF006 dated 19/02/2020//Pamukkale University Scientific Research Projects Coordination Unit./ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; *Pseudomonas aeruginosa/genetics/drug effects/isolation & purification/physiology ; Humans ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; *Pseudomonas Infections/microbiology ; Genotype ; *Fluoroquinolones/pharmacology ; *Type III Secretion Systems/genetics ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics ; Drug Resistance, Bacterial ; *Bacteremia/microbiology ; },
abstract = {The pathogenicity of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in bloodstream infection is shaped by biofilm formation and the type III secretion system (T3SS). We characterised the biofilm-associated and T3SS genotypes of 100 non-duplicate bloodstream isolates and tested whether either trait co-segregates with antimicrobial resistance. Biofilm was assessed by Congo red agar (CRA) and the quantitative microtiter plate (MTP) assay; biofilm-associated (pslA, pelA, ppyR) and T3SS effector (exoS, exoY, exoT, exoU) genes by conventional PCR; and susceptibility by an automated system interpreted with EUCAST criteria. Biofilm was detected in 84% of isolates by MTP and 25% by CRA (Cohen's κ = 0.16). pslA was present in 100%, pelA and ppyR in 99%; all isolates carried exoY and exoT, exoS was found in 88% and exoU in 27%. Multidrug resistance was 15%. Biofilm phenotype was unrelated to resistance. In contrast, levofloxacin resistance was more frequent among exoU-positive isolates (29.6% vs. 9.6%; p = 0.024), and this association survived adjustment for biofilm phenotype and hospital unit in multivariable analysis (adjusted OR 3.90, 95% CI 1.20-12.67). However, the association did not remain significant after correction for multiple comparisons or after excluding exoS/exoU co-positive isolates. The exoU-fluoroquinolone relationship is therefore presented as an exploratory, hypothesis-generating finding that requires confirmation by reference susceptibility testing and clonal characterisation.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/genetics/drug effects/isolation & purification/physiology
Humans
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
*Pseudomonas Infections/microbiology
Genotype
*Fluoroquinolones/pharmacology
*Type III Secretion Systems/genetics
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Bacterial Proteins/genetics
Drug Resistance, Bacterial
*Bacteremia/microbiology

@article {pmid42933340,
year = {2026},
author = {Lin, SH and Gagliano, MC and Kuntke, P and Hamelers, HVM and de Smit, SM},
title = {Integrating hydrogen delivery and in situ water removal for biomethanation in a hollow fiber membrane biofilm reactor (HF-MBfR).},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {309},
number = {Pt A},
pages = {127129},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2026.127129},
pmid = {42933340},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {Biomethanation offers a sustainable pathway for renewable energy storage and for the utilization of captured CO2. Nevertheless, challenges remained with H2 mass transfer limitations from the gas to the liquid phase and nutrient dilution caused by metabolic water production, which will increase the demand for nutrient supplementation. This study demonstrates the use of a hollow fiber membrane biofilm reactor (HF-MBfR) to advance biomethanation by integrating H2 delivery through gas-permeable polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) membranes with in situ water removal. This design enables high-rate thermophilic operation (55°C) without gas-liquid mixing or frequent nutrient addition. The system achieved a record volumetric methane production rate of 3.2 L·L[-1]·d[-1] in biomethanation MBfR along with 95% CH4 purity and near-complete CO2/H2 conversion. Re-inoculation rapidly and sustainably recovered performance losses due to nutrient limitations, outperforming the addition of synthetic supplements. Periodic lumen side purging removed a water volume equivalent to 60-65% of the metabolic water and mitigated excessive bulk liquid dilution, while minimal ammonium concentration > 0.6 g·L[-1] was found essential for pH buffering (6.8-8.3) against CO2 partial pressure variation (0.004-0.21 atm) in the HF-MBfR. The biofilm was dominated by Methanothermobacter and Coprothermobacter, which facilitate the high-rate and high-efficiency conversion of CO2/H2 into methane. These results demonstrate that HF-MBfR is a robust and scalable platform for efficient CO2 biomethanation and set the stage for further optimization of membrane layouts and surface modifications to support robust biofilm development and enhanced methane productivity.},
}

@article {pmid42934114,
year = {2026},
author = {Yu, Z and Zhou, B and Meng, X and Wang, L and Huang, S and Cao, H},
title = {[Withaferin A inhibits biofilm formation and adhesion of neonatal meningitis Escherichia coli by downregulating ibeR expression].},
journal = {Nan fang yi ke da xue xue bao = Journal of Southern Medical University},
volume = {46},
number = {10},
pages = {2548-2557},
pmid = {42934114},
issn = {1673-4254},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; Humans ; *Bacterial Adhesion/drug effects ; *Escherichia coli/drug effects ; *Withanolides/pharmacology ; Down-Regulation ; *Escherichia coli Proteins/metabolism/genetics ; Endothelial Cells ; *Meningitis, Escherichia coli/microbiology ; Infant, Newborn ; Cells, Cultured ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To investigate the effect of Withaferin A (WA) on biofilm formation and adhesion of neonatal meningitis Escherichia coli (NMEC) and the regulatory role of ibeR.

METHODS: CCK-8 assay was used to determine the sub-inhibitory concentration of WA in cultured human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMECs). The NMEC strain RS218 (E44) and an ibeR deletion mutant (BR2) were treated with 1, 2, and 5 μmol/L WA, and the changes in biofilm formation were evaluated by crystal violet staining and SBF assay; the expression levels of ibeR, ibeA, and ibeT were detected by qPCR. HBMECs co-cultured with E44 or BR2 were examined for bacterial adhesion, and indole production in the supernatants and the effect of exogenous indole on biofilm formation were evaluated.

RESULTS: Based on cytotoxicity test, 2 μmol/L WA was used for subsequent experiments. WA dose-dependently reduced biofilm formation in E44 but not in the BR2 strain but did not significantly inhibit proliferation of either strain. WA treatment significantly downregulated ibeR expression in the bacteria. Deletion of ibeR did not affect bacterial growth but significantly decreased biofilm formation and adhesion to HBMECs. WA treatment also reduced cell adhesion ability of E44, which was not observed in BR2. WA significantly increased indole production and decreased biofilm content in E44 but not in BR2.

CONCLUSIONS: IbeR regulates NMEC biofilm formation and adhesion likely by modulating indole production. WA dose-dependently inhibits biofilm and adhesion of NMEC by downregulating ibeR without affecting bacterial growth.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
Humans
*Bacterial Adhesion/drug effects
*Escherichia coli/drug effects
*Withanolides/pharmacology
Down-Regulation
*Escherichia coli Proteins/metabolism/genetics
Endothelial Cells
*Meningitis, Escherichia coli/microbiology
Infant, Newborn
Cells, Cultured

@article {pmid42934652,
year = {2026},
author = {Ye, JB and Huang, M and Cai, X and Li, Y and Zhang, S and Zeng, K and Chen, Q},
title = {Efficacy of fosfomycin tromethamine powder in preventing biofilm-forming bacterial colonization on double-j stents in patients with upper urinary tract calculi.},
journal = {BMC urology},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42934652},
issn = {1471-2490},
support = {No. 2024GZL14//the High-Quality Development Project of the First People's Hospital of Zigong City/ ; No.2024-YKY-03-13//the Zigong Key Science and Technology Plan (Collaborative Innovation Project of Zigong Academy of Medical Sciences) in 2024/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Biofilms/drug effects ; Female ; Male ; *Stents/microbiology ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/administration & dosage/therapeutic use ; *Fosfomycin/therapeutic use/administration & dosage/pharmacology ; Middle Aged ; Prospective Studies ; Adult ; Powders ; *Ureteral Calculi/surgery ; Aged ; Treatment Outcome ; *Kidney Calculi ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of fosfomycin tromethamine powder (FMT) for preventing biofilm-forming bacterial colonization on double-J (DJ) stents in patients with upper urinary tract calculi.

METHODS: From January 2024 to June 2025, we prospectively enrolled 200 adult patients with upper urinary tract calculi undergoing double-J stent placement after endoscopic laser lithotripsy at our tertiary medical center and randomly assigned them in a 1:1 ratio to the experimental or control group (n = 100 per group). Patients in the experimental group received a single oral dose of 3 g FMT one day before double-J stent placement and on postoperative days 7 and 15. Patients in the control group received intravenous cefuroxime (CXM), 1.5 g per dose, administered twice daily one day before stent placement and on postoperative days 1 and 2. Stent surface samples were collected at the time of DJ stent removal for quantitative bacterial biofilm culture, microbial species identification, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Baseline clinical characteristics, Double-J Stent Symptom Score (DJSS) (assessed during indwelling), SF-36 Health Survey quality-of-life score, numerical rating scale (NRS) pain score, and urine analysis parameters at stent removal were systematically recorded. All statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS version 26.0, with statistical significance defined as a two-sided p-value < 0.05.

RESULTS: No statistically significant differences were observed in baseline characteristics between the experimental and control groups. Biofilm-forming bacterial colonization was identified in 49 individuals (24.5%). The colonization rate was significantly lower in the experimental group (17/100, 17%) than in the control group (32/100, 32%) (χ² = 6.082, P = 0.014). The experimental group demonstrated statistically significant improvements over the control group in preventing ureteral stent syndrome, reducing postoperative pyrexia incidence, decreasing urine leukocyte esterase positivity rate, lowering urinary leukocyte count, alleviating postoperative pain (assessed using a numerical rating scale), and improving SF-36 health survey quality-of-life scores (all P < 0.05). The three most frequently isolated pathogens were Escherichia coli (E. coli) (n = 17, 34.7%), Staphylococcus aureus (n = 8, 16.3%), and Klebsiella pneumoniae (n = 5, 10.2%). Antimicrobial susceptibility testing demonstrated that Gram-negative bacilli exhibited high-level resistance to ampicillin, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, cefazolin, cefuroxime, and ceftriaxone. In contrast, these isolates remained highly susceptible to β-lactam/β-lactamase inhibitor combinations (cefoperazone/sulbactam and piperacillin/tazobactam), carbapenems (meropenem, imipenem, and ertapenem), cefotetan, nitrofurantoin, and fosfomycin. Gram-positive cocci exhibited high-level resistance to oxacillin, penicillin G, cefoxitin, and erythromycin. Conversely, these isolates demonstrated consistently high susceptibility to linezolid, vancomycin, tigecycline, and rifampicin. Fungal isolates showed high susceptibility to itraconazole, fluconazole, voriconazole, 5-fluorouracil, and amphotericin B.

CONCLUSION: When both groups received a fixed 3-day drug regimen, Compared to CXM, FMT may reduce the proportion of upper urinary tract calculi patients with biofilm-forming bacteria on DJ stents in this region. These findings support FMT-rather than CXM-as the preferred agent for targeted prophylaxis in this region-specific patient population and underscore the importance of rational antibiotic use. Optimizing infection prevention strategies requires integration of antimicrobial susceptibility test results with population-specific clinical characteristics, including established infection risk factors.},
}

Humans
*Biofilms/drug effects
Female
Male
*Stents/microbiology
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/administration & dosage/therapeutic use
*Fosfomycin/therapeutic use/administration & dosage/pharmacology
Middle Aged
Prospective Studies
Adult
Powders
*Ureteral Calculi/surgery
Aged
Treatment Outcome
*Kidney Calculi

@article {pmid42936052,
year = {2026},
author = {Patch, CA and Etter, AJ},
title = {Comparative transcriptomics of outbreak-associated Salmonella Heidelberg, Typhimurium, and monophasic Typhimurium reveals differential expression of stress tolerance, virulence, and biofilm-associated genes.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1895105},
pmid = {42936052},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Non-typhoidal Salmonella enterica remains a leading cause of foodborne illness worldwide, with certain serovars more commonly implicated in outbreaks linked to specific food matrices. However, gene expression differences between distinct serovars remain poorly understood, which may limit the ability to reduce the overall outbreak and illness burden. This study presents an RNA-Seq evaluation of six outbreak-associated, stationary-phase S. enterica transcriptomes representing serovars Salmonella Heidelberg, Salmonella Typhimurium, and monophasic Salmonella Typhimurium (I 4,[5],12:i-). Analysis of differential gene expression (padj < 0.05 and |log2FoldChange| > 1) revealed upregulation of genes associated with enhanced pathogenicity among all strains; however, Salmonella Heidelberg exhibited a transcriptional profile consistent with enhanced invasion, iron metabolism, and biofilm formation, while Salmonella Typhimurium and monophasic Salmonella Typhimurium showed transcriptional profiles consistent with stress response and survival. Transcriptome patterns were concordant with previous research evaluating phenotypic stress responses, in which Salmonella Heidelberg demonstrated prolonged survival at lethal temperatures and enhanced biofilm-forming capabilities. Overall, these findings suggest that outbreak-associated strains may employ distinct transcriptional strategies that could contribute to serovar-specific outbreak characteristics. This work supports risk assessment modeling to ultimately improve food safety interventions and reduce the public health burden of S. enterica.},
}

@article {pmid42936473,
year = {2026},
author = {Tian, S and Wang, Z and Gao, D and Li, A},
title = {Piezocatalytic Therapy for Periodontitis: From Biofilm Disruption to Immunomodulatory Tissue Regeneration.},
journal = {Chem & bio engineering},
volume = {3},
number = {10},
pages = {842-864},
pmid = {42936473},
issn = {2836-967X},
abstract = {Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by an interplay between microbial dysbiosis and dysregulated host immune responses. Traditional therapies, including scaling and root planing combined with localized antimicrobial administration, often struggle with the drug resistance of structured biofilms and persistent inflammation. Piezocatalysis is an emerging on-demand intervention that, in situ, transforms mechanical energy from both endogenous and exogenous sources into therapeutic reactive oxygen species (ROS) and bioelectric signals. Unlike conventional antibiotics, these locally generated ROS can degrade the biofilm matrix to eradicate resistant pathogens, while the concurrent bioelectric cues resolve persistent inflammation, offering a promising solution for periodontitis treatment. This review delineates the evolution of piezoelectric biomaterials and analyzes activation strategies tailored for the oral microenvironment. Key clinical translation bottlenecks, including the protein corona effect and biofilm penetration barriers, are critically addressed. Furthermore, synergistic methods that integrate nanocatalytic therapy and immune engineering strategies are highlighted to modulate the periodontal immune microenvironment. By leveraging stimuli-responsive elements and biomimetic materials, piezocatalytic platforms are evolving from passive bactericidal agents into bioactive modulators capable of simultaneously eradicating pathogens and guiding tissue healing. This shift marks a transition from disease control toward the precise reconstruction of periodontal homeostasis and functional tissue regeneration.},
}

@article {pmid42937325,
year = {2026},
author = {Brahma, U and Suresh, A and Kamila, A and Usha, S and Arun Kumar, SV and Baddi, H and Singothu, S and Sharma, P and Bandaru, RK and Suravaram, S and Mane, MS and Bhandari, V},
title = {Characterization of clinical isolates of Acinetobacter baumannii and comparative proteomic profiling among strong and weak biofilm formers.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0106726},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.01067-26},
pmid = {42937325},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Acinetobacter baumannii, a critical priority pathogen, is also notable for its biofilm-forming abilities on medical devices like ventilators, catheters, and surgical drain tubes. The biofilm formation causes increased tolerance against antibiotics, making treatment difficult. The clinical isolates of A. baumannii present varied biofilm-forming capacity; hence, understanding the molecular determinants responsible for strong biofilm is crucial. The present study aims to characterize the antibiotic and biofilm-forming profile of 25 clinical isolates of A. baumannii and compare the proteome profiling of strong and weak biofilm-forming isolates to identify therapeutic targets. We observed n = 23 of the isolates as multidrug resistant, and n = 13 were forming strong biofilms. Comparative proteomic profiling revealed 42 differentially regulated proteins. In the strong biofilm-forming isolate new lipoprotein A (NLPA), uL16, DNA gyrase B, acetyl-CoA carboxylase, and purL were found to be upregulated, highlighting a dynamic reprogramming of cellular functions that promotes biofilm formation, stress adaptation, and immune evasion. In contrast, EF-Tu, ribosome hibernation factors, and T6SS components were downregulated, suggesting a lack of biosynthesis and cellular adaptability. These findings suggest a metabolic downshift and a possible energy conservation mechanism under conditions less favorable for strong biofilm development. Additionally, several uncharacterized proteins were identified, highlighting potential novel factors in biofilm regulation and virulence that warrant further investigation. The proteomics data correlated with qPCR findings, providing support for the unknown regulators of biofilm formation that were identified in this study. Key proteins, such as NLPA, 6,7-dimethyl-8-ribityllumazine synthase, and DNA gyrase B emerged as potential therapeutic targets that may be used for drug discovery.

IMPORTANCE: Acinetobacter baumannii has progressively evolved into a serious cause of both hospital and community-acquired infections. This bacterium's resilience to harsh conditions, bacterial dormancy within biofilms, antibiotic resistance, and survival on inanimate surfaces contribute to its ability to cause chronic, hard-to-eradicate infections. The molecular determinants underlying variations in biofilm-forming capacity among clinical isolates remain insufficiently understood. This study addresses this gap by identifying key molecular adaptations associated with strong biofilm formation. By uncovering pathways linked to biofilm persistence, this work provides valuable insights into bacterial survival strategies and highlights potential avenues for therapeutic intervention. These findings lay the groundwork for the development of new anti-biofilm strategies aimed at improving treatment outcomes and combating antimicrobial resistance.},
}

@article {pmid42937465,
year = {2026},
author = {Song, K and Wang, J and Huang, S and Pan, Y and Xiao, F and Wang, Y and Xiang, C and Liang, B and Li, Z and Liu, W and Gao, SH and Wang, A},
title = {In Situ Antibiotic Accumulation on Microplastics in Wastewater Treatment Plants: Roles of Biofilm Colonization, Water Chemistry, and Substrate Aging.},
journal = {Environmental science & technology},
volume = {60},
number = {42},
pages = {30197-30209},
doi = {10.1021/acs.est.6c07694},
pmid = {42937465},
issn = {1520-5851},
support = {2024A1515010085//Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation of Guangdong Province/ ; 2025TS39//State Key Laboratory of Urban-rural Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology/ ; 52230004//National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC)/ ; 52293441//National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC)/ ; 52321005//National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC)/ ; GXWD20231127195344001//Shenzhen Science and Technology Innovation Commission/ ; JCYJ20241202123735045//Shenzhen Science and Technology Innovation Commission/ ; SYSPG20241211173610011//Shenzhen Science and Technology Innovation Commission/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms ; *Wastewater/chemistry ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents ; Water Pollutants, Chemical ; *Microplastics ; Adsorption ; Water Purification ; Waste Disposal, Fluid ; },
abstract = {Microplastics (MPs) and antibiotics co-occur in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), yet pristine-polymer adsorption does not adequately capture accumulation on field-aged MPs. We performed 3- and 12-month in situ deployment of polyamide (PA), polyethylene (PE), polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), and polycaprolactone (PCL) in WWTP oxidation and disinfection ponds along with sulfamethoxazole (SMX) and tetracycline (TC) adsorption experiments. Surface antibiotic loadings increased from 6.91-34.18 ng kg-1 at 3 months to 1.27 × 104-2.87 × 105 ng kg-1 at 12 months, while surface-associated antibiotic profiles showed limited overlap with contemporaneous water-phase profiles. PHA had the highest 12-month burdens in both ponds, whereas the variable behavior of PCL showed that biodegradability alone did not explain accumulation. On 3-month biofilm-colonized MPs, adsorption capacities were 0.06-0.27 mg g-1 for SMX and 0.01-2.07 mg g-1 for TC, and across polymers, higher biofilm biomass did not translate into higher adsorption. Isotherm and two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy analyses resolved binding modes: SMX retention involved partitioning-dominated weak interactions, whereas TC bound interface, specifically via ester, carbonyl, and amide groups, on polymer and biofilm domains. TC adsorption was strongly associated with O/C ratio (ρ = 0.940, p < 0.01) and SMX with polysaccharide content (ρ = 0.727, p < 0.01), whereas pH and representative ions modulated these compound-specific adsorption pathways through distinct interfacial mechanisms. After biofilm removal, TC adsorption on aged MPs was associated more closely with roughness and wettability than with BET surface area or O/C ratio. These findings support a dynamic-interface framework in which biofilm colonization, water chemistry, and substrate aging collectively influence adsorption on field-aged MPs.},
}

*Biofilms
*Wastewater/chemistry
*Anti-Bacterial Agents
Water Pollutants, Chemical
*Microplastics
Adsorption
Water Purification
Waste Disposal, Fluid

@article {pmid42938682,
year = {2026},
author = {Falconi, LBR and Moisés, LS and Coelho, SRG and Queiroz, JFC and Maciel, GG and Oliveira, LP and Aguayo, S and Pero, AC},
title = {Single-Cell Adhesion, Biofilm Formation, and Disinfectant Susceptibility of Candida albicans on CAD/CAM-Manufactured Occlusal Splint Resins.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {10},
pages = {},
pmid = {42938682},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {2025/20136-1//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo/ ; #1260300//Agencia Nacional de Investigación y Desarrollo/ ; #EQY230010//Agencia Nacional de Investigación y Desarrollo/ ; },
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Occlusal splints used for bruxism prevention can accumulate Candida albicans biofilms, highlighting the need to evaluate disinfectant efficacy.

OBJECTIVES: We aimed to evaluate the nanomechanical properties and nanoadhesion force of C. albicans cells and the efficacy of disinfectant solutions on three occlusal splint resins: 3D Bio-Splint (3D-printed), EvoBlock Monocor (milled), and Vipicril (conventional heat-polymerized resin, control).

METHODS: Circular specimens (10 × 1.2 mm; n = 60 per resin for the microbiological assays) were polished, immersed in artificial saliva for 56 h, and subjected to 70 brushing cycles to simulate one week of use. After mature C. albicans biofilm formation, specimens were disinfected for 10 min with 0.25% sodium hypochlorite, 2% chlorhexidine, sodium perborate (Corega Tabs), 0.1% PHMB, or PBS (control). CFU/mL counts, XTT assay, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses were performed. The surface roughness, Young's modulus, and real-time adhesion of individual C. albicans cells onto the resins were measured by employing an atomic force microscopy (AFM) and AFM-based single-cell force spectroscopy (SCFS) with functionalized C. albicans probes.

RESULTS: The 3D-printed resin was the roughest material. Single-cell adhesion was characterized descriptively: the force and energy distributions obtained on the milled resin were shifted towards lower values in all four cell probes, whereas those obtained on the conventional and 3D-printed resins were similar. For biofilm formation, resin type, disinfection protocol, and their interaction significantly affected outcomes (p < 0.001). The printed resin showed the highest microbial load in the control group (63.4 × 10[6] CFU/mL), whereas the milled resin showed the lowest (3.9 × 10[5] CFU/mL). Chlorhexidine eliminated CFU counts in all resins, although residual metabolic activity ranged from 10.4% to 40.4%. PHMB on the printed resin showed the greatest discrepancy between residual CFU (4.9% of the control) and cell viability (93.4%), suggesting the persistence of metabolically active cells despite the reduction in cultivable microorganisms. The AFM nanocharacterization showed median Young's modulus values of 9.92 GPa for the milled resin, 6.44 GPa for the 3D-printed resin, and 4.92 GPa for the conventional resin.

CONCLUSIONS: The 3D-printed resin showed the highest surface roughness at nanoscale and was more susceptible to microbial colonization than the milled resin and more resistant to the effect of the disinfectants. Chlorhexidine was the most effective disinfectant, since it reduced the CFU to zero and significantly reduced the metabolic activity of C. albicans for all the occlusal splint resins.},
}

@article {pmid42938691,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, W and Zheng, P and He, B and Li, Q},
title = {Shared Resistance, Phage-Receptor, and Biofilm Determinants in Antibiotic-Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Acinetobacter baumannii: A Bibliometric and Gene-Network Analysis of Phage Cocktail Research.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {10},
pages = {},
pmid = {42938691},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {H2025405014//Hebei Provincial Department of Science and Technology/ ; 242W7707Z//Hebei Provincial Department of Science and Technology/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Antimicrobial resistance has renewed interest in bacteriophage cocktails as antibacterial and adjunctive agents, but the global research landscape and the bacterial determinants that constrain cocktail performance have not been mapped within a single framework. We quantified global phage-cocktail research and tested whether antibiotic-resistance, phage-receptor, and biofilm gene sets converge on shared genes in three Gram-negative pathogens representing three bacterial orders.

METHODS: The Web of Science Core Collection was searched on 5 July 2026 (query "phage" and "cocktail"). After deduplication and screening, 1598 articles and reviews (1992-2026) were analyzed with bibliometric workflows, citation-burst and co-citation analyses, and a focused China-United States comparison. Because these are the two leading producers and represent the dominant biocontrol and clinical research models, the comparison is deliberately restricted to them and is not presented as a global ranking. Resistance (R), phage receptor/defense (P), and biofilm (B) gene sets were curated for Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1, Escherichia coli K-12, and Acinetobacter baumannii ATCC 17978; overlaps were tested by one-sided hypergeometric tests with Benjamini-Hochberg correction and against size-matched control gene sets, followed by STRING protein-protein interaction and KEGG/GO enrichment. Orthologous conservation was assessed with KEGG Orthology in addition to gene-symbol matching.

RESULTS: Annual output grew from 2 records (1992-1996) to 873 (2022-2026; 54.6% of the corpus), led by the USA (322 records) and China (292). Phage-receptor-biofilm overlaps were strongly enriched in all three species (29, 7, and 28 genes; odds ratios 47.0, 8.1, and 31.7; all P ≤ 7.6 × 10[-5]), whereas resistance-phage-receptor overlaps were strongly enriched in PAO1 (18 genes; odds ratio 17.7) and K-12 (26 genes; odds ratio 30.2) but not in A. baumannii (9 genes; odds ratio 1.8; P = 0.088). Four unrelated control gene sets showed no enrichment in any species (odds ratios 0-1.9; P ≥ 0.42). Candidate networks formed alginate, Psl-Pel, lipopolysaccharide-modification, and SOS/porin modules; KEGG enrichment converged on biofilm formation and cationic antimicrobial peptide resistance; 14 of the 18 symbol-level conserved genes were corroborated by shared KEGG Orthology assignments.

CONCLUSIONS: Phage-cocktail research has entered a phase of rapid growth, with hotspots converging on combination therapy and formulation. Biofilm-matrix synthesis and surface-appendage assembly form a transferable interface between phage adsorption and biofilm formation across three bacterial orders, whereas the coupling between antibiotic resistance and phage-receptor genes is lineage-restricted. Because the R, P, and B sets overlap by construction, these convergences are hypothesis-generating and require experimental validation before they can be used as design rules.},
}

@article {pmid42938725,
year = {2026},
author = {Hernando-Gozalo, M and Mayo-Magro, P and Rescalvo-Casas, C and Camina-Vega, Á and Prieto-Pérez, L and Durán-Camarón, J and Tena-Garcés, J and Calvete, JJ and Mencías-Rodríguez, E and Méndez-García, JL and Cuadros-González, J and Pérez-Tanoira, R},
title = {Potent Activity of Venom from a Single Captive-Bred Bitis rhinoceros Specimen Against Planktonic Clinical MRSA and Early Biofilm Development.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {10},
pages = {},
pmid = {42938725},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {FIB-PI21-07//Foundation for Biomedical Research of the Príncipe de Asturias University Hospital's/ ; PID2023-150812OB-I00//Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades/ ; },
abstract = {Background: Antimicrobial resistance represents a major global health threat, particularly due to the increasing prevalence of multidrug-resistant pathogens such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Snake venoms have emerged as promising sources of bioactive molecules with potential antimicrobial applications. However, their activity against clinical MRSA isolates and bacterial biofilms remains insufficiently characterized. This study evaluated the antibacterial, biofilm formation inhibitory, and hemocompatibility properties of venom obtained from a captive-bred Bitis rhinoceros specimen against S. aureus strains and clinical MRSA isolates. Methods: Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), minimum biofilm inhibitory concentration (MBIC), minimum biofilm eradication concentration (MBEC), and biofilm formation inhibition assays were performed. In addition, direct and indirect hemolytic and hemagglutinating activities were evaluated to assess venom selectivity and biocompatibility. Results: Proteomic characterization revealed that the venom proteome is dominated by C-type lectin-like proteins (46.7%), with minor contributions from PIII snake venom metalloproteinase, phospholipase A2, and L-amino acid oxidase toxin families. B. rhinoceros venom exhibited potent bactericidal activity against planktonic S. aureus cells, with minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentration values ranging from 4 to 16 mg/L. Notably, the two clinical MRSA isolates showed lower values than the reference strain, although this observation should be interpreted with caution given the limited number of isolates tested. The venom also strongly inhibited biofilm formation at the concentrations tested, with inhibition exceeding 97% and remaining statistically significant across all three strains and MIC multiples when analyzed at the level of the independent experiment (n = 3; paired t-test, Benjamini-Hochberg-adjusted p < 0.001), although limited activity was observed against preformed mature biofilms. Hemocompatibility assays demonstrated low direct and indirect hemolytic activity together with favorable selectivity indices against bacterial cells. Conclusions: These findings suggest that captive-bred B. rhinoceros venom may represent a promising source of antimicrobial compounds against planktonic MRSA infections and early-stage biofilm development. The favorable hemocompatibility profile supports its potential applicability as a topical antimicrobial candidate. Nevertheless, this study is a proof of concept and, therefore, further assays are required to isolate and functionally characterize the specific venom fractions responsible for the antimicrobial activity.},
}

@article {pmid42938763,
year = {2026},
author = {Karim, ME and Eubank, T and Begum, K and Alam, MJ and Hurdle, JG and Garey, KW},
title = {Cyclic di-GMP Regulation of Antibiotic-Induced Biofilm Formation: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {10},
pages = {},
pmid = {42938763},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {2R01AI139261//National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases/ ; },
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Biofilm formation is a major bacterial survival strategy in response to antibiotic stress. The bacterial second messenger cyclic di-GMP (c-di-GMP) is a central regulator of biofilm development. Sub-minimum inhibitory concentrations (sub-MICs) of antibiotics act as biological active environmental cues that reprogram bacterial physiology and promote biofilm development. This systematic review synthesizes the current literature on sub-MIC antibiotic-induced biofilm formation across different pathogenic bacterial genera and critically evaluates the role of c-di-GMP. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed and Scopus for articles published from inception to 18 December 2025 using terms including "sub-MIC antibiotic" AND ("biofilm" OR "antibiotic-induced biofilm") and a second search using "sub-MIC antibiotic" AND "biofilm" AND "c-di-GMP". Reviews, commentaries, opinions, meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and non-English-language articles were excluded. Results: Collectively, 28 identified studies demonstrate that sub-MIC antibiotics modulate biofilm formation through diverse mechanisms that intersect with c-di-GMP activity, including modulation of diguanylate cyclases and phosphodiesterases and through regulatory networks that intersect with quorum sensing and different two-component systems. These responses influence multiple components of biofilm matrix- and biofilm-associated physiology, including exopolysaccharides, extracellular DNA, cell surface proteins, secretion systems, and stress-adaptive multicellular behavior. Conclusions: By positioning c-di-GMP as an integrative, but context-dependent, signaling hub linking antibiotic-induced stress, metabolic adaptation, persistence, and biofilm development, this review highlights critical mechanistic gaps and identifies potential therapeutic targets for disrupting biofilms and improving antibiotic efficacy.},
}

@article {pmid42938764,
year = {2026},
author = {Seres-Steinbach, A and Szabó, P and Solti-Hodován, Á and Lilla Balázs, V and Bányai, K and Schneider, G},
title = {Biofilm-Forming Capacity of ESBL Escherichia coli and Influential Factors and Efficacy of Essential Oils in Inhibition and Disruption.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {10},
pages = {},
pmid = {42938764},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {EKÖP-24-1//Ministry of Culture and Innovation of Hungary/ ; SA-27/2021//Eötvös Loránd Research Network/ ; RRF-2.3.1-21-2022-00001//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; NKFIH PD 147156//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; 008_2025_PTE_RK/23//University of Pecs/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: The presence of extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli (ESBL-producing E. coli) is a major global concern as it causes hard-to-treat infections that can sometimes be life-threatening.

METHODS: Using the drop plate method, we examined which essential oils (EOs) were effective against the tested strains. After mapping the general biofilm-forming affinity of the isolates, we attempted to degrade the biofilm using the EOs.

RESULTS: Certain EOs can kill ESBL-producing E. coli, inhibit biofilm formation, and degrade mature biofilms. The drop plate method showed that 50 (83%) and 54 (90%) of the 60 tested EOs were effective against 20 different human and porcine ESBL-producing E. coli isolates when applied at 1% and 5%, respectively. The most effective ESBL-producing E. coli isolate (23R20) was used for anti-biofilm testing. The temperature of 37 °C was most effective in inhibiting and degrading biofilms, although this was markedly influenced by the carrier medium. Ajowan, cinnamon, oregano, and thyme had outstanding effects in both tests, inhibiting and degrading biofilms by 99%, respectively. Morphological differences (e.g., deformation, elongation or shortening of cells, amorphous structures, and 'ghost'/perforated cells) were noted in the 23R20 E. coli cells exposed to ajowan, cinnamon, oregano, and thyme.

CONCLUSIONS: Ajowan, cinnamon, oregano, and thyme were the most effective biofilm-degrading and -inhibitory EOs.},
}

@article {pmid42938778,
year = {2026},
author = {Caneschi, A and Scarafile, D and Modesto, M and Scozzoli, M and Mattarelli, P and Zaghini, A},
title = {Antibacterial and Anti-Biofilm In Vitro Activities of Essential Oils Against Bovine Mastitis-Related Pathogens.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {10},
pages = {},
pmid = {42938778},
issn = {2079-6382},
abstract = {Background: The inflammation of the mammary gland, known as bovine mastitis, is a major challenge for the dairy cattle industry globally. The main organisms responsible for mastitis are bacteria, classified as either contagious, such as Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus dysgalactiae, and Streptococcus agalactiae, or environmental, primarily Streptococcus spp. (e.g., Streptococcus uberis) and coliform species. Even though the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains of pathogens poses a serious threat, antibiotics are still the primary treatment for mastitis. It is therefore necessary to explore alternative therapies, such as essential oils (EOs). This in vitro research intended to evaluate the efficacy of EOs against pathogens associated with bovine mastitis, as an alternative or complementary treatment to conventional antibiotics. Methods: The bactericidal activity of eleven essential oils and two blends was tested on five strains related to bovine mastitis: S. agalactiae, S. dysgalactiae, S. uberis, S. aureus, and Staphylococcus epidermidis. An assessment was carried out of both the reduction of biofilm formation and the inhibition of pre-formed biofilm against biofilm-formative strains of S. aureus and S. epidermidis. Results: Origanum vulgare and Cinnamomum verum resulted to be the EOs with the highest activity against the above-mentioned bacteria, inhibiting both bacterial growth and biofilm formation. Conclusions: This study emphasizes the relevance of investigating natural products and supports the hypothesis of appropriate use of EOs to reduce bacterial infections and provide an effective alternative to antibiotics in complementary therapy. Moreover, to avoid treatment failure, the combined use of available antibiotics and natural compounds should also be considered.},
}

@article {pmid42939649,
year = {2026},
author = {Han, R and Bai, Y and Zhou, Y and Hu, R and Li, P and Li, B and Liang, Y and Li, J and Bai, Y and Zhang, J},
title = {Naturally Occurring 2-Methoxy-1,4-naphthoquinone Attenuates Biofilm Formation and Quorum Sensing-Regulated Virulence in Pseudomonas aeruginosa.},
journal = {Biomolecules},
volume = {16},
number = {10},
pages = {},
pmid = {42939649},
issn = {2218-273X},
support = {23ZDFA001//the major science and technology project of Gansu Province/ ; 1610322026005//Central Public-interest Scientific Institution Basal Research Fund/ ; 1610322026017//Central Public-interest Scientific Institution Basal Research Fund/ ; CAAS-ASTIP-2014-LIHPS//the Science and Technology Innovation Program of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences/ ; CARS-37//the earmarked fund for CARS/ ; },
mesh = {*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/pathogenicity/physiology ; *Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Quorum Sensing/drug effects ; *Naphthoquinones/pharmacology/chemistry ; Virulence/drug effects ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial/drug effects ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics ; },
abstract = {Pseudomonas aeruginosa employs quorum sensing (QS) to coordinate biofilm formation and virulence factor expression, positioning QS as a promising target for anti-infective interventions. This study evaluated the antibiofilm and antivirulence efficacy of 2-methoxy-1,4-naphthoquinone (MNQ), a natural naphthoquinone, against P. aeruginosa PA14. At concentrations of 31.25, 62.5, and 125 μg/mL, which had minimal impact on growth, MNQ suppressed biofilm formation (up to 70% at 125 μg/mL), reduced extracellular polymeric substance production, and inhibited quorum sensing-related signalling activity (85.9%), pyocyanin synthesis (78%), as well as swimming and twitching motilities. Notably, MNQ also exhibited antioxidant properties and inhibited efflux pump activity, suggesting a multifaceted mode of action. Mechanistically, qRT-PCR analysis following treatment with MNQ at 125 μg/mL demonstrated significant downregulation of QS regulatory genes (lasR, lasI, rhlR, rhlI, rhlA) and downstream virulence determinants, corroborating the phenotypic observations. Furthermore, MNQ acted synergistically with azithromycin, cefepime, and ciprofloxacin. Collectively, these findings establish MNQ as a potent QS-directed inhibitor with broad antivirulence activity, underscoring its potential as a lead compound for novel antibiofilm therapeutic strategies.},
}

*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/pathogenicity/physiology
*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Quorum Sensing/drug effects
*Naphthoquinones/pharmacology/chemistry
Virulence/drug effects
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial/drug effects
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics

@article {pmid42939693,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, H and Xu, J and Bao, W and Ma, Z and Zhou, Y and Zhang, Z and Shang, Z and Zhang, J and Bai, Y and Li, B},
title = {Citronellol Potentiates Antibiotics Against Escherichia coli O157:H7 via Inhibition of Biofilm Formation.},
journal = {Biomolecules},
volume = {16},
number = {10},
pages = {},
pmid = {42939693},
issn = {2218-273X},
support = {23ZDFA001//Major science and technology project of Gansu Province/ ; 1610322026005//Central Public-interest Scientific Institution Basal Research Fund/ ; 1610322026017//Central Public-interest Scientific Institution Basal Research Fund/ ; CAAS- 565 ASTIP-2014-LIHPS//The Science and Technology Innovation Program of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences/ ; CARS-37//Earmarked fund for CARS/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Escherichia coli O157/drug effects/physiology ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Animals ; *Acyclic Monoterpenes/pharmacology ; Mice ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Quorum Sensing/drug effects ; Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics ; Escherichia coli Infections/drug therapy/microbiology ; Drug Synergism ; Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial/drug effects ; Carbon-Sulfur Lyases ; },
abstract = {The rise in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) demands new treatments, especially for biofilm-associated infections where bacteria tolerate antibiotics. Escherichia coli O157:H7 (E. coli O157) is a virulent foodborne pathogen that causes severe haemorrhagic colitis and haemolytic uraemic syndrome. The LuxS/AI-2 quorum sensing (QS) system regulates both biofilm formation and motility in this pathogen. Here, we used a luxS-eGFP reporter to screen for QS modulators and identified citronellol as a potent candidate. Citronellol disrupts biofilm formation and swimming motility. These effects were accompanied by reduced luxS expression and modulation of lsr operon genes, consistent with interference with LuxS/AI-2 signalling. As a result, citronellol enhanced the antibacterial activity of conventional antibiotics at sub-MIC doses. Importantly, the citronellol-fosfomycin combination improved survival and reduced hepatic bacterial burden in a murine systemic infection model. These benefits are correlated with restored intestinal barrier integrity, including upregulated tight junction proteins (ZO-1 and Occludin). Together, these results support the continued development of citronellol-based combinations as promising anti-biofilm strategies.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Escherichia coli O157/drug effects/physiology
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Animals
*Acyclic Monoterpenes/pharmacology
Mice
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Quorum Sensing/drug effects
Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics
Escherichia coli Infections/drug therapy/microbiology
Drug Synergism
Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial/drug effects
Carbon-Sulfur Lyases

@article {pmid42940341,
year = {2026},
author = {Cruz, M and Ortiz, S and Sánchez, P and Montiel, R and Martín, J and González, I and González-Menéndez, V and Tormo, JR and Genilloud, O and Vicente, F and Martinez-Suárez, JV and Arqués, JL},
title = {Searching for New Natural Compounds of Microbial Origin with Efficacy Against Listeria monocytogenes Biofilm Formation.},
journal = {Foods (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {20},
pages = {},
pmid = {42940341},
issn = {2304-8158},
support = {PID2022-142329OB-C32//Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades/ ; RTI2018-098267-R-C31//Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades/ ; },
abstract = {Listeria monocytogenes causes listeriosis, a relatively rare but severe disease associated with high mortality rates, particularly among in high-risk populations. To reduce its presence in food production environments and increase the microbiological safety of food by identifying and developing new compounds that inhibit L. monocytogenes biofilm formation, this work joins the methodology of high-throughput screening (HTS) with the search for innovative applications of microbial natural products. Experimental conditions of an in vitro HTS assay have been set up to detect microbial extracts with antibiofilm-forming activity against a reference strain of L. monocytogenes (EGD-e, ATCC BAA-679) susceptible to disinfectants. Activity has been assessed by measuring fluorescence using resazurin (a redox indicator that allows quantifying the cell viability in biofilms). So far, 1520 microbial extracts have been tested, 127 of which have been selected based on their activity profile against the EGD-e strain. Subsequently, these extracts have been tested against a panel of five strains of L. monocytogenes resistant to disinfectants and persistently isolated from the meat industry, and their chromatographic profiles have been examined to prioritize their further study according to their activity and the presence of already known molecules. Twelve extracts have shown broad inhibition biofilm formation against the five resistant strains and three of them are candidates for further bioactivity-guided fractionation and structural elucidation. Further work is underway to characterize the chemical composition of these three extracts and explore their potential applications, with the aim of developing natural biocide formulations that may have a reduced environmental impact.},
}

@article {pmid42941845,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, X and Zhou, TC and Wen, C and Zhang, Y and Wang, H and Wei, J},
title = {High-Entropy Alloy-Engineered ZnIn2S4 Photocatalyst for Efficient In Vitro Eradication of MRSA and Inhibition of Biofilm Formation via ROS-Mediated Mechanisms.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {20},
pages = {},
pmid = {42941845},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {202502AA310011//Yunnan Provincial Major Science and Technology Special Project Plan-Biomedicine Special Project/ ; ZKF2025015//The 14th Five-Year Plan Yunnan Provincial Key Clinical Specialty Project - Infectious Diseases Department/ ; D-2024002//Leading Talents in Medical Disciplines of Yunnan Province/ ; 202205AC160023//Reserve Talents for Middle, Young aged Academic and Technical Leaders in Yunnan Province/ ; KC-24248965//The 16th Graduate Research Innovation Project of Yunnan University/ ; 202301CF070261//Yunnan Province Basic Research General Program/ ; XDYC-QNRC-2024-118//Yunnan Province Xingdian Talent Support Project/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Alloys/chemistry/pharmacology ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology ; *Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Catalysis ; *Nickel/chemistry/pharmacology ; *Zinc/chemistry ; Light ; },
abstract = {Antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections, particularly those caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), pose a critical clinical challenge and necessitate alternative non-antibiotic antimicrobial strategies. Herein, a high-entropy alloy-modified ZnIn2S4 (HEA-ZIS) photocatalytic nanoplatform was rationally engineered and evaluated for in vitro antibacterial performance. FeCoNiCuZn high-entropy alloy nanoparticles were uniformly anchored onto hierarchical ZnIn2S4 nanoflowers via a combined solvothermal-impregnation strategy. Structural and physicochemical characterizations reveal that the intrinsic flower-like morphology is well retained, while HEA incorporation induces lattice distortion, multivalent metal states, and interfacial charge redistribution. The optimized 3%HEA-ZIS exhibits potent antibacterial activity against MRSA under visible light, achieving 98.30% inactivation and a 5.91-log reduction, with a low minimum bactericidal concentration (0.30 mg mL[-1]). It also demonstrates strong antibiofilm activity by inhibiting MRSA biofilm formation, reducing biofilm biomass by over 84%, while maintaining good in vitro biosafety. Mechanistic studies reveal enhanced light absorption, improved charge separation, and accelerated interfacial electron transfer, promoting efficient oxygen activation. Electron paramagnetic resonance and in situ DRIFTS analyses identify a cascade reactive oxygen species (ROS) pathway responsible for the enhanced antibacterial efficacy. Overall, this work provides insights into high-entropy alloy-engineered semiconductor nanoplatforms and demonstrates their potential as promising biomedical nanomaterials for non-antibiotic antimicrobial applications.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Alloys/chemistry/pharmacology
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
*Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology
*Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Catalysis
*Nickel/chemistry/pharmacology
*Zinc/chemistry
Light

@article {pmid42942734,
year = {2026},
author = {Marzouk, E and Jaber, M},
title = {Reimagining Antimicrobial Drug Delivery: Spatiotemporally Adaptive Therapeutics for Biofilm-Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance.},
journal = {Pharmaceutics},
volume = {18},
number = {10},
pages = {},
pmid = {42942734},
issn = {1999-4923},
abstract = {Antimicrobial therapy may fail even when an agent is intrinsically active if effective drug exposure is not achieved at the site of infection at the appropriate time. This challenge is particularly important in biofilm-associated infections and infections caused by drug-resistant pathogens, where biological barriers, spatial heterogeneity, and changing microbial states can limit treatment effectiveness. This narrative review examines advanced antimicrobial delivery from a problem-oriented perspective, focusing on the therapeutic challenges that delivery systems are designed to address. It explores how antimicrobial exposure can be aligned with the location, biological state, and changing course of infection. The review examines the biological and pharmacological barriers that restrict antimicrobial activity and discusses strategies designed to improve drug access, retention, release, and local activity. Localized delivery, responsive and externally triggered systems, controlled and sequential delivery, and multimodal therapy are considered as implementation strategies within a common spatiotemporal framework. Particular attention is given to the relationship between formulation design, local drug exposure, biological response, and therapeutic outcome. The review further examines the factors that determine whether a technically promising system has a realistic clinical role, including safety, reproducibility, manufacturability, model relevance, and demonstrable benefits over simpler approaches. Future priorities are considered from a clinically defined perspective. Overall, the review argues that the value of advanced antimicrobial delivery lies not in carrier complexity alone, but in its capacity to provide a measurable and reproducible therapeutic advantage for a clearly defined infection setting.},
}

@article {pmid42942812,
year = {2026},
author = {Bazaid, AS and Saeedi, NH and Jalal, MM and Alkayyal, AA and Patel, M and Aldarhami, A},
title = {Myricetin Modulates Quorum Sensing-Associated Phenotypes, Virulence, and Biofilm Formation in Pathogenic Bacteria: In Vitro and In Silico Studies.},
journal = {Pharmaceutics},
volume = {18},
number = {10},
pages = {},
pmid = {42942812},
issn = {1999-4923},
support = {26UQU4420118GSSR03//Umm al-Qura University/ ; },
abstract = {Background/Objectives: The rapid emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) among pathogenic bacteria has necessitated the development of alternative therapeutic strategies that target bacterial virulence rather than cell viability. Methods: In this study, the flavonoid myricetin was systematically evaluated for its antibacterial, QS-associated phenotypic and biofilm formation-inhibitory activities against clinically relevant bacterial pathogens. Results: Myricetin exhibited moderate antibacterial activity and significantly reduced several QS-associated phenotypes. Violacein and prodigiosin production were reduced by 74.59% and 64.32%, respectively, consistent with QS-modulatory activity under the tested conditions. Furthermore, myricetin markedly attenuated key virulence factors in Pseudomonas aeruginosa, including pyocyanin (70.44%), pyoverdine (75.84%), and rhamnolipids (48.69%). In addition, concentration-dependent reductions in biofilm formation and extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) production was observed across all tested strains. Molecular docking predicted favourable interactions of myricetin with key QS regulatory proteins, particularly CviR and LasR, which was supported by molecular dynamics simulations. Notably, the LasR-myricetin complex showed greater computational stability among the evaluated complexes, supporting its potential role as a key interaction site. Conclusions: This study provides an integrated experimental and computational evaluation of myricetin-mediated modulation of QS-associated phenotypes across multiple bacterial systems, demonstrating reductions in virulence-factor production and biofilm formation under the tested conditions. Collectively, these findings position myricetin as a promising anti-virulence candidate, although further studies are required to validate its clinical applicability.},
}

@article {pmid42943205,
year = {2026},
author = {Benson, R and Velladath, SU and Prasad, SS and Nittur, S and Banerjee, B and Rodrigues, GS and Rao, M and Hariharapura, RC and Munisamy, M and Vishwanath, S and Mukhopadhyay, C and Sudha Gururaj, VK and Miraj, SS},
title = {Association of Vitamin D Supplementation with VDR and CAMP Expression and Ulcer Healing in Diabetic Foot Infection Involving Biofilm-Forming Bacteria: An Exploratory Prospective Cohort Study.},
journal = {Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {19},
number = {10},
pages = {},
pmid = {42943205},
issn = {1424-8247},
support = {R.11014/31/2023-GIA/HR//Department of Health Research, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare/ ; },
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Diabetic foot infections (DFIs) are a major cause of morbidity and lower-limb amputation. Vitamin D exerts immunomodulatory effects through vitamin D receptor (VDR), which regulates the cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide (CAMP) gene that encodes cathelicidin (LL-37). However, their association with DFIs remains poorly understood. This study investigated the association between vitamin D supplementation, the vitamin D-VDR-CAMP-LL-37 pathway, and ulcer healing in DFIs involving biofilm-forming bacteria. Methods: This study (September 2022-March 2026) included 16 DFI patients in the study group (SG), 16 in the reference group (RG), and 16 healthy controls (HCs). The SG received vitamin D supplementation (60,000 IU) in addition to standard care, whereas the RG received standard care alone. Participants were followed up for 4 months. Vitamin D assessment (electrochemiluminescence immunoassay), VDR and LL-37 quantification (ELISA), biofilm formation (tissue culture plate method), and VDR and CAMP gene expression (mRNA quantitation) were all considered. Results: At baseline, serum vitamin D, VDR protein, and LL-37 levels differed significantly among the groups (p ≤ 0.002), whereas VDR and CAMP gene expressions did not. Following supplementation, the SG showed significant increases in serum vitamin D, VDR protein and LL-37 (p ≤ 0.001). At the four-month follow-up, there was no significant difference in VDR and CAMP gene expression or in ulcer healing between the groups. Although a higher proportion of participants in the SG achieved ulcer healing, the difference was not statistically significant. Conclusions: Although changes in the circulating elements of the vitamin D-VDR-LL-37 pathway were noted with physician-prescribed vitamin D supplementation, no statistically significant association with ulcer healing was observed. This finding requires validation through a thorough investigation.},
}

@article {pmid42943365,
year = {2026},
author = {Vecci, BE and Deshpande, SN and Baudin, J and Kao, KC},
title = {Effects of Fetal Bovine Serum on Biofilm Formation and Cell Attachment of Candida glabrata.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {10},
pages = {},
pmid = {42943365},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {1R16AI167832-04/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; },
abstract = {Candida glabrata (Nakaseomyces glabratus) is an opportunistic human fungal pathogen. Candida spp., including C. glabrata, can adhere to surfaces, including the human epithelial mucosa and medical devices, to form biofilms, which can lead to high mortality rates. Heat-inactivated fetal bovine serum (HI FBS) is commonly used as a component in plate-based fungal biofilm experiments as a readily available serum model. However, the effect of HI FBS on C. glabrata biofilm formation in in vitro biofilm assays has not been systematically investigated. The results of crystal violet staining for biomass measurements, XTT reduction for metabolic activity quantification, confocal microscopy of biofilms and growth kinetic measurements showed a negative influence of the HI FBS on cell attachment but not growth rates, which resulted in reduced biofilm formation. These findings identify serum exposure as an important experimental variable in C. glabrata biofilm assays that can potentially disrupt the interaction of cells and abiotic surfaces such as those used in medical device applications.},
}

@article {pmid42943444,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, P and Liu, X and Dai, S and Li, Y and Yang, M and Yan, Y},
title = {Magnetic Fields Disperse Escherichia coli from Biofilm via CsrA and RpoE Regulation.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {10},
pages = {},
pmid = {42943444},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {2017KFXKJC010//Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities/ ; },
abstract = {The biofilm formation of pathogenic bacteria improves their infectivity, virulence, and stress tolerance. Therefore, inhibition of biofilm is beneficial for antibiosis. Magnetic fields (MFs) have been found to suppress the adhesion of Escherichia coli, but their underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. This study aims to explore the effects of different MFs on E. coli biofilm and the detailed molecular mechanism. The quantitative results of crystal violet staining showed that the biofilm significantly decreased by 20.5% (±6.3%) with 2.5 T pulse MF (PMF) treatment, 24.7% (±13.2%) with 15 mT rotating MF (RMF) treatment, and 14.9% (±8.8%) with 100 mT static MF (SMF) treatment. No obvious cell death or change in cellular metabolism was observed after 1 h RMF treatment, while the number of planktonic cells increased, indicating that 1 h RMF treatment dispersed biofilm without killing cells. Transcriptome profiling of PMF-treated E. coli revealed significant downregulation of core genes associated with biofilm formation, such as pgaA and csgD. This was associated with the upregulation of the gene csrA and the activation of transcription factor RpoE, which inhibits the translation of pgaA and csgD, respectively. qRT-PCR analysis and promoter activity assay verified these molecular changes in biofilm-forming cells under PMF and RMF. The essential roles of CsrA and RpoE in RMF-mediated biofilm inhibition were further supported by gene overexpression, knockout, or silencing. Additionally, it was demonstrated that RMF exerted consistent anti-biofilm effects in E. coli O157:H7 and Bacillus subtilis WB800N. Thus, the findings of this study provide evidence for the molecular mechanism of MF on E. coli biofilm inhibition.},
}

@article {pmid42943468,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, Y and Peng, J and Zhang, J and Lan, H and Wang, Y and Lin, J and Gan, S and Li, X and Shao, K and Zhang, D and Liang, X and Xu, Z},
title = {Biofilm-Forming and Multidrug-Resistant Salmonella Thompson Strains Isolated from Edible Cipangopaludina cathayensis: An Emerging Food Safety Concern in Southern China.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {10},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14102229},
pmid = {42943468},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {2024GXNSFBA010125//the Natural Science Foundation of Guangxi/ ; 0502405906//Guangxi Qingmiao Talent Support Project/ ; S202410600113//the Innovation and entrepreneurship training program/ ; 2022BS017//the Doctoral Research Foundation/ ; 2025JQ003//the Research project/ ; },
abstract = {Salmonella enterica Thompson (S. Thompson) is a zoonotic foodborne pathogen causing infection in humans and animals, yet limited data exist on isolates from edible Cipangopaludina cathayensis (C. cathayensis), a key ingredient of Liuzhou Luosifen. In the present study, seven S. Thompson isolates recovered from edible C. cathayensis in southern China (2021-2022) were characterized in terms of antimicrobial resistance, biofilm formation, resistance and virulence genes, and pathogenicity in mice. All seven isolates showed resistance to at least one antimicrobial agent for which valid interpretive criteria exist. Since no Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) interpretive criteria exist for vancomycin, clindamycin, lincomycin, erythromycin, penicillin, and oxacillin, these agents were excluded from multiple drug resistance (MDR) classification; after reclassification, two isolates, 2/7 (28.6%), fulfilled the criteria for MDR. Five isolates, 5/7 (71.4%), formed biofilms in vitro and carried csgA and/or csgD; the two non-biofilm-forming isolates lacked both genes. All isolates harbored blaTEM-1 and blaOXA; blaCTX-M, blaPSE-1, blaCMY-2, and blaNDM were detected in 5/7 (71.4%) and blaSHV in 4/7 (57.1%). All isolates carried stn, fimA, invA, sseL, and virK; siiE was present in six of seven isolates. In mice, the biofilm-forming isolate C6469 induced hepatic necrosis and intestinal injury. Microbiome and metabolomic analyses indicated a reduction in beneficial gut bacteria, an increase in pathogenic bacteria, and enhanced phosphatidylcholine (PC) (14:0-P-18:0) metabolism, which in turn promotes liver inflammation. These correlational findings warrant further functional validation. This study highlights food safety implications and the strengthening of surveillance for biofilm-forming S. Thompson.},
}

@article {pmid42943469,
year = {2026},
author = {Pang, S and Cui, N and Cai, M and Zhou, L and Tian, Y and Zhang, X},
title = {A Hydrogen-Based Bacterial-Algal Biofilm for Winter Nutrient Mitigation in a Paddy Soil Mesocosm: A Proof-of-Concept Study.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {10},
pages = {},
pmid = {42943469},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {2026ZD1212604//Jing-Jin-Ji Regional Integrated Environmental Improvement-National Science and Technology Major Project/ ; No. 24010701000//National S&T cooperation Program of Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality, China/ ; No. MS202645//Open Project of State Key Laboratory of Urban-rural Water Resources and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology/ ; },
abstract = {The limited nitrogen and phosphorus concentration reduction performance of wetlands during cold weather is a global concern. To address the challenge of low nutrient removal efficiency in winter, this study introduces a hollow fiber membrane module integrated into paddy soil, enabling the in situ formation of a hydrogen-based bacterial-algal biofilm. Over a 60-day experiment at water temperatures of 6.2-15.0 °C, the biofilm-enhanced system (HS) reduced aqueous NH4+-N from 25 mg/L to 0.2 mg/L by day 30 and maintained this low level through day 60, whereas the S system still had 5.5 mg/L NH4+-N. Moreover, the HS system consistently maintained lower NO3--N and total phosphorus (TP) concentrations than the S system. Microbial communities were characterized using third-generation 16S full-length sequencing and 18S rRNA V4 amplicon sequencing. The biofilm was dominated by Geminocystis_PCC_6308, Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group, and Rhodobacter, while eukaryotic green algae, mainly Botryococcus sp., were also abundant. In the paddy soil, Terrimonas and unclassified_AKYH767 were identified as potential key taxa associated with nitrogen and phosphorus concentration reduction. Overall, the hydrogen-based bacterial-algal biofilm effectively improves the nitrogen and phosphorus concentration reduction of paddy soil wetlands, offering a promising strategy for cold-weather eutrophic water remediation.},
}

@article {pmid42943478,
year = {2026},
author = {Sellars, MS and Reggans, CW and Alford, AA and Harris, AJ and Deutschlander, JC and Aworh, MK},
title = {Virulence Signatures and Biofilm-Forming Capacity of ESBL-Producing Escherichia coli in Wastewater and Agricultural Environments.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {10},
pages = {},
pmid = {42943478},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {//Fayetteville State University/ ; },
abstract = {The persistence of extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing E. coli in livestock and municipal wastewater systems represent a key environmental pathway for antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and virulence determinants with direct public-health implications. This study investigated the distribution of virulence genes and biofilm-forming capacity of ESBL-producing E. coli from two municipal WWTPs, a poultry farm, and a cattle farm. A total of 452 environmental samples were collected between May 2025 and May 2026. ESBL-producing E. coli were identified using culture-based and biochemical methods. Virulence genes were characterized by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and whole-genome sequencing (WGS). Biofilm formation was assessed using the crystal violet microtiter plate assay. Of the 452 samples, 120 (26.5%) yielded ESBL-producing E. coli. PCR analysis showed that poultry farm isolates exhibited the highest prevalence of virulence genes, predominantly traT (64/66), ompA (61/66), fimH (54/66), and chuA (39/66), followed by isolates from WWTP-A, the cattle farm, and WWTP-B. Significant differences among sampling sources were observed for traT (p = 0.0398) and stx1 (p = 0.0224). WGS analysis identified significant source-dependent associations for several virulence genes, with the strongest associations observed for esp (FDR = 3.47 × 10[-6]) and fimH (FDR = 2.36 × 10[-5]). Most isolates were non-biofilm producers (52/120, 43.3%). Among biofilm-forming isolates, weak biofilm production predominated across all sampling locations, with the highest prevalence observed in poultry farm isolates (21/120, 17.5%), followed by isolates from the cattle farm and WWTP-A (10/120, 8.3% each) and WWTP-B (7/120, 5.8%). These findings identify poultry farms and wastewater environments as important reservoirs of virulence-associated ESBL-producing E. coli and support integrated One Health surveillance to limit the environmental spread of AMR.},
}

@article {pmid42943516,
year = {2026},
author = {Aljaafari, HAS and Parnian, P and Abdulwahhab, NI and Van Dyne, J and Nuxoll, E},
title = {Remote Induction Heating of Metal Implants for Noninvasive Elimination of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Biofilm, Augmented by Tobramycin.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {10},
pages = {},
pmid = {42943516},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {18IPA34170108//American Heart Association/ ; T32-GM008365//University of Iowa Predoctoral Training Program in Biotechnology/ ; },
abstract = {Thermal shock is a promising new approach to eliminating biofilm infections on medical implants without surgically replacing the device. Most studies determining the minimum necessary thermal shock used immersion in hot media to provide precise, rapid, uniform temperature control. In vivo, however, this shock must be focused directly on the implant surface, raising the concern that bacteria may partially evade the shock by momentarily dispersing into the cooler surroundings. This study tests that hypothesis using remote induction heating, in which Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms were thermally shocked by an external alternating magnetic field heating the substrate directly. It also assessed the impact of tobramycin on the minimum thermal shock required. Susceptibility to tobramycin alone, thermal shock alone, and their combination was characterized over temperatures ranging from 50 to 80 °C and duration of 1 to 30 min with biofilms of two distinctly different architectures and population densities. Remote heating was then evaluated on biofilms in a flow cell where media was continuously replaced to keep its temperature below the biofilm's. Comparison with immersion heating showed that, despite losing 90% of the biofilm to dispersion into the flushed media, biofilms thermally shocked in the flow cell had significantly higher populations than biofilms comparably shocked by immersion, though biofilms could still be completely eliminated via remote heating. Tobramycin alone did not eliminate biofilm even at clinically infeasible concentrations but, when combined with thermal shock, achieved complete elimination at milder thermal shocks, indicating a complex synergy also observed with antibiotics of another class. Remote heating successfully eliminated biofilms while delivering heat in a clinically implementable manner. As an in vitro, these findings did not directly assess thermal damage to surrounding tissue, which requires further investigation in future treatment design.},
}

@article {pmid42943529,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, Y and Ma, L and Yu, Y and An, Q and Cui, Y and Xue, B and Yi, L and Li, X and Liu, B and Wang, Y},
title = {From Antagonism to Coevolutionary Regulation: Multidimensional Phage-Biofilm Interaction Networks and Translational Targeted Anti-Infection Strategies.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {10},
pages = {},
pmid = {42943529},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {32573360//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 254200510022//Scientific and Technological Innovation Leaders in Central Plains/ ; 262102111054//He'nan Provincial Science and Technology Research Project/ ; 262102110027//He'nan Provincial Science and Technology Research Project/ ; 262300422069//Natural Science Foundation of Henan/ ; 262300420453//Natural Science Foundation of Henan/ ; 24IRTSTHN033//Program for Innovative Research Team (in Science and Technology) in University of Henan Province/ ; },
abstract = {Bacterial biofilms possess inherent physical barriers and structural heterogeneity. These features pose a major obstacle to clinical anti-infective therapy. This review systematically examines the dynamic interplay between phages and bacterial biofilms, which ranges from antagonistic competition to synergistic interaction. It aims to dissect the underlying mechanisms and translational potential of phages as next-generation precision anti-infective agents. A core scientific question in phage-biofilm interactions is how phages penetrate and remodel the three-dimensional extracellular matrix of biofilms. Classic mechanisms include direct lysis of bacteria embedded in biofilms, degradation of matrix scaffolds by phage-derived exopolysaccharide depolymerases, and modulation of bacterial virulence and biofilm phenotypes via lysogenic conversion. Auxiliary mechanisms encompass synergistic bactericidal effects of phages and the host's innate immune system, as well as niche competition within microbial communities. Recently identified mechanisms involve phage-mediated interference with bacterial quorum sensing, physical remodeling of biofilm spatial architecture, and enhanced antibiotic penetration across biofilm barriers. These processes collectively shape the microenvironmental network linking phages, bacteria, and host cells. By synthesizing the complex phage-biofilm interplay, this review provides a theoretical basis for designing engineered phage cocktails, optimizing phage-antibiotic combination regimens, and developing intelligent biomaterial delivery systems. These delivery systems are intended for targeted treatment of chronic biofilm-associated infections.},
}

@article {pmid42943534,
year = {2026},
author = {Wouna, SDB and Kolli, NS and Benes, K and Fauver, D and L Salzano, C and Parsha, R and Prajapati, S and Cirillo, PF and Gu, H},
title = {Species-Dependent Effects of 3-Hydroxychromone Derivatives on Biofilm Biomass and Planktonic Growth.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {10},
pages = {},
pmid = {42943534},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {NSF: 2418289//National Science Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {A series of 3-hydroxychromone derivatives bearing Mannich-type motifs was synthesized and evaluated for effects on biofilm-associated biomass and planktonic growth in Staphylococcus aureus ALC2085 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1. Compounds were initially screened at 20 μg/mL using crystal violet staining, followed by experimental 50% growth-inhibitory concentration (GIC50) and CFU analyses. Against S. aureus, aryl-substituted derivatives had GIC50 values >200 μg/mL, whereas 6-bromo derivatives had values of 1.25-10 μg/mL. Thus, the biomass reductions produced by NSK 18 at 20 μg/mL could not be separated from planktonic growth inhibition. Against PAO1, NSK 16 produced statistically significant decreases in biomass, reducing it to 50 ± 24% of the untreated control (p = 0.03584), without comparably large or sustained reductions in the measured planktonic-growth endpoints at 20 μg/mL. These findings demonstrate species- and substitution-dependent activity and identify NSK 16 as preliminary PAO1 biomass-reducing hits. Because biomass was measured at a single concentration and not normalized to growth under matched conditions, further concentration-response and viability studies are required to establish biofilm selectivity.},
}

@article {pmid42944893,
year = {2026},
author = {Qiu, M and Wiedbrauk, S and Fairfull-Smith, KE and Strittmatter, N},
title = {Spatial metabolic insights of Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm treatments using stable isotope labeling with DESI mass spectrometry imaging.},
journal = {Analytical and bioanalytical chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42944893},
issn = {1618-2650},
support = {202208320033//Chinese Scholarship Council/ ; H-1258-24//Bavarian Ministry of Science and the Arts and the Queensland Government/ ; C24-0918830768//RSC Researcher Collaborations Grant/ ; },
abstract = {Bacteria form biofilms on diverse substrates, and these communities can cause persistent infections owing to their elevated antibiotic resistance. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a major cause of chronic infections because of its ability to form biofilms, which makes it difficult to eradicate with conventional antibiotics. The metabolic response of P. aeruginosa biofilms to antibiotic treatment, however, remains only partially understood. Here, desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry imaging (DESI-MSI) was used to map the spatial metabolic responses of mature and developing P. aeruginosa biofilms to ciprofloxacin and two ciprofloxacin-nitroxide hybrids. Stable isotope labeling of metabolites was used to support the spatial interpretation of quorum-sensing (QS) metabolites within the chemically complex and dynamic spatial environment of biofilms and to understand their biosynthetic pathway. Ciprofloxacin induced localized metabolic changes and selective reorganization of quorum-sensing and redox-associated metabolites in biofilms. Both hybrids underwent heterogeneous in situ reduction to their inactive hydroxylamine forms within biofilms. These results indicate that DESI-MSI with stable isotope labeling can resolve growth-stage-dependent colony biofilm metabolism and characterize the metabolic response of biofilms to antibiotic treatment.},
}

@article {pmid42945331,
year = {2026},
author = {De Soir, S and Vranckx, C and Latka, A and Briers, Y and Wagemans, J and Lavigne, R and Pirnay, JP and De Vos, D and Dupont-Gillain, C and Van Bambeke, F},
title = {Phage-Derived Depolymerase-Functionalized Coatings Prevent Staphylococcal Biofilm Formation.},
journal = {ACS biomaterials science & engineering},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acsbiomaterials.6c01098},
pmid = {42945331},
issn = {2373-9878},
support = {FNRS J.0218.25//Fonds De La Recherche Scientifique - FNRS/ ; 1240021N//Fonds Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek/ ; 1251224N//Fonds Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek/ ; },
abstract = {Biofilm-associated infections caused by Staphylococci remain a major challenge in the context of biomedical implants due to their tolerance to antibiotics and resistance to host defenses. Here, we report the identification of a novel phage-derived depolymerase (DPO2) targeting staphylococcal biofilms and its integration into hyaluronic acid-based layer-by-layer (LbL) coatings. DPO2 was produced recombinantly and proved more effective preventing biofilm formation than destroying preformed Staphylococcus epidermidis biofilms. DPO2 antibiofilm activity was retained and even enhanced upon immobilization within DPO2/Hyaluronic Acid multilayered coatings. The resulting functionalized surfaces exhibited potent inhibition of biofilm formation by multiple S. epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus strains from orthopedic infections, reaching nearly complete suppression under the tested conditions. This work demonstrates the potential of combining phage-derived enzymes with biomaterial surface engineering to develop efficient, non-antibiotic antibiofilm strategies. Such coatings represent a promising approach for preventing implant-associated infections.},
}

@article {pmid42945594,
year = {2026},
author = {Gansauge, C and Martin, D and Echtermeyer, D and Heinrich, D and Frense, D},
title = {CLSM-based 4D biofilm reference for quantitative coupling of biofilm structure and sensor signals.},
journal = {Bioelectrochemistry (Amsterdam, Netherlands)},
volume = {174},
number = {},
pages = {109482},
doi = {10.1016/j.bioelechem.2026.109482},
pmid = {42945594},
issn = {1878-562X},
abstract = {Systematic development and experimental evaluation of empirical, numerical and data-driven models linking biofilm structure to sensor signals are often limited by the lack of biological reference data that can be directly assigned to the measurements. Here, we present a platform that couples a 4D biofilm reference obtained by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) with time-resolved sensor data. Thermomechanical stabilization, axial cover-glass referencing and sub-voxel reconstruction provide stable axial registration over large fields of view. For each fluorescence marker, the approach yields pixel- and time-resolved maps of interfacial height h(x,y,t), fluorescence intensity I(x,y,t) and axial transition width w(x,y,t). These data provide quantitative reference variables for systematically evaluating sensor descriptors and forward and inverse structure-signal models. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) on planar interdigitated electrodes is used as an illustrative application. The example shows how frequency-dependent signal descriptors can be compared and how identified structure-signal relationships can be tested for transferability. The framework is not restricted to EIS and can be applied to other temporally coupled sensing modalities. Independently of sensor coupling, the 4D reference also supports analyses of biofilm growth, heterogeneity and marker-resolved structural differences.},
}

@article {pmid42945655,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, H and Liu, F and Duan, C and Cao, Y and You, J and Xiao, Y and Guo, M and Xu, H},
title = {Suspended particulate matter enhances light responsive superoxide generation at aquatic biofilm interfaces via regulating matrix photoreactivity and electron transfer.},
journal = {Journal of hazardous materials},
volume = {518},
number = {},
pages = {143932},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.143932},
pmid = {42945655},
issn = {1873-3336},
abstract = {Suspended particulate matter (SPM) is ubiquitous in shallow waters and frequently interact with aquatic biofilms, yet its role in regulating biofilm-derived superoxide (O2[·-]) generation remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that SPM enhances light-responsive O2[·-] generation at submerged macrophyte biofilm interfaces via modulating electron supply, extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) photoreactivity, and EPS-mediated electron transfer. During biofilm development, the maximum interfacial O2[·-] production increased 2.36-fold as SPM concentration rose from 0 to 300 mg L[-1], reflecting enhanced biofilm biomass accumulation and elevated mass-normalized O2[·-] production activity. SPM exposure intensified light-driven O2[·-] generation from 323.22 ± 6.15-558.24 ± 37.46 nmol mg C[-1] h[-1], and improved the electron-donating capacity from 2.11 ± 0.21-4.87 ± 0.49 μmol e[-] mg C[-1] in intact biofilms. Isolated EPS exhibited a tighter correlation between electron-donating capacity and light-induced O2[·-] generation. Further experiments involving electron donors, inhibitors and redox mediators confirmed that SPM incorporation facilitates EPS-mediated electron transfer to molecular oxygen, with a 2.04-fold response at 300 mg L[-1] SPM under sufficient electron-donor supply. Collectively, our findings reveal a biofilm-dependent mechanism for SPM enhances O2[·-] formation and highlight SPM as an overlooked regulator of biofilm interfacial O2[·-] generation in shallow aquatic ecosystems.},
}

@article {pmid42924220,
year = {2026},
author = {Hsu, YS and Teng, NC and Chen, SY and Chang, HC and Huang, HM and Hsieh, SC},
title = {Submicron diamond-assisted irrigation enhances apical biofilm removal under sonic and ultrasonic activation: An ex vivo study.},
journal = {Journal of dental sciences},
volume = {21},
number = {4},
pages = {2492-2502},
pmid = {42924220},
issn = {2213-8862},
abstract = {BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: Residual apical biofilm often persists despite sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) irrigation with sonic or ultrasonic activation. Submicron diamond particles (SMD) have shown promise as a particle-assisted adjunct for root canal cleaning, but their effects on mature sintracanal biofilm remain unclear. This study evaluated whether 500-nm SMD particles (10 mg/mL) improve the antibacterial and antibiofilm efficacy of saline or NaOCl irrigation against mature Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) biofilms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: One hundred single-rooted human premolars infected with E. faecalis for 21 days were randomly allocated to ten irrigation protocols (n = 10). Antibacterial efficacy was assessed by colony-forming units (CFU), biofilm-forming capacity by crystal violet assay (OD590), and residual biofilm by scanning electron microscopy in the coronal, middle, and apical thirds. Data were analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis, pairwise Mann-Whitney U tests, and Bonferroni correction.

RESULTS: All outcomes differed significantly among protocols (P < 0.001). NaOCl protocols significantly reduced CFU counts versus the no-irrigation and saline controls (P ≤ 0.008), but SMD produced no statistically significant additional CFU reduction. In contrast, NaOCl + SMD protocols showed lower biofilm-forming capacity than NaOCl activation without SMD (P = 0.008) and the lowest apical residual biofilm scores (median 1.0; most specimens <5% coverage), significantly lower than all other protocols (P ≤ 0.002).

CONCLUSION: SMD improved apical biofilm removal, whereas no statistically significant additional reduction in CFU counts was demonstrated, indicating a region-specific mechanical adjunctive role rather than a general improvement.},
}

@article {pmid42925002,
year = {2027},
author = {Zahoor, MA and Siddique, AB and Shafique, M and Muzammil, S and Abdulhaq, N and Aslam, R and Nawaz, Z},
title = {Phenotypic biofilm formation and detection of biofilm-associated genes in multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from burn wounds.},
journal = {Pakistan journal of pharmaceutical sciences},
volume = {40},
number = {1},
pages = {76-84},
doi = {10.36721/PJPS/2026.40.16579.1},
pmid = {42925002},
issn = {3105-9686},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; *Pseudomonas aeruginosa/genetics/drug effects/isolation & purification/physiology ; *Burns/microbiology ; *Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/genetics ; Humans ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; *Pseudomonas Infections/microbiology/drug therapy ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Prospective Studies ; Phenotype ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Wound Infection/microbiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is widely recognized as a ubiquitous, drug-resistant, biofilm-forming bacterium that produces numerous virulence factors and plays a prominent role in hospital-acquired infections.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of multidrug resistance (MDR), biofilm formation and biofilm-associated genes among P. aeruginosa isolates recovered from burn wound infections.

METHODS: A prospective cross-sectional observational study was conducted in which total of 176 burn wound samples were collected and processed for bacterial isolation. Identification of isolates was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting the oprL gene. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Biofilm-forming ability was assessed using the microtiter plate assay. Furthermore, PCR was used to detect biofilm-associated genes, including pelA, pelD, cupA, algD, pelF, pslA, pslB and pslD, in biofilm-producing isolates.

RESULTS: Out of 176 burn wound samples, 74 (42%) were positive for P. aeruginosa, among which 58 isolates were identified as MDR while all isolates remained susceptible to polymyxin B. Biofilm formation was observed in all MDR isolates, with 13.79%, 44.82% and 41.37% categorized as weak, moderate and strong biofilm producers, respectively, whereas only a limited proportion of non-MDR isolates demonstrated biofilm-forming ability (P = 0.001). Among MDR biofilm-forming isolates, biofilm-associated genes such as pslA and algD were each detected in 96.55% of isolates while cupA were identified in 94.82% of isolates. Notably, cupA showed a statistically significant association with biofilm-forming intensity (P = 0.020), suggesting its potential role in enhanced biofilm establishment among MDR isolates.

CONCLUSION: Overall, the high prevalence of multidrug-resistant, biofilm-forming P. aeruginosa isolates recovered from burn wounds is an important microbiological concern. The frequent coexistence of multidrug resistance and biofilm-forming capacity observed in this study suggests a possible association that may complicate infection management and emphasizes the importance of continuous surveillance and effective infection control strategies.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/genetics/drug effects/isolation & purification/physiology
*Burns/microbiology
*Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/genetics
Humans
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
*Pseudomonas Infections/microbiology/drug therapy
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Prospective Studies
Phenotype
Cross-Sectional Studies
*Wound Infection/microbiology

@article {pmid42925947,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, P and Xie, Z and Kong, Y and Han, Y and Lin, S and Chen, Z and Jin, Y and Zhou, Z and Yuan, S and Lin, H},
title = {Strain specificity and inoculation sequence shape quorum sensing-based biofilm bioaugmentation: Roles of resource competition and quorum quenching.},
journal = {Environmental research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {125955},
doi = {10.1016/j.envres.2026.125955},
pmid = {42925947},
issn = {1096-0953},
abstract = {Quorum sensing (QS)-based bioaugmentation is promising for accelerating biofilm establishment and bioreactor start-up. However, its effectiveness is determined by biotic interactions between exogenous QS bacteria and indigenous microorganisms, which is shaped by the ecological roles of strain-specific traits and inoculation sequence. This study systematically investigated strain-specific biotic interactions between four QS strains (wastewater-derived strain X3, AM7 and AM9, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1) with forty non-QS strains under three inoculation strategies with different inoculation time (i.e., one-step mixing, pre-inoculation and post-addition). Biotic interactions associated with resource competition and quorum quenching (QQ) activity were distinguished using model strain Escherichia coli with strong substrate uptake capability and Rhodococcus sp. BH4 with QQ activity. The QS-mediated biofilm regulation was jointly shaped by strain-specific characteristics and inoculation sequence. The pre-inoculation strategy enhanced biofilm induction by AM9 and X3, alleviated negative interactions for AM7, but intensified inhibition by PAO1. By contrast, the post-addition strategy strengthened biofilm reduction by AM9, X3 and AM7, while it enhanced biofilm induction by PAO1. Resource competition alone was insufficient to suppress QS-mediated biofilm induction. However, QQ activity induced by BH4 significantly reduced extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) production and QS-mediated biofilm induction, particularly for X3 and AM7, distinguishing as the major ecological constraint. Notably, AM9 with strong QS activity maintained biofilm-promoting capability. This study provides ecological principles for QS strain selection and inoculation optimization, facilitating the improvement of QS-based bioaugmentation for rapid start-up of biofilm-based processes.},
}

@article {pmid42926049,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhai, SQ and Yang, XL and Xiang, XY and Luo, ZY and Xu, JY and Shao, MR},
title = {Coupled effects of bio-carrier type and filling ratio on electroactive biofilm formation and extracellular electron transfer in MBBR-MFCs.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {136119},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.136119},
pmid = {42926049},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Electroactive biofilm (EAB) organization and extracellular electron transfer (EET) govern moving-bed biofilm reactor-microbial fuel cell (MBBR-MFC) performance, yet the coupled effects of bio-carrier type and filling ratio remain unclear. We compared bioceramic, biochar, polyurethane sponge, and conductive sponge, and evaluated filling-ratio effects for polyurethane sponge and biochar. Polyurethane sponge modulated anode biofilm accumulation and composition and yielded the highest and most stable voltage (0.109 ± 0.008 V) and the lowest charge-transfer resistance (7.20 Ω). Increasing its filling ratio reduced anode-associated biomass while sustaining power generation. At a volumetric filling ratio of 20%, PS20-MFC achieved the highest power density (0.118 ± 0.011 W m[-2]), with ammonium-nitrogen (NH4[+]-N) and total nitrogen (TN) removals of 64.61% and 62.49%, respectively. Biochar modestly improved electron recovery, with BC15-MFC achieving the highest cytochrome c (Cyt-c) content (1.81 ± 0.72 mg g[-1]) and coulombic efficiency (6.16 ± 1.21%). At higher biochar filling ratios, Geobacter was relatively more abundant in carrier biofilms than in anode biofilms. This spatial pattern, together with the electrochemical results, suggests that carrier-associated communities may contribute to the observed differences in electron recovery. However, the higher electron recovery was accompanied by only limited gains in nitrogen removal, indicating distinct responses of these two reactor functions to biochar addition. Thus, bio-carrier type shapes the dominant regulatory response, whereas filling ratio modulates biofilm organization and electron recovery, providing mechanistic insights to guide MBBR-MFC design.},
}

@article {pmid42930409,
year = {2026},
author = {Cobb, CM and Harrel, SK and Zhao, D},
title = {Assessment of Air Polishing with Erythritol Powder on the Removal of Biofilm and Dental Calculus: An Ex Vivo Pilot Study.},
journal = {Dentistry journal},
volume = {14},
number = {10},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/dj14100643},
pmid = {42930409},
issn = {2304-6767},
abstract = {Background: Air polishing with erythritol powder has recently been promoted as a method for removing calculus and biofilm in periodontal pockets of up to 9 mm depth. This ex vivo study was conducted to determine the impact of erythritol air polishing, for various time periods, on subgingival calculus and associated biofilm. Methods: Specimens consisted of 33 extracted teeth. Test sites with visible calculus were circumscribed using a 4 mm trephine bur on the root surface of each specimen. Positive controls were treated with air-water spray only. Test site treatment consisted of air polishing with erythritol powder with a 14 µm particle size. Fifteen positive control and 15 test specimens were subdivided into 3 groups of 5 specimens each and treated for 5, 10 and 15 s, respectively. The remaining three specimens were untreated negative controls. All specimens were examined using SEM. Selected specimens were subjected to EDS analysis. Results: Calculus was observed in all specimens across all treatment groups. Bacteria embedded in calculus and the extracellular polymeric matrix were consistently present across treatment groups. Treatment duration was associated with a reduction in surface biofilm, but no duration of treatment eliminated calculus or deeply embedded bacteria. Conclusions: The results of this ex vivo pilot study suggest that erythritol air polishing of calculus-laden root surfaces does not completely remove subgingival calculus or calculus-embedded microbes. Following treatment, smear layers with embedded microbes were noted on 55% of specimens. The study results suggest that erythritol air polishing protocols, in a clinical setting, may still be dependent on subgingival scaling and root planning to achieve the traditional endpoints of periodontal therapy.},
}

@article {pmid42924002,
year = {2026},
author = {Stindlova, M and Kuzelova Kostakova, E and Jencova, V and Havlickova, K and Peroutka, V and Zdenkova, K and Chudobova, E and Stepanova, J and Lukas, D and Peroutkova, S},
title = {Influence of Fiber Diameter and Surface Structure of Polycaprolactone Nanofibrous Materials on Yeast Retention and Biofilm Formation.},
journal = {ACS omega},
volume = {11},
number = {41},
pages = {63692-63706},
pmid = {42924002},
issn = {2470-1343},
abstract = {Understanding how microorganisms interact with nanofibrous materials (NMs) is essential for designing functional surfaces, yet morphology-yeast interactions remain far less studied than bacterial systems. Here, we investigated how fiber diameter and secondary surface structuring of poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL) NMs affect yeast retention, adhesion, biofilm development, and cell transfer. Five PCL NMs were prepared from two PCL molecular weights (PCL45, PCL80) as smooth fibers and as structured fibers generated by two distinct post-processing routes: polymer-spray-induced texturing (PCL45_80, PCL80_80) and enzymatic surface restructuring (PCL80_E). Interactions with model yeasts (Candida albicans ATCC 10231 and ATCC 90028; Saccharomyces cerevisiae ATCC 9763 and CCM 8381) were assessed by retention, biofilm biomass and metabolic activity during static growth (2 h, 24 h, 72 h), and SEM imaging; cell transfer from colonized agar to NMs was measured using an adapted agar-mesh assay. All tested PCL NMs exhibited high retention (84.7-100%), regardless of fiber diameter or secondary structures. Material-dependent differences were most pronounced during early adhesion, whereas biofilm formed on all NMs and its biomass was strongly strain-specific. Overall, NMs with larger fiber diameter (PCL80 series) supported denser yeast colonization than PCL45, while the secondary structures used here did not confer antifungal activity nor enhance biofilm formation. For cell transfer, PCL45_80 exhibited the highest attachment potential, yet ∼50 % of cells remained on the donor surface. Collectively, these results show that PCL nanofiber morphology modulates yeast-surface interactions primarily by tuning early attachment and colonization capacity.},
}

@article {pmid42924216,
year = {2026},
author = {Peng, TY and Lai, SY and Wu, YA and Yang, YT and Mine, Y and Huang, HY},
title = {Physico-mechanical properties and Streptococcus mutans biofilm formation of bio-based flexible crowns versus stainless steel and zirconia crowns for pediatric full-coverage restorations.},
journal = {Journal of dental sciences},
volume = {21},
number = {4},
pages = {2211-2218},
pmid = {42924216},
issn = {2213-8862},
abstract = {BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: Bio-based flexible (BFX) have recently emerged as a potential alternative to conventional pediatric full-coverage restorations, but evidence regarding their properties and microbial behavior remains limited. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the physico-mechanical properties and microbial behavior of BFX crown compared with stainless steel crowns (SSC) and zirconia crowns (ZRC) for pediatric full-coverage restorations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Mandibular primary molar crowns from BFX, SSC, and ZRC were assessed. Weight was measured using an electronic balance, and surface roughness and topography were evaluated using a stylus profilometer and atomic force microscopy. The arithmetic mean roughness (Ra) and root mean square roughness (Rq) were determined. Compressive strength was assessed using a universal testing machine, and deformation was quantified as the root mean square (RMS) deviation from three-dimensional scans. Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) biofilm formation was quantified using crystal violet staining, with optical density measured at 490 nm (OD490) at 24 and 48 h. Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance with Tukey's post hoc test (α = 0.05).

RESULTS: BFX crowns had the lowest mean weight (0.15 g) and the highest surface roughness parameters Ra (0.162 μm) and Rq (0.121 μm) among the tested systems (P < 0.05); they also exhibited a more irregular and undulating surface, as indicated by three-dimensional surface topography analysis. Furthermore, BFX exhibited the highest maximum compressive load (1306.5 N) and a significantly greater RMS deformation, suggesting a more compliant mechanical behavior (P < 0.05). Over time, S. mutans biofilm accumulation was consistently greater on BFX than on SSC and ZRC surfaces (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION: BFX crowns combine low weight, high load-bearing capacity, and mechanical compliance, offering a potential alternative for pediatric full-coverage restorations. However, their greater surface roughness and biofilm formation may increase bacterial adhesion, warranting cautious use in pediatric population with high caries risk.},
}