@article {pmid41895928,
year = {2026},
author = {Movsesijan, T and Alcañiz, AJ and Roch, FF and Chaughtai, MS and Dzieciol, M and Stessl, B and Thalguter, S and Strachan, CR and Raindl, M and Wagner, M and Selberherr, E and Quijada, NM},
title = {Biofilm capacity of the psychrophilic bacteria triggers their persistence in the equipment and their spread to beef products throughout processing.},
journal = {Food research international (Ottawa, Ont.)},
volume = {232},
number = {},
pages = {118808},
doi = {10.1016/j.foodres.2026.118808},
pmid = {41895928},
issn = {1873-7145},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; Animals ; Cattle ; *Red Meat/microbiology ; *Food Handling/instrumentation ; *Food Microbiology ; *Psychrobacter/genetics/isolation & purification/physiology ; *Equipment Contamination ; Pseudomonas/genetics/isolation & purification/physiology ; Abattoirs ; *Food Contamination/analysis ; *Meat Products/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Microbial contamination in food processing remains a persistent and complex challenge. Understanding the sources, contributing factors, and control measures is essential for effective mitigation. In this study we employed a combination of metagenomic sequencing, targeted culturomics, and whole-genome sequencing of key isolates to gain a comprehensive view of bacterial dynamics and functional capabilities throughout a working shift in a beef slaughter and cutting facility. This allowed us to identify which bacteria are i) most prevalent in the clean facility before the start of the work, ii) able to establish themselves over time, and iii) detectable in the final product. We further generated a functional profile of the microbial community within the facility, with a particular focus on antimicrobial resistance and biofilm formation genes, and the presence of specific pathogens and spoilage organisms. Both culture-based and sequencing data showed that Psychrobacter and Pseudomonas strains present in the final product were also detected on the membrane skinner, a machine used to remove all the excess tissues from meat, and in the drains even after cleaning. We found a high number of genes involved in biofilm formation in Psychrobacter immobilis, a characteristic that may explain their biofilm capacity and the survival of this species during the cleaning process and persistence throughout the facility. Taken together, our findings suggest potential sources of contamination and highlight the advantages of integrating culture-dependent methods with high-throughput sequencing technologies to enhance microbial monitoring and control strategies in food production environments.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
Animals
Cattle
*Red Meat/microbiology
*Food Handling/instrumentation
*Food Microbiology
*Psychrobacter/genetics/isolation & purification/physiology
*Equipment Contamination
Pseudomonas/genetics/isolation & purification/physiology
Abattoirs
*Food Contamination/analysis
*Meat Products/microbiology

@article {pmid41896501,
year = {2026},
author = {Rybkin, I and Zakharova, O and Gusev, A and Lapanje, A},
title = {Functional synergistic effects of graphene nanoribbons and surfactant stabilizers on inhibition of growth of biofilm-forming and biofilm non-forming bacteria.},
journal = {Environmental science and pollution research international},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41896501},
issn = {1614-7499},
abstract = {In this study, we investigated the antimicrobial properties of graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) synthesized via a bottom-up approach. Due to their tendency to aggregate in aqueous solutions, various surfactants were used as stabilizers. We examined the effects of GNRs in combination with commonly used surfactants-including the cationic CTAB, anionic TWEEN, and non-ionic TRITON-to evaluate their impact on GNR toxicity. A range of GNR-surfactant concentrations was tested against biofilm-forming (Escherichia coli MG1655 and Staphylococcus epidermidis DSM 20044) and non-biofilm-forming (E. coli TOP10 and S. epidermidis BH1) bacterial strains under short-term (acute) and long-term (continuous) exposure conditions. CTAB alone exhibited antibacterial effects, but a synergistic interaction between CTAB and GNRs was observed during continuous exposure, particularly against Gram-positive bacteria. The capability to form biofilms did not significantly contribute to bacterial resistance, except in E. coli MG1655, which survived at the highest concentrations of GNR-CTAB during short-term exposure. In contrast to GNR-CTAB, GNR-TWEEN, and GNR-TRITON suspensions showed no inhibitory effects on bacterial growth and, in some cases, even promoted bacterial growth. Microscopic analysis revealed bacterial cell aggregation exclusively in GNR-CTAB suspensions. These findings highlight the critical role of surfactant selection in modulating GNR toxicity and provide insights into optimizing GNRs as antibacterial agents or minimizing their environmental impact.},
}

@article {pmid41896865,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, W and Zhou, Y and Li, Z and Wang, Z and Zhu, F and Zou, Y and Li, N and He, C and Lu, N and Wang, X and Zhu, Y},
title = {Self-actuated probiotic-nanozyme hybrid system with mucus penetration, biofilm eradication and microbiota regulation for Helicobacter pylori infection.},
journal = {Journal of nanobiotechnology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12951-026-04316-2},
pmid = {41896865},
issn = {1477-3155},
support = {82400780//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32560229//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 82170580//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 20242BAB20432//Natural Science Foundation of Jiangxi Province/ ; 20242BAB26117//Natural Science Foundation of Jiangxi Province/ ; GZB20230283//Postdoctoral Fellowship Program of CPSF/ ; 2024SSY07061//Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Drugs in Jiangxi Province/ ; PYJX20230001//Interdiscipline Innovation Foundation of Nanchang University/ ; 2025ZD0545302//Noncommunicable Chronic Diseases-National Science and Technology Major Project of China/ ; 2024SSY06101//Key Laboratory Project of Digestive Diseases in Jiangxi Province/ ; 20223BCG74011//Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Gastroenterology/ ; },
abstract = {Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection has emerged as a serious risk factor for global human health. Current antibiotic-based clinical eradication therapies still have many challenges, including inadequate drug permeability across the gastric mucus barrier, H. pylori biofilm-induced antibiotic resistance and recurrent infections, as well as gut dysbacteriosis. Herein, we report a probiotic-nanozyme hybrid system (LP@FeTA/CuPt), which is formed by coupling polyphenol-coated Lactobacillus plantarum (LP@FeTA) and CuPt nanozymes. LP@FeTA effectively penetrates the gastric mucus barrier via autokinetic movement, and facilitates the targeted delivery of CuPt nanozymes within H. pylori biofilms by "eating" extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). CuPt nanozymes respond to the acidic and H2O2-rich biofilm microenvironment to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) and release Cu ions, thereby achieving multi-target eradication of biofilms by interfering with H. pylori flagellar self-assembly, urease activity, outer membrane function and energy metabolism. Importantly, LP@FeTA/CuPt can be degraded by transferrin at the infection site, allowing the released CuPt nanozymes to reactivate the antibacterial immune functions of macrophage, thus eliminating biofilm-escaped bacterioplankton to prevent recurrent infections. Notably, LP@FeTA/CuPt also modulates gut microbiota homeostasis. This study provides a promising non-antibiotic therapeutic strategy for H. pylori infection.},
}

@article {pmid41897764,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, H and Liu, Q and Jiang, H and Cao, J and Kou, J and Liu, J and Zhao, J and Wang, J},
title = {Global Proteomic Analysis Reveals the Roles of MicX in Biofilm Formation and Quorum Sensing in Vibrio alginolyticus.},
journal = {Foods (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {6},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/foods15061042},
pmid = {41897764},
issn = {2304-8158},
support = {32070129//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 22JHQ065//Shaanxi Fundamental Science Research Project for Chemistry & Biology/ ; },
abstract = {Vibrio alginolyticus is a foodborne pathogen commonly found in seafood and freshwater products, causing human illness through the consumption of tainted seafood. Small non-coding RNAs (sRNAs) take effect on the stability and translation of their target mRNAs by base-pairing, thereby quickly altering bacterial physiology and pathogenicity at the post-transcriptional level. This work constructed a label-free in-frame deletion mutant and a complement strain of micX, a cell-density-associated sRNA in V. alginolyticus. The ΔmicX mutant exhibited reduced growth and a reduction in the synthesis of exopolysaccharides, biofilm, and alkaline serine protease. A TMT-based quantitative proteomic analysis comparing ΔmicX with the wild-type strain identified 900 differentially expressed proteins, comprising 376 that were upregulated and 524 that were downregulated. The upregulated proteins are primarily associated with porin activity, transmembrane signaling receptor function, and the two-component system. The downregulated proteins are mainly engaged in processes including biofilm formation, cellular communication, and transmembrane transport activity. Of note, the expression levels of proteins involved in the type VI secretion system, exopolysaccharide synthesis, mannose-sensitive hemagglutinin type IV pili (MSHA), and biofilm formation were significantly reduced in the absence of micX. Furthermore, the expression levels of proteins associated with quorum sensing (particularly LuxR and AphA) changed significantly in the ΔmicX vs. WT comparison. These findings strengthened comprehension of the novel sRNA regulatory network and established a theoretical foundation for additional investigations into the virulence of V. alginolyticus.},
}

@article {pmid41898406,
year = {2026},
author = {He, Y and Dykes, G and Koppenhöfer, H and Capobianco, J and Chen, CY},
title = {Comparative Genomics Reveals Unique Genetic Determinants of Biofilm Formation in Campylobacter.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {6},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27062543},
pmid = {41898406},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {8072-42000-093&094//U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS), National Program 108, Current Research Information System/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; Phylogeny ; *Genomics/methods ; *Genome, Bacterial ; *Campylobacter jejuni/genetics/physiology ; *Campylobacter/genetics/physiology ; Whole Genome Sequencing ; *Campylobacter coli/genetics/physiology ; Humans ; Bacterial Adhesion/genetics ; },
abstract = {A biofilm is a complex microbial community that protects bacterial cells from various stressors, including harsh environmental conditions, antimicrobial treatments, and host immune responses. This protective capability enhances Campylobacter survival during food processing and storage and facilitates transmission to humans. Despite their importance, the molecular mechanisms underlying Campylobacter biofilm formation and its impact on pathogen persistence remain poorly understood. In this study, we characterized the biofilm-forming ability of 18 C. jejuni and C. coli strains isolated from retail meat and performed whole-genome sequencing and comparative genomic analysis to identify strain-specific genes contributing to biofilm formation and maintenance. Phenotypic analysis revealed that C. jejuni strains YH001 and YH027 exhibited the strongest biofilm-forming capacity, producing the highest biomass among all isolates. Phylogenetic analysis indicated a close genetic relationship between these two strains, while pangenome analysis identified 19 unique genes/proteins specific to these strains. Functional annotation indicated their critical roles in adhesion, extracellular matrix production, and stress response. These findings demonstrate strain-specific biofilm formation in Campylobacter and highlight genetic determinants that may serve as targets for novel therapeutic approaches and intervention strategies to disrupt biofilms, improve food safety, and reduce persistent infections.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
Phylogeny
*Genomics/methods
*Genome, Bacterial
*Campylobacter jejuni/genetics/physiology
*Campylobacter/genetics/physiology
Whole Genome Sequencing
*Campylobacter coli/genetics/physiology
Humans
Bacterial Adhesion/genetics

@article {pmid41899417,
year = {2026},
author = {Zeng, D and Zhang, Y and Guo, J and Yu, J and Dou, S and Yang, Y and Yu, X and Zhou, Y and Xue, J and Wang, Z and Yang, W},
title = {n-Butanol Extract of Polygonum capitatum Targets Biofilm Formation, Motility, and Adhesion Attenuation to Combat Uropathogenic Escherichia coli.},
journal = {Current issues in molecular biology},
volume = {48},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/cimb48030265},
pmid = {41899417},
issn = {1467-3045},
support = {82460811//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 82160773//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; QKHF-ZK(2023)G426//Science and Technology Program of Guizhou Province/ ; [QKHF-ZK(2023)G420//Science and Technology Program of Guizhou Province/ ; Qiankehe Support [2023] No.487//Guizhou Province Science and Technology Support Project/ ; Gui Ke He Xue Shu Xin Miao [2023]-10//Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine/ ; 2024YJSKYJJ372//Postgraduate Education Innovation Program Project of Guizhou Province/ ; gzwkj2023-229//Science and Technology Foundation Program of Guizhou Provincial Health Commission/ ; 82460727//National Natural Science Foundation of ChinaNational Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) that form biofilms exhibit high-level antibiotic resistance, which poses substantial challenges to current therapeutic strategies for urinary tract infection (UTI). There is an urgent need for strategies specifically targeting UPEC biofilms. This study investigated the effects of the n-butanol extract of Polygonum capitatum (BPC) on UPEC strains, focusing on its antibacterial activity, biofilm formation, bacterial motility, adhesion capacity, and cell membrane integrity. The disk diffusion method, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) assays demonstrated that BPC exhibited potent antibacterial activity against both reference and clinically isolated UPEC strains. Time-kill curve assays further confirmed that BPC inhibits bacterial growth in a time-dependent manner. BPC inhibited UPEC biofilm formation in a dose-dependent manner, significantly reducing biofilm formation in both reference and clinical UPEC strains. Furthermore, BPC disrupted cell membrane integrity in UPEC strain CFT073, resulting in the leakage of alkaline phosphatase (AKP), β-galactosidase, and intracellular proteins. BPC treatment also significantly reduced bacterial surface hydrophobicity, impaired swimming and swarming motility, and diminished adhesion and invasion capabilities. A total of 32 active compounds, predominantly flavonoids, were identified in BPC by UHPLC-Q-orbitrap MS/MS. Molecular docking studies revealed that several compounds in BPC, such as quercetin-3,4'-O-di-beta-glucoside, exhibited strong binding affinity to AKP and β-galactosidase, further supporting its potential to disrupt membrane integrity and inhibit biofilm formation. Thus, BPC exerts anti-UPEC effects through biofilm disruption and multi-targeted anti-virulence mechanisms, highlighting its potential as a novel therapeutic or adjunctive agent for UTI, particularly against recalcitrant biofilm-associated infections. The mode of action of BPC provides a scientific basis for developing new anti-infective strategies as alternatives to conventional antibiotics.},
}

@article {pmid41899487,
year = {2026},
author = {Zawiła, T and Swolana, D and Zawiła, M and Rzepka, Z and Wojtyczka, RD},
title = {Anti-Biofilm Activity of Combinations of Cinnamic Acid and Its Derivatives with Cloxacillin Against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis.},
journal = {Current issues in molecular biology},
volume = {48},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/cimb48030336},
pmid = {41899487},
issn = {1467-3045},
support = {BNW-2-075/K/3/I//Medical University of Silesia/ ; BNW-1-084/N/4/I//Medical University of Silesia/ ; },
abstract = {Staphylococcus epidermidis (S. epidermidis) poses a significant clinical challenge, particularly in the context of biofilm-associated infections, with increasing antibiotic resistance further complicating infection eradication. In the present study, the effects of cinnamic acid and its derivatives (ferulic acid, p-coumaric acid, and sinapic acid), alone and in combination with the β-lactam antibiotic cloxacillin, on biofilm formation by a single methicillin-resistant S. epidermidis (MRSE) clinical strain were explored. The expression of the biofilm-associated icaADBC operon genes and the icaR repressor gene was assessed using Real-Time PCR as an exploratory analysis under sub-minimal inhibitory concentrations (sub-MICs) of the tested compounds. Furthermore, confocal microscopy was used to qualitatively assess selected structural changes in the biofilm. Their occurrence was demonstrated depending on the fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC) levels used. The results revealed variable and nonlinear patterns of gene expression in response to the tested concentrations. Additionally, compound-dependent differences in anti-biofilm-related responses were observed. Overall, the findings provide insight into the potential influence of cinnamic acid derivatives combined with cloxacillin on biofilm-associated processes in S. epidermidis.},
}

@article {pmid41900121,
year = {2026},
author = {Sohail, N and Martienssen, M},
title = {Mechanistic Insights into Quorum Quenching-Mediated Control of EPS and Biofilm Formation in Submerged MBR.},
journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {31},
number = {6},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/molecules31061022},
pmid = {41900121},
issn = {1420-3049},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Quorum Sensing ; *Extracellular Polymeric Substance Matrix/metabolism ; *Bioreactors/microbiology ; Membranes, Artificial ; Polyvinyls/chemistry ; Biofouling/prevention & control ; Sewage/microbiology ; Polymers/chemistry ; Sulfones/chemistry ; Polytetrafluoroethylene/chemistry ; Fluorocarbon Polymers ; },
abstract = {Quorum quenching (QQ) is a promising biological approach that has the potential to control membrane biofouling. However, the implementation of the QQ membrane bioreactor still requires a more systematic and comprehensive understanding, including the selection of membrane materials, the determination of the optimal QQ bacterial dosage, and the use of appropriate media for the immobilization of QQ bacteria, all of which are important to ensure long-term operation. The present study investigated the impact of QQ bacteria on biofilm formation across different polymeric membranes. These include flat sheet membranes, Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), Polysulfones (PSs), and hollow-fibre polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) membranes. It also evaluated biofilm development, membrane filtration performance, extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) production, and sludge floc properties, which were characterized using fluorescence microscopy. The results revealed that QQ intervention markedly suppressed quorum sensing (QS), leading to a pronounced, dose-dependent reduction in biofilm thickness, membrane fouling, EPS production and sludge floc size. Biofilm thickness was reduced by 63.5% on PTFE and 55.4% on PS membranes, accompanied by a notable reduction in EPS protein and polysaccharides, thereby weakening the biofilm formation and enhancing membrane filterability. Therefore, the permeability performance of the PVDF membrane improved by 338.2%. Furthermore, sludge settleability was enhanced, and floc size was reduced, resulting in the mitigation of biofilm formation without impacting pollutant degradation. These findings elucidate the material-dependent and dose-responsive mechanism by which QQ regulates EPS synthesis and biofilm formation in MBR.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Quorum Sensing
*Extracellular Polymeric Substance Matrix/metabolism
*Bioreactors/microbiology
Membranes, Artificial
Polyvinyls/chemistry
Biofouling/prevention & control
Sewage/microbiology
Polymers/chemistry
Sulfones/chemistry
Polytetrafluoroethylene/chemistry
Fluorocarbon Polymers

@article {pmid41900298,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, W and Ma, X and Jin, R and Wang, Y and Ren, L and Zhang, S and Shan, L and Cai, K and Li, Y},
title = {Electrochemically Generated ROS Water for Rapid Disinfection and Biofilm Control in Real Waters.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14030538},
pmid = {41900298},
issn = {2076-2607},
abstract = {The intensifying global challenges of water scarcity and widespread microbial contamination underscore the urgent need for the development of efficient, chemical-free disinfection technologies. Here, we developed a compact boron-doped diamond (BDD)-based electrochemical water treatment system that generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) in situ and evaluated its antimicrobial performance using ROS-on/off controls. Bactericidal efficacy was assessed against representative Gram-negative Escherichia coli (E. coli), Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa), a clinically relevant Gram-negative pathogen with biofilm-forming and stress-resistant properties. Under ROS-on operation, viable counts were reduced from ~10[6] CFU/mL to near the detection limit, corresponding to 5-6 log10 reductions across all tested species, whereas ROS-off treatment showed negligible effects. The system retained strong disinfection activity in complex real water matrices, including hand-washing water, laboratory wastewater, and pond wastewater. ROS-treated water also disrupted pre-formed mono-species biofilms in a time-dependent manner, as assessed by crystal violet staining and semi-quantitative biomass analysis. A preliminary mouse exposure assessment did not reveal obvious histopathological abnormalities or hematological changes under the tested conditions. These results demonstrate that BDD-enabled electrochemical ROS water provides a rapid, reagent-free approach for bacterial inactivation and biofilm control, with potential applicability across diverse water-related settings, while acknowledging that further studies on complex natural microbial communities are warranted.},
}

@article {pmid41900317,
year = {2026},
author = {Liao, S and Yang, S and Gong, G and Liu, Z and Zhang, J and Li, H and Sun, Q and Mo, H and Hu, L and Tian, L},
title = {Mechanistic Insights into the Inhibition of Yersinia enterocolitica Biofilm Formation by Lipoic Acid.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14030558},
pmid = {41900317},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {2022YFD1600700//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; 2024NC-YBXM-141//Key Research and Development Projects of Shaanxi Province/ ; 2024NC-YBXM-160//Key Research and Development Projects of Shaanxi Province/ ; L2024-CXNL-KJRCTD-DWJS-0023//Construction of Qin Chuangyuan's "Scientists+Engineers" Project/ ; 2024QCY-KXJ-070//Construction of Qin Chuangyuan's "Scientists+Engineers" Project/ ; },
abstract = {Yersinia enterocolitica is a foodborne pathogen that forms biofilms on surfaces, enhancing its survivability and increasing bacterial resistance, which poses a significant challenge to public health. Therefore, developing effective strategies to inhibit biofilm formation is crucial. Lipoic acid (LA) is a compound with antibiofilm properties. This study investigates the effects of LA on biofilm formation by Y. enterocolitica BNCC 108930 (a standard strain from the BeNa Culture Collection). Biofilm formation, maturation, removal, and cell viability were evaluated by crystal violet staining, extracellular polysaccharide assay, Methylthiazolyldiphenyl-tetrazolium bromide assays, motility, and quorum sensing (QS) assays. The results indicate that LA interferes with the early stages of biofilm formation by compromising cell membrane integrity and reducing cellular adhesion. Furthermore, 2.5 mg/mL of LA reduced biofilm biomass (with a 48 h treatment inhibition rate of 51.46 ± 1.29%) and extracellular polysaccharide production (with a relative inhibition rate of 30.09 ± 1.8%), while significantly reducing the metabolic activity of bacteria within the biofilm (inhibition rate over 85%) compared to the untreated group. Confocal laser scanning microscopy and field emission gun scanning electron microscopy confirm that LA induces a sparse biofilm structure, reduced aggregation, and decreased biofilm thickness to 21.33 ± 2.27 μm. Motility and QS assays demonstrate that LA affects flagellar motility and the secretion of N-acyl homoserine lactones. Transcriptome analysis revealed downregulation of genes involved in the QS system and biofilm formation (e.g., lsrA, lsrC, lsrD, lsrR, and oppA), as well as upregulation of genes related to bacterial chemotaxis and flagellar assembly (e.g., RS19655, RS15590, fliE, fliJ, fliP, fliA, and fliK). These alterations suggest that LA inhibits Y. enterocolitica biofilm formation by affecting intercellular communication and flagellar motility. This study highlights the antibiofilm properties of LA, providing a theoretical basis for potential applications in microbial and biofilm control.},
}

@article {pmid41900334,
year = {2026},
author = {Jia, D and Zhang, J and Zhang, X and Gao, P and Zhan, H and Dong, Z and Li, H and Meng, F and Cai, N and Zhang, D},
title = {Design, Synthesis, and Anti-Biofilm Activity of C-28 Modified Betulinic Acid Derivatives Targeting SarA in Drug-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14030574},
pmid = {41900334},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {2025-BS-0858//the Natural Science Foundation of Liaoning Province/ ; 2024-MS-226//the Project of the Science and Technology Department of Liaoning Province/ ; },
abstract = {To address the urgent challenge of antimicrobial resistance, a series of twenty novel C-28 modified betulinic acid derivatives was designed and synthesized. Several derivatives, particularly 3b, 3d, 3e, and 3o, displayed notable antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and vancomycin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (VRSA). The most active compound, 3d, was subjected to further mechanistic evaluation: it produced concentration-dependent inhibition zones in Oxford cup assays, exhibited bactericidal kinetics in time-kill studies, and significantly suppressed biofilm formation. Molecular docking suggested that the anti-biofilm activity of 3d may be mediated through binding to the staphylococcal accessory regulator A (SarA), a key transcriptional regulator of biofilm formation. The molecular dynamics study provided additional confirmation of the effective binding between 3d and SarA. These results highlight compound 3d as a promising lead for the development of novel anti-biofilm agents targeting drug-resistant Gram-positive infections.},
}

@article {pmid41900340,
year = {2026},
author = {Iungin, O and Potters, G and Kalinichenko, O and Prekrasna-Kviatkovska, Y and Moshynets, O and Kazakov-Kravchenko, O and Sidorenko, M and Okhmat, O and Mickevičius, S},
title = {Temperature-Dependent Biofilm Development in Antarctic Endophytic Microbial Communities.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14030580},
pmid = {41900340},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {0124U003829//National Antarctic Scientific Center of Ukraine/ ; 0125U003135//National Antarctic Scientific Center of Ukraine/ ; 984834//NATO SPS/ ; },
abstract = {Climate change is reshaping Antarctic ecosystems, where the resilience of Deschampsia antarctica and Colobanthus quitensis is mediated by endophytic microbial communities assembled under strong abiotic drivers. This study explores the temperature-dependent biofilm development in two Antarctic endophytic microbial communities (ALS and LS). Multivariate analysis revealed a fundamental trade-off between planktonic expansion and biofilm matrix investment as a function of thermal cues. While moderate warming (15-25 °C) optimized cell viability and turbidity, extreme thermal stress at 37-42 °C in nutrient-rich conditions triggered a significant shift toward a matrix-rich signature, characterized by a synergistic increase in total DNA and cellulose. Crucially, at the thermal extreme of 42 °C, we observed a decoupling of optical density from culturable biomass, where high turbidity did not translate into viable cells, signaling a state of severe environmental stress. These results identify 25 °C as the quantitative threshold for optimal growth, while temperatures of 37-42 °C act as a specific trigger for protective matrix production. Such thermal plasticity suggests that Antarctic endophytes are evolutionarily primed for persistence not only in cold native niches but also during bird-mediated dispersal at endothermic host temperatures.},
}

@article {pmid41900460,
year = {2026},
author = {Karnjana, K and Thala, S and Wongprasert, K},
title = {Ethanolic Gracilaria fisheri Extract and Purified N-Benzylcinnamamide Inhibit Staphylococcus epidermidis Adhesion and Biofilm Formation on Device-Relevant Surfaces.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14030700},
pmid = {41900460},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {RGNS 65-182//Thailand Science Research and Innovation (TSRI)/ ; },
abstract = {Staphylococcus epidermidis is a leading opportunistic pathogen in medical device-associated infections due to its ability to adhere to abiotic materials and develop biofilms that are difficult to eradicate. This study investigated the antibiofilm potential of an ethanolic extract of the red seaweed Gracilaria fisheri and its purified constituent, N-benzylcinnamamide, against S. epidermidis. Antibacterial activity was determined, and antibiofilm effects were assessed using the crystal violet assay and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Early bacterial adhesion on glass and polyurethane (PU) surfaces was measured. The effect on catheter-associated biofilms was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Transcripts of biofilm- and quorum-sensing-associated genes (icaA and luxS) were assessed by semi-quantitative RT-PCR. Cytotoxicity was evaluated by MTT assay. At 200 µg/mL, biofilm biomass decreased to 48.21 ± 5.52% with the extract and to 36.65 ± 6.82% with N-benzylcinnamamide. CLSM time-course imaging showed delayed biofilm maturation and less consolidated, discontinuous structures. Surface exposure to the extract markedly reduced early attachment on both materials. On PU catheter segments, SEM demonstrated that N-benzylcinnamamide markedly reduced surface coverage and disrupted three-dimensional biofilm architecture. At the molecular level, transcription of icaA and luxS was reduced. Both the extract and N-benzylcinnamamide showed minimal cytotoxicity in HeLa cells. These findings support further evaluation of these marine-derived agents as candidates for antibiofilm surface treatments to reduce early medical device colonization.},
}

@article {pmid41901079,
year = {2026},
author = {Cirio, S and Mantegazza, G and Salerno, C and Guglielmetti, S and Allam, A and Campus, G and Cagetti, MG},
title = {Assessing the Impact of Heyndrickxia coagulans Administered Through Sugar-Free Chewing Gum on Dental Biofilm: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial.},
journal = {Nutrients},
volume = {18},
number = {6},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/nu18060904},
pmid = {41901079},
issn = {2072-6643},
mesh = {Humans ; *Chewing Gum ; Double-Blind Method ; *Biofilms/drug effects ; Male ; Female ; Adult ; *Dental Plaque/microbiology ; *Probiotics/administration & dosage ; Middle Aged ; Young Adult ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; },
abstract = {Background:Heyndrickxia coagulans has emerged as a candidate for oral health applications, and chewing gum offers a promising delivery method. This study evaluates whether H. coagulans delivered via sugar-free chewing gum can induce detectable changes in plaque microbial ecology. Methods: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted on 52 healthy adults. Participants consumed probiotic or control gum for 4 weeks. Dental plaque was collected at baseline (T0), mid-intervention (T1), end of intervention (T2), and one week post-intervention (T3). qPCR quantified H. coagulans, while 16S rRNA gene profiling assessed microbial diversity and taxonomic composition. Statistical analyses included rank-based difference-in-differences models, Wilcoxon and Mann-Whitney tests, and differential abundance inference based on negative binomial modeling. Results: Forty-four subjects completed the study. In the Intervention group, the strain was detected in 71.4% of participants at T1 and 61.9% at T2, and it persisted in 9.5% at T3. Differential abundance analysis revealed a broad depletion of taxa linked to oral dysbiosis at T2 with partial persistence at T3, along with selective enrichment of beneficial strains. Conclusions:H. coagulans delivered via chewing gum can reach the dental biofilm and induce modest, transient shifts in microbial composition. However, these biofilm ecology findings should be interpreted in the context of clinical outcomes.},
}

Humans
*Chewing Gum
Double-Blind Method
*Biofilms/drug effects
Male
Female
Adult
*Dental Plaque/microbiology
*Probiotics/administration & dosage
Middle Aged
Young Adult
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics

@article {pmid41901766,
year = {2026},
author = {Brands, B and van Leuven, N and Bockmühl, D},
title = {We Are Family: Comparative Study of Candida Species and Candidozyma auris in Laundry (EN 17658) and Surface (Biofilm) Disinfection.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/pathogens15030313},
pmid = {41901766},
issn = {2076-0817},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Disinfectants/pharmacology ; *Disinfection/methods ; *Candida auris/drug effects/physiology ; *Candida/drug effects/physiology ; Candida albicans/drug effects/physiology ; *Candida parapsilosis/drug effects/physiology ; *Saccharomycetales/drug effects/physiology ; },
abstract = {The rising prevalence of Candidozyma auris and Candida parapsilosis, characterized by high surface persistence and biofilm-forming capabilities, challenges the efficacy of standard laundry and surface disinfection protocols. This study evaluated the effectiveness of laundry processes according to EN 17658 at 20 °C, 30 °C and 40 °C and two surface disinfectants (bead assay for biofilms) against two Candida albicans strains, C. parapsilosis, and C. auris. Results indicated that C. auris is more resilient than other strains, surviving laundry treatment with activated oxygen bleach at 40 °C; maximum efficacy required a colour powder detergent supplemented with a bleach-releasing additive at 40 °C. While alcohol- and aldehyde-based surface disinfectants were effective per EN 13697 criteria, their efficacy against biofilms-tested on glass, stainless steel, polypropylene, and PTFE-was highly dependent on both the strain and the surface material. These findings demonstrate the reduced susceptibility of C. auris to standard laundry disinfection and highlight that biofilm eradication is a complex process influenced by strain-specific attributes and surface characteristics.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Disinfectants/pharmacology
*Disinfection/methods
*Candida auris/drug effects/physiology
*Candida/drug effects/physiology
Candida albicans/drug effects/physiology
*Candida parapsilosis/drug effects/physiology
*Saccharomycetales/drug effects/physiology

@article {pmid41886449,
year = {2026},
author = {Telford, MS and Mikesh, M and Parker, JK and Beckman, RL and Newberry, RW and Fleeman, RM and Davies, BW},
title = {Antibacterial microcins self-assemble to promote biofilm formation in Acinetobacter baumannii.},
journal = {Cell reports},
volume = {45},
number = {4},
pages = {117156},
doi = {10.1016/j.celrep.2026.117156},
pmid = {41886449},
issn = {2211-1247},
support = {R01 AI182365/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R56 AI179799/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; },
abstract = {The bacterial pathogen Acinetobacter baumannii forms a resilient biofilm, enhancing bacterial survival in hostile environments. Although biofilm structure is primarily built from polysaccharides and nucleic acids, specific proteins are often essential for its development and integrity. Here, we identify microcins as a driver of biofilm formation in A. baumannii. Microcins are small (<10 kDa), secreted, antimicrobial proteins that typically mediate bacterial competition, yet their function beyond the antibacterial is unclear. We demonstrate that A. baumannii microcins use conserved sequence motifs to self-assemble into amyloid fibers, promoting biofilm formation. Scanning electron microscopy reveals microcin fibers extending from A. baumannii, suggesting a structural role as a biofilm scaffold. We also identify proteins required for microcin's antibacterial function that are dispensable for biofilm formation, further distinguishing these two activities. Our findings show that microcins directly promote biofilm development and broaden understanding of the diverse functions of these understudied proteins.},
}

@article {pmid41888586,
year = {2026},
author = {Rilstone, V and Filion, Y and Champagne, P},
title = {Fate of the resistance profile of drinking water biofilm exposed to a sub-minimum inhibitory concentration of ciprofloxacin.},
journal = {npj antimicrobials and resistance},
volume = {4},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41888586},
issn = {2731-8745},
support = {RE010-095//Ontario Research Fund/ ; RGPIN-2019-04084//Natural Science and Engineering Research Council/ ; },
abstract = {Early research has found that biofilms adhered to treatment filtration beds and the inside of drinking water pipes help promote antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in drinking water systems. This study investigates the impact of a sub-minimum inhibitory concentration of ciprofloxacin (10 µg L[-1]) on AMR and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in multi-species biofilms formed on polyvinyl chloride pipe using a novel bench-scale water distribution reactor. The biofilm was grown from drinking water and contained a highly diverse composition consisting of, but not limited to, Dechloromonas, Pseudomonas, Pseudoxanthomonas, Acidovorax, and Allorhizobium-Neorhizobium-Pararhizobium-Rhizobium. It was found that when the biofilm was exposed to ciprofloxacin, the total cell counts significantly increased, suggesting a potential AMR response. IntI1 and sul1 showed a significant inverse correlation with several genera as well as with increased diversity. Asinibacterium, found at a lower abundance in the biofilms, had a significant positive correlation with intI1, indicating its potential role in ARG promotion and the enhanced risk of a less diverse biofilm. This study highlights the need for targeted control strategies against AMR development in the context of drinking water distribution systems, emphasizing the role of biofilm community composition and residual antibiotic exposure.},
}

@article {pmid41888665,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, B and Zou, L and Liu, X},
title = {Retrieving of diguanylate cyclases responsible for biofilm formation and antibiotic resistance in Acinetobacter baumannii.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12866-026-05003-w},
pmid = {41888665},
issn = {1471-2180},
support = {32370105 and 32570139//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41889124,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, J and Chen, C and Booth, JL and Lanza, M and Sun, D and Allcock, HR and Siedlecki, CA and Xu, LC},
title = {Anti-Biofilm Properties of Polyurethane Biomaterials Tethered With Small Molecules via Polyethylene Glycol Linker.},
journal = {Journal of biomedical materials research. Part A},
volume = {114},
number = {4},
pages = {e70069},
doi = {10.1002/jbm.a.70069},
pmid = {41889124},
issn = {1552-4965},
support = {R01AI185093/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; //Penn State College of Medicine's Comprehensive Health Studies Program/ ; },
mesh = {*Polyurethanes/chemistry/pharmacology ; *Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Polyethylene Glycols/chemistry/pharmacology ; Animals ; *Biocompatible Materials/chemistry/pharmacology ; Rats ; Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology ; Staphylococcus epidermidis/drug effects/physiology ; *Pyrazoles/pharmacology/chemistry ; Rats, Sprague-Dawley ; },
abstract = {Biofilm-associated microbial infection is one of the main complications for long-term use of biomaterials in implantable medical devices. Bacterial intracellular nucleotide second messenger signaling is widely recognized to be involved in biofilm formation and assists bacteria in monitoring and responding appropriately to changing environments. Interference with the nucleotide signaling mechanisms by small molecules to interrupt biofilm formation provides a novel way to control microbial infection on biomaterial surfaces. This study reports an approach to tether small molecule derivatives of 4-arylazo-3,5-diamino-1 H-pyrazole (termed as SP02 and SP03) on polyurethane biomaterial surfaces using a polyethylene glycol (PEG) linker. Compared to our previous approach to tether small molecules on surfaces using a short hexamethylene diisocyanate (HMDI) linker, the new modification resulted in surfaces enriched with a higher density of small molecules, SP02 and SP03. Studies of S. epidermidis and P. aeruginosa biofilm formation on surfaces demonstrated that PEG-linked surfaces were more resistant to biofilm formation than the HMDI-linked surfaces. The analysis of intracellular nucleotides in biofilm cells showed that the PEG-linked surfaces significantly reduced c-di-AMP levels in S. epidermidis cells and c-di-GMP levels in P. aeruginosa cells. In vivo experiments with a 7-day subcutaneous rat model suggest that the new small molecule tethered surfaces by the extended PEG linkers show increased resistance to microbial infection and are biocompatible to tissues. Overall, the results suggest that the PEG long linker can be used to tether small molecules on polyurethane biomaterial surfaces and retain the activity of small molecules, providing a new approach to combat microbial infections.},
}

*Polyurethanes/chemistry/pharmacology
*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Polyethylene Glycols/chemistry/pharmacology
Animals
*Biocompatible Materials/chemistry/pharmacology
Rats
Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology
Staphylococcus epidermidis/drug effects/physiology
*Pyrazoles/pharmacology/chemistry
Rats, Sprague-Dawley

@article {pmid41889641,
year = {2026},
author = {Rehman, AU and Abbott, K and Karet Frankl, FE and Zarkan, A and Williams, TL},
title = {Human urinary extracellular vesicle preparations inhibit in vitro biofilm formation against several uropathogens.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1782549},
pmid = {41889641},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) rank as one of the most frequent bacterial infections globally, with multiple bacterial species such as uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC), Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa being significant causative agents that can develop biofilms associated with antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and recurrence. Urinary extracellular vesicles (UEVs) are nanosized particles secreted by cells lining the urinary tract which carry nucleic acid and protein cargo, including antibacterial proteins, and high concentrations of UEVs exert antibacterial activity against UPEC in vitro. This study investigated the antibiofilm potential of UEVs against biofilm-forming uropathogens.

METHODS: UEV preparations from healthy human volunteers were added to bacteria, and biofilm formation was assessed using safranin-based biofilm quantification.

RESULTS: UEV preparations from the majority of volunteers significantly inhibited biofilm formation of multiple uropathogens, including UPEC (66.2% [34.8%-85.6%] inhibition vs. control), P. aeruginosa (37.2% [5.8%-42.6%]), and K. pneumoniae (31.8% [18.0%-60.4%]), an effect evident at physiologically relevant concentrations. UEV concentrations that exhibited antibiofilm activity were also not sufficient to inhibit bacterial growth.

DISCUSSION: These findings highlight the potential role of UEVs as innate modulators of uropathogen biofilms and lay the groundwork for future exploration of the relevance of host-derived UEVs in determining risks of recurrent UTIs.},
}

@article {pmid41889776,
year = {2026},
author = {Odyniec, ML and Bell, DJ and Gallant, BM and Firdaus, R and Ball, G and Hughes, L and Oxtoby, R and Hewitt, BJ and Williams, CM and Muguruza, AR and Overton, TW and Tsai, HJ and Chiu, YL and Kubicki, DJ and Walmsley, AD and Kuehne, SA and Pikramenou, Z},
title = {Ultrasound-Responsive Nanoparticles Enable Hydrophobic Antibiotic Release and Deep Penetration for Biofilm Treatment.},
journal = {JACS Au},
volume = {6},
number = {3},
pages = {1847-1859},
pmid = {41889776},
issn = {2691-3704},
abstract = {Localized delivery of antibiotics is a promising strategy that leads to transformative treatment pathways of bacterial biofilms and increases the effectiveness of their administration in contrast to traditional delivery methods requiring high antibiotic doses. Hydrophobic antibiotics have poor activity against bacterial biofilms due to their limited penetration and are particularly challenging to deliver. Nanoparticles are ideal drug delivery agents to achieve spatially controlled delivery, but commonly their designs are either soft or porous, which limits temporally triggered release, with the result that most of the antibiotic does not reach deeply into the biofilm. In this study, we present designs of nonporous silica nanoparticles that encapsulate a lipophilic antibiotic, rifampicin, with noncovalent interactions and enable controlled release triggered by Low-Frequency Ultrasound (LFUS). Staphylococcus aureus biofilms treated with the nonporous, core@shell, rifampicin-encapsulated nanoparticles, RIF⊂PhSiO 2 @SiO 2 , combined with LFUS, achieved 90% biofilm eradication, compared to 20% without ultrasound; treatment with free rifampicin and LFUS resulted only in a 10% reduction. Nanoparticle penetration into biofilm layers was visualized using fluorescent nanoparticles prepared with coencapsulation of the Nile red fluorophore, RIF+NR⊂PhSiO 2 @SiO 2 . Confocal fluorescence imaging of the biofilms demonstrated penetration of the nanoparticles throughout all the layers of the biofilm upon LFUS application, in sharp contrast to their presence in only the top few biofilm layers without LFUS. Scanning Electron Microscopy of the biofilms confirmed the presence of nanoparticles and the dual role of LFUS in promoting penetration and facilitating drug release by disrupting molecular interactions within the nanoparticle. This work introduces a design paradigm for nonporous nanoparticle agents combined with ultrasound, enabling both temporal and spatial control of drug release in bacterial biofilms. This will open transformative therapeutic approaches for effective localized delivery of drugs that have previously been challenging to deliver.},
}

@article {pmid41891724,
year = {2026},
author = {Goerlich, K and Mitchell, AP},
title = {Impact of Candida albicans NDT80 and UME6 on biofilm formation and fluconazole susceptibility.},
journal = {mSphere},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0001426},
doi = {10.1128/msphere.00014-26},
pmid = {41891724},
issn = {2379-5042},
abstract = {The microbiome-associated fungus Candida albicans is an opportunistic pathogen. Virulence traits include its ability to produce biofilm, a surface-associated growth form that persists on mucosae and implanted medical devices. C. albicans clinical isolates vary in ability to produce biofilm and the constituent filamentous cell types. Here, we focus on two transcription factors that promote filamentation and biofilm formation, Ndt80 and Ume6. We address two questions. First, how variable is the impact of Ndt80 among C. albicans strains? Second, what is the genetic interaction between NDT80 and UME6? We find that Ndt80 is required for filamentation and biofilm formation in five clinical isolates in addition to the reference strain SC5314, where Ndt80 function has been well established. RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) data indicate that UME6 RNA levels are reduced in an ndt80Δ/Δ mutant, possibly a result of altered RME1 and WOR1 expression, both of which control UME6. Increased expression of UME6 in ndt80Δ/Δ mutants of three strain backgrounds restores filamentation and biofilm formation, though RNA-seq assays indicate that it does not suppress the overall ndt80Δ/Δ gene expression defect. Ndt80 has an additional role in promoting tolerance to the antifungal drug fluconazole, an inhibitor of ergosterol synthesis. This ndt80Δ/Δ phenotype varies considerably among clinical isolates. In three strains tested, increased expression of UME6 in ndt80Δ/Δ mutants enhances their susceptibility to fluconazole. Therefore, our results show an unexpected relationship between Ume6 expression and azole drug sensitivity. To our knowledge, Ume6 has previously been understood to function only in filamentation, biofilm formation, and related processes.IMPORTANCEOur focus is the fungal pathogen Candida albicans. Two traits, biofilm/hypha formation and azole resistance, are major drivers of its infection ability. We examine the roles of two biofilm transcriptional regulators, Ndt80 and Ume6, in several C. albicans clinical isolates. Prior studies in one strain background (SC5314) indicated that Ndt80 controls both biofilm/hypha formation and azole drug susceptibility and that Ume6 controls biofilm/hypha formation. The four new findings here are that (i) Ndt80 effects on fluconazole sensitivity vary considerably with strain background; (ii) Ndt80 is required for filamentation and biofilm formation in multiple clinical isolates; (iii) the Ndt80 target Ume6 contributes to Ndt80 control of filamentation and biofilm formation in multiple clinical isolates; and (iv) Ume6 influences fluconazole vulnerability, the first Ume6 function to our knowledge that is unrelated to filamentation.},
}

@article {pmid41892410,
year = {2026},
author = {Kim, M and Khatun, J and Khan, F and Kim, YM},
title = {Lactic Acid Bacteria as Natural Antimicrobials: Biofilm Control in Food and Food Industry.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics15030248},
pmid = {41892410},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {RS-2021-NR060118//Ministry of Education/ ; 2024 Postdoctoral Support Project//Pukyong National University/ ; },
abstract = {Biofilm production by foodborne pathogens poses significant challenges to food safety and quality, leading to contamination, deterioration, and substantial economic losses for the food industry. Traditional biofilm control methods, such as chemical disinfectants, antibiotics, and preservatives, are sometimes ineffective against persistent biofilms, raising concerns about antimicrobial resistance and the accumulation of chemical residues. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) have emerged as attractive natural biocontrol agents due to their ability to produce a wide range of antimicrobial secondary metabolites, including bacteriocins, organic acids, hydrogen peroxide, and biosurfactants. This paper thoroughly examines the effect of LAB and their metabolites in preventing and destroying biofilms generated by bacteria relevant to food systems, including Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella enterica, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas spp. The processes causing LAB-mediated biofilm attenuation are thoroughly investigated, including competition for nutrients and adhesion sites, interference with quorum sensing (QS), and metabolic inhibition. Furthermore, recent breakthroughs in LAB-based techniques for food preservation and facility hygiene are discussed, including the creation of LAB-derived antimicrobial coatings, biosurfactant-based cleaning agents, and probiotic bio-coatings for industrial sanitation. The incorporation of nanotechnology has enhanced LAB applications by enabling the creation of LAB-mediated metallic nanoparticles and encapsulated formulations that improve metabolite stability and facilitate controlled release. The combination of LAB metabolites, natural preservatives, and eco-friendly materials in active packaging provides sustainable alternatives to synthetic chemicals. Overall, this review emphasizes the potential of LAB and their bioactive derivatives as environmentally friendly and practical tools for controlling biofilms and preserving food, thereby promoting safer food production systems and accelerating the food industry's transition to green, sustainable technologies.},
}

@article {pmid41892419,
year = {2026},
author = {Cangui-Panchi, SP and Cangui-Panchi, DS and Palacios, VE and Becerra, E and Santamaría, AL and Muñoz, D and Reyes-Chacón, J and Machado, A and Garzon-Chavez, D},
title = {Integrated Phenotypic, Proteomic (MALDI-TOF MS), and Genomic (WGS) Investigation of a Prolonged Hospital Outbreak of Pseudomonas aeruginosa with High Biofilm-Forming Capacity.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics15030257},
pmid = {41892419},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {Project ID: 17357 entitled "Alternative approaches for eliminating biofilms"//Universidad San Francisco de Quito/ ; Project ID: 17577 entitled "The antibiofilm potential of lactobacilli biosurfactants against mul-tidrug-resistant pathogens"//Universidad San Francisco de Quito/ ; Project ID: 17579 entitled "Antibiotic resistance and biofilm formation among clinical isolates from intravenous catheter tips at a public hospital in Quito"//Universidad San Francisco de Quito/ ; },
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Hospital outbreaks of Pseudomonas aeruginosa are difficult to control due to the pathogen's extensive repertoire, including its ability to form biofilms, adapt and persist in diverse environments, and develop multidrug resistance, all of which contribute to prolonged outbreaks. This study integrates the phenotypic, proteomic, and genomic characterization of a nosocomial outbreak comprising 38 clinical isolates and one environmental isolate recovered from the intensive care unit (ICU) of Hospital IESS Quito Sur. Methods: Clinical data were collected, antimicrobial susceptibility was assessed by minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), carbapenemase genes were detected by multiple PCR and immunochromatographic assays, and the biofilm formation index (BFI) was determined. In addition, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) was used for species identification and clustering based on spectral similarity. Twelve representative isolates underwent whole genome sequencing (WGS) to characterize the resistome and virulome and to compare phylogenetic relationships with proteomic clustering defined by MALDI Biotyper Compass Explorer software. Results: All isolates were identified as P. aeruginosa, and phenotypic antimicrobial susceptibility classified most isolates as multidrug resistant, including 32 CRPA strains. The blaVIM gene was detected in 22 isolates, while BFI analysis showed that all isolates formed moderate to strong biofilms. Genomic analysis revealed that most isolates belonged to ST111 and ST253, and both conserved and heterogeneous resistome and virulome profiles, with a broad distribution of determinants related to biofilm formation, stress tolerance, and persistence. Comparison between MALDI-TOF MS and WGS showed predominant concordance in clustering, mainly within subclusters but disagreement at the cluster level. Conclusions: The detection of carbapenemases, biofilm-forming ability, and virulence determinants associated with prolonged persistence highlights the need for integrated molecular tools, such as MALDI-TOF MS with MALDI Biotyper Compass Explorer software, to support epidemiological surveillance and to inform strategies aimed at mitigating prolonged hospital outbreaks caused by P. aeruginosa.},
}

@article {pmid41892440,
year = {2026},
author = {Bertran Forga, X and Fairfull-Smith, KE and Qin, J and Totsika, M},
title = {Nitric Oxide Donor Spermine-NONOate Elicits Endogenous Dispersal-Associated Transcriptional Responses to Promote Biofilm Dispersal in Pseudomonas aeruginosa.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics15030278},
pmid = {41892440},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {DP210101317//Australian Research Council/ ; },
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Bacterial biofilms are structured communities of sessile cells embedded in a self-produced extracellular matrix. Within biofilms, bacteria become highly tolerant toenvironmental stressors such as host immune responses and antimicrobial treatments. In response to specific cues, however, biofilm cells can revert to a planktonic free-swimming lifestyle through a process termed biofilm dispersal. When dispersed cells escape the biofilm matrix, they lose biofilm-associated antibiotic tolerance, a major barrier to treating medical biofilms. As such, dispersal-inducing compounds like nitric oxide (NO) are actively investigated as adjuvants to potentiate the biofilm-eradicating activity of existing antibiotics. We recently characterised the transcriptomic responses elicited during spontaneous biofilm dispersal in closed culture-grown Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms. Here, we evaluated the transcriptional profiles of P. aeruginosa biofilms treated with the NO donor Spermine-NONOate (SP-NONO) and the nitroxide C-TEMPO, an NO analogue, to determine potential pathways involved in NO-mediated dispersal. Methods: Dispersal activity on P. aeruginosa PAO1 biofilms by SP-NONOate and C-TEMPO was quantified by crystal violet staining. Cellular responses to each compound were profiled by RNA-seq on treated and untreated cells. Results: While both compounds disrupted the transcription of ANR-regulated energy metabolism pathways, only SP-NONO activated canonical NO-regulated responses. Considering that only SP-NONO showed biofilm dispersal activity in this culture system, we investigated shared transcriptional shifts in SP-NONO-treated and spontaneously dispersed biofilms to identify pathways likely involved in central dispersal responses. These mostly included genes involved in the catabolism of branched-chain amino acids (leucine, valine, isoleucine) and lysine, as well as 9 of 14 genes previously defined as transcriptional biomarkers of spontaneous biofilm dispersal. Conclusions: This study suggests that NO disrupts biofilm maturation by prematurely stimulating central pathways of spontaneous biofilm dispersal and highlights this set of biomarkers as robust indicators of dispersal responses.},
}

@article {pmid41892461,
year = {2026},
author = {Voinescu, A and Musuroi, SI and Licker, M and Muntean, D and Horhat, FG and Baditoiu, LM and Izmendi, O and Cosnita, A and Munteanu, M and Poenaru-Sava, M and Ordodi, V and Ceachir, P and Olariu, TR and Musuroi, C},
title = {Genetic Characterization and Biofilm-Forming Capacity of Bacterial Population Isolated from Conjunctival Samples.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics15030300},
pmid = {41892461},
issn = {2079-6382},
abstract = {BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Bacterial conjunctivitis is a common ocular infection requiring prompt treatment, particularly in vulnerable patients, and may influence perioperative outcomes. This study aimed to characterize conjunctival bacterial isolates phenotypically and genotypically, to evaluate their biofilm-forming capacity, and to investigate the relationship between resistance gene carriage, resistance phenotypes, and biofilm-associated antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

METHODS: A prospective, single-center, cross-sectional study was conducted on bacterial isolates from conjunctival samples of patients examined in an ophthalmology department. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) was performed to determine the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs). Resistance genes were detected by quantitative PCR. Biofilm-forming capacity was assessed using the microtiter plate assay, and biofilm susceptibility to amikacin (AK) and levofloxacin (LEV) was evaluated using a biofilm susceptibility assay.

RESULTS: A total of 78 isolates were analyzed; Gram-positive cocci prevailed (GPC, 84.6%), being significantly more frequent than Gram-negative bacilli (GNB, p < 0.001). Among GPC, 65.2% were multidrug-resistant, with Staphylococcus epidermidis emerging as the most frequent species (p < 0.001). Resistance gene carriage was detected in 33.3% of GNB. Strong biofilm formation was observed in 22.7% of GPC versus 58.3% of GNB. It should be noted that the relatively small number of GNB may limit the statistical robustness of comparisons between Gram-positive and Gram-negative groups. A statistically significant association between resistance genes and biofilm capacity was found only in Staphylococcus aureus (p = 0.027). Biofilm-embedded bacteria showed increased antimicrobial tolerance, particularly for AK in S. aureus and for both AK and LEV in S. epidermidis (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of multidrug-resistant conjunctival isolates and their biofilm-forming capacity highlights the clinical importance of biofilm-related resistance and support integrating AMR profiling with biofilm assessment to optimize empirical therapy in bacterial conjunctivitis.},
}

@article {pmid41892779,
year = {2026},
author = {Aliu, F and Bajrami-Shabani, D and Flores Fraile, J and Meto, A and Galletti, C and Fiorillo, L and Meto, A},
title = {Electrically Charged Lipid Nanoparticles as Intracanal Antimicrobial Delivery Systems: A Narrative Review of Preclinical Evidence for Biofilm Control.},
journal = {Dentistry journal},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/dj14030171},
pmid = {41892779},
issn = {2304-6767},
abstract = {Background: Persistent endodontic infections remain a significant challenge in root canal therapy, primarily due to the complexity of root canal anatomy and the formation of resistant microbial biofilms. Conventional irrigants, including sodium hypochlorite and chlorhexidine, show limited penetration into dentinal tubules and reduced efficacy against mature biofilms, contributing to treatment failure. Electrically charged lipid nanoparticles (ECLNs), such as cationic solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, and liposomes, have emerged as potential adjunctive systems to enhance intracanal antimicrobial delivery. This focused narrative review, informed by a structured literature search, aimed to synthesize and critically evaluate preclinical and exploratory clinical evidence regarding the use of electrically charged lipid nanoparticles for antibiotic delivery and biofilm control in root canal disinfection. Methods: A structured literature search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (2010-2026) identified 312 records, of which 20 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in qualitative synthesis. The majority of included studies were in vitro investigations, followed by ex vivo studies using extracted human teeth, with only a limited number of exploratory animal or clinical studies. Overall, the level of evidence was predominantly preclinical. Results: Across studies, ECLNs demonstrated enhanced antimicrobial efficacy compared with free antibiotics or non-charged formulations, with improved biofilm interaction, enhanced penetration into dentinal tubules, and sustained antimicrobial release. However, most investigations relied on mono-species Enterococcus faecalis biofilm models, and substantial heterogeneity in nanoparticle formulation and methodology was observed. Clinical evidence remains scarce. Conclusions: Although these findings about ECLNs suggest a promising experimental adjunct for root canal disinfection, current evidence remains largely preclinical and insufficient to support routine clinical application. Standardized formulations, clinically relevant multispecies biofilm models, and well-designed controlled clinical trials are required to establish safety, efficacy, and translational feasibility.},
}

@article {pmid41895349,
year = {2026},
author = {Ma, W and Li, P and Zhou, X},
title = {A lytic phage targeting virulent Proteus mirabilis for effective biofilm eradication.},
journal = {Microbial pathogenesis},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {108469},
doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2026.108469},
pmid = {41895349},
issn = {1096-1208},
abstract = {Proteus mirabilis is an opportunistic pathogen frequently associated with catheter-associated urinary tract infections, where robust crystalline biofilms contribute to chronicity, antimicrobial tolerance, and recurrence. The rising prevalence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) P. mirabilis has prompted interest in bacteriophage therapy as an alternative to conventional antibiotics. In this study, we isolated a lytic bacteriophage, vB_PmiM_ZX7, from sewage using a highly virulent clinical strain, P. mirabilis YV2, as the host. vB_PmiM_ZX7 displayed a broad host range among MDR P. mirabilis isolates and tolerance to a wide range of pH and temperatures. Genome sequencing revealed 60% of genes with unknown function, absence of virulence or antibiotic resistance genes, and limited similarity to known P. mirabilis phages, underscoring its genomic novelty. Safety evaluation in a murine model showed no adverse effect, histopathological changes, or persistent phage accumulation. Circulating phages were cleared from the blood within 5 h and from organs within 48 h. In anti-biofilm assays, vB_PmiM_ZX7 eradicated 62.2% of established biofilms, outperforming piperacillin/tazobactam (TZP), and significantly reduced extracellular polysaccharide content and biofilm density, as confirmed by scanning electron microscopy and fluorescence imaging. Furthermore, ZX7 demonstrated strong anti-biofilm activity in an in vitro catheter-associated biofilm model, markedly reducing the viability of biofilm-associated bacteria in a time-dependent manner. These findings demonstrated the potential of vB_PmiM_ZX7 as a therapeutic candidate for catheter-associated MDR P. mirabilis infections.},
}

@article {pmid41881072,
year = {2026},
author = {Pietrella, A and Paris, I and Migliorini, C and Morelli, M and Carpentieri, A and Matricardi, P and Di Meo, C and Papa, R},
title = {Hyaluronan and gellan nanohydrogels exhibit an unexpected activity in hampering Staphylococcus epidermidis biofilm.},
journal = {Journal of controlled release : official journal of the Controlled Release Society},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {114861},
doi = {10.1016/j.jconrel.2026.114861},
pmid = {41881072},
issn = {1873-4995},
abstract = {In clinical settings, the intensive use of antibiotics, particularly in intensive care settings, leads to a significant increase in the number of bacterial species that are resistant to treatments. In this context, biofilm is a crucial virulence factor that enable bacteria to persist within the host, often resulting in the need for extensive antibiotic treatment. Staphylococcus epidermidis, a notable nosocomial pathogen, poses a risk to vulnerable patients due to its ability to form biofilms on indwelling medical devices and its high resistance to antibiotic therapy. For this purpose, investigating alternative strategies that target the virulence of pathogens could offer a promising alternative strategy. In this study, we analyzed innovative polymeric materials, such as polysaccharide-based nanohydrogels, for their potential application contrasting S. epidermidis monospecies biofilm on the surfaces of materials most employed in medical devices. These nanohydrogels were found to be effective in eradicating the biofilm matrix and preventing bacterial adhesion. Additionally, the treatment with hyaluronan-based nanohydrogels altered the surface protein profile of S. epidermidis, leading to the disappearance of AtlE, the primary autolysin involved in biofilm formation, suggesting a potential mechanism of action for these nanogels. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD074516.},
}

@article {pmid41881899,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhou, H and Huang, X and Liao, H and Xia, X},
title = {Mechanistic insights into LuxS/AI-2 quorum sensing-regulated biofilm formation and its impact on the texture and flavor of kefir.},
journal = {International journal of food microbiology},
volume = {454},
number = {},
pages = {111743},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2026.111743},
pmid = {41881899},
issn = {1879-3460},
abstract = {Kefir is a biofilm-based fermented dairy product whose unique flavor and texture are closely associated with the complex microbial community within kefir grains. However, the regulatory mechanisms underlying biofilm formation in kefir and its impact on product quality remain unclear. This study systematically investigated the dynamics of biofilm formation, core microbiota, and key metabolites in both traditional and backslopped kefir. Traditional kefir exhibited more stable metabolic activity and higher biofilm content, with biofilm levels significantly positively correlated with lactic acid bacteria (LAB) biomass (r = 0.58, p < 0.05), yeast biomass (r = 0.54, p < 0.05), and lactic acid concentration (r = 0.70, p < 0.05). Subsequent co-culture experiments revealed that yeast metabolites promoted LAB growth, and that lactic acid levels modulated yeast-LAB interactions. Critically, both the acidic environment and yeast interaction enhanced biofilm formation by regulating the LuxS/AI-2 quorum sensing (QS) system, as evidenced by increased expression of key QS genes and autoinducer-2 activity. Co-fermentation with high-biofilm-forming LAB significantly improved the physicochemical properties of fermented milk, increasing water-holding capacity by 1.2-fold, viscosity by 1.6-fold, and total volatile flavor compounds by 1.3-fold, while enriching fruity and buttery aroma profiles. This study elucidates the molecular mechanism by which acidic conditions and microbial interactions regulate biofilm formation via the QS system in kefir, and provides a novel strategy for improving fermented food quality through biofilm modulation.},
}

@article {pmid41882309,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhu, H and Wang, T and Gao, S and Geng, W and Ma, T and Cheng, L and Han, X and Deng, J and Gao, S and Cheng, C},
title = {Phage-Inspired Artificial Peroxidases with Robust Sub-Nanometer Cluster Sites for Efficient Oral Biofilm Elimination and Dental Caries Prevention.},
journal = {Nano-micro letters},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41882309},
issn = {2150-5551},
abstract = {Dental caries, a highly prevalent oral disease, is primarily driven by pathogenic biofilms; however, current antimicrobials exhibit limited efficacy and poor specificity against cariogenic biofilms. Although nanobiocatalysts that can produce reactive oxygen species represent a promising alternative to conventional antimicrobials, most current designs fail to achieve robust bacterial interaction and exhibit insufficient disruption of biofilm integrity. To address these challenges, we report the de novo design of phage-inspired artificial peroxidases (IrNC@TiO2) featuring a robust sub-nanometer cluster site and urchin-like topography, which enables efficient oral biofilm elimination and dental caries prevention. Structural characterization confirmed that sub-nanometer Ir clusters are stably anchored to the TiO2 support via Ir-O coordination. Leveraging the robust enzymatic activity of Ir clusterzymes and the topological advantages of the spiky substrate, IrNC@TiO2 exhibits potent multi-enzyme mimetic activity, generating substantial amounts of ·O2[-] and HClO to effectively capture and eradicate planktonic Streptococcus mutans and suppress biofilm formation. In a caries model, IrNC@TiO2 significantly inhibited tooth surface biofilm development, prevented enamel demineralization, and reduced caries incidence. The material also demonstrated negligible cytotoxicity and outperformed conventional non-abrasive additives in tooth-whitening assays. This work introduces a robust and efficient ROS-generating platform for oral health care and proposes a promising solution for clinical caries prevention.},
}

@article {pmid41883474,
year = {2026},
author = {Tan, C and Wang, J and Wu, A and Li, C},
title = {Mapping the global landscape of biofilm-associated antimicrobial resistance (1992-2025).},
journal = {Biofilm},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {100358},
pmid = {41883474},
issn = {2590-2075},
abstract = {Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a great global health threat, with biofilm formation recognized as a key microbial survival strategy that promotes persistence and recurrent infections. Despite growing mechanistic insights, research on biofilm-associated AMR ((biofilm-AMR)) remains fragmented, limiting the development of broadly effective interventions. To address this gap, we conducted a bibliometric analysis of 17,198 publications from the Web of Science Core Collection (retrieved November 4, 2025) using Bibliometrix-Biblioshiny, CiteSpace, and Excel. Publication output accelerated sharply after 2015, alongside diversification of research themes and increasing interdisciplinary integration. High-output countries and institutions, predominantly in Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East, emphasize natural products, nanomaterials, anti-quorum-sensing strategies, and plant-derived antimicrobials, reflecting application-oriented approaches. In contrast, high-impact contributors in North America and Europe focus on clinical microbiology, resistance mechanisms, pathogen genomics, and hospital infection control, highlighting translational relevance. Trend analyses reveal key topics including quorum sensing, persister-cell biology, multidrug-resistant pathogens, and innovative interventions such as phage therapy, antimicrobial peptides, CRISPR-based antimicrobials, and nanotechnology-enabled drug delivery. Emerging directions include environmental AMR, One Health perspectives, and computational modeling. Despite mechanistic and technological advances, translational barriers persist due to biofilm heterogeneity and model limitations. Promoting interdisciplinary collaboration that integrates basic research, clinical microbiology, materials science, and computational approaches will be essential to accelerate clinical translation and develop effective, globally relevant strategies against AMR.},
}

@article {pmid41883783,
year = {2026},
author = {Rümenapf, M and Horn, H and Hille-Reichel, A},
title = {Relationship of electrochemical performance and biofilm development of Desulfuromonas acetexigens and Geobacter sulfurreducens in microbial electrolysis cells.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1753230},
pmid = {41883783},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Desulfuromonas acetexigens has gained attention as a biocatalyst in microbial electrolysis cells (MECs) due to its inability to utilize hydrogen as an electron donor, which favors beneficial Coulombic efficiencies (CE). In this study, the electrochemical performance and biofilm morphology of D. acetexigens were compared with the model organism Geobacter sulfurreducens in flow cell MECs. Biofilm morphology was assessed non-invasively via optical coherence tomography (OCT), providing insight into quantitative parameters, including spatially resolved thickness, biovolume and anode surface coverage. While both species achieved similar maximum current densities when cultivated under identical conditions, D. acetexigens biofilms established faster, generating current after ~4 days, whereas G. sulfurreducens exhibited a lag phase of ~8 days. Limitations of extracellular electron transfer already occurred at lower average biofilm volumes for D. acetexigens ((B V ¯ J ¯ max) ≈ 16 ± 6 μm[3] μm[-2]) than for Geobacter (B V ¯ J ¯ max ≈ 40 ± 7 μm[3] μm[-2]). One monocultural D. acetexigens cultivation revealed a CE of ~96%, consistent with no detectable hydrogen utilization under the tested condition, while some cultivations showed net acetate increases. Phylogenetic analyses of the latter indicated niche dominance of the target EAM despite homoacetogenic and clostridial contaminants. Production of short-chain fatty acids suggested interspecies metabolic interaction and led to the hypothesis of an electrode-mediated ethanol to acetate fermentation by electroactive microorganisms and ethanol-utilizing contaminants such as the homoacetogen Sporomusa sphaeroides.},
}

@article {pmid41884362,
year = {2026},
author = {Koley, D},
title = {Probing the Inner World of Microbial Cities: Electrochemical Sensors for Characterizing Biofilm Chemical Microenvironments.},
journal = {Current opinion in electrochemistry},
volume = {57},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41884362},
issn = {2451-9103},
abstract = {Biofilms are structurally complex microbial communities whose function is dictated by steep chemical gradients within their microenvironment and the surrounding space outside the biofilm. Although traditional analytical methods provide either bulk or static structural information, they fail to capture real-time metabolic function in situ. Electrochemical sensors provide a powerful solution, offering label-free, quantitative measurements of key chemical species with high spatial and temporal resolution directly within and outside living biofilms. This review highlights recent advances in the design and application of electrochemical sensors for biofilm analysis. We critically discuss the use of core techniques: amperometry for tracking redox-active metabolites (e.g., O2, H2O2, phenazines), potentiometry for monitoring ion activity (e.g., pH, Ca[2+]), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy for assessing biofilm volume and interfacial processes. We also explore recent challenges in electrochemical sensor designs and discuss future perspectives on multimodal data collections that combine multiple techniques.},
}

@article {pmid41884516,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, B and Chen, Y and Hou, S and Liu, Z and Yang, Y and Li, T and Zhao, L and Zhang, H and Wei, H and Meng, L and Jing, X and Guan, H},
title = {Smart microenvironment-adaptive nanocatalytic hydrogel for sequential antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative therapy of biofilm-infected wounds.},
journal = {Bioactive materials},
volume = {62},
number = {},
pages = {342-362},
pmid = {41884516},
issn = {2452-199X},
abstract = {Biofilm-infected wounds remain a major clinical challenge, as biofilm infections and persistent inflammation hinder conventional therapies from dynamically adapting to the evolving wound microenvironment. Herein, a smart hydrogel dressing (HCOC) is successfully developed for programmed and pH-responsive therapy by integrating humic acid (HAs)-encapsulated ultrasmall mixed-valence copper nanozymes (Cu5.4O) into an oxidized alginate-carboxymethyl chitosan network. In the acidic biofilm-infected phase (pH < 6.5), the HAs shells aggregate, controllably releasing Cu5.4O to initiate chemodynamic therapy (CDT), while simultaneously enabling HAs-mediated photothermal therapy (PTT). This synergistic CDT/PTT achieves exceptional antibacterial efficacy, eradicating > 99.99% of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli and dispersing 87.46% of biofilms. As the wound pH rises post-infection (pH ≥ 7.0), HAs dissolves, liberating more Cu5.4O nanozymes, which switch to potent antioxidant modes-scavenging > 90% of reactive oxygen species-and promoting M2 macrophage polarization by suppressing NF-κB and activating Wnt/β-catenin signaling. In vivo, HCOC combined with NIR irradiation accelerates infected wound healing, achieving 91.65% closure within 7 days, significantly enhancing angiogenesis (∼90 CD31[+] cells/field), and boosting M2 macrophage infiltration (∼110 CD163[+] cells/field). This work establishes a paradigm-shifting platform for precision wound management through microenvironment-responsive sequential therapy.},
}

@article {pmid41884534,
year = {2026},
author = {Qiao, J and Wu, S and Fu, C and Zhao, Q and Gong, Y and Xu, L and Tang, D and Gao, Y and Luo, W},
title = {Perillaldehyde combined with domiphen: synergistic bactericidal and anti-biofilm activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1769865},
pmid = {41884534},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology ; *Escherichia coli/drug effects/physiology ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Animals ; Drug Synergism ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Microbial Viability/drug effects ; Larva/microbiology ; Moths/microbiology ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Biofilms formed by pathogenic bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli pose a significant threat to public health. Combination therapy has emerged as a promising strategy to combat bacterial infections and biofilm formation. In this study, the natural product perillaldehyde and the surfactant domiphen were evaluated for their ability to inhibit biofilm formation by these pathogenic strains.

METHODS: The antimicrobial activity of perillaldehyde and domiphen, alone and in combination, was assessed against S. aureus and E. coli strains. Synergism was determined by calculating the fractional inhibitory concentration index. Biofilm mass was evaluated using the crystal violet staining assay, and the viability of biofilm cells on stainless steel and polyethylene surfaces was examined via viable cell counting. Additionally, the therapeutic potential of the combination was further assessed using a Galleria mellonella larval infection model.

RESULTS: The combination of perillaldehyde and domiphen showed synergistic effects against both pathogenic strains, with a fractional inhibitory concentration index of less than 0.36. The combination of 1 μL/mL perillaldehyde and 1 μg/mL domiphen dispersed more than 53% of the biofilm mass in both S. aureus and E. coli strains. In addition, the combination reduced the total viable bacterial counts in biofilms on stainless steel and polyethylene surfaces by approximately 103 CFU/mL. The treatment also significantly improved the survival rate of G. mellonella larvae infected with the bacteria.

DISCUSSION: These results indicate that the novel combination of perillaldehyde and domiphen has the potential to decrease biofilm formation on various industrial material surfaces.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology
*Escherichia coli/drug effects/physiology
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Animals
Drug Synergism
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Microbial Viability/drug effects
Larva/microbiology
Moths/microbiology

@article {pmid41884580,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, B and Ma, K and Kong, F and Xue, T},
title = {RpoE mediates environmental stress tolerance and biofilm formation in foodborne Staphylococcus aureus.},
journal = {Current research in food science},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {101382},
pmid = {41884580},
issn = {2665-9271},
abstract = {Staphylococcus aureus(S. aureus)is a serious foodborne pathogen that is frequently found in food processing facilities like dairy farms. Despite its well-established function in dangerous microbes such as Streptococcus pneumoniae and Escherichia coli, the functional mechanisms of the σ factor encoded by rpoE in S. aureus remain poorly understood. S. aureus RMSA49 was used as the experimental strain in this investigation. This work examined the function of rpoE in foodborne S. aureus antibiotic susceptibility, biofilm formation, and environmental stress tolerance. Deletion of rpoE impaired tolerance to environmental stresses (acid, heat, desiccation, osmotic stress, H2O2). While tolerance to H2O2 has dropped by around 99%, resistance to acids, heat, and desiccation has decreased by about 50-60%. Additionally, it inhibits biofilm formation and increases antibiotic susceptibility (Biofilm reduction was approximately 65%). Using transcriptome analysis to determine the gene regulation mechanisms of rpoE in S. aureus. This work shows that rpoE plays a crucial role in antibiotic tolerance and environmental stress responses, offering a new possible target for the prevention and management of foodborne S. aureus. It provides a theoretical foundation for lowering the incidence of illnesses like food poisoning and mastitis brought on by the bacteria.},
}

@article {pmid41885023,
year = {2026},
author = {Kropp, GA and McMillian, CN and Mase, JD and Kandagiri, S and Nowak, ES and Schulz, MD},
title = {Recent developments in antimicrobial polymers for biofilm inhibition.},
journal = {Chemical communications (Cambridge, England)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1039/d5cc06617d},
pmid = {41885023},
issn = {1364-548X},
abstract = {Biofilm-associated infections continue to present a formidable clinical challenge, as surface-adhered microbial communities exhibit remarkable tolerance toward conventional antibiotics. Polymeric materials have emerged as a versatile platform for combating biofilms, offering chemical tunability and enabling diverse antimicrobial strategies. This feature review article highlights recent advances in polymeric materials designed to prevent biofilm-associated infections by resisting bacterial adhesion (passive inhibition) or exerting bactericidal effects (active inhibition). These approaches include antifouling surfaces, polymer-nanoparticle composites, and bioinspired materials. Particular attention is given to how polymer structure and functionality (e.g., hydrophobicity, charge, and network architecture) govern bacterial adhesion and viability at interfaces. Emerging glycomaterials are also discussed, where glycan motifs are integrated with nanoparticles or cationic domains to enhance biofilm penetration and antimicrobial efficacy. Collectively, these studies underscore the potential of polymeric materials to modulate microbe-surface interactions, thereby guiding the design of next-generation antibiofilm materials.},
}

@article {pmid41885142,
year = {2026},
author = {Singh, R and Khan, I and Sharma, R and Mishra, S and Pandey, LK},
title = {Understanding the impact of dust deposition and CO2 level on biofilm development causing biodeterioration of historic buildings and monuments in India.},
journal = {Biofouling},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-15},
doi = {10.1080/08927014.2026.2645567},
pmid = {41885142},
issn = {1029-2454},
abstract = {The deterioration of buildings and historic monuments due to phototrophic biofilms, dust, and carbon dioxide concentration is an increasingly significant global issue, but remains insufficiently studied. In this research, phototrophic biofilms were collected from nine sampling sites, which were categorized as control, moderately contaminated, and severely contaminated based on the air quality index and canopy cover. Severely contaminated sites showed higher temperatures, CO2 levels, and dust accumulation, but lower humidity. Cyanobacteria dominated all biofilm samples, followed by fungal hyphae and spores. Green algae and diatoms contributed minimally. Healthy diatom frustules decreased sharply with increasing contamination, from the control sites to severely contaminated sites. Regression analysis revealed significant positive correlations between cyanobacterial abundance and both CO2 levels and dust deposition, indicating that increased air pollutants promote the growth of cyanobacteria and diatoms in phototrophic biofilms, further highlighting their potential as a sensitive bioindicator of environmental contamination affecting cultural heritage sites.},
}

@article {pmid41886173,
year = {2026},
author = {Xu, KZ and Meng, D and Yin, LJ and Wang, M and Ding, ZW and Li, J},
title = {Combined use of methyl gallate and N-acyl homoserine lactonase YtnP to inhibit biofilm formation in Burkholderia thailandensis.},
journal = {Brazilian journal of microbiology : [publication of the Brazilian Society for Microbiology]},
volume = {57},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41886173},
issn = {1678-4405},
support = {82560694//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; XSTS2025179//Academic Enhancement Support Program of Hainan Medical University/ ; 242300420355//Natural Science Foundation of Henan Province/ ; 26B180010//Key Scientific Research Project for Higher Education of Henan Province/ ; YJS2025GZZ41//Postgraduate Education Reform and Quality Improvement Project of Henan Province/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41876024,
year = {2026},
author = {Nabil, Y and Atta, AH and Abd Elwahab, NH and Elshaarawy, RFM},
title = {Castor oil/ZnO-loaded quaternized chitosan nanocomposite with multiple antimicrobials, anti-biofilm and pro-healing functions for advanced wound dressings.},
journal = {International journal of biological macromolecules},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {151610},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2026.151610},
pmid = {41876024},
issn = {1879-0003},
abstract = {A quaternized chitosan-castor oil/Zinc oxide (QCCOZ) nanocomposite hydrogel was developed as an antibacterial and pro-healing wound dressing. The synergistic effect produced a positively charged (ζ = +38 mV) nanoformulation with high colloidal stability and superior encapsulation efficiencies of 89.9 and 80.5% for ZnO and CO, respectively. The successful quaternization and the loading of ZnO into the oil phase was confirmed by FTIR, XRD, SEM/TEM, and DLS techniques. The in vitro release profiles showed prolonged co-delivery of ZnO and castor oil over 72 h without burst effects and diffusional controlled release profiles for a prolonged wound dressing. QCCOZ demonstrated broad-spectrum anti-bacterial and antifungal activity, higher inhibition zones with 2-8-fold lower MIC/MBC values compared to pristine QCS, ZnO or castor oil against Pseudomonas spp., B. subtilis, and C. albicans and disrupted their biofilms. Cytocompatibility studies with human dermal fibroblasts and A375 cells showed >85% viability at therapeutic concentrations, and scratch wound assays confirmed enhanced wound closure where QCCOZ-treated fibroblast monolayers achieved 90% closing compared to 55% within 24 h for controls. Results indicate QCCOZ nanocomposite possesses antimicrobial potency with cytocompatibility and pro-healing functionality, representing a potential advanced hydrogel dressing for infected wounds.},
}

@article {pmid41876886,
year = {2026},
author = {Ragab, AR and El-Sheakh, AR and Shafik, SM},
title = {Environmental and chemical modulation of Staphylococcus aureus Newman biofilm formation.},
journal = {Applied microbiology and biotechnology},
volume = {110},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41876886},
issn = {1432-0614},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; *Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology/genetics/growth & development ; Hydrogen Peroxide/pharmacology ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration ; Oxidative Stress ; Humans ; Sodium Chloride/pharmacology/metabolism ; Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial/drug effects ; Biomass ; Serum ; Osmotic Pressure ; },
abstract = {Staphylococcus aureus biofilm formation enhances survival on host tissues and medical devices. This study tested how oxidative stress (H2O2), pH (5-9), NaCl (0-10%), and human serum (5-50%) affect the Newman strain biofilm and key genes (icaA, icaD, sarA). Biofilm was quantified by crystal violet assays and Lowry protein assay methods, and gene expression was measured by quantitative real-time PCR. Biofilm biomass was quantified using crystal violet staining and Lowry protein assays under various environmental conditions. Statistical significance was determined using ANOVA with post hoc analysis (p < 0.001). Hydrogen peroxide induced a dose-dependent reduction in biomass, with significant repression of icaA, icaD, and sarA expression at 3% H2O2 (≤ 22.8%, p < 0.001). Similarly, deviations from neutral pH markedly impaired biofilm formation, with acidic (pH 5) and alkaline (pH 9) conditions reducing biomass by 34.6% and 41.7%, respectively, accompanied by strong downregulation of biofilm-associated genes (p < 0.001). In contrast, NaCl exerted a biphasic effect: mild osmotic stress (1.25% and 5%) enhanced biofilm biomass (up to 154.2%) in the case of crystal violet assays and at 5% biomass increased to 130.8 ± 10.8*%; at 10%, it was 103.5 ± 6.1% (no significant change) in the case of protein quantification, and gene expression (icaA 160.55%, icaD 168.18%, sarA 149.8%, p < 0.001), whereas higher concentrations (≥ 10%) restored expression to near-control levels. Serum exposure produced a threshold-dependent response, with low concentrations (5-10%) slightly enhancing gene expression (~ 110%), while higher concentrations (20-50%) significantly repressed both biomass and transcription, with profound inhibition found at 50% (icaA 12.94%, icaD 10.88%, sarA 12.79%, p < 0.001). In addition, confocal laser scanning microscopy technique is used as a confirmatory step for qualitative determination of the effects of both various saline and serum concentrations on the biofilm formation, which induces similar results. Environmental stressors modulate S. aureus biofilm formation in a dose-dependent manner via regulation of the ica operon and sarA, offering molecular insights that may guide strategies for biofilm control. KEY POINTS: • Oxidative stress (H2O2) dose-dependently inhibits S. aureus Newman biofilms. • Mild NaCl levels enhance biofilm formation via upregulation of ica and sarA. • High serum concentrations (≥ 20%) suppress biofilm biomass and gene expression.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
*Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology/genetics/growth & development
Hydrogen Peroxide/pharmacology
Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
Oxidative Stress
Humans
Sodium Chloride/pharmacology/metabolism
Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial/drug effects
Biomass
Serum
Osmotic Pressure

@article {pmid41877564,
year = {2026},
author = {},
title = {Correction to "Nano Copper-Chelate Triggers Cuproptosis-Like Death in Fungi and Synergizes With Microneedles for Enhanced Biofilm Removal".},
journal = {Advanced healthcare materials},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e71093},
doi = {10.1002/adhm.71093},
pmid = {41877564},
issn = {2192-2659},
}

@article {pmid41878260,
year = {2026},
author = {Jiang, Q and Lin, J},
title = {Candida albicans metabolic adaptation gene SFU1 regulates dual-species biofilm with Streptococcus mutans.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1795742},
pmid = {41878260},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Streptococcus mutans/physiology/growth & development/genetics ; *Candida albicans/genetics/growth & development/metabolism/physiology ; Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism ; Gene Expression Regulation, Fungal ; *Fungal Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Gene Deletion ; Lactic Acid/metabolism ; Virulence ; Hyphae/growth & development ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To investigate the role of the iron-sulfur cluster assembly factor SFU1 in the virulence-related traits of Candida albicans, particularly its function within the cariogenic cross-kingdom biofilm formed with Streptococcus mutans.

METHODS: The SFU1 deletion and complemented strains were constructed. Their effects on growth, acid production, morphogenesis, metabolic activity, ROS accumulation, and biofilm formation of C. albicans were evaluated. The roles of SFU1 in the development, architecture, and spatial distribution of the C. albicans-S. mutans dual-species biofilm were further analyzed. The cariogenic metabolite profile and matrix synthesis were assessed by measuring lactic acid production, lactate dehydrogenase activity, extracellular polysaccharide content, and expression levels of related genes.

RESULTS: The SFU1 deletion strain exhibited inhibited hyphal formation, reduced metabolic activity, elevated intracellular ROS levels, impaired biofilm formation, and downregulated expression of hyphal and adhesion-related genes (ALS3, EFG1, UME6). In the cross-kingdom biofilm, the sfu1/sfu1 mutant failed to form hyphal networks, resulting in loose biofilm architecture, reduced biomass, and poor integration of S. mutans. Furthermore, the dual-species biofilm showed significantly decreased lactic acid and EPS production. Co-cultured S. mutans exhibited downregulated expression of EPS synthesis genes (gtfB/C) and upregulated expression of EPS degradation genes (dexA/B).

CONCLUSION: SFU1 modulates hyphal development, redox homeostasis, and biofilm formation in C. albicans, thereby profoundly affecting its pathogenic synergy with S. mutans. SFU1 deletion leads to disrupted architecture and attenuated cariogenic virulence of the dual-species biofilm. This study reveals the potential value of targeting fundamental metabolic pathways in C. albicans to interfere with the cariogenicity of cross-kingdom biofilms, and provides a novel perspective for the prevention and therapy of dental caries.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Streptococcus mutans/physiology/growth & development/genetics
*Candida albicans/genetics/growth & development/metabolism/physiology
Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism
Gene Expression Regulation, Fungal
*Fungal Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Gene Deletion
Lactic Acid/metabolism
Virulence
Hyphae/growth & development

@article {pmid41878517,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, MM and Bai, J and Tian, ZY and Zheng, TT and Boekhout, T and Wang, QM},
title = {Oxymatrine ameliorates Malassezia overgrowth-induced psoriasis in vivo and in vitro by inhibiting the biofilm formation and inflammation.},
journal = {Mycology},
volume = {17},
number = {1},
pages = {2511903},
pmid = {41878517},
issn = {2150-1203},
abstract = {The basidiomycetous yeast genus Malassezia is involved in the exacerbation of psoriatic lesions. Oxymatrine (OMT), a quinoline alkaloid derived from Sophora flavescens, exhibits diverse pharmacological properties, including anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antiviral effects. However, whether OMT exerts therapeutic effects against Malassezia-associated psoriasis remains unclear. This work aimed to study the antifungal and antibiofilm effect of OMT on several Malassezia species and the therapeutic benefits of OMT on Malassezia-associated psoriasis in vivo and in vitro. Treatment with 0.64 mg/mL OMT showed decreasing levels of biofilm formation of Malassezia species. Histomorphology and functional analyses demonstrated that OMT treatment effectively alleviated Malassezia-induced psoriatic lesions and repaired skin barrier integrity. Furthermore, the results demonstrate that OMT significantly reduced the levels of malonaldehyde, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-17, IL-23, and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α while promoting the activation of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione. OMT also reversed Malassezia-associated apoptosis and decreased the expression of the STAT3/Nf-κB/p-Nf-κB signalling pathway. Additionally, OMT reduces the nuclear expression of AhR/Nrf2 in Malassezia-stimulated HaCaT cells. In summary, this study demonstrated that OMT inhibits Malassezia biofilm formation and ameliorates Malassezia-associated psoriasis by modulating oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis via STAT3/Nf-κB and AhR/Nrf2 pathways.},
}

@article {pmid41879017,
year = {2026},
author = {Zschach, D and Neujahr, F and Auschill, P and Sculean, A and Heumann, C and Arweiler, NB},
title = {In Vitro Study to Evaluate the Antibacterial Effect of an Oxidising Agent on Ex Vivo Biofilm.},
journal = {Oral health & preventive dentistry},
volume = {24},
number = {},
pages = {227-231},
doi = {10.3290/j.ohpd.c_2582},
pmid = {41879017},
issn = {1757-9996},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; Humans ; *Mouthwashes/pharmacology ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Chlorhexidine/pharmacology ; In Vitro Techniques ; *Oxidants/pharmacology ; Adult ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE: To evaluate the antibacterial effect of a mouthrinse and a fluid, both containing an oxidising agent, compared with saline (negative control) and chlorhexidine (0.2%, positive control), after application to 24-hour-old biofilms.

METHODS AND MATERIALS: After 24 participants had refrained from all oral hygiene measures for a period of 24 h, a voluminous biofilm sample was taken from the buccal sites of molars, smeared on a microscope slide and divided into four parts. The four samples were each coated with 5 µl of a mouth rinse solution (BMmr, blueM mouth rinsing solution, NL), a fluid (BMfl, blueM oxygen fluid, NL), chlorhexidine 0.2% (CHX) and NaCl. After 1 min, excess liquid was suctioned off, and biofilms were stained with vital fluorescent dyes for 2 min. The stained samples were covered with a cover slip, and four pictures per sample were recorded with a digital camera under the fluorescence microscope. A special image analysis program used the red and green pixels to calculate the percentage of metabolically active bacteria in the entire biofilm sample (dental biofilm vitality, VF%).

RESULTS: Both BMmr and BMfl reduced VF to 18.46 ± 9.59% and 19.53 ± 12.17% significantly (P 0.001) compared to NaCl, with values of 59.88 ± 10.14%. CHX revealed values of 14.35 ± 6.56%, values that were not significantly lower (P 0.001) than the other active solutions.

CONCLUSION: Both BMmr and BMfl demonstrated a statistically significant antibacterial effect compared to NaCl and showed a similar effect to CHX. However, clinical trials are needed to evaluate the efficacy of both products containing oxidising agents when used as oral rinses.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
Humans
*Mouthwashes/pharmacology
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Chlorhexidine/pharmacology
In Vitro Techniques
*Oxidants/pharmacology
Adult

@article {pmid41879843,
year = {2026},
author = {Saleem, M and Khan, MS and Ahmad, I and Qattan, MY and Alharbi, MS},
title = {Distribution, antibacterial resistance, biofilm formation, and risk factors associated with carbapenemase-producing gram-negative bacteria in ICU patients.},
journal = {Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's archives of pharmacology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41879843},
issn = {1432-1912},
support = {R.G.P.2/503/46//Deanship of Research and Graduate Studies at King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia/ ; },
abstract = {Gram-negative bacteria are major contributors to intensive care unit (ICU)-acquired infections, further complicated by biofilm formation, multidrug resistance (MDR), and carbapenemase production. This study, conducted in Uttar Pradesh, India (2022-2023), assessed the distribution, antibacterial resistance profiles, biofilm formation, and risk factors associated with carbapenemase-producing organisms (CPOs) in ICU patients. A total of 321 g-negative bacteria (GNB) isolates were recovered from 311 clinical samples. Bacterial identification, antibacterial susceptibility testing, biofilm detection, and PCR-based carbapenemase gene analysis were performed. Clinical and demographic variables were evaluated to determine factors associated with CPO infections and outcomes. The predominant pathogens were Pseudomonas aeruginosa 109 (34%), Klebsiella pneumoniae 77 (24%), and Escherichia coli 53 (16.5%). High resistance rates were observed for β-lactams and fluoroquinolones, whereas carbapenems, aminoglycosides, and polymyxins remained largely effective. Biofilm formation was noted in Acinetobacter baumannii 23 (74.2%), K. pneumoniae 56 (72.7%), P. aeruginosa 74 (67.9%), and E. coli 34 (64.1%). The most prevalent carbapenemase genes were blaNDM-1 28 (45.9%), blaOXA-48 14 (23%), and blaVIM 7 (11.5%), with co-existence in 13 isolates (21.3%). CPO infections occurred in 61/311 patients (19.6%). Significant risk factors included male sex (42; 68.9%), age > 40 years (43; 70.5%), ICU stay > 7 days (46; 75.4%), urinary catheterization (41; 67.2%), venous catheterization (37; 60.7%), and mechanical ventilation (40; 65.6%). Mortality was higher in CPO-infected patients (23; 37.7%) than in non-CPO cases (52; 20.8%). Biofilm formation and carbapenemase genes are key drivers of MDR-GNB in ICUs. CPO infections are strongly linked to invasive device use and increased mortality, underscoring the need for robust antibacterial stewardship and infection control practices.},
}

@article {pmid41879899,
year = {2026},
author = {Mohan, N and Sritha, KS and Jose, J and Menachery, SJ and Mohan, CC and Isshack, AT and Gopinathan, H and Koyyappurath, S and Abhitha, K and Dalvi, YB and Bhat, SG},
title = {Characterization, genomic insights and anti-biofilm potential of phage vB_PaeM_PKMS3, a lytic Pbunavirus capable of infecting clinical Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates.},
journal = {Antonie van Leeuwenhoek},
volume = {119},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {41879899},
issn = {1572-9699},
support = {TIG 2.0//Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan/ ; DST-PURSE, DST-FIST//Department of Science and Technology, Ministry of Science and Technology, India/ ; },
mesh = {*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/virology/physiology/isolation & purification ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; Genome, Viral ; *Pseudomonas Phages/genetics/physiology/isolation & purification/classification ; Animals ; Pseudomonas Infections/microbiology/therapy ; Host Specificity ; *Myoviridae/genetics/isolation & purification/physiology ; Zebrafish ; Phage Therapy ; Genomics ; Humans ; },
abstract = {Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a leading opportunistic nosocomial pathogen, is a major contributor to antimicrobial resistance (AMR)-associated morbidity and mortality. The global surge of multidrug-resistant (MDR) P. aeruginosa strains necessitates the use of reliable alternative therapeutic strategies like phage therapy. Here, we report the isolation and comprehensive characterisation of a myoviral bacteriophage, vB_PaeM_PKMS3, effective against multiple clinical P. aeruginosa isolates. The phage exhibited potent lytic activity, a relatively broad intra-species host range, and stability across diverse temperature and pH conditions. One-step growth curve analysis revealed a short 20-min latent period, a rapid 10-min rise period, and a moderately high burst size of ~ 82 PFU/infected cell. vB_PaeM_PKMS3 showed excellent in vitro cytocompatibility and was well tolerated in the Danio rerio model during safety assessment. The exceptional in vitro biofilm-degradative ability of the phage, exemplified by a three-fold reduction in established biofilms, was corroborated by fluorescent and electron microscopic analyses. Genome sequencing revealed that phage vB_PaeM_PKMS3 possesses a linear dsDNA genome of ≈66 kbp, belongs to the Pbunavirus genus, and encodes several antibacterial proteins, including holin, depolymerase, and endolysin, while lacking virulence, lysogenic, and antibiotic resistance genes. Collectively, these results identify vB_PaeM_PKMS3 as a safe and favourable candidate for potential inclusion in phage cocktail formulations targeting MDR P. aeruginosa. This work also highlights the importance of systematic characterisation of locally isolated bacteriophages, particularly in regions burdened by drug-resistant infections.},
}

*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/virology/physiology/isolation & purification
*Biofilms/growth & development
Genome, Viral
*Pseudomonas Phages/genetics/physiology/isolation & purification/classification
Animals
Pseudomonas Infections/microbiology/therapy
Host Specificity
*Myoviridae/genetics/isolation & purification/physiology
Zebrafish
Phage Therapy
Genomics
Humans

@article {pmid41880855,
year = {2026},
author = {Bhattacharya, S and Kolandhasamy, P and Mandal, A and Rajaram, R and Darbha, GK},
title = {Biofilm-mediated surface depolymerization of multiple synthetic polymers by mangrove-derived bacterial consortia.},
journal = {Journal of hazardous materials},
volume = {507},
number = {},
pages = {141847},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.141847},
pmid = {41880855},
issn = {1873-3336},
abstract = {Plastic pollution persists across marine and terrestrial ecosystems largely due to the intrinsic resistance of synthetic polymers to biological attack. Despite growing evidence of microbial interactions with plastics, the mechanistic basis and extent of biofilm-mediated polymer deterioration remain poorly constrained. Here, we investigate the capacity of mangrove-derived bacterial consortia to initiate early-stage degradation of major synthetic polymers (PET, PS, LDPE, HDPE, and PP) under controlled laboratory conditions. Over a 120-day incubation under controlled laboratory conditions, consortium-exposed polymers exhibited differential mass loss, surface erosion, and mechanical weakening, with PS 20.14% and PET 8.33% showing the highest susceptibility. Integrated surface and molecular analyses using confocal laser scanning microscopy, atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy revealed extensive biofilm formation, nanoscale pitting, oxidative functional group incorporation, and localized polymer chain modification. Tensile testing further demonstrated reductions in mechanical integrity consistent with surface-driven structural weakening. First-order kinetic fits were applied to gravimetric data to provide comparative, non-predictive estimates of degradation dynamics across polymer types. This study provides quantitative and mechanistic evidence that environmentally adapted microbial consortia can promote biofilm-driven surface depolymerization, highlighting mangrove sediments as underexplored reservoirs of plastic-interacting microbes. These findings advance current understanding of early-stage plastic biodegradation and inform future strategies for biotechnological intervention in microplastic-polluted environments.},
}

@article {pmid41871690,
year = {2026},
author = {Abdulsattar, BO and Abdulsattar, JO and Abdulmunem, OM and Abbas, BF and Neif, OA and Mohammad, MA},
title = {Down-regulation of biofilm formation genes expression on some gram-negative bacteria by Fumaria officinalis extract.},
journal = {Journal of microbiological methods},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {107472},
doi = {10.1016/j.mimet.2026.107472},
pmid = {41871690},
issn = {1872-8359},
abstract = {The rapid rise of antibiotic-resistant Gram-negative pathogens underscores the critical need for alternative therapeutic approaches. Biofilm formation contributes significantly to pathogen resistance and persistence. This study aimed to investigate the antibacterial and anti-biofilm activity of Fumaria officinalis (FO) extract prepared via a green ionic liquid-based extraction method, evaluating its effect on type 1 fimbriae (fimH) and outer membrane protein L (oprL) gene expression. A heat-assisted extraction method is designed and presented in the research with the objective of obtaining valuable biochemical from natural FO using the green solvent 1-butyl-3methylimidazolium chloride (BMIMCl). Quantitative spectrophotometric assays showed high concentrations of secondary metabolites including total phenols (38.84 ± 1.71 mg GAE/g), total flavonoids (36.80 ± 4.51 mg QE/g), and total terpenoids (36.52 ± 7.3 mg OAE/g). Non-volatile bioactive markers, including fumaric, caffeic, and ferulic acids, alongside flavonoids and twenty-five volatile bioactive compounds were identified via HPLC and Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. Biofilm inhibition was quantified via the microtiter plate method and antibacterial activity was evaluated by agar well diffusion against biofilm-producing isolates; minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) assays were also performed. The effect of FO extract on the expression of the fimH and OprL genes was evaluated using the quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) technique. Out of 14 isolates, only three were found to be strong biofilm producers, while 4 isolates were shown to be moderate biofilm producers. The extract exhibited higher inhibitory activity against moderate biofilm-producing isolates, with MIC values 265 and 512 μg/ml. qRT-PCR demonstrated down-regulation of fimH and OprL expression in treated isolates. FO extract obtained via a sustainable green process showed antibacterial and anti-biofilm properties, partly via suppression of fimH and OprL genes expression; therefore, this study records the first green and sustainable method for FO plant biochemical compound extraction. Additionally, this work shows the inhibitory effect of FO on the two fundamental genes responsible for biofilm formation and bacterial colonization, aiming to balance the ecosystem and human well-being.},
}

@article {pmid41874431,
year = {2026},
author = {Nguyen, B and Soo, MW and Tierney, GA and Amorelli, EA and Herlihy, AL and Godoy, VG},
title = {A new component of the DNA damage response biofilm axis in Acinetobacter baumannii is a TetR-like DNA damage response regulator.},
journal = {FEMS microbiology letters},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/femsle/fnag032},
pmid = {41874431},
issn = {1574-6968},
abstract = {Acinetobacter baumannii is an opportunistic pathogen that employs a variety of strategies to evade antibiotic treatment which include forming biofilms, which are protective bacterial multicellular communities. Previously, we demonstrated RecA, a key component of the DNA damage response (DDR), governs biofilms with RecA levels inversely correlated with biofilm formation, such that low RecA levels results in high biofilms. In this study, we identify another DDR regulator, EppR-a recently characterized TetR-family transcriptional repressor-as also playing a role in biofilms. We show that an eppR-deficient strain is unable to form biofilms due to reduced expression of genes encoding adhesive pili. This occurs because EppR represses recA expression. Furthermore, we detected in biofilms an EppR-RecA complex that might lower intracellular RecA levels. Our findings provide further insight into both RecA regulation and the link between the DDR and biofilms.},
}

@article {pmid41865820,
year = {2026},
author = {Luo, Z and Li, W and Zhang, N and Lei, M and Chen, B and Li, Y and Liu, Q and Zhang, M and Lv, S and Cheng, F and Li, J},
title = {A novel continuous-flow three-stage tandem system based on partial nitrification/Anammox granular sludge and partial denitrification-Anammox biofilm (PN/A-PD-A) for advanced nitrogen removal from mature landfill leachate.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {134474},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.134474},
pmid = {41865820},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {A novel continuous-flow system coupling partial nitrification/Anammox (PN/A), partial denitrification (PD), and Anammox (Amx) biofilm reactors was developed (PN/A-PD-A) to treat mature landfill leachate (MLL). To maximize synergy, the NH4[+]-N removal in the PN/A reactor was regulated based on the NO2[-]-N accumulation ratio (NAR) in the PD stage, ensuring optimal substrate stoichiometry for the final Amx polishing step. Over 174 days of operation, the system achieved a superior total nitrogen removal efficiency (TNRE) of 98.30 ± 0.14% (effluent TN: 21.80 ± 1.71 mg/L). The PN/A granular sludge, enriched with Candidatus_Kuenenia (5.87%) and Nitrosomonas (9.73%), demonstrated high adaptability to MLL characteristics and contributed to 83.51% of the TN removal. In the PD stage, the dominant genus Thauera (43.91%) facilitated efficient NAR (82.86 ± 1.61%) at a limited COD/NO3[-]-N ratio of 2.32 ± 0.02. The Anammox biofilm (Candidatus_Kuenenia, 27.80%) in the Amx reactor contributed to 13.10% of TN removal, ensuring to meet the MLL discharge standard. Kinetic and metagenomic analyses confirmed that distinct shifts from complete to partial nitrification (and denitrification) in enzymes activity and gene abundance under chronic MLL stress underpinned the robust NO2[-]-N accumulation in both PN/A and PD reactors. Notably, compared to conventional nitrification-denitrification process, the PN/A-PD-A system significantly reduced oxygen demand (60.18%), exogenous organic carbon consumption (91.61%), sludge yield (83.72%), and CO2 emission (94.66%), demonstrating a sustainable pathway for low-carbon nitrogen removal from high-strength wastewater.},
}

@article {pmid41867910,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, K and Skivens, S and Green, JEF and Tam, AKY and Pentland, DR and Baumann, H and Gourlay, CW and Binder, BJ and Laissue, PP},
title = {A quantitative framework for multiscale analysis of Candida albicans biofilm development.},
journal = {Biofilm},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {100356},
pmid = {41867910},
issn = {2590-2075},
abstract = {Candida albicans is an opportunistic fungal pathogen of significant biomedical concern. Its ability to colonize abiotic surfaces of clinical devices - such as catheters and airway management systems - can result in life-threatening sepsis, especially in immunocompromised patients. A deeper understanding of C. albicans biofilm development under different environmental conditions is essential for improving antifungal treatments. In this study, we develop and validate a multiscale quantitative framework for analysing biofilm development. We examine C. albicans biofilm formation using live fluorescence microscopy across multiple scales and modalities, and introduce new quantification approaches. High-magnification tracking of hyphal tips reveals that hyphal elongation occurs intermittently rather than continuously. Using a new automated tracking approach, we show that hyphal emergence is initially rapid, slows down after approximately two hours, then speeds up again. At lower magnifications, area coverage across large fields of view proves to be a robust and scalable metric. It is strongly influenced by seed density and extends analysis to later stages of growth. Elevated carbon dioxide levels significantly accelerate area coverage, promoting rapid biofilm expansion. Blue light illumination reduces C. albicans growth in a dose-dependent manner. Light-sheet imaging enables the long-term capture of vertical biofilm growth, complementing widefield-based approaches. We introduce logistic model parameters to effectively quantify the dynamics of surface area growth. The methodologies presented here are well-suited for high-content screening applications aimed at identifying compounds that inhibit or suppress fungal biofilm formation under clinically relevant conditions.},
}

@article {pmid41868023,
year = {2026},
author = {Zubair, M and Alshadfan, H and Alatawy, R and Mesaik, MAH},
title = {Antimicrobial and Anti-Biofilm Properties of Ma'in Hot Springs Targeting Bacteria Isolated from Diabetic Foot Ulcers.},
journal = {Infection and drug resistance},
volume = {19},
number = {},
pages = {544236},
pmid = {41868023},
issn = {1178-6973},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are a serious complication of diabetes, which is worsened by biofilm-forming bacterial infections that can contribute to antibiotic resistance and delayed wound healing. This study explores the antimicrobial and anti-biofilm properties of Ma'in Hot Springs Water (MHSW) against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa which are associated with DFU.

METHODS: The chemical composition of MHSW was determined using LC-MS, UV-Vis spectroscopy, and heavy metal profiling. Antimicrobial efficacy was determined through minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) determination, bacterial growth kinetics, and biofilm inhibition assays.

RESULTS: The results demonstrated a dose-dependent antibacterial effect. Biofilm formation, exopolysaccharide production, and bacterial adhesion were reduced in treated samples. Moreover, MHSW disrupted virulence factors such as plasma coagulation and metallo-β-lactamase production. It was also found to be non-cytotoxic.

DISCUSSION: These findings demonstrate the potential of MHSW as an alternative or adjunctive treatment for DFU infections. However, the presence of heavy metals exceeding safety limits requires further investigation to determine their optimal concentration for clinical usage.},
}

@article {pmid41868089,
year = {2026},
author = {Liao, Y and Li, X and Sethupathy, S and Zhong, L and Cheng, X and Wang, F and Ding, Z and Hao, C and Ye, L and Li, Y and Dar, OI and Wang, M},
title = {Dihydromyricetin attenuates biofilm formation and virulence in Streptococcus mutans, the key pathogen underlying dental caries.},
journal = {Journal of oral microbiology},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {2645305},
pmid = {41868089},
issn = {2000-2297},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Streptococcus mutans is a primary pathogen linked to dental caries. This study evaluated the effects of dihydromyricetin (DHM), a flavonoid from Ampelopsis grossedentata, on the biofilm formation and virulence of S. mutans UA159 and explored the underlying mechanisms.

METHODS: Antibacterial activity was determined by minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and growth assays. Biofilm formation, metabolic activity and viable counts were assessed using crystal violet staining, MTT and CFU assays. Biofilm architecture was examined by electron and confocal microscopy. Acid production, extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) synthesis, adhesion and aggregation were evaluated. Expression of virulence genes (gtfB, gtfC and spaP) and the quorum sensing gene luxS was analyzed by RT-qPCR.

RESULTS: DHM showed an MIC of 250 μg/mL and significantly inhibited biofilm formation, EPS synthesis, acid production, adhesion and aggregation. Biofilm structure was disrupted and viable cell counts were reduced. DHM markedly downregulated virulence-associated and quorum sensing-related genes.

CONCLUSION: DHM suppresses biofilm formation and cariogenic virulence of S. mutans, partly through the modulation of quorum sensing, indicating its potential as a natural anticariogenic agent.},
}

@article {pmid41868125,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, S and Zhang, H and Zheng, X and Mou, X and Wu, Z and Zou, L and Shou, K and Liu, X},
title = {Shikonin inhibits MRSA biofilm formation to alleviate periprosthetic joint infection.},
journal = {Frontiers in pharmacology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1739888},
pmid = {41868125},
issn = {1663-9812},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To alleviate periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), shikonin (SKN) had been used to intervene the biofilm formation of MRSA in vivo and in vitro, which provides theoretical support and practical foundation for SKN as a novel drug against drug-resistant bacterial infection.

METHODS: The rat model of periprosthetic joint infection was established, utilizing techniques such as scanning electron microscopy and pathology test to evaluate the MRSA inhibitory of bacterial load and biofilm formation effects of SKN. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) experiments were conducted to assess the antibacterial activity of SKN. The crystal violet staining method was employed to evaluate the effects of SKN on MRSA biofilm formation and eradication. Transcriptomic and amino acid metabolomics analyses were used to investigate the mechanism of SKN inhibition in MRSA biofilm formation. Total thiol detection was used to assess the impact of SKN on the intracellular cysteine levels in MRSA. Finally, MIC and crystal violet staining were used to evaluate the antibacterial effects and biofilm eradication efficacy of SKN against clinical MRSA strains.

RESULTS: In vivo experimental results demonstrated that high doses of SKN significantly reduced the biofilm formation in MRSA PJI in rats, improved local inflammatory responses, and promoted tissue repair. Observations using scanning electron microscopy confirmed that SKN effectively inhibited the formation of biofilms on implant surface. MIC experiments revealed that the lowest inhibitory concentration of SKN was 70 μM, indicating significant antibacterial activity, although no direct bactericidal effects were observed. Results of crystal violet staining showed that SKN could significantly inhibit biofilm formation of MRSA at sublethal concentrations and exhibited efficacy of biofilm removal. Transcriptomic and acid amino metabolomic analyses prompted that the inhibition of MRSA biofilm formation by SKN might be related to regulate the cysteine metabolism in MRSA. Total thiol detection was used to validate the omics findings in vitro. Finally, SKN intervention in MRSA clinical strains showed that the SKN could inhibit MRSA clinical strains and remove biofilm.

CONCLUSION: SKN inhibits MRSA by suppressing biofilm formation, effectively alleviating periprosthetic joint infection by MRSA, and the mechanism of SKN antibacterial activity may be related to regulate the cysteine metabolism in MRSA.},
}

@article {pmid41869518,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, J and Wu, R},
title = {Intraoperative sampling for postoperative metagenomic next-generation sequencing to guide biofilm-targeted therapy for Cutibacterium acnes infective endocarditis complicated by ruptured sinus of Valsalva aneurysm: a case report.},
journal = {Frontiers in cardiovascular medicine},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1707117},
pmid = {41869518},
issn = {2297-055X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Cutibacterium acnes is an easily overlooked pathogen in infective endocarditis (IE) due to its slow growth, propensity for biofilm formation, and high rate of culture-negative results. When complicated by structural heart disease such as a ruptured sinus of Valsalva aneurysm (RSVA), its indolent course can lead to severe hemodynamic compromise.

CASE SUMMARY: A 35-year-old male with a known ventricular septal defect (VSD) and unruptured aortic sinus aneurysm presented with persistent fever and progressive heart failure (NYHA class IV). Echocardiography revealed a ruptured right coronary sinus of Valsalva aneurysm (RCSVA) into the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) with a large vegetation. Blood cultures were negative. After 6 days of ineffective empirical antibiotic therapy, emergency surgery was performed to resect the aneurysm and vegetation and repair the cardiac structures. Intraoperatively, a vegetation sample was collected for metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS). Postoperatively, mNGS identified Cutibacterium acnes with high sequence reads (1,284) and coverage (47.62%), enabling a definitive diagnosis. Pathology confirmed microcolonies and necrotic inflammation. The antibiotic regimen was switched to a regimen with potential activity against biofilms with oral doxycycline and intravenous clindamycin for 6 weeks. The patient's inflammatory markers normalized, and cardiac function recovered to NYHA class I, with no recurrence at 12-month follow-up.

CONCLUSION: This case highlights the diagnostic synergy of intraoperative histopathology and mNGS for pathogen identification, underscores the rationale for biofilm-conscious adjuvant therapy, and reaffirms the crucial role of early surgical debridement and repair in achieving cure.},
}

@article {pmid41869957,
year = {2026},
author = {Vijaya Prabhu, S and Suman, S and Chellapandi, A and Baskaradoss, P and Padma Priya, S and Pandurangan, T and Ayyanar, M and Murugesan, R and Srinivasan, P},
title = {Targeting Quorum Sensing LsrR Protein in E. coli: A Computational Approach to Screen the Plant Bioactive Compounds as Inhibitors of Biofilm Formation in Urinary Tract Infections.},
journal = {Assay and drug development technologies},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1540658X261429261},
doi = {10.1177/1540658X261429261},
pmid = {41869957},
issn = {1557-8127},
abstract = {Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Escherichia coli, driven by biofilm formation and quorum sensing (QS), presents a significant challenge in combating infections, particularly urinary tract infections. This study explored the potential of plant bioactive compounds to inhibit LsrR, a key transcriptional regulator of the QS system, in E. coli. The active site of LsrR was identified using the Sitemap module, which demonstrated high druggability, with a D-score of 0.987. Structure-based virtual screening was used to identify plant-derived inhibitors, followed by docking, binding free energy calculations, and induced-fit docking to evaluate ligand interactions and stability. Chebulinic acid, rutin, and vicine have emerged as potent inhibitors with better docking scores and multiple protein-ligand interactions. Molecular dynamics simulations confirmed the stability of these complexes, highlighting their potential to disrupt QS pathways and inhibit bacterial biofilm formation. These findings suggest that plant bioactive compounds are promising novel therapeutic agents for mitigating AMR in E. coli by targeting LsrR.},
}

@article {pmid41870676,
year = {2026},
author = {Božac, E and Žučko, J and Braut, A and Špalj, S and Peršić Bukmir, R and Toplak, N and Hladnik, M and Vitezić, BM},
title = {Supragingival dental biofilm microbiomes of tobacco heating system smokers, cigarette smokers and non-smokers.},
journal = {Clinical oral investigations},
volume = {30},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {41870676},
issn = {1436-3771},
mesh = {Humans ; *Biofilms ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Male ; Female ; Adult ; *Microbiota ; *Smokers ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S ; *Non-Smokers ; Middle Aged ; *Gingiva/microbiology ; DNA, Bacterial ; Heating ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: The study compared the bacterial composition of supragingival dental biofilm (SDB) among smokers and non-smokers (NS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 60 subjects allocated into three groups: tobacco heating system smokers (THSS), cigarette smokers (CS) and NS. SDB samples were collected, and bacterial DNA was extracted and prepared for next generation sequencing of the 16s rRNA gene hypervariable regions. Bioinformatic pipelines were applied to assess microbial diversity and taxonomic composition.

RESULTS: No significant differences were observed in alpha diversity (Observed taxa and Shannon index) or beta diversity (Bray-Curtis index) among groups. In contrast, significant differences in microbiome bacterial composition were identified across multiple taxonomic levels. At the genus level, Alysiella (p = 0.016) and Propionibacterium (p = 0.025) were most abundant in THSS, whereas Actinobaculum (p = 0.004), Avibacterium (p = 0.015) and Haemophilus (p = 0.030) predominated in NS. At the species level: Alysiella filiformis (p = 0.006) and Streptococcus thermophilus (p = 0.025) were most abundant in THSS, Streptococcus lactarius (p = 0.05) in CS, and Prevotella multiformis (p = 0.016) and Lactobacillus salivarius (p = 0.018) in NS group.

CONCLUSIONS: Distinct differences in bacterial composition of SDB were observed among THSS, CS and NS. The increased abundance of anaerobic bacteria with cariogenic potential in THSS and CS suggests a more dysbiotic profile and increased pathogenic potential compared to NS.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Variations in SDB bacterial composition may influence the pathological potential of dental biofilms in smokers and non-smokers.},
}

Humans
*Biofilms
Cross-Sectional Studies
Male
Female
Adult
*Microbiota
*Smokers
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S
*Non-Smokers
Middle Aged
*Gingiva/microbiology
DNA, Bacterial
Heating

@article {pmid41870810,
year = {2026},
author = {Louzada, VG and Oliveira-Silva, M and Goulart, RS and Pitondo-Silva, A and Leoni, GB},
title = {Effect of ultrasonic power settings on intracanal biofilm reduction.},
journal = {Clinical oral investigations},
volume = {30},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {41870810},
issn = {1436-3771},
}

@article {pmid41863040,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, Y and Chen, Z and Jing, M and Huang, Z and Mao, M},
title = {Streptococcus mutans CcpA Promotes Biofilm Exopolysaccharide Production and Virulence Gene Expression.},
journal = {Molecular oral microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/omi.70027},
pmid = {41863040},
issn = {2041-1014},
support = {82071104 81900988//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 23XD1434200/22Y21901000//Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality/ ; NCRCO2021-omics-07//National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases/ ; 19MC1910600//Shanghai Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases/ ; JYZP006//Major and Key Cultivation Projects of Ninth People's Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong university School of Medicine/ ; 2022ZZ01017//Shanghai's Top Priority Research Center/ ; 2019-I2M-5-037//CAMS Innovation Fund for Medical Sciences/ ; JYZZ237//Fundamental research program funding of Ninth People's Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine/ ; JYJC202223//Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital affiliated with Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine/ ; },
abstract = {Streptococcus mutans is a key cariogenic pathogen of dental caries due to its strong ability to synthesize extracellular glucans and form biofilms. Glucosyltransferases, encoded by gtfB/C/D genes in S. mutans, are responsible for producing biofilm exopolysaccharides (EPS) and are considered to be critical virulence factors. Previous studies have highlighted the roles of various regulatory factors of gtf genes in S. mutans. Here, we investigated the role of the global transcriptional regulator CcpA encoded by ccpA in regulating the EPS synthesis and biofilm formation of S. mutans. A ccpA in-frame deletion strain was observed to develop shiny, round colonies and longer cell length. In addition, the deletion of ccpA resulted in impaired growth, diminished synthesis of EPS, and reduced biofilm formation. Transcriptome analysis revealed that differentially expressed genes in the ccpA deletion strain were significantly enriched in pathways of carbohydrate transport and metabolism, in which the expressions of gtfB and gtfC were downregulated markedly. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays confirmed that CcpA directly binds to the promoter sequences of gtfB and gtfC, with a higher affinity for gtfC. Moreover, the expression level of ccpA in part explained differences in the ability to synthesize sufficient EPS and form stable biofilm in clinically isolated strains. These findings highlight that CcpA plays a crucial role in the EPS production and biofilm formation of S. mutans through directly binding to the promoter regions of gtfB and gtfC. This study provides novel insights into the pathogenic mechanisms of S. mutans and potential strategies for the prevention and treatment of dental caries.},
}

@article {pmid41863456,
year = {2026},
author = {Ullah, AA and Naeem, M and Khan, F and Qadeer, K and Zohra, RR and Ahmad, M},
title = {In Vitro Synergistic Inhibition and Eradication of Pathogenic Bacterial Biofilms by Bacillus subtilis-derived Anti-biofilm Enzymes.},
journal = {Current protein & peptide science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.2174/0113892037427870260206112949},
pmid = {41863456},
issn = {1875-5550},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Biofilm formation is a crucial virulent attribute of pathogens that promotes their resistance to antibiotics and contributes to chronic illnesses in humans. Traditional antibiotic therapies have proven ineffective in eliminating sessile microbial populations within biofilms, necessitating the development of novel therapeutic strategies. In this study, the in vitro efficacy of the anti-biofilm enzymes derived from Bacillus subtilis was evaluated against biofilm-forming human clinical pathogens.

METHODS: An in vitro impact of combined anti-biofilm enzymes obtained from Bacillus subtilis C5W on the inhibition and eradication of biofilms of A. baumannii, E. aerogenes, and E.coli was monitored using a spectrophotometric microtiter plate assay.

RESULTS: Among seven clinical pathogens, three pathogens were found to be strong biofilm producers as they formed biofilm at an incubation time of 48 hours. The anti-biofilm enzymes significantly inhibited the biofilm formation of A. baumannii and E. aerogenes at an incubation time of 48 hours, with inhibition rates of 62.51% and 57.91%, respectively. In contrast, the maximum inhibition of biofilm formation in E. coli was observed at 24 hours, with an inhibition rate of 76.69%. The biofilm eradication rates were recorded to be 30.17% (A. baumannii), 46.29% (E. aerogenes), and 53.02% (E. coli) after a 24-hour incubation time. The SEM images confirmed the disruption of adhered biofilm on the glass surface and aggregation of microcolonies.

DISCUSSION: The study highlighted that Bacillus subtilis-derived enzyme combinations showed a synergistic inhibitory effect against biofilms formed by human clinical pathogens under in vitro conditions. The combined enzymatic treatment not only disrupted established biofilms but also suppressed their formation, indicating an enhanced anti-biofilm potential.

CONCLUSION: These findings demonstrated the multi-enzyme approach as a promising and effective alternative to conventional antimicrobial approaches for managing biofilm-associated infections.},
}

@article {pmid41864121,
year = {2026},
author = {Arslan, S and Schena, R and Romano, A and Hohenegger, M and De Martino, L and Nocera, FP},
title = {Characterization of antimicrobial resistance and biofilm formation in Escherichia coli isolated from wild boars.},
journal = {Research in veterinary science},
volume = {204},
number = {},
pages = {106148},
doi = {10.1016/j.rvsc.2026.106148},
pmid = {41864121},
issn = {1532-2661},
abstract = {The wild boar (Sus scrofa) is a widely distributed and ecologically adaptable species, increasingly recognized as a useful sentinel for monitoring antimicrobial resistance (AMR) at the human-livestock-wildlife interface. This study investigated the occurrence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Escherichia coli, with particular focus on biofilm-forming ability and associated resistance determinants, in wild boars from Southern Italy. Nasal swabs were collected from healthy wild boars harvested during the 2023 hunting season in the Campania Region. E. coli isolates were identified by MALDI-TOF MS and characterized for phenotypic and genotypic AMR profiles. Biofilm production was evaluated using the crystal violet assay, while biofilm-associated genes and selected resistance genes were detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). A total of 81 E. coli isolates were analysed. Biofilm formation was detected in 66 isolates (81.5%), mainly as weak producers, and was positively correlated with the presence of biofilm-associated genes (r = 0.79, p < 0.0001), predominantly fliC (13.6%), fimH (9.9%), papC (8.6%), and agn43/flu (6.2%). Carbapenemase genes were predominantly detected among biofilm gene-positive isolates, including the combined presence of blaIMP, blaVIM, and blaNDM in three strains. Significant associations (p < 0.05) were found for blaPER, mphA, and blaVIM when comparing biofilm gene-positive and -negative strains. Most isolates exhibited a MDR phenotype, with a multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) index ranging from 0.20 to 0.39. These findings highlight wild boars as potential reservoirs of multidrug-resistant E. coli and reveal the complex interplay between biofilm formation, antimicrobial resistance, and wildlife, underscoring the need to include wildlife in integrated One Health antimicrobial resistance surveillance strategies.},
}

@article {pmid41864131,
year = {2026},
author = {Sánchez-Giménez, L and Scalschi, L and Llorens, E and Falomir, E and Camañes, G and Vicedo, B},
title = {Hexanoic acid inhibits in vitro growth and biofilm formation in Xanthomonas vesicatoria and Xanthomonas euvesicatoria.},
journal = {Microbiological research},
volume = {308},
number = {},
pages = {128504},
doi = {10.1016/j.micres.2026.128504},
pmid = {41864131},
issn = {1618-0623},
abstract = {Hexanoic acid (Hx) is a naturally occurring fatty acid with antimicrobial properties and potential to induce plant defense responses. This study evaluated the in vitro effect of Hx on Xanthomonas vesicatoria and Xanthomonas euvesicatoria, focusing on bacterial growth and biofilm formation, key factors for pathogen survival and virulence. The obtained results indicate that Hx did not exert a direct lethal effect at low concentrations on bacterial cells, but higher doses (≥ 12 mM) displayed a bactericidal effect against both species, with X. euvesicatoria showing higher sensitivity than X. vesicatoria. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed cell wall damage and absence of biofilm at ≥ 10 mM Hx, consistent with the quorum sensing (QS) inhibition observed at this concentration. Moreover, exposure to 5 mM Hx triggered a significant increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS), indicating the inability of both bacteria to overcome the toxic environment generated by this compound. In addition, gene expression analysis demonstrated that Hx significantly impaired early biofilm establishment by downregulating motility- and virulence-related genes, particularly evident in X. euvesicatoria from lower concentrations. Although responses differed between the two species in survival strategies and sensitivities to Hx, both converged in a compromised biofilm formation and stress response capacity. Overall, this study provides mechanistic insights into Xanthomonas sensitivity to Hx and highlights biofilm disruption as a central mechanism underlying its antimicrobial activity under in vitro conditions.},
}

@article {pmid41864396,
year = {2026},
author = {Qi, Q and Yin, XJ and Xuan, WJ and Wang, HM and Hamblin, MR and He, LX and Zhen, XM and Pang, Y and Huang, LY},
title = {Repeated Sublethal Photodynamic Inactivation Does Not Increase Biofilm Formation or Induce Resistance in Acinetobacter baumannii.},
journal = {Photodiagnosis and photodynamic therapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {105444},
doi = {10.1016/j.pdpdt.2026.105444},
pmid = {41864396},
issn = {1873-1597},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Antimicrobial photodynamic inactivation (aPDI) could be an effective and novel approach to address the increasingly severe issue of antibiotic resistance. However, no standardized dosing protocol exists for aPDI administration, and clinical applications have frequently used sublethal doses. This study evaluated whether repeated sublethal antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (sPDT) could not only trigger resistance in Acinetobacter baumannii, but also increase biofilm biomass accumulation and upregulate key biofilm-related genes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this study, we evaluated the response of five clinical antimicrobial-resistant A. baumannii strains to sPDT. A "cycle" was defined as one round of sPDT followed by an overnight regrowth and subsequent resuspension in fresh medium (3-3.5 h) to reach the logarithmic phase. To compare the effects of biofilm properties and antimicrobial responses, bacteria were exposed to 15 cycles of sPDT under three conditions: (1) no treatment (control group); (2) methylene blue (MB) mediated sPDT alone (MB-sPDT group); (3) a combination of MB and potassium iodide (KI) to mediate sPDT (MB/KI-sPDT group).

RESULTS: Our findings showed that the biofilms formed by A. baumannii after consecutive sPDT exhibited no resistance to subsequent aPDT, and that MB/KI-aPDT demonstrated superior efficacy in biofilm eradication. Moreover, some strains exhibited reduced biofilm-forming capacity after 15 cycles of sPDT. Compared to untreated controls (0th cycle), the expression levels of biofilm-associated genes (bap, csuE, ompA, and abaI genes) in most strains decreased after the 5th, 10th, and 15th cycles of MB-sPDT and MB/KI-sPDT, except for the upregulation of ompA observed in one multidrug-resistant strain after 5th cycles of MB-sPDT.

CONCLUSION: These results indicate that after 15 cycles of sPDT there was no increase in biofilm-forming capacity or upregulation of biofilm-related gene expression, and the biofilms formed showed no decreased susceptibility to the same aPDT regimens.},
}

@article {pmid41864415,
year = {2026},
author = {Romeu, MJ and Gomes, LC and Teixeira-Santos, R and Zulpukarova, G and Woudstra, W and Atema-Smit, J and Geertsema-Doornbusch, G and Schirhagl, R and May, PW and Mergulhão, FJ},
title = {Black diamond and black silicon for reducing marine biofilm formation.},
journal = {Environmental research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {124321},
doi = {10.1016/j.envres.2026.124321},
pmid = {41864415},
issn = {1096-0953},
abstract = {Marine biofilms quickly colonize submerged surfaces, causing drag, reduced efficiency, and corrosion in vessels and marine infrastructure. Thus, the development of coatings that can resist bacterial adhesion and biofilm growth is essential. This study investigated two nanostructured surfaces - black silicon (bSi) and diamond-coated black silicon (black diamond, bD) - designed to physically disrupt bacterial cells using nanoscale spikes. Hydrogen- and fluorine-terminated versions of these surfaces were evaluated against 7-week-old Cobetia marina biofilms under controlled hydrodynamic conditions using flat silicon (Flat-Si) and flat diamond as controls. Nanostructured surfaces were less wettable than Flat-Si, with the contact angle of the fluorinated black diamond (bD-F) reaching 132°. Scanning Electron Microscopy confirmed that bSi and bD maintained their high-aspect-ratio nanoneedles, resisted protein adsorption, and had reduced biofilm coverage compared to flat controls. Optical Coherence Tomography revealed ∼50% thinner and less porous biofilms on the bD-F surface. Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy analysis showed a 75% reduction in biofilm biovolume on bD-F compared to Flat-Si, with only 45% cell viability. Non-viable cells were predominantly located in inner biofilm layers, indicating a bactericidal effect. Flow cytometry supported these results, showing altered bacterial membrane potential and metabolic activity in bacteria exposed to bD surfaces. Experiments using real seawater and field immersion assays confirmed that bD surfaces maintain structural integrity and strongly reduce biofilm formation under realistic marine conditions. These findings demonstrate the antifouling and antimicrobial effects of nanostructured diamond-coated surfaces, particularly fluorine-terminated ones, for durable marine applications.},
}

@article {pmid41862276,
year = {2026},
author = {Tanabe, G and Mori, T and Hanaoka, M and Domae, E and Into, T},
title = {LL-37 and bacterial DNA complexes in dental plaque: Implications for biofilm structure, innate immunity, and periodontal pathogenesis.},
journal = {Journal of oral biosciences},
volume = {68},
number = {2},
pages = {100771},
doi = {10.1016/j.job.2026.100771},
pmid = {41862276},
issn = {1880-3865},
mesh = {*Biofilms ; Humans ; *Immunity, Innate/immunology ; *Cathelicidins/immunology ; *Dental Plaque/microbiology/immunology ; *Antimicrobial Cationic Peptides/immunology ; *DNA, Bacterial/immunology/metabolism ; *Periodontal Diseases/immunology/microbiology ; *Antimicrobial Peptides/immunology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Dental plaque is a highly organized polymicrobial biofilm, in which extracellular DNA serves as a vital structural and functional component of the extracellular matrix. The human antimicrobial peptide LL-37 plays an important role in oral innate defense, exhibiting both antimicrobial and immunomodulatory activities. Our recent study indicated that LL-37 forms stable complexes with bacterial DNA in dental plaque. This review summarizes current knowledge of the molecular mechanisms and immunological consequences of LL-37-bacterial DNA interactions in dental plaque, highlighting their potential implications in biofilm structure, innate immunity, and periodontal pathogenesis.

HIGHLIGHT: LL-37 binds to oral bacterial DNA forming stable, nuclease-resistant, high-molecular-weight complexes with an aggregated morphology. These complexes abrogate the intrinsic antimicrobial activity of LL-37 while enhancing the stability and cohesiveness of the biofilm matrix. Moreover, LL-37-bacterial DNA complexes act as immunostimulatory molecules by activating TLR9 and the NLRP3 inflammasome, thereby triggering proinflammatory cytokine production in host immune cells. Notably, this immunostimulatory capacity varies with the bacterial source of the DNA, suggesting species-specific modulation of host responses.

CONCLUSION: LL-37-bacterial DNA complex formation represents a key event at the interface of innate defense and dysbiosis in dental plaque. This dual nature of LL-37, whereby it acts as an antimicrobial peptide when alone, yet promotes biofilm formation and inflammation when complexed with bacterial DNA, sheds new light on the mechanisms underlying biofilm persistence and chronic inflammation. Understanding this interaction may open new avenues for therapeutic strategies targeting biofilm-associated periodontal diseases.},
}

*Biofilms
Humans
*Immunity, Innate/immunology
*Cathelicidins/immunology
*Dental Plaque/microbiology/immunology
*Antimicrobial Cationic Peptides/immunology
*DNA, Bacterial/immunology/metabolism
*Periodontal Diseases/immunology/microbiology
*Antimicrobial Peptides/immunology

@article {pmid41862732,
year = {2026},
author = {da Silva, MEP and de Melo Suica, LM and Rodrigues, RS and Custódio, MGF and Ferreira, VB and da Silva Pontes, L and de Oliveira Santos, IC and Pribul, BR and da Silva Lima, NC and Ramos, IVG and Carvalho, AG and Belém, MGL and Esquerdo, RP and Assef, APDC and Matos, NB},
title = {Multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa in ICU patients and hospital surfaces: β-lactamase burden, biofilm formation and clonal spread.},
journal = {European journal of clinical microbiology & infectious diseases : official publication of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41862732},
issn = {1435-4373},
}

@article {pmid41854812,
year = {2026},
author = {Chaaya, G and Daccache, M and Yaghi, J and Louka, N and Maroun, RG and Assaf, JC and El Khoury, A and Lteif, R},
title = {Comparative fermentation performance of biofilm and planktonic Saccharomyces cerevisiae under standard and high-carbon media.},
journal = {International microbiology : the official journal of the Spanish Society for Microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41854812},
issn = {1618-1905},
support = {FS173//Saint Joseph University/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41859601,
year = {2026},
author = {Ricafrente, RML and Malalay, AP},
title = {Synergistic Anti-quorum Sensing and Anti-biofilm Activities of Crude Terminalia catappa Leaf Extract Combined With Ciprofloxacin Against Pseudomonas aeruginosa.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {18},
number = {2},
pages = {e103643},
pmid = {41859601},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {The increasing prevalence of biofilm-associated infections and antimicrobial resistance highlights the need for alternative and complementary therapeutic strategies. This study investigated the anti-quorum-sensing, anti-biofilm, and antibacterial activities of Terminalia catappa ethanolic crude leaf extract combined with ciprofloxacin against Pseudomonas aeruginosa BIOTECH 1335 using an in vitro quantitative experimental design. The crude extract was obtained from fresh leaves, yielding 2.46% (2.46 g/100 g), and phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, cardiac glycosides, reducing sugars, and fixed oils, while alkaloids and anthraquinone glycosides were absent. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy with attenuated total reflectance (FTIR-ATR) analysis was performed using an IRPrestige-21 FTIR spectrophotometer (Shimadzu Corporation, Kyoto, Japan) equipped with a MIRacle ATR accessory (PIKE Technologies, Madison, WI, USA), confirming functional groups associated with phenolic and flavonoid compounds. Biofilm inhibition assays showed that the extract alone achieved up to 67.23% inhibition at 64 µg/mL. Ciprofloxacin demonstrated an inverse dose-response pattern in biofilm inhibition, wherein higher concentrations exhibited lower inhibitory effects, an atypical finding of potential mechanistic relevance. The combined treatment produced enhanced inhibition at defined concentration ranges, with the highest biofilm inhibition (72.94%) observed at 64 µg/mL extract and 0.0625 µg/mL ciprofloxacin. Quorum-sensing assays showed dose-dependent reductions in swarming and swimming motility across treatments. Checkerboard analysis revealed concentration-dependent synergistic interactions (∑FIC ≤ 0.5) specifically at low-to-moderate extract concentrations (16-32 µg/mL) combined with sub-inhibitory ciprofloxacin doses (0.015625-0.03125 µg/mL), while higher-dose combinations demonstrated predominantly additive effects. Two-way ANOVA confirmed significant main effects of extracts and ciprofloxacin concentrations. Overall, the findings demonstrate that Terminalia catappa crude extract can potentiate the antibacterial and anti-biofilm activity of ciprofloxacin at specific concentration combinations, supporting the potential of plant-antibiotic combination strategies as a multi-targeted approach against biofilm-related infections and antimicrobial resistance.},
}

@article {pmid41859727,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, D and Shao, C and Liu, D and Ying, H},
title = {Enhancing cytidine biosynthesis by coupling minicell-forming morphology with biofilm-based fermentation.},
journal = {Synthetic and systems biotechnology},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {390-395},
pmid = {41859727},
issn = {2405-805X},
abstract = {Cytidine is an important nucleoside in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology fields. To improve its biosynthesis efficiency, this study proposes a strategy that integrates minicell-forming recombinant strains with biofilm-based fermentation. By knocking out the key gene minC that regulates cell division, a cytidine-producing strain capable of stable minicell formation was constructed. In the biofilm-based fermentation system, the cytidine titer of this strain reached 1.74 g/L, representing a 114% increase compared to traditional free-cell fermentation. The study further revealed that minicell formation may promote biofilm formation, which in turn helps mitigate acidification during the fermentation process. This work provides a new approach for the synergistic optimization of morphology engineering and fermentation processes in microbial cytidine production, with significant potential in industrial biotechnology.},
}

@article {pmid41859892,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, Y and Ma, J and Fu, L and Zheng, Z and Wang, W},
title = {Bioinspired antibacterial microrobots derived from mammalian cells for biofilm disruption.},
journal = {Chemical communications (Cambridge, England)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1039/d6cc00121a},
pmid = {41859892},
issn = {1364-548X},
abstract = {This study reports bioinspired antibacterial microrobots for biofilm disruption and bacterial killing. Cell-derived magnetic microrobots (MMCs) have been prepared via polymer-assisted cell metallization, precisely preserving the original cell morphology. When decorated with Fe3O4 nanoparticles, MMCs mechanically disrupt biofilms through structural interactions and dramatically promote the bactericidal performance of H2O2.},
}

@article {pmid41860219,
year = {2026},
author = {Ru, Y and Tan, S and Shen, X and Zheng, C and Wu, Y and Shao, Y and Liu, X},
title = {Thermoregulation of functional amyloid Fap-dependent biofilm formation via cyclic diguanosine monophosphate signaling in Pseudomonas fluorescens.},
journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0238725},
doi = {10.1128/aem.02387-25},
pmid = {41860219},
issn = {1098-5336},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: We recently reported that Pseudomonas fluorescens PF07, an isolate from refrigerated marine fish, produces the functional amyloid Fap as the major component of its biofilm matrix and that transcription of the fap gene cluster is directly regulated by BrfA, a novel c-di-GMP-responsive transcription regulator. As a psychrotrophic food spoiler, P. fluorescens encounters temperature fluctuations during food processing and distribution; however, the effects of temperature on its biofilm formation remain poorly characterized. Here, we show that reduced temperatures (4°C and 15°C) significantly attenuate macrocolony, pellicle, and solid-surface-associated biofilm formation in PF07 compared to 28°C. Mechanistically, low temperatures suppress Fap-dependent biofilm formation by downregulating intracellular c-di-GMP levels via the coordinated control of two key enzymes: a novel diguanylate cyclase, DebA, and a cold-adapted phosphodiesterase BifA. At 28°C, DebA is highly expressed and maintains robust catalytic activity via its PAS domain, while BifA exhibits low activity due to poor thermostability; these effects together drive c-di-GMP accumulation, fap expression, and biofilm formation. Conversely, low temperatures reduce DebA expression and activity, while BifA retains exceptional cold tolerance to accelerate c-di-GMP degradation, thereby suppressing fap expression and biofilm formation. This study delineates a novel temperature-responsive c-di-GMP signaling pathway in the psychrotrophic food spoiler, P. fluorescens PF07.

IMPORTANCE: The persistence of bacteria in various biofilms frequently leads to food spoilage and foodborne illnesses. Pseudomonas fluorescens is widely recognized as one of the most prevalent spoilage organisms, with a robust capacity for biofilm formation. Temperature is a critical factor in food processing, distribution, and preservation. This study identifies a novel temperature-responsive c-di-GMP signaling module centered on the novel diguanylate cyclase DebA and the cold-adapted phosphodiesterase BifA, which governs Fap-dependent biofilm formation in P. fluorescens PF07. Our findings expand the known repertoire of c-di-GMP-mediated biofilm regulatory pathways and may inform the development of improved antibiofilm strategies for the food industry.},
}

@article {pmid41862269,
year = {2026},
author = {Wakamatsu, N and Yoshioka, Y and Habu, M and Ariyoshi, W and Yamasaki, R},
title = {Surfactin selectively suppresses acidogenicity in Streptococcus sobrinus without inhibiting growth or biofilm formation.},
journal = {Journal of oral biosciences},
volume = {68},
number = {2},
pages = {100756},
doi = {10.1016/j.job.2026.100756},
pmid = {41862269},
issn = {1880-3865},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Peptides, Cyclic/pharmacology ; *Lipopeptides/pharmacology ; Lactic Acid/metabolism ; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration ; Dental Caries/prevention & control/microbiology ; Humans ; *Streptococcus/drug effects/growth & development/metabolism ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Dental caries are caused by organic acids produced by cariogenic bacteria through carbohydrate metabolism. Suppression of acid production without disrupting the oral microbiome is a promising preventive strategy against dental caries. Surfactin, a naturally derived biosurfactant, has several biological activities. However, its effects on acid production by cariogenic bacteria remain unclear. In this study, the effects of surfactin on lactate production, growth, biofilm formation, and metabolic activity of Streptococcus sobrinus, were investigated.

METHODS: In vitro assays were performed to distinguish surfactin-mediated suppression of acidogenic metabolism from its effects on bacterial growth or biofilm formation, combined with molecular and enzymatic analyses to explore the underlying regulatory mechanisms.

RESULTS: Surfactin significantly reduced lactate production in planktonic and biofilm-associated S. sobrinus, and it delayed environmental pH reduction in the presence of sucrose. Notably, these effects were observed without inhibition of bacterial growth or biofilm formation. There were no significant changes in the expression of lactate production-related genes, and lactate dehydrogenase activity was not inhibited by surfactin. In contrast, in the MTT assay, there was a transient reduction in metabolic activity, accompanied by delayed initiation of growth.

CONCLUSION: These findings indicate that surfactin selectively attenuates acidogenicity in S. sobrinus, without markedly affecting bacterial viability or biofilm architecture, which is consistent with an anti-virulence mode of action. Although further validation in more complex oral environments and comprehensive safety assessments are required, this study provides fundamental evidence supporting the potential of naturally derived biosurfactants as a basis for future preventive strategies for caries.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Peptides, Cyclic/pharmacology
*Lipopeptides/pharmacology
Lactic Acid/metabolism
Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
Dental Caries/prevention & control/microbiology
Humans
*Streptococcus/drug effects/growth & development/metabolism

@article {pmid41850416,
year = {2026},
author = {Gonçalves Veríssimo, MH and Gonçalves, LFF and da Costa, PCQG and de Boa, PWM and Borges, BCD and Magnani, M and de Castro, RD and Batista, AUD and Cavalcanti, YW and Barão, VAR and Pereira, ALC},
title = {Impact of cleaning protocols on surface integrity and biofilm formation of heat-polymerized and 3D-printed denture base resins after gastric acid exposure.},
journal = {Journal of dentistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {106635},
doi = {10.1016/j.jdent.2026.106635},
pmid = {41850416},
issn = {1879-176X},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To investigate the effects of commonly used cleaning protocols on the surface, physical, chemical, optical, and microbiological properties of heat-polymerized and 3D-printed denture base resins after gastric acid exposure.

METHODS: Disc-shaped specimens (10×3 mm) were fabricated from one heat-polymerized resin (HT) and two 3D-printed resins (Yller® [YL] and Monile® [M]). After erosive cycling with gastric acid, specimens were allocated to four cleaning protocols (n=20): brushing with denture paste, effervescent tablet combined with brushing, immersion in mouthwash, and rinsing with tap water. Surface roughness, wettability, Vickers hardness, water sorption and solubility, Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer (FTIR), color stability (CIEDE2000), and microbiological behavior were assessed at baseline and after cleaning. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc test (α=0.05).

RESULTS: Erosive cycling followed by cleaning increased surface roughness (p=0.03) and hydrophilicity (p<0.01) in all resins. Hardness was influenced by both resin type and cleaning protocol (p<0.05), with the greatest reduction observed in YL. Water sorption and solubility remained low and unchanged (p>0.05), and FTIR analysis revealed no chemical degradation. However, all resins exhibited clinically perceptible color changes (p<0.01) and increased Candida albicans colonization (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS: Despite stable chemical structure and bulk properties, gastric acid exposure combined with routine cleaning impaired surface integrity, color stability, and resistance to microbial colonization of denture base resins.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Gastric acid erosion associated with daily hygiene procedures may accelerate denture degradation and microbial colonization, potentially reducing prosthesis longevity and reinforcing the need for closer monitoring of patients with gastroesophageal reflux.},
}

@article {pmid41851696,
year = {2026},
author = {Albayrak, F and Tunç, T and Altunbaş, D and Zan, R and Ayhan, M and Bal, H},
title = {The anti-biofilm effect of ozonated water and super-oxidized water applied with different activation procedures against Enterococcus faecalis biofilm.},
journal = {BMC oral health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12903-026-08147-3},
pmid = {41851696},
issn = {1472-6831},
}

@article {pmid41853207,
year = {2026},
author = {Fayed, EA and Najm, MAA and Abdelglil, MI and Ramsis, TM and Gohar, NA and Metwally, SA and Ebrahim, MA},
title = {A structural blueprint for antibacterial discovery: microwave- and ultrasound-assisted synthesis of pyrrolidine-fused quinoxalines as novel inhibitors of DNA gyrase and biofilm.},
journal = {RSC advances},
volume = {16},
number = {16},
pages = {14638-14659},
pmid = {41853207},
issn = {2046-2069},
abstract = {In order to lessen the severity of infectious diseases, anti-infective agents-drugs that prevent, combat, or control infections brought on by microorganisms-are essential in contemporary medicine. To tackle antimicrobial resistance, this project intends to design and synthesize hybrid compounds that contain pyrrolidine, quinoxaline and a hydrazinyl bridge, and assess the antimicrobial and antifungal properties of these compounds against a variety of pathogenic strains. The bactericidal properties of hybrids 24, 27, and 29 against E. coli were verified. The MIC of 12.5 µM was shown by hybrids 24, 25, and 31, which suggests bactericidal hybrids are effective against P. aeruginosa at greater concentrations. In comparison to Levofloxacin, treatment with all hybrids produced an 89-92% reduction in biofilm formation at 90% MIC. Eight hybrids' killing kinetics against P. aeruginosa were time-dependent, with an abrupt decrease in CFU number observed at higher concentrations. While 4-fold and 8-fold MICs resulted in nearly total bacterial eradication, primary bacterial elimination happened after three hours. The most effective DNA gyrase inhibitors were hybrids 25, 28, and 31; their IC50 values were significantly less than that of ciprofloxacin (77.3, 87.6, and 65.5 µM, respectively). To determine the best drug-like qualities, the study examined the physicochemical and pharmacokinetic features of active compounds. Molecular docking simulation experiments were also conducted to comprehend the binding interactions and mechanisms of action of these hits.},
}

@article {pmid41853806,
year = {2026},
author = {Chao, CA and Hoskins, TD and Hammad, M and Jo, S and Bostrom, MP and Carli, AV},
title = {Pretreatment With Vancomycin Prevents Staphylococcal Biofilm Formation on Marlex Mesh.},
journal = {Arthroplasty today},
volume = {38},
number = {},
pages = {101985},
pmid = {41853806},
issn = {2352-3441},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Polypropylene (PPE) mesh is a popular surgical treatment for extensor mechanism disruption in revision knee arthroplasty, but development of infection can be catastrophic. Pretreating orthopedic materials with antibiotics has precedence, but has not yet been described for PPE mesh. The purpose of the current study is to determine if mesh pretreatment with vancomycin could effectively prevent biofilm formation.

METHODS: Sterile PPE mesh was cut into 10-mm diameter circles. PPE circles were soaked in saline for 20 minutes with one of the following vancomycin concentrations: 1) 0.625 mg/ml, 2) 1.25 mg/ml, 3) 2.5 mg/ml, 4) 5.0 mg/ml, and 5) 10.0 mg/ml. To simulate surgical irrigation prior to closure, samples were rinsed with saline 0, 1, 2, or 3 times. Each group had 9 samples. Rinsed PPE circles were placed in a 48-well plate, inoculated with 10[6] colony-forming units (CFUs) of methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus, cultured in tryptic soy broth for 24 hours, rinsed to remove planktonic bacteria, and sonicated in fresh media for 30 minutes. Sonicated fluid was serially diluted and plated for CFUs. Infection prevention was defined as 0 CFUs. PPE circles were imaged with scanning electron microscopy to visualize vancomycin crystals and biofilm.

RESULTS: Pretreatment of PPE mesh with 10 mg/mL of vancomycin was the only condition that prevented S aureus biofilm formation in all conditions. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed that vancomycin pretreatment deposited antibiotic crystals on the mesh surface and that biofilm was not present.

CONCLUSIONS: Vancomycin pretreatment of PPE mesh can prevent biofilm formation even after rinsing.},
}

@article {pmid41854771,
year = {2026},
author = {Anees, TMM and Suchithra, KV and Shetty, AV},
title = {Antibacterial and anti-biofilm activities of thyme oil, oregano oil, and their combination against Klebsiella pneumoniae and Acinetobacter baumannii polymicrobial biofilms.},
journal = {Antonie van Leeuwenhoek},
volume = {119},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {41854771},
issn = {1572-9699},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Klebsiella pneumoniae/drug effects/physiology ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; *Acinetobacter baumannii/drug effects/physiology/genetics ; *Thymus Plant/chemistry ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Origanum/chemistry ; *Oils, Volatile/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Plant Oils/pharmacology/chemistry ; Thymol ; },
abstract = {Biofilm formation is a key virulence factor in Klebsiella pneumoniae and Acinetobacter baumannii, and their coexistence leads to highly drug-resistant polymicrobial biofilms. We tested the antibacterial, antibiofilm, and biofilm-disrupting activities of thyme oil, oregano oil, and their combination against dual species culture of K. pneumoniae and A. baumannii. Chemical composition was characterized by GC-MS. Antibacterial activity was evaluated using agar well diffusion, with MIC and MBC determined by broth dilution. Antibiofilm activities of oils and their combinations were tested using crystal violet staining and live/dead fluorescence imaging. RT-PCR was performed to examine the expression of biofilm-associated genes, and anti-inflammatory activity was assessed using protein denaturation inhibition. Both oils exhibited dose-dependent antibacterial activity, with oregano showing stronger bactericidal effects (MIC 5 µL/mL; MBC 10 µL/mL) and thyme exhibiting superior protein denaturation inhibitory activity. The combination of oils acted synergistically (FIC index = 0.5), achieving > 90% disruption of dual-species biofilms. RT-PCR confirmed significant downregulation of mrkA, fimA, ompA, and bap, with the combination showing the strongest suppression (p < 0.0001). GC-MS analysis confirmed carvacrol as the major constituent of oregano oil and thymol as the dominant component of thyme oil, providing a chemical basis for the observed biological activities. Overall, the results highlight the therapeutic potential of oregano and thyme essential oils, individually and in combination, for managing polymicrobial biofilm-associated infections caused by K. pneumoniae and A. baumannii.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Klebsiella pneumoniae/drug effects/physiology
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
*Acinetobacter baumannii/drug effects/physiology/genetics
*Thymus Plant/chemistry
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Origanum/chemistry
*Oils, Volatile/pharmacology/chemistry
*Plant Oils/pharmacology/chemistry
Thymol

@article {pmid41844432,
year = {2026},
author = {Marcomini, EK and Negri, M},
title = {Corrigendum to "Fungal quorum-sensing molecules and antiseptics: A promising strategy for biofilm modulation?" [Drug Discov. Today 28 (2023) 103624].},
journal = {Drug discovery today},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {104641},
doi = {10.1016/j.drudis.2026.104641},
pmid = {41844432},
issn = {1878-5832},
}

@article {pmid41847195,
year = {2026},
author = {Ravichandran, V and Li, A and Rajasekharan, SK},
title = {Editorial: Novel strategies to target biofilm formation in ESKAPE pathogens for combating antimicrobial resistance.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1800825},
doi = {10.3389/fmicb.2026.1800825},
pmid = {41847195},
issn = {1664-302X},
}

@article {pmid41847355,
year = {2026},
author = {Monyela, S and Kayoka, PN and Olawuwo, OS and Ngezimana, W and Nemadodzi, LE},
title = {In vitro antibacterial, anti-biofilm, anti-quorum-sensing, and cytotoxic activities of leaf crude extracts of Cannabis "Gorilla glue 1".},
journal = {Frontiers in veterinary science},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1750799},
pmid = {41847355},
issn = {2297-1769},
abstract = {The resilience of biofilms makes it challenging to treat bacterial infections using conventional antibiotics. The study aimed to assess the antibacterial, anti-biofilm, anti-quorum-sensing, and cytotoxic activities of acetone extracts of Cannabis "Gorilla Glue 1" against fish pathogens. Antibacterial activity was determined using the two-fold serial microdilution method, while anti-biofilm activity was assessed using a modified crystal violet staining in vitro assay. Anti-quorum-sensing activity was evaluated via inhibition of violacein production in Chromobacterium violaceum (ATCC 12472). Cytotoxicity was assessed using a colorimetric assay against Vero kidney cells. Solvent extracts from treatment 0.36 g N; 0.12 g P; 0 g K showed the lowest minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value (0.02 mg/mL) against Edwardsiella tarda (ATCC 15947) and Pseudomonas fluorescens (ATCC 13525) compared with other treatments. All tested solvent extracts demonstrated the ability to prevent or disrupt biofilm formation; however, treatment 0.36 g N; 0.06 g P; 0.12 g K showed consistent anti-biofilm activity (>50% inhibition) against all tested pathogens. All solvent extract treatments exhibited comparable anti-quorum-sensing activity, while treatment 0.36 g N; 0.06 g P; 0.12 g K demonstrated the highest inhibition of violacein production (98.61% at 1.25 mg/mL). Most solvent extracts were non-cytotoxic to Vero cells, with LC50 values >0.1 mg/mL, except treatment 0 g N; 0.24 g P; 0 g K, which showed high cytotoxicity (LC50 = 0.04 mg/mL). Treatments 0.36 g N; 0.12 g P; 0 g K, 0 g N; 0.36 g P; 0.6 g K, and 0 g N; 0 g P; 0 g K exhibited moderate toxicity (LC50 = 0.06 mg/mL). Treatment 0.36 g N; 0.12 g P; 0 g K displayed the highest selectivity index (3.00) against Vero cells, indicating the most favorable safety profile among the extracts investigated. Leaf extracts of Cannabis exhibited useful bioactivities coupled with low cytotoxicity, providing impetus for further studies on their potential development as protective feed additives against microbial infections in fish production.},
}

@article {pmid41847560,
year = {2026},
author = {Jiang, F and Xuan, Q and Hu, Y and Ren, Z and Wei, A and Cai, J and Wang, B and Li, M and Yu, J and Wang, C and Yang, Y and Guo, G and Tang, J and Han, P and Li, H and Chen, X and Chen, C and Shen, H},
title = {Dual-engineering metalloimmunotherapy mediates Staphylococcus aureus virulence silencing and biofilm immune microenvironment reprogramming against implant-associated infections.},
journal = {Bioactive materials},
volume = {62},
number = {},
pages = {178-201},
pmid = {41847560},
issn = {2452-199X},
abstract = {Implant-associated infections (IAIs) caused by Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) are notoriously recalcitrant to treatment due to the self-reinforcing interplay between bacterial virulence and a suppressive biofilm immune microenvironment (BIME). Here, we present a dual-engineering metalloimmunotherapy nanoplatform that synchronously silences bacterial virulence and reprograms host immunity to eradicate IAIs. The nanoplatform, termed HMPF, integrates a fenoprofen-loaded, polydopamine-modified hollow MnO2 core that is further cloaked with a macrophage-erythrocyte hybrid membrane, enabling bacteria-targeted delivery and hemolysin-responsive drug release. By inhibiting the SaeRS two-component system of S. aureus, HMPF suppresses virulence factor expression and disrupts biofilm structure, dismantling the physical barrier for immune cell infiltration. Simultaneously, Mn[2+] release and mild photothermal stimulation activate the cGAS-STING and pattern recognition receptor pathways, reprogramming host BIME to enhance both innate and adaptive immune responses. Crucially, HMPF establishes pathogen-specific immune memory, which prevents infection recurrence, outperforming vancomycin in murine IAIs models. This pathogen-host dual-engineering strategy remains effective against other clinical S. aureus strains without inducing drug resistance, bridging virulence disarmament and immunomodulation to offer a transformative antibiotic alternative for resistant IAIs.},
}

@article {pmid41848040,
year = {2026},
author = {Tian, T and Zhang, JX and Yu, HQ},
title = {Rethinking Biocake in Membrane Bioreactors: Beyond the Biofilm Paradigm.},
journal = {Environmental science & technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acs.est.6c02739},
pmid = {41848040},
issn = {1520-5851},
}

@article {pmid41848890,
year = {2026},
author = {Yao, Z and Huang, B and Zhao, H and Fan, J},
title = {Harnessing biofilm colonizers: alleviate light limitation and boost nutrients removal via phosphorus-accumulating and photo-related microbes.},
journal = {Bioprocess and biosystems engineering},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41848890},
issn = {1615-7605},
support = {2023-1656-047//Science and Technology Plan of Hubei Provincial Department of Housing and Urban-Rural Development/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41848960,
year = {2026},
author = {Zafar, S and Sattari-Maraji, A and Moghadam, SO and Nejati, A and Kharrazi, S and Ahadi, EM and Firoozpour, L and Rahbar, M and Pourmand, MR},
title = {Potential of Jelleine-I peptide on down-regulation of biofilm-associated genes and the biofilm formation of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.},
journal = {Molecular biology reports},
volume = {53},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41848960},
issn = {1573-4978},
}

@article {pmid41839669,
year = {2026},
author = {Abd-Alrahman, AK and Al-Hayanni, HS},
title = {Bioactivity of green-synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles using Fusarium oxysporum extract on the expression of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase and biofilm-associated genes in the pathogen Klebsiella pneumoniae.},
journal = {Journal, genetic engineering & biotechnology},
volume = {24},
number = {1},
pages = {100645},
pmid = {41839669},
issn = {2090-5920},
abstract = {Multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae poses a serious clinical threat because of its ability to form biofilms and generate extended-spectrum beta-lactamase enzymes (ESBLs). This research investigated the influence of biosynthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles made from Fusarium oxysporum alcohol extract (FOE) on ESBL genes (blaTEM, blaCTX-M, blaSHV) and the biofilm-associated genes mrkA and luxS. The presence of the 16S rRNA, ESBL and biofilm genes was confirmed through subsequent polymerase chain reaction of the isolates. The FOE and zinc oxide nanoparticles both demonstrated significant antibacterial activity, with zinc oxide nanoparticles exhibiting greater inhibition with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 26 μg/ml. Compared with untreated and FOE-treated isolates, those treated with sub-MIC concentrations of zinc oxide nanoparticles expressed significantly fewer ESBL and biofilm-related genes. The expression levels of the genes blaTEM, blaCTX-M, blaSHV, mrkA and luxS were downregulated below a ratio of 1.0 in each of the bacterial isolates. The biosynthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles demonstrated strong antibacterial and antibiofilm effects through the downregulation of bacterial antibiotic resistance and virulence genes in K. pneumoniae. The findings of this study demonstrate the ability of biosynthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles to function as a green and apotential alternative or support the role of antibiotcs for the treatment of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria.},
}

@article {pmid41839781,
year = {2026},
author = {Escalona, CE and Santibañez, N and Cortés, M and Arriagada, V and Ruiz, P and Fuentes, D and Romero, A and Oliver, C},
title = {Sub-Inhibitory Concentrations of Florfenicol Modulate the Expression of Biofilm Formation and Antibiotic Resistance-Associated Genes in Biofilm-Embedded Piscirickettsia salmonis.},
journal = {Journal of fish diseases},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e70166},
doi = {10.1111/jfd.70166},
pmid = {41839781},
issn = {1365-2761},
support = {11180994//Agencia Nacional de Investigación y Desarrollo/ ; 1231761//Agencia Nacional de Investigación y Desarrollo/ ; CIA250009//Fondo de Financiamiento de Centros de Investigación en Áreas Prioritarias/ ; },
abstract = {Piscirickettsiosis is the most prevalent bacterial disease affecting Chilean aquaculture and responsible for the majority of mortality in salmonids. Currently, large quantities of antibiotics, predominantly florfenicol, are used in the Chilean aquaculture industry, and sub-MIC concentrations of this antibiotic, similar to what occurs in the marine environment, have been shown to induce biofilm formation on both biotic and abiotic surfaces when sub-MIC doses of florfenicol, raising concerns about the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate whether in vitro sub-MIC concentrations of florfenicol induce the expression of genes associated with biofilm formation and antibiotic resistance in the biofilm-embedded P. salmonis. Interestingly, in vitro analyses showed that sub-MIC dilutions of antibiotic significantly modulated the expression of an efflux pump acrAB and the two-component systems cpxAR, and qseBC, as well as the antibiotic resistance-associated genes tclor/tflor and t.flor in the biofilm-embedded P. salmonis isolates tested. Thus, this study highlights the negative consequences of the extensive use of antibiotics in aquaculture, which can promote biofilm formation in marine bacterial pathogens, potentially facilitating the spread of resistance genes among different bacterial species in the aquatic environment and increasing the risk of reinfection within culture systems.},
}

@article {pmid41839986,
year = {2026},
author = {Enan, G and El-Wafa, NA and El-Saber, MM and Osman, A and Abdel-Shafi, S and Sitohy, M},
title = {"Salvia officinalis extract-conjugated magnetite and selenium nanocomposites showed enhanced antibacterial and anti-biofilm activity against multidrug-resistant pathogens".},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41598-026-39983-6},
pmid = {41839986},
issn = {2045-2322},
}

@article {pmid41840555,
year = {2026},
author = {Hu, J and Lei, J and Yu, J and Jin, C and Liang, S and Guo, J and Huang, C},
title = {Effects of cleaning methods on the removal efficacy of Streptococcus mutans biofilm and material properties of thermoplastic aligner materials.},
journal = {BMC oral health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12903-026-08132-w},
pmid = {41840555},
issn = {1472-6831},
support = {82271010//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41841120,
year = {2026},
author = {Alenazi, N and Binsuwaidan, R and Alhabardi, S and Alanazi, SS and Aldahasi, RM and Almutairi, JA and Fatani, WK},
title = {Enhanced antibacterial properties of amoxicillin-loaded silver nanoparticles against Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus: physicochemical characterization, anti-virulence activity, and biofilm inhibition.},
journal = {PeerJ},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {e20924},
pmid = {41841120},
issn = {2167-8359},
mesh = {*Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/pathogenicity ; *Amoxicillin/pharmacology/administration & dosage ; *Biofilms/drug effects ; *Silver/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; *Metal Nanoparticles/chemistry ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Humans ; Virulence/drug effects ; Particle Size ; Acacia/chemistry ; },
abstract = {Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) presents significant challenges in healthcare and community settings due to its diverse virulence factors and increasing resistance to conventional antibiotics. Given the scarcity of effective treatments, developing innovative antibacterial strategies is essential. This study explores the potential of silver nanoparticles conjugated with acacia extracts as nanocarriers for amoxicillin to enhance antibacterial efficacy and circumvent resistance mechanisms in MRSA. The synthesized amoxicillin-loaded silver-acacia nanoparticles were characterized for their physicochemical properties, revealing spherical morphology with a minimum particle size of approximately 230 nm, a polydispersity index of 0.3, and a high negative zeta potential of -32 mV as confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. In vitro assays demonstrated that these nanoparticles significantly inhibited bacterial growth, achieving a reduction at a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 2 mg/mL. At this concentration, biofilm formation by MRSA was inhibited by 80%, as verified by scanning electron microscopy, and hemolytic activity on blood agar was completely suppressed. While a dose-dependent cytotoxic effect on endothelial cells was observed, the MIC concentration remained cytocompatible (p < 0.05). These findings underscore the promise of amoxicillin-loaded silver-acacia nanoparticles as potent antibacterial agents with minimal cytotoxicity at effective doses. This study highlights the potential of nanotechnology-enabled drug delivery to repurpose amoxicillin and offers a novel platform for combating multidrug-resistant MRSA infections, which may inform future therapeutic developments.},
}

*Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/pathogenicity
*Amoxicillin/pharmacology/administration & dosage
*Biofilms/drug effects
*Silver/pharmacology/chemistry
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
*Metal Nanoparticles/chemistry
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Humans
Virulence/drug effects
Particle Size
Acacia/chemistry

@article {pmid41833560,
year = {2026},
author = {Mathewos, W and Kumalo, A and Teklu, T and Demisse, T and Temesgen, M and Chinasho, T},
title = {Nasal Carriage Rate of Biofilm Producing Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Its Associated Factors Among Health Care Workers at Hospital of Central Ethiopia.},
journal = {MicrobiologyOpen},
volume = {15},
number = {2},
pages = {e70266},
doi = {10.1002/mbo3.70266},
pmid = {41833560},
issn = {2045-8827},
mesh = {Humans ; *Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/isolation & purification/physiology/drug effects ; Ethiopia/epidemiology ; *Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Health Personnel/statistics & numerical data ; Female ; *Carrier State/microbiology/epidemiology ; Male ; Adult ; *Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology/epidemiology ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Middle Aged ; Young Adult ; *Nose/microbiology ; Hospitals ; Nasal Cavity/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Not susceptible to methicillin Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), is a potentially harmful bacteria that is resistant to the most important antimicrobial agents. Because MRSA is so resistant to many antibiotics, it can cause illnesses by forming biofilms. The aim of this study was to assess the nasal carriage rate of biofilm-producing methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and its associated factors among HealthCare Workers at Wachemo University Nigist Ellen Mohammed Memorial Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Central Ethiopia. This cross-sectional study, carried out at Wachemo University Nigist Ellen Mohammed Memorial Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Central Ethiopia from August 1 to November 30, 2023. Nasal swab samples from 294 healthcare workers (HCWs) were obtained using sterile cotton swabs. Bacterial isolates were identified using standard culture methods on Mannitol Salt and Blood Agar, while antimicrobial susceptibility testing and biofilm formation assessments followed the CLSI 2023 (M100, 33rd edition) guidelines via the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion methods. All laboratory analyses were performed in triplicate to ensure consistency. Data were double-entered into Epi Data version 4.6 and cross-checked for accuracy. Missing or inconsistent data were verified against original laboratory records and latterly then, exported to SPSS V25 for analysis. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were applied for statistical evaluation, with a p-value of ≤ 0.05 regarded as statistically significant. In this study, the occurrence rates of S. aureus, MRSA, and biofilm-producing MRSA were 98 out of 294 isolated strains (33.4%), 41 out of 294 isolated strains (13.9%), and 28 out of 294 isolated strains (9.5%), respectively. The MRSA strains exhibited high sensitivity to linezolid, rifampicin, and vancomycin while showing resistance to cefoxitin, cotrimoxazole, and ciprofloxacin. A history of prior hospitalization (length of stay in the hospital) was statistically significant for the colonization of biofilm-producing MRSA, with an adjusted odds ratio of 10.00 (95% CI: 1.36-73.3; P = 0.024). MRSA and MRSA that produces biofilms were found to be 41.8% and 68.3% prevalent overall in the study area, respectively. Biofilm-producing MRSA is a potential cause of healthcare-associated diseases. Therefore, these findings emphasize the urgent need for improved infection-prevention practices and routine screening of healthcare workers to mitigate the risk of healthcare-associated infections.},
}

Humans
*Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/isolation & purification/physiology/drug effects
Ethiopia/epidemiology
*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
Cross-Sectional Studies
*Health Personnel/statistics & numerical data
Female
*Carrier State/microbiology/epidemiology
Male
Adult
*Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology/epidemiology
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Middle Aged
Young Adult
*Nose/microbiology
Hospitals
Nasal Cavity/microbiology

@article {pmid41834852,
year = {2026},
author = {, },
title = {Retraction: Low temperature synthesis of superparamagnetic iron oxide (Fe3O4) nanoparticles and their ROS mediated inhibition of biofilm formed by food-associated bacteria.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1812892},
doi = {10.3389/fmicb.2026.1812892},
pmid = {41834852},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {[This retracts the article DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2018.02567.].},
}

@article {pmid41839405,
year = {2026},
author = {Yu, PF and Hu, BM and Wang, D and Ma, XG and Sun, HW and Wang, A},
title = {Optimization of conditions and mechanism of algal-bacterial biofilm formation: Degradation effects, biofilm characteristics, and bacterial community structure.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {134431},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.134431},
pmid = {41839405},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {The study aimed to determine the treatment performance and optimal operating conditions of an algal-bacterial biofilm system supported by either high-density polyethylene (HDPE) carrier or rope-type carrier for domestic wastewater treatment. Response surface methodology (RSM) identified the optimal conditions as: (i) an algae-to-bacteria ratio of 7.4 (sludge: microalgae, in terms of mixed liquid suspended substances (MLSS), mass ratio), (ii) 12.2 mg/L FeCl3, and (iii) one starvation period of one cycle. Both carriers achieved ＞80% removal of chemical oxygen demand (COD), total nitrogen (TN), and total phosphorus (TP). The rope-type carrier outperformed HDPE for nutrients, delivering 85.8% TN and 97.6% TP removal. Biofilm mass on the rope-type carrier was 3.66 times higher than on HDPE carrier, indicating rapid algal enrichment and minimized cell washout. In both algal-bacterial biofilms, Proteobacteria and Chlorophyta were dominant. Carrier properties influenced overall community composition, whereas identical operating conditions maintained a stable core bacterial community. The dominance of Proteobacteria and Bacteroidota likely supported stable nitrogen removal and organic matter degradation. In conclusion, the rope-type carrier conferred superior and more stable performance on the algal-bacterial biofilm system for domestic wastewater treatment.},
}

@article {pmid41829330,
year = {2026},
author = {Ameen, S and Miran, F and Azhdar, B},
title = {Synthesis of Core-Shell Chitosan-TiO2 Nanoparticles and Its Impact on Candida albicans Biofilm Inhibition on 3D-Printed Denture Base Resins: An In Vitro Study.},
journal = {Polymers},
volume = {18},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {41829330},
issn = {2073-4360},
abstract = {Objective: This study aimed to obtain a core-shell chitosan-TiO2 nanoparticle and to investigate its ability to inhibit Candida albicans biofilm formation when added to 3D-printed polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) denture base resins. Materials and Methods: Ionic gelation was employed to prepare and characterize the nanoparticle, and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction were used to identify the structure and morphology. Nanoparticle was added to 3D-printed denture resins at four different weight percentages (0.25%, 0.5%, 0.75%, and 1%) and antibiofilm activity was determined by carrying out Colony Forming Unite (CFU) counts after exposure to C. albicans. Results: The 0.25 wt.% chitosan-TiO2 group exhibited a significant reduction in colony-forming units (CFUs) compared to the control (p < 0.05). Although higher nanoparticle concentrations showed improved biofilm formation, this was most likely caused by nanoparticle aggregation, which interfered with surface homogeneity and biofilm resistance. Conclusions: Incorporating a 0.25 wt.% core-shell chitosan-TiO2 nanoparticle into 3D-printed denture base resin markedly improves its antibiofilm activity against Candida albicans while maintaining the material's integrity.},
}

@article {pmid41830776,
year = {2026},
author = {Kaiser, T and Picioreanu, C and Lackner, S},
title = {A modeling perspective on biofilm formation in granular activated carbon filters - local promotion of autotrophic microorganisms due to the effects of adsorption processes on the availability of organic substrates.},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {297},
number = {},
pages = {125693},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2026.125693},
pmid = {41830776},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {Various studies demonstrated that biofilm formation occurs in granular activated carbon (GAC) filters for (waste-)water treatment. However, little is known about how transient adsorptive interactions between organic solutes and the GAC within the filter bed influence biofilm development on the macroscale. This study proposes a numerical approach to simulate biofilm development in a GAC filter bed. For this purpose, a model approach for simulations at the single grain scale was extended to additionally account for spatial gradients along the filter bed length. The model was successfully tested with operational data from pilot-scale GAC filters. The subsequently simulated scenarios aimed at conceptually identifying key interactions between the GAC and biofilm formation, including spatial gradients in its composition. The simulation results showed that both heterotrophic and autotrophic microorganisms grew in GAC filters under typical operating conditions. The heterotrophs grew closer to the filter influent, consistent with the system's plug-flow-like behavior. Adsorption of organic solutes onto the GAC resulted in a stricter longitudinal separation of the two general types of microorganisms in the filter bed compared to a non-adsorbing reference filter bed by decreasing the downstream concentrations of organic substrate. Considering explicit backwash events further consolidated this separation for the GAC case. Together with the periodic adsorptive retention and release of organic solutes in the upper filter bed section, depending on the current biological activity, backwash events created even more favorable conditions for autotrophic growth in intermediate regions of the filter bed. Overall, the simulation results showed that autotrophic activity was locally enhanced by adsorptive effects of the GAC and that its extent was directly influenced by the simulated backwash regime. Considering the link between autotrophic activity and co-metabolic biotransformation of organic micropollutants discussed in literature, the results further highlight the potential biological contributions to the overall removal of certain micropollutants in GAC filters, but also the necessity to adequately represent longitudinal gradients and biofilm thickness control mechanisms in mathematical models.},
}

@article {pmid41831689,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, H and Fan, D and Liu, X and Chen, Y and Xiao, J and Hou, C and Zeng, W and Chen, F},
title = {Stage-specific therapeutic strategies for combating bacterial biofilm infections: Recent advances and future perspectives.},
journal = {Journal of controlled release : official journal of the Controlled Release Society},
volume = {393},
number = {},
pages = {114815},
doi = {10.1016/j.jconrel.2026.114815},
pmid = {41831689},
issn = {1873-4995},
abstract = {Bacterial biofilms are highly organized microbial communities that drive chronic and recurrent infections, posing significant clinical challenges. The extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) matrix and dormant cells of biofilms confer strong tolerance to conventional antimicrobials, and their formation through distinct developmental stages presents unique vulnerabilities that can be therapeutically targeted. This review summarizes recent advances in functional biomaterial-based strategies aimed at combating biofilm-associated infections, including prevention of bacterial adhesion, disruption of EPS, eradication of dormant cells, and enhanced antimicrobial penetration. We discuss both in vitro and in vivo validations, emphasize the importance of prophylactic approaches, and highlight emerging multifunctional platforms that improve infection control and biofilm clearance. By linking mechanistic insights to translational applications, this review provides a framework for next-generation therapies capable of effectively combating biofilm-driven infections at each developmental stage.},
}

@article {pmid41828398,
year = {2026},
author = {Guerra, MES and Destro, G and Cezar, RV and Ciaparin, I and Ferraz, LFC and Hakansson, AP and Girardello, R and Darrieux, M and Converso, TR},
title = {Capsule Regulation Shapes Klebsiella pneumoniae Pathogenesis by Balancing Adhesion, Biofilm Formation, and Intracellular Survival.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27052169},
pmid = {41828398},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {2019/23566-6//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo/ ; 2022/15111-1//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo/ ; 2024/02517-5//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo/ ; 400099/2022-5//National Council for Scientific and Technological Development/ ; 139133/2025-9//National Council for Scientific and Technological Development/ ; 2021-06050//Swedish Research Council/ ; 2022-01296//Swedish Research Council/ ; Grant//Alfred Österlunds Stiftelse/ ; },
mesh = {*Klebsiella pneumoniae/pathogenicity/physiology/genetics ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; *Bacterial Capsules/metabolism/genetics ; *Bacterial Adhesion ; Humans ; *Klebsiella Infections/microbiology ; Virulence ; Epithelial Cells/microbiology ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Klebsiella pneumoniae is a major opportunistic pathogen, where the polysaccharide capsule is traditionally recognized as a critical virulence determinant. However, its role in surface interactions and intracellular adaptation remains incompletely understood. Here, we combined phenotypic assays with physicochemical analyses to dissect the contribution of the capsule. A wza knockout mutant displayed enhanced biofilm formation, adhesion, and invasion of epithelial cells compared to the encapsulated strain. Zeta potential and hydrodynamic size measurements revealed that capsule absence increased surface negativity and exposure of adhesion structures, thereby promoting host-cell interactions. In contrast, intracellular survival assays demonstrated that the capsule conferred a clear advantage for persistence and replication. Together, our results support a dynamic model in which capsule expression imposes a trade-off: restricting early adhesion and biofilm development but favoring long-term intracellular survival. This trade-off model expands the understanding of capsule biology and may inform novel strategies to disrupt colonization or persistence in antibiotic-resistant K. pneumoniae.},
}

*Klebsiella pneumoniae/pathogenicity/physiology/genetics
*Biofilms/growth & development
*Bacterial Capsules/metabolism/genetics
*Bacterial Adhesion
Humans
*Klebsiella Infections/microbiology
Virulence
Epithelial Cells/microbiology
Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism

@article {pmid41828371,
year = {2026},
author = {Tadtong, S and Techavijit, S and Mukdapattanakul, N and Singh, S and Chittasupho, C and Eiamart, W and Samee, W},
title = {Phytochemical Assessment, Evaluation of Antioxidant and Antibacterial Properties, and Molecular Docking to Elucidate the Regulation of Bacterial Biofilm Formation in an Herbal Formulation for the Treatment of Abscesses.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27052145},
pmid = {41828371},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {457/2567//Srinakharinwirot University/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; Molecular Docking Simulation ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Antioxidants/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Plant Extracts/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Phytochemicals/pharmacology/chemistry ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Curcuma/chemistry ; Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects ; Staphylococcus epidermidis/drug effects ; Curcumin/pharmacology/analogs & derivatives/chemistry ; },
abstract = {Abscess formation is commonly precipitated by bacterial infection. This study delineates the phytochemical composition and evaluates the antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-biofilm activities of a Thai traditional anti-abscess herbal formulation comprising Curcuma zedoaria, Vitex trifolia, and Azadirachta indica. Validated high-performance liquid chromatography-photodiode array detection (HPLC-PDA) analysis of the ethanolic extract identified curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, bisdemethoxycurcumin, and vitexicarpin as principal constituents. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were 32.08 ± 2.54 mg GAE/g and 17.52 ± 1.28 mg QE/g dry weight, respectively. Antioxidant assessment by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay yielded an half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 53.46 ± 3.24 µg/mL, while reducing power corresponded to 383.97 ± 13.24 µg FeSO4/g dry weight. Molecular orbital analysis revealed a highest occupied molecular orbital and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (HOMO-LUMO) gap for vitexicarpin (ΔE = 9.7710 eV), indicative of greater radical-scavenging potential relative to curcuminoids. Antibacterial assays demonstrated selective activity against Staphylococcus epidermidis (inhibition zone 1.48 ± 0.16 cm), with no observed inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes. Curcumin exhibited the highest activity against S. epidermidis (minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) 62.5 µg/mL; minimal bactericidal concentration minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) 125 µg/mL). Molecular docking showed curcumin binding to the teicoplanin-associated transcriptional regulator (TcaR) with a binding energy of -8.00 kcal/mol, comparable to methicillin (-8.16 kcal/mol), suggesting a potential mechanism for modulation of biofilm-associated regulatory pathways. Collectively, these findings indicate that the formulation has measurable antioxidant activity and targeted antibacterial efficacy against S. epidermidis, which may contribute to attenuation of abscess progression via interference with biofilm regulation.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
Molecular Docking Simulation
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
*Antioxidants/pharmacology/chemistry
*Plant Extracts/pharmacology/chemistry
*Phytochemicals/pharmacology/chemistry
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Curcuma/chemistry
Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects
Staphylococcus epidermidis/drug effects
Curcumin/pharmacology/analogs & derivatives/chemistry

@article {pmid41826947,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhu, Q and Sun, F and Fan, Y and Wang, P and Yang, Y},
title = {Florida probe combined with guided biofilm therapy in the treatment of severe periodontitis: a case report.},
journal = {BMC oral health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12903-026-08090-3},
pmid = {41826947},
issn = {1472-6831},
}