@article {pmid41708362,
year = {2026},
author = {Akshaya, BS and Premraj, K and Iswarya, C and Muthusamy, S and Mohamed Ibrahim, HI and Khalil, HE and Ashokkumar, V and Vickram, S and Kumar, VS and Palanisamy, S and Thirugnanasambantham, K},
title = {Corrigendum to "Cinnamaldehyde inhibits Enterococcus faecalis biofilm formation and promotes clearance of its colonization by modulation of phagocytes in vitro" [Microb. Pathog. (2023) 181 106157].},
journal = {Microbial pathogenesis},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {108382},
doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2026.108382},
pmid = {41708362},
issn = {1096-1208},
}

@article {pmid41706891,
year = {2026},
author = {Agarwal, H and Ben, H and Chaini, A and Gurnani, B and Mukherjee, N and Pal, A and Upadhyaya, AK and Ghosh, S and Kumar Sasmal, D and Jain, N},
title = {β2-microglobulin inhibits Escherichia coli biofilm formation via selectively blocking curli assembly.},
journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America},
volume = {123},
number = {8},
pages = {e2515986123},
doi = {10.1073/pnas.2515986123},
pmid = {41706891},
issn = {1091-6490},
support = {I/Seed/NJ/20190019//Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur (IITJ)/ ; S-12011/12/2021-SCHEME//आयुष मंत्रालयCentral Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences, Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India (CCRAS)/ ; T/EMBO/NJ/20230244//European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO)/ ; TIH/iHUB Drishti/Project/2021-22/21//Technology Innovation Hub project/ ; STARS2/2023-0473//Scheme for Transformational and Advanced Research in Sciences/ ; ANRF/CRG/2023/003083//Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR)/ ; IIRPSG-2024-01-07063//MOHFW | DHR | Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)/ ; 37WS(0014)/2023-24/EMR-II/ASPIRE//Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, India (CSIR)/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *beta 2-Microglobulin/pharmacology/metabolism ; *Escherichia coli/drug effects/physiology/metabolism ; Animals ; Rats ; Humans ; *Bacterial Proteins/metabolism ; Escherichia coli Infections/microbiology/drug therapy ; },
abstract = {Bacteria have evolved a remarkable strategy to thrive in hostile environments by creating well-organized microcommunities known as biofilms. Biofilms pose a serious global health challenge due to their contribution to antibiotic resistance and suppression of the effectiveness of immune responses, thereby exacerbating pathogenic conditions. Biofilm-dwelling bacteria are difficult to eliminate since the cells are embedded within a self-produced, intricate 3D extracellular matrix composed of protein polymers (amyloids), polysaccharides, and extracellular nucleic acids. The robustness of the matrix poses a significant challenge to curb biofilm infections. Moreover, there is a lacuna in understanding how biofilm may be controlled under physiological conditions. Therefore, it is imperative to investigate the role of host proteins in keeping a check on biofilm formation. In the present study, we have established β2-microglobulin (β2m), a human protein integral to innate immunity, as a potent inhibitor of biofilm formation in Escherichia coli. Our comprehensive biophysical, biochemical, computational, microscopic, and in vivo analyses revealed that β2m effectively prevents E. coli biofilm formation by specifically inhibiting amyloid curli, a major matrix component of E. coli biofilm. In a rat skin wound infection model, β2m significantly accelerated wound healing, underscoring its therapeutic potential against biofilm infections. Our results illustrate a crucial function of β2m as an endogenous antibiofilm and anticurli protein, provides a host-derived strategy to combat biofilm infections, and presents a method to augment existing antimicrobial therapies.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*beta 2-Microglobulin/pharmacology/metabolism
*Escherichia coli/drug effects/physiology/metabolism
Animals
Rats
Humans
*Bacterial Proteins/metabolism
Escherichia coli Infections/microbiology/drug therapy

@article {pmid41705824,
year = {2026},
author = {Han, X and Hu, Y and Yue, Y and Ding, Y and Cao, B and Shi, L and Liu, J},
title = {Biofilm engineering through c-di-GMP tuning boosts bioleaching efficiency and arsenic tolerance in Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans.},
journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0228825},
doi = {10.1128/aem.02288-25},
pmid = {41705824},
issn = {1098-5336},
abstract = {Bioleaching offers a sustainable alternative to conventional metallurgy, but its application is limited by low leaching rates, inhibition by heavy metals, and prolonged adaptation. Here, we engineered Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans, a model bioleaching microorganism ubiquitous in mining environments, by modulating intracellular bis(3'-5')-cyclic dimeric guanosine monophosphate (c-di-GMP) signaling to enhance biofilm formation, bioleaching efficiency, and arsenic tolerance. Overexpression of diguanylate cyclase genes AFE_1379, AFE_0053, and AFE_1373 produced engineered strains S-222, S-306, and S-651, respectively, with 1.7-, 2.5-, and 5-fold higher intracellular c-di-GMP levels than the control carrying the empty plasmid vector. Under arsenic-free conditions, all engineered strains showed similar growth profiles, but S-306, at intermediate c-di-GMP (306.3 ± 28.1 μg mg[-1]), formed cytochrome-rich biofilms with low internal resistance and achieved the highest bioleaching efficiency. Under arsenic stress, S-651, at high c-di-GMP (651.4 ± 15.5 μg mg[-1]), developed polysaccharide-rich biofilms that enhanced arsenic tolerance, scorodite (FeAsO4·2H2O) precipitation, and bioleaching performance. Transcriptomic analysis confirmed these strain-specific gene expression patterns. These findings demonstrate that tuning intracellular c-di-GMP enables A. ferrooxidans to reprogram biofilm matrix composition for extracellular electron uptake and heavy-metal resistance, providing a synthetic biology strategy for environmentally friendly bioleaching and tailings recycling.IMPORTANCEAs a model microorganism for bioleaching, Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans is limited in leaching efficiency by several key constraints, including slow biofilm formation and susceptibility to environmental heavy metals. Although genetic engineering has been widely used to tackle these challenges, conventional strategies typically focus on modifying one single trait at a time, which significantly restricts their industrial applicability. In this study, we present a novel approach that overcomes this limitation through targeted modulation of the global regulatory molecule c-di-GMP. Engineering this upstream signaling pathway allowed for the tunable enhancement of both bioleaching efficiency and heavy metal resistance, providing an integrated strategy to address multiple bottlenecks simultaneously. This work offers a versatile and practical biotechnology route for diverse scenarios to enhance bioleaching performance and environmental adaptability, which may facilitate the utilization of low-grade ores and mining tailings and ultimately contribute to more sustainable and circular metal production.},
}

@article {pmid41704958,
year = {2026},
author = {Wu, Y and Kang, M and Wang, Z and Zhang, Y and Chen, K and Liang, Q and Lu, X},
title = {Biofilm-related characteristics of Candida parapsilosis in postoperative ocular infections.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1753328},
pmid = {41704958},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; *Candida parapsilosis/physiology/drug effects/isolation & purification/genetics/classification ; Humans ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Candidiasis/microbiology ; Antifungal Agents/pharmacology ; Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Interactions ; *Eye Infections, Fungal/microbiology ; *Postoperative Complications/microbiology ; beta-Glucans/metabolism ; Cell Adhesion ; *Candida/physiology/drug effects ; Biomass ; Neutrophils ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The research aims to elucidate the pathogenic mechanisms of Candida parapsilosis infection after keratoplasty and provide evidence-based guidance for the clinical management of Candida infections in ophthalmic practice.

METHOD: Biofilms were cultured from 45 strains of Candida. The total biomass of the biofilms was measured using the crystal violet staining method, and the biofilm activity was assessed via the XTT reduction assay. Cell surface hydrophobicity and adhesion were evaluated for all Candida strains. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of planktonic Candida was determined using the colorimetric microbroth dilution method, while the MIC of biofilm-embedded Candida was measured via the XTT reduction assay. The release of 1, 3-β-D-glucan was detected using the G-test, and the chemotactic ability of 1, 3-β-D-glucan on neutrophils was evaluated via the Transwell assay. Molecular typing of Candida parapsilosis was performed using microsatellite genotyping. Statistical analysis was conducted using the Kruskal-Wallis (K-W) test.

RESULTS: In 45 postoperative ocular Candida isolates, Candida parapsilosis accounted for 48.9% (22/45), Candida albicans 35.6% (16/45), Candida tropicalis 11.1% (5/45), and Candida glabrata 4.4% (2/45). The total biofilm biomass and metabolic activity of Candida parapsilosis at 4°C were significantly higher than those of the other Candida species. In the cell surface hydrophobicity assay, Candida parapsilosis was more hydrophobic than Candida albicans and Candida glabrata, but less hydrophobic than Candida tropicalis. Among Candida parapsilosis isolates, 77.3% (17/22) showed strong adhesion ability and 81.8% (18/22) showed strong biofilm-forming ability (OD450>0.16). Candida colony and spore morphology were found to correlate with biofilm-forming ability. Strains with strong biofilm-forming ability had wrinkled, dry colonies; Gram-stained spores appeared as pseudohyphae; and lactophenol cotton blue staining showed spores that were uniformly and deeply stained. In the biofilm-antigenicity analysis, the non-biofilm-forming group's 1, 3-β-D-glucan release was significantly higher than that of the strong biofilm group, thereby attracting more neutrophils. In antifungal susceptibility tests, except for C. tropicalis, biofilm-grown Candida showed higher minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) than planktonic cells for all antifungal drugs. Caspofungin was active against all isolates in both states.

CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that C. parapsilosis has greater adhesion ability and a stronger capacity to form biofilms at 4°C (with higher metabolic activity) than other Candida species. When laboratory findings reveal a Candida isolate with a rough colony morphology, its biofilm-forming ability should be tested and antifungal susceptibility should be assessed under biofilm-growing conditions rather than in planktonic culture.Clinically, we recommend shifting antifungal therapy to caspofungin for such infections.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
*Candida parapsilosis/physiology/drug effects/isolation & purification/genetics/classification
Humans
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Candidiasis/microbiology
Antifungal Agents/pharmacology
Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Interactions
*Eye Infections, Fungal/microbiology
*Postoperative Complications/microbiology
beta-Glucans/metabolism
Cell Adhesion
*Candida/physiology/drug effects
Biomass
Neutrophils

@article {pmid41704850,
year = {2025},
author = {Taylor, CC and Aviles-Gonzalez, A and Marchesani, A and Kiessling, C and Patrick, T and Chen, L and Yao, H and Li, Z and Seward, A and Chin, KJ and Gilbert, ES},
title = {The anti-biofilm compound 4-ethoxybenzoic acid inhibits Staphylococcus aureus virulence factor production via a putative 4EB-binding pocket in key virulence-associated proteins.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1704290},
pmid = {41704850},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {There is a need for dual action anti-virulence and anti-biofilm agents that target the opportunistic pathogen Staphylococcus aureus. Previous research determined that 0.8 mg/mL 4-ethoxybenzoic acid (4EB) reduced S. aureus ATCC 6538 biofilm formation by 88% relative to untreated controls with moderate inhibition of planktonic cell growth. Here we report that 4EB impacted S. aureus virulence phenotypes across all growth phases, including alpha-hemolysin (Hla) and serine protease (SplB/C) exoprotein production (60% reduction), staphyloxanthin pigment accumulation (73% reduction) and alpha-hemolysis (>87% reduction) compared to untreated control cells. RT-qPCR analysis demonstrated that 4EB downregulated virulence gene expression, including >100-fold reduction of alpha-hemolysin (hla) and leukocidins (lukDvEv), and a 35-fold decrease of the response regulator SaeR. Phenol-soluble modulin (PSM) transcription by biofilm-grown cells was upregulated by 4EB more than 4-fold for α1-4psm and β1-2psm genes, while δ-toxin (hld) was unaffected. In silico molecular docking analysis revealed that 4EB has a strong binding affinity (ΔG < -6.0 kcal/mol) for 9 virulence-associated transcriptional regulators, including SaeS, IcaR and CodY. Analysis of gene transcription during late exponential phase growth determined that genes controlled by 7 of the 9 identified regulators were significantly impacted by 4EB. The docking analysis identified putative 4EB binding sites that share common features including valine and tyrosine amino acid residues. The combined in vitro and in silico analyses identified interactions with well-known virulence genes but also implicated an effect of 4EB on proteins less commonly associated with S. aureus pathogenesis. These findings suggested potential alternative targets for anti-virulence and anti-biofilm therapeutics.},
}

@article {pmid41703846,
year = {2026},
author = {Yamik, DY and Wannasrichan, W and Khongkhai, H and Watthanasakphuban, N and Yingkajorn, M and Pelyuntha, W and Vongkamjan, K},
title = {Revealing the biological and genomic characteristics of Escherichia coli phages and their application in reducing biofilm formation and bacterial counts in contaminated meat.},
journal = {Food research international (Ottawa, Ont.)},
volume = {228},
number = {},
pages = {118383},
doi = {10.1016/j.foodres.2026.118383},
pmid = {41703846},
issn = {1873-7145},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Escherichia coli/virology/physiology ; Genome, Viral ; Food Microbiology ; Animals ; *Meat/microbiology ; *Food Contamination/prevention & control ; *Coliphages/genetics/physiology/ultrastructure ; Bacterial Load ; Food Safety ; },
abstract = {The meat industry is often confronted with bacterial contamination, particularly Escherichia coli (E. coli), which compromises food safety and poses significant public health risks. Conventional treatments for bacterial contamination can lead to undesirable outcomes, highlighting the need for alternative strategies. In this study, we characterized E. coli phages, including their genomic features to evaluate their safety, and assessed their potential as biocontrol agents for controlling E. coli in meat and biofilm formation. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed that all phages possess morphological characteristics typical of the myoviruses. All phages exhibited varying adsorption rates (90% of phage particles adsorbed within 25-35 min), latent periods (10-30 min), and burst sizes (16-130 particles/infected cell). Whole genome analysis showed that phages WPEC3, WPEC4, and WPEC5 have genome sizes of 384,131 bp, 155,794 bp, and 381,326 bp, respectively, with GC contents of 35.84%, 38.93%, and 35.55%. The genomes mainly encode hypothetical proteins, including genes involved in DNA replication, metabolism, phage-host interaction, and structural proteins. Importantly, no antibiotic resistance genes, bacterial virulence genes, or lysogeny-associated genes were detected. The co-culture method at a multiplicity of infection (MOI) of 10,000 was the most effective, reducing biofilm to an OD595 value of 0.09, while the exclusion and prevention methods showed OD595 values of 0.14 and 0.18, respectively, at the same MOI. In chicken meat, a 10% (v/v) phage cocktail concentration achieved complete E. coli eradication within 0 h. In beef, the same concentration reduced the E. coli count by 3.87 log CFU/g at 0 h and achieved complete eradication within 24 h. Overall, the phage cocktail demonstrated strong biocontrol potential against E. coli biofilm formation and contamination in meat. This provides a promising alternative to conventional chemical or physical control methods in the meat industry, potentially enhancing food safety and consumer acceptability.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Escherichia coli/virology/physiology
Genome, Viral
Food Microbiology
Animals
*Meat/microbiology
*Food Contamination/prevention & control
*Coliphages/genetics/physiology/ultrastructure
Bacterial Load
Food Safety

@article {pmid41703836,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, J and Wang, HD and Qu, Y and Lin, T and Zhou, C and Lin, Z and Liu, Y and Li, Z and Dong, Q and Suo, Y},
title = {Plasmid-mediated modulation of Listeria monocytogenes biofilm formation via TCS/PTS signaling: Implications for food contamination control.},
journal = {Food research international (Ottawa, Ont.)},
volume = {228},
number = {},
pages = {118372},
doi = {10.1016/j.foodres.2026.118372},
pmid = {41703836},
issn = {1873-7145},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Listeria monocytogenes/genetics/physiology/metabolism ; *Plasmids/genetics ; *Signal Transduction ; *Food Microbiology ; *Food Contamination/prevention & control ; Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics ; Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial ; *Phosphotransferases/metabolism ; Carbohydrate Metabolism ; },
abstract = {Listeria monocytogenes thrives in diverse and often hostile environments by forming biofilms that act as protective physical barriers. While plasmids have been implicated in enhancing biofilm formation, the underlying regulatory mechanisms remain largely unexplored. In this study, representative wild-type L. monocytogenes strains and their plasmid-cured counterparts were selected from 33 food-derived isolates based on biofilm reduction rates. Their biofilm-forming ability was assessed under various food-relevant stress conditions, followed by comprehensive multi-omics analyses. Phenotypic differences in key regulatory pathways between wild-type and plasmid-cured strains were further validated to systematically elucidate the molecular mechanisms of plasmid-mediated biofilm regulation. The results identified three key plasmid-regulated pathways: (i) Flagellar assembly and exoprotein biosynthesis, which are regulated via two-component systems (TCS), are evidenced by the reduced initial aggregation capacity and extracellular protein content in plasmid-cured strains. (ii) Carbohydrate metabolism, particularly the modulation of fructose/mannose metabolism and d-glucose synthesis through the phosphotransferase system (PTS), was experimentally confirmed that this significantly reduces EPS content in plasmid-cured strains. (iii) Amino acid metabolism, specifically involving glycine, serine, and threonine pathways, was also affected; however, amino acid supplementation failed to restore biofilm formation to wild-type levels, suggesting a more complex regulatory interaction. Collectively, these findings provide the first systematic dissection of plasmid-mediated biofilm regulation in L. monocytogenes, linking mobile genetic elements to coordinated control of motility, metabolic reprogramming, and matrix production. This study deepens our understanding of L. monocytogenes biofilm physiology and offers a scientific foundation for developing targeted strategies to disrupt biofilms in food-related environments.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Listeria monocytogenes/genetics/physiology/metabolism
*Plasmids/genetics
*Signal Transduction
*Food Microbiology
*Food Contamination/prevention & control
Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics
Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial
*Phosphotransferases/metabolism
Carbohydrate Metabolism

@article {pmid41703767,
year = {2026},
author = {Wei, M and Ran, Z and Li, Y and Song, P and Mei, J and Zhang, H and Zhao, X and Yang, Y and Wu, T and Kang, K and Liu, C and Song, N and Chen, Z},
title = {A Biofilm-Disrupting Microneedle Patch Leveraging DNA-Hydrolyzing Nanozyme and Photothermia for Enhanced Diabetic Ulcer Therapy.},
journal = {Advanced healthcare materials},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e05929},
doi = {10.1002/adhm.202505929},
pmid = {41703767},
issn = {2192-2659},
support = {22307033//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 22277011//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 22577014//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; SBGJ202302090//Medical Science and Technology Research Project of Henan Province/ ; },
abstract = {Biofilm-infected diabetic ulcer represents a formidable clinical challenge due to the limited penetration and poor efficacy of conventional antimicrobials. Although photothermal therapy offers a non-invasive alternative, its efficacy is severely constrained by the inadequate infiltration of photothermal agents into deep biofilm regions. To address this barrier, we engineered a dissolvable microneedle patch incorporating ceria-decorated oxidized mesoporous carbon nanospheres (MN/OMCN@CeO2). This design leverages the intrinsic DNA-hydrolyzing activity of the CeO2 nanozyme to selectively degrade extracellular DNA (eDNA), a key structural component of the biofilm matrix. Enzymatic disruption of eDNA loosens the biofilm structure, thereby facilitating the deep penetration of the OMCN@CeO2 nanocomposite. Upon near-infrared light irradiation, the infiltrated nanocomposite generates localized hyperthermia, efficiently ablating deeply seated bacteria while simultaneously enhancing the catalytic activity of CeO2. In vitro assays demonstrated superior biofilm penetration and disruption by the MN/OMCN@CeO2 patch, along with robust bactericidal activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Further, in a murine model of diabetic ulcer biofilm infection, patch application significantly accelerated wound healing through effective bacterial clearance, attenuation of inflammatory responses, and promotion of tissue repair. Collectively, this DNA-hydrolyzing nanozyme-potentiated photothermal platform offers a promising therapeutic strategy for refractory, biofilm-associated diabetic ulcers.},
}

@article {pmid41703047,
year = {2026},
author = {Wood, J and Verran, J and Randviir, E and Redfern, J},
title = {A new application of bacterial cellulose in textiles and fashion: using Kombucha-derived biofilm to remove dye from polluted water.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41598-026-39271-3},
pmid = {41703047},
issn = {2045-2322},
abstract = {The fashion and textile industries face mounting pressure to adopt sustainable practices due to their environmental impacts, including waste generation and water pollution from dyeing. Bacterial cellulose, a renewable, biodegradable material produced via microbial fermentation, offers a promising solution. While bacterial cellulose has been explored as a sustainable textile material in fashion apparel, this study introduces its potential for removing synthetic dyes from dyehouse wastewater. Dyeing processes produce wastewater contaminated with synthetic dyes, which are toxic, persistent, and bio accumulative, posing ecological risks. Bacterial cellulose's nanofibrillar structure makes it effective for capturing liquid contaminants through chemical bonding and physical trapping. Using a microbial consortium (Kombucha), bacterial biofilms were developed over 30 days in either black tea and sugar or Hestrin and Schramm medium. They were then immersed in dye-polluted water. Kombucha-derived bacterial cellulose biofilms reduced dye colour intensity by over 79% for acid blue and 63% for reactive navy, with the most effective results from biofilms developed in black tea containing active microbes. Results indicate that the microbial consortium in the Kombucha-derived pellicle may have a role in removing colour pollution from dyestuff wastewater, thereby presenting a sustainable pathway for addressing key environmental challenges in fashion and textile industries.},
}

@article {pmid41484506,
year = {2026},
author = {Ruffier d'Epenoux, L and Rwayane, K and Paquin, A and Persyn, E and Fayoux, E and Hervochon, C and Corvec, S},
title = {In vitro emergence of amoxicillin-resistance and impact of amoxicillin on biofilm production across Cutibacterium acnes phylotypes?.},
journal = {European journal of clinical microbiology & infectious diseases : official publication of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41484506},
issn = {1435-4373},
}

@article {pmid41704083,
year = {2025},
author = {Ghai, S and Shrivastava, R and Jain, S},
title = {Predictive Analysis of Mycobacterium fortuitum Biofilm Proteins Using Machine Learning: Identifying Novel Drug Targets.},
journal = {Infectious disorders drug targets},
volume = {25},
number = {8},
pages = {e18715265371302},
doi = {10.2174/0118715265371302250426154427},
pmid = {41704083},
issn = {2212-3989},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Mycobacterium fortuitum/drug effects/physiology/metabolism ; *Machine Learning ; *Bacterial Proteins/metabolism ; Proteomics/methods ; Proteome ; Neural Networks, Computer ; Humans ; Support Vector Machine ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Algorithms ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Mycobacterium fortuitum is a rapidly growing human pathogenic bacterium that has been linked to a number of clinical conditions. Its ability to quickly develop intricate biofilms makes its treatment challenging. Development of drug resistance has been reported in cases of M. fortuitum, further reducing treatment options available against the pathogen.

OBJECTIVE: In order to identify the proteins involved in biofilm development, this work attempted to analyze the real-time proteome data of M. fortuitum using machine learning strategies. The aim of the study was to provide novel drug targets that may be used to treat patients more quickly and efficiently.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: The proteomic data was analyzed using the Support Vector Machine (SVM), Artificial Neural Network (ANN), and k-nearest Neighbors (kNN) techniques. Proteins linked to biofilm formation, which were over-expressed and under-expressed, were used in the training set of the models. The trained models were then evaluated using abundant proteins found in M. fortuitum proteome analysis. The pre-processing and optimization were done to improve the performance of the models.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The kNN algorithm achieved the highest accuracy level of 82.98%, followed by SVM at 82.75% and ANN at 78%. Using other machine learning methods, including Random Forest, Naive Bayes, and Logistic Regression, the performance of these models was further verified. The outcomes demonstrated for the prediction of proteins, kNN consistently produced the best accuracy.

CONCLUSION: The study shows that machine learning techniques, in particular kNN, can be used for successful analyses of proteome data obtained from M. fortuitum in order to identify proteins associated with the formation of biofilms. This methodology may be used for the prediction of drug targets using a proteome database. Identification of drug targets can help in designing better treatment strategies against the pathogen.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Mycobacterium fortuitum/drug effects/physiology/metabolism
*Machine Learning
*Bacterial Proteins/metabolism
Proteomics/methods
Proteome
Neural Networks, Computer
Humans
Support Vector Machine
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Algorithms

@article {pmid41702520,
year = {2026},
author = {Barbara, T and Alessio, M and Camilla, MB and Francesca, DP and Agata, G and Andrea, G and Simona, R and Simona, C},
title = {Fixed-bed biofilm reactor for single-stage bioconversion of organic waste to medium-chain carboxylic acids.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {134228},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.134228},
pmid = {41702520},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Biofilm-based systems can enhance medium-chain carboxylic acids (MCCAs) production by retaining slow-growing microorganisms and increasing biomass density. This study investigated a novel single-stage fixed-bed biofilm system for the co-fermentation of food waste and sewage sludge. Significant enhancements in stability and metabolic efficiency were achieved without external pH control or the addition of external electron donors, as the process relied on the endogenous in-situ production of lactate and ethanol. Using a 1:1 support-to-inoculum ratio with porous sintered glass as solid support, the system reached a caproic acid yield of 62 ± 5 gC6/kgVSfed, significantly higher than the control (43.4 ± 2.1 gC6/kgVSfed) over the entire seventy-day continuous trial. Analytical profiling and sequencing confirmed the selective enrichment of specialized chain elongators, primarily Caproiciproducens and Pseudoramibacter, within the biofilm. This study establishes the single-stage fixed-bed biofilm reactor as a robust and efficient strategy for valorising complex organic waste into high-value chemicals.},
}

@article {pmid41702164,
year = {2026},
author = {Sun, J and Shu, H and Wu, X and Liu, T and Li, G and Cui, Z and Li, T and Zhou, X and Dai, Z and Li, Q},
title = {Quorum sensing-driven biofilm cathode of Shewanella oneidensis for enhanced uranium adsorption: Elucidating the role of exogenous AHLs and validation in actual uranium-contaminated groundwater.},
journal = {Journal of hazardous materials},
volume = {505},
number = {},
pages = {141485},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.141485},
pmid = {41702164},
issn = {1873-3336},
abstract = {Large quantities of low-concentration uranium-contaminated water from the nuclear industry poses a critical environmental challenge due to the limitations of current methods on removal efficiency and adsorption selectivity. This study developed a novel biofilm cathode for enhanced uranium adsorption by leveraging the quorum sensing (QS) system of Shewanella oneidensis MR-1. Biofilm formation was induced using exogenous acyl-homoserine lactones (AHLs), with C4-HSL (10 μmol/L) identified as the most efficient signal molecule. It significantly improved biofilm properties, increasing thickness by 107.7 % versus the control without AHLs, boosting extracellular protein content, and increasing the proportion of living cells. Microstructure analysis (CLSM) revealed a "base-polysaccharide-gel" three-dimensional structure, where proteins, lipids, and β-polysaccharides form a functional gel layer that provides the primary functional matrix for uranium binding. The C4-HSL-induced biofilm exhibited a 43.4 % higher reduction peak current and a 33.3 % decrease in electron transfer resistance, confirming improved electron transfer efficiency. Furthermore, coupling CLSM, SEM-EDS, FT-IR and XPS analysis indicated uranium capture was primarily dominated by complexation/coordination with functional groups on extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), supplemented by electrochemical reduction of 25.91 % soluble U(VI) to insoluble U(IV). Accordingly, a possible mechanism model of QS-driven biofilm cathode is proposed for optimizing biofilm structure and enhancing uranium capture. Finally, verification tests in actual uranium-contaminated groundwater demonstrated the biofilm cathode exhibited exceptional performance with a 99.4 % uranium recovery rate and high selectivity (Kd,U at 34.57 L/g). These findings highlight the significant potential of AHLs-triggered QS as a powerful strategy to optimize bioelectrochemical properties for highly-efficient uranium remediation and resource recovery.},
}

@article {pmid41702077,
year = {2026},
author = {Mielcarek, A and Przemieniecki, SW},
title = {Citric acid-assisted biofilm treatment enabling nutrient recovery and safe discharge of hydroponic wastewater.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {401},
number = {},
pages = {129008},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2026.129008},
pmid = {41702077},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {Soilless greenhouse cultivation generates large volumes of wastewater with high nutrient concentrations, while effective solutions for its environmentally safe management remain limited. This study compared two strategies for final wastewater treatment. In Variant A, wastewater underwent direct biological treatment in a biofilm reactor, whereas in Variant B, it was first alkalized to pH 8.5 to induce phosphorus precipitation and recovery before biological treatment. Citric acid served as the sole organic carbon source, applied at COD/N ratios of 2, 4, and 6. The study evaluated nitrogen and phosphorus removal efficiency, citric acid utilization, sludge characteristics, and bacteriobiome dynamics. Preliminary alkalization enabled recovery of over 95% of phosphorus and improved denitrification, resulting in effluent nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations below discharge limits. Denitrification was efficient across a wide pH range (2.45-8.97), and citric acid supported complete denitrification despite inhibitory effects of increased alkalinity from nitrate reduction or post-alkalization conditions. The COD/N ratios required for complete denitrification were 3.16 ± 0.16 (Variant A) and 3.14 ± 0.10 (Variant B). Higher COD/N ratios enhanced pollutant removal rates and reduced hydraulic retention time. Alkalization had a stronger impact on bacteriobiome composition than on metabolic activity, with structural transformations proving more critical than changes in microbial abundance. Dominant genera included Castellaniella, Paracoccus, and Trichococcus, depending on treatment variant and COD/N ratio. Overall, the two-stage strategy integrating alkalization with citric acid-driven biological denitrification provides an effective and sustainable solution for managing nutrient-rich wastewater from hydroponic systems.},
}

@article {pmid41699568,
year = {2026},
author = {Ahangari, Z and Zargar, N and Pourhajibagher, M and Shahhosseini, R},
title = {Antimicrobial effects of Propolis, calcium Hydroxide, triple antibiotic paste, and modified triple antibiotic paste on tubular dentin inoculated with a dual-species biofilm: an ex vivo study.},
journal = {BMC oral health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12903-026-07901-x},
pmid = {41699568},
issn = {1472-6831},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to compare the antimicrobial effects of Propolis, Calcium Hydroxide (CH), Triple Antibiotic Paste (TAP), and modified TAP (mTAP) as intracanal medicaments on tubular dentin inoculated with a dual-species biofilm.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this ex vivo study, dentin cylinders were obtained from the root canals of 56 single-rooted extracted teeth, which were instrumented and inoculated with Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) and Actinomyces naeslundii (A. naeslundii) suspensions to allow biofilm formation. After that, the cylinders were randomly assigned to five groups for a 7-day exposure to Propolis, TAP, mTAP (penicillin G), and Calcium Hydroxide (CH), and a no-medicament negative control group. Colonies were counted in dentin samples obtained from 200 μm to 400 μm depths and analyzed using ANOVA, Shapiro-Wilk, Levene, Tukey, robust Welch, Games-Howell, Fisher's exact, Wilcoxon, and paired t tests (α = 0.05).

RESULTS: All medicaments significantly decreased the colony counts (P < 0.05). CH, TAP, and mTAP showed similar optimal efficacy at both depths, whereas Propolis caused a significant reduction in bacterial count only at 200 μm (P = 0.047). Effect sizes were very high for both microorganisms. Dentin depth had a significant effect on the bacterial count of both microorganisms, and the load of both microorganisms was significantly lower at 400 μm than 200 μm depth (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION: TAP and mTAP demonstrated high efficacy, and CH showed acceptable efficacy for elimination of E. faecalis and A. naeslundii dual-species biofilm. Propolis showed lower efficacy, highlighting the need for further modifications to enhance its penetration depth.},
}

@article {pmid41698217,
year = {2026},
author = {},
title = {Correction to: Investigation of the roles of T6SS genes in motility, biofilm formation, and extracellular protease Asp production in Vibrio alginolyticus with modified Gateway-compatible plasmids.},
journal = {Letters in applied microbiology},
volume = {79},
number = {2},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/lambio/ovag017},
pmid = {41698217},
issn = {1472-765X},
}

@article {pmid41697076,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, D},
title = {Influence of gemcitabine combined with lobaplatin interventional embolization on vaginal flora and biofilm formation in patients with advanced cervical cancer.},
journal = {African journal of reproductive health},
volume = {30},
number = {3},
pages = {38-50},
doi = {10.29063/ajrh2026/v30i3.4},
pmid = {41697076},
issn = {1118-4841},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; *Uterine Cervical Neoplasms/therapy/drug therapy/pathology ; *Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Vagina/microbiology/drug effects ; Gemcitabine ; Middle Aged ; *Deoxycytidine/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use/administration & dosage/pharmacology ; Adult ; *Organoplatinum Compounds/therapeutic use/administration & dosage ; Treatment Outcome ; *Antimetabolites, Antineoplastic/therapeutic use/administration & dosage ; Gardnerella vaginalis/drug effects ; Microbiota/drug effects ; Cyclobutanes ; },
abstract = {This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effect of Gemcitabine (GEM) combined with Lobaplatin (LOB) interventional embolization in patients with locally advanced cervical cancer. Sixty patients were randomly assigned to a therapy group (30 cases) treated with GEM+LOB interventional embolization and a control group (30 cases) treated with GEM+LOB intravenous drip. The curative effect and changes in vaginal flora and biofilm formation were assessed using bioinformatics methods and ultraviolet spectrophotometry. The therapy group showed significantly better outcomes (P <0.05), with substantial changes in vaginal flora. The proportion of Gardnerella vaginalis (Gv) in the therapy group decreased from 43.51% before treatment to 13.54% after treatment, and the rate of Gv's cell membrane formation was significantly shortened. However, no significant differences were found in colony content or cell membrane formation delay between the two groups. GEM+LOB interventional embolization not only improved treatment efficacy and survival prognosis in patients with locally advanced cervical cancer but also modulated vaginal microbiota imbalance and inhibited biofilm formation of Gv. These findings provide a new theoretical basis for optimizing clinical treatment strategies for cervical cancer and exploring the relationship between cancer therapy and vaginal microecological balance.},
}

Humans
Female
*Uterine Cervical Neoplasms/therapy/drug therapy/pathology
*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Vagina/microbiology/drug effects
Gemcitabine
Middle Aged
*Deoxycytidine/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use/administration & dosage/pharmacology
Adult
*Organoplatinum Compounds/therapeutic use/administration & dosage
Treatment Outcome
*Antimetabolites, Antineoplastic/therapeutic use/administration & dosage
Gardnerella vaginalis/drug effects
Microbiota/drug effects
Cyclobutanes

@article {pmid41695963,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhan, X and Huang, G and Su, J and Zhang, J and Huang, Q and Deng, X and Xu, M},
title = {Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus encodes a functional BolA transcriptional regulator related to motility, biofilm development, and stress response.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1717228},
pmid = {41695963},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {"Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus" (CLas) is an uncultivable α-proteobacterium causing the most destructive and currently incurable citrus disease, Huanglongbing (HLB). The transcription factors (TFs) of CLas are involved in various biological processes. However, the functions of most TFs remain unverified. BolA is reported to be an important transcriptional regulator related to bacterial growth and virulence. Here, the role of BolA in CLas was investigated using gene deletion and complementation assays in the heterologous host Sinorhizobium meliloti (Sme). The results showed that BolA CLas and BolASme are similar in sequence and transcriptional regulation. BolA positively regulates biofilm formation-evidenced by the significant downregulation of a key gene (cyaA) in the mutant (ΔBolASme), without affecting bacterial growth. The upregulation of 16 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) related to flagellar assembly indicated that BolA negatively regulates CLas motility. BolA deletion also led to the downregulation of ABC transporters (15 DEGs) and lipid metabolism genes (13 DEGs), correlating with reduced stress tolerance. Furthermore, BolA CLas is involved in modulating heme metabolism, as well as protein export, folding, sorting, and degradation. Finally, in vivo screening identified two compounds as BolA inhibitors, which significantly reduced CLas titer in infected periwinkle leaves. Taken together, this study constitutes a relevant step toward the understanding of CLas virulence by demonstrating that BolA is a key TF involved in biofilm formation, stress response, motility, and bacterial physiology, thereby presenting a potential target for disease control.},
}

@article {pmid41695949,
year = {2026},
author = {Tan, T and Chang, W and Wang, Y and Cheng, R and Yang, D},
title = {Synergistic bactericidal activity of a ginsenoside-copper nano-agent against gram-positive and gram-negative biofilm bacteria.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1758802},
pmid = {41695949},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Biofilm-associated infections pose a formidable challenge due to their high tolerance to conventional antibiotics. While copper-based therapies offer a promising avenue, their clinical utility is severely limited by non-specific cytotoxicity and rapid deactivation. To address this, we engineered an intelligent, redox-responsive nanoplatform composed of Ginsenoside Re (GS) and copper (Cu[2+]), termed GSR NPs.

METHODS: GSR NPs were synthesized through a facile self-assembly process using GS and Cu[2+]. The nanoparticles were extensively characterized using microscopy and molecular dynamics simulations. Their physicochemical stability, redox-responsiveness, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and antibacterial efficacy were evaluated against S. aureus and E. coli. Additionally, biofilm disruption capabilities and in vitro biocompatibility were assessed.

RESULTS: Characterization indicated the formation of uniform, ultra-small nanospheres stabilized by coordination and hydrogen bonds. GSR NPs remained stable in physiological buffers but exhibited responsive behavior in reducing microenvironments, triggering the release of active components and ROS generation. Consequently, GSR NPs displayed potent antibacterial activity and effectively disrupted established biofilms of both S. aureus and E. coli, far surpassing the efficacy of individual components. Mechanistic investigations suggest a multi-pronged attack involving physical disruption, oxidative stress induction, and metabolic suppression. Furthermore, the nanoparticles demonstrated favorable biocompatibility with negligible cytotoxicity toward mammalian cells in vitro.

CONCLUSION: This work presents GSR NPs as a highly efficient and potentially low-toxicity antibacterial strategy. By overcoming the limitations of free copper ions, GSR NPs offer a promising therapeutic alternative for combating challenging biofilm-related infections.},
}

@article {pmid41695306,
year = {2026},
author = {Chao, CA and Khilnani, TK and Hammad, M and Bostrom, MPG and Carli, AV},
title = {Pulsatile Lavage Is Not Enough to Remove Implant Biofilm: An In Vitro Evaluation of Sonication Brushing.},
journal = {JB & JS open access},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41695306},
issn = {2472-7245},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: During periprosthetic joint infection revision surgeries, intraoperative irrigation is performed to clear debris, blood, purulence, and microbes from the surgical wound. Dental evidence suggests motorized agitation is effective in removing established biofilms. The purpose of this study was to investigate how pulsatile irrigation and sonicated brushing affect mature staphylococcal biofilm on real arthroplasty components.

METHODS: Five identically sized, never implanted tibial base plates (TBPs) underwent keel removal with a wire electrical discharge machine. Implants were passivated in 25% nitric acid, autoclaved, and submerged in Methicillin sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) infected tryptic soy broth. Biofilm was grown for 72 hours, with media replaced every 24 hours. Following growth, TBPs were assigned to 6 experimental conditions: control (no treatment), low-speed pulsatile lavage, high-speed pulsatile lavage, sonication brushing, combination of low-speed pulsatile lavage followed by sonication brushing, and combination of high-speed pulsatile lavage followed by sonication brushing. Pulsatile lavage lasted 5 seconds, while sonication brushing lasted 20 seconds using a modified commercial brush. Experiments were performed in sextuplicate. Posttreatment TBPs were either put in a sonication bath to dislodge remaining bacteria to count colony-forming units (CFUs) or stained with crystal violet to quantify residual biofilm biomass.

RESULTS: All mechanical methods significantly reduced CFU counts. Low-speed pulsatile lavage, high-speed pulsatile lavage, sonication brushing, and brushing without sonication reduced CFU counts by 64%, 68%, 87%, and 82%, and reduced biofilm biomass by 74%, 68%, 78%, and 77%, respectively, as compared with controls. The combination of pulsatile lavage and brushing lowered CFU counts by 99%, and biofilm biomass was reduced by 86%. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) imaging confirmed biofilm removal from the locking mechanism by sonication brushing only.

CONCLUSIONS: Combining pulsatile lavage and mechanical debridement methods more effectively removes biofilm from implant surfaces compared with either method alone.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Mechanical methods including pulsatile lavage and sonication brushing remove biofilm from orthopaedic implants. Clinicians should be aware of these tools and consider using them.},
}

@article {pmid41692224,
year = {2026},
author = {Lebielle, T and Olive, C and Marion-Sanchez, K},
title = {From a biofilm to another: when bacteria from Dry Surface Biofilms settle in invasive medical devices.},
journal = {The Journal of hospital infection},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhin.2026.01.022},
pmid = {41692224},
issn = {1532-2939},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Following the recent observation of bacterial deposits on dry surfaces referred to as Dry surface biofilms (DSB), a number of studies were conducted in vitro on bacterial culturability, sensitivity to cleaning and disinfection protocols, and bacterial transfer via gloves or wipes to culture media or inert surfaces. Our study aimed to reproduce in vitro the cross-transmission of bacteria from dry surfaces to invasive medical devices via healthcare professional's gloves.

METHODS: Monobacterial DSBs were produced using an automated model with five different bacterial isolates involved in healthcare-associated infections. Bacteria from dried or rehydrated DSBs were first transferred to sterile gloves, then to central venous catheters, urinary catheters or endotracheal tubes. The presence of culturable bacteria and the formation of traditional hydrated biofilms inside the devices were investigated.

FINDINGS: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus was the only species to be transferred from both dry and rehydrated DSBs to each invasive device, while the other isolates were only transferred from rehydrated DSBs on mainly central catheters and endotracheal tubes. Despite the non-culturability of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in all the DSBs produced, rehydration enabled its transfer to endotracheal tubes and urinary catheters, suggesting residual viability as evidenced by Live/Dead staining.

CONCLUSIONS: A possible link appears to emerge between DSB rehydration, bacterial culturability and transferability. Rehydration may promote bacterial adhesion to gloved fingers and/or the "resuscitation" of non-culturable bacteria. This viable but non-culturable state of bacteria in DSBs needs to be studied in depth and considered in infection prevention strategies.},
}

@article {pmid41691756,
year = {2026},
author = {Atahan, A and Musatat, AB and Kiliccioglu, I and Akkoyunlu, A and Dulger, G},
title = {Multi-targeted quinoline-sulfonamide-chalcone hybrids: novel candidates for anti-quorum sensing, anti-biofilm, and anticancer activities.},
journal = {Bioorganic chemistry},
volume = {173},
number = {},
pages = {109622},
doi = {10.1016/j.bioorg.2026.109622},
pmid = {41691756},
issn = {1090-2120},
abstract = {This study presents the rational design, synthesis, and comprehensive evaluation of a novel series of quinoline-sulfonamide-chalcone (QCSa-i) hybrids as potential multi-targeted therapeutic agents. By a hybridization approach, the series was investigated for the antimicrobial, anti-quorum sensing, antibiofilm, and anticancer activities, complemented by extensive in silico analyses including (DFT) calculations and molecular docking simulations against key oncogenic targets (Bcl-2, EGFR, Survivin), alongside ADME profiling. The studied compounds demonstrated promising biological activities, with QCS-h emerging as a lead candidate exhibiting broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against both B. cereus, P. aeruginosa, and C. glabrata, with considerably lower IC50 values compared to the used standards, tetracycline and nystatin. Furthermore, QCS-h demonstrated superior antibiofilm activity, achieving over 80% inhibition against strong biofilm-forming Escherichia coli at all tested concentrations. Molecular docking studies revealed the QCS-h's remarkable binding affinity for the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR), with a binding energy of -11.25 kcal/mol and a theoretical inhibition constant of 5.68 nM, significantly outperforming the control compound (1.85 μM). DFT calculations provided insights into the electronic properties, facilitating the understanding of the wet experiments. The favorable ADME profiles further support the drug-like potential of these compounds. This integrative approach highlights the therapeutic promise of quinoline-sulfonamide-chalcone hybrids, particularly QCS-h, as multi-targeted agents for combating antimicrobial resistance and gastrointestinal malignancies, providing valuable insights for future rational drug design strategies.},
}

@article {pmid41691659,
year = {2026},
author = {Torusdag, B and Ozyildiz, G and Orhon, D and Sözen, S},
title = {Pumice stone waste as biofilm carrier in MBBR systems: impacts on wastewater treatment and colour removal in the denim industry.},
journal = {Environmental technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-11},
doi = {10.1080/09593330.2026.2628279},
pmid = {41691659},
issn = {1479-487X},
abstract = {The denim industry generates wastewater with high organic loads and intense colouration due to the extensive use of synthetic dyes. Conventional biological treatment methods are generally inadequate for colour removal, necessitating alternative approaches. This study investigates the reuse of waste pumice stones - discarded during denim processing - as a dual-function material for industrial wastewater treatment. Pumice was utilised both as (i) a biofilm carrier in a Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR) to enhance chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal, and (ii) an adsorbent for residual colour reduction. Pumice particles (10-14 mm) were applied at a 30% filling ratio in the MBBR and compared with a suspended-growth control system. The pumice-assisted MBBR achieved approximately 60 mg/L higher COD removal, confirming its efficacy in biofilm support. Complementary batch adsorption experiments demonstrated up to 45% colour removal, with performance varying across wavelengths (436, 525, and 620 nm). These results highlight the potential of repurposed pumice stones as a sustainable and costeffective resource for enhancing industrial wastewater treatment while promoting waste valorisation.},
}

@article {pmid41689045,
year = {2026},
author = {Bei, Z and Tong, Q and Yang, Y and Ye, L and Liang, S and Li, J and Liu, J and Liang, X and Chen, W and Liu, W and Yu, X and Chu, B and Shi, B and Qian, Z},
title = {An antioxidant and injectable hydrogel dressing for repairing MRSA biofilm-infected diabetic wounds.},
journal = {Journal of nanobiotechnology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12951-026-04093-y},
pmid = {41689045},
issn = {1477-3155},
support = {GZC20241165//the Postdoctoral Fellowship Program of CPSF/ ; 2024NSFSC1724//the Sichuan Natural Science Foundation for Young Scholars/ ; U21A20417//the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2024NSFSC0046//the Nature Science Foundation of Sichuan Province/ ; ZYGD24003//the "1·3·5" Project for Disciplines of Excellence, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/ ; },
abstract = {Chronic non-healing wounds represent a severe complication of diabetes mellitus, which frequently progress to infection, limb amputation, and even mortality. The dysregulated wound microenvironment, marked by persistent inflammation and oxidative stress, severely impedes tissue repair, and the presence of MRSA biofilm infection further worsens these impairments and poses major clinical challenges. To address these challenges, we constructed a multifunctional injectable hydrogel (SOT) that integrates antibiofilm, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties. This hydrogel is formed through dynamic covalent crosslinking between thiolated hyaluronic acid (HA-SH) and dopamine-modified oxidized dextran (ODex-DA), which enables favorable injectability, self-healing, and in situ gelation. Tannic acid-silver nanoparticles (TA-Ag NPs) incorporated into the system impart antibiofilm and reactive oxygen species (ROS)-scavenging properties. In a diabetic MRSA biofilm infection model, the SOT hydrogel eradicated biofilms, reduced excessive ROS, and promoted wound closure. These findings suggest that this immuno-instructive hydrogel platform may offer a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of MRSA biofilm-infected chronic diabetic wounds.},
}

@article {pmid41688814,
year = {2026},
author = {Ma, Z and Zhang, Z and Tang, Y and Cui, J and Wang, X},
title = {2D modeling of micropost-induced flow fields and biofilm adhesion mechanisms: a CA-FEM approach for flow-biofilm interactions in microfluidic channels.},
journal = {Journal of biological physics},
volume = {52},
number = {1},
pages = {10},
pmid = {41688814},
issn = {1573-0689},
support = {12372321//the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Bacterial Adhesion ; Bacillus subtilis/physiology ; *Finite Element Analysis ; *Models, Biological ; Hydrodynamics ; *Microfluidics ; },
abstract = {Biofilms are widely present in any environment with water and a substrate, posing microbial contamination risks to flow pipelines. This study established a bacterial biofilm flow growth model based on the experimental phenomena of Bacillus subtilis biofilm in microfluidic channels, combining the principles of cellular automata with the finite element method. In the model, the hydrodynamic model was developed using the COMSOL platform to analyze the flow field distribution characteristics induced by micropost. A cellular automata model was developed in MATLAB, innovatively incorporating a flow direction weight algorithm and a filamentous growth mode. The study focused on the attachment behavior of biofilms in microfluidic channels, and simulations of biofilm growth in microfluidic channels with different micropost structures were conducted. The model successfully reproduced key experimental phenomena, such as the attachment and growth of filamentous structures and the aggregation of streamer-like biofilms. By combining real-time flow field analysis with the model, the attachment and growth mechanism of biofilm in the micropillar-flow system was revealed. The spatial arrangement of microposts affects the flow paths of free bacteria by altering streamline distribution. The secondary flow induced by the micropillars promotes bacterial attachment, and its spatial distribution characteristics determine the initial attachment sites of bacteria. This study provides a reference for preventing biofilm formation in flow pipelines and reducing the risk of microbial contamination in similar devices.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Bacterial Adhesion
Bacillus subtilis/physiology
*Finite Element Analysis
*Models, Biological
Hydrodynamics
*Microfluidics

@article {pmid41687889,
year = {2026},
author = {Su, H and Yan, X and Zhu, X and Zhao, Q and Jiang, X and Wang, X},
title = {Layered design of Fermenters-Exoelectrogens in biofilm improves accuracy of fermentative organics sensing.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {446},
number = {},
pages = {134210},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.134210},
pmid = {41687889},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Microbial electrochemical sensors based on electroactive biofilms (EABs) offer a promising approach for real-time biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) monitoring. However, current standardized EAB designs, developed based on studies of acetate-fed systems, feature a double-layer biofilm architecture with Geobacter anodireducens as the inner core, which oversimplifies microbial metabolism in fermentable wastewater and often leads to underestimated BOD values. In natural EABs cultured with domestic wastewater, we revealed a specific, selective metabolic cooperation between Geobacter and fermentative microorganisms, where different fermentative taxa preferentially associated with electroactive or methanogenic partners. Using glucose-fed EABs, Dysgonomonas termitidis was identified within the inner layer as a representative fermentative partner exhibiting strong synergy with Geobacter. Based on this, a layered "sandwich-like" EAB (S-EAB) was constructed, sequentially comprising G. anodireducens, pre-enriched D. termitidis and self-adapted environmental microorganisms. Incorporating this intermediate functional layer improved BOD sensing accuracy for glucose by 28%, with results closely matching theoretical values. This study demonstrates that integrating a selectively cooperative fermentative partner within the middle biofilm layer provides a practical strategy for designing high-performance EABs tailored to fermentable wastewater.},
}

@article {pmid41687391,
year = {2026},
author = {Fahmy, MA and Alwutayd, KM and Ashkan, MF and Mojally, M and Alqahtani, AM and Alsulami, RN and Mostafa, YS and Khodeer, D and Al-Najjar, MAA and AbuQamar, SF and El-Tarabily, KA and El-Saadony, MT},
title = {Bioremediation potential of bacterial isolates for diamide pesticides: Enzymatic activity, tolerance, biofilm formation, and degradation efficiency.},
journal = {Ecotoxicology and environmental safety},
volume = {311},
number = {},
pages = {119745},
doi = {10.1016/j.ecoenv.2026.119745},
pmid = {41687391},
issn = {1090-2414},
abstract = {This study investigates the bioremediation potential of six bacterial strains isolated from pesticide-contaminated soils for the degradation of two widely used diamide pesticides: chlorantraniliprole (CAP) and flubendiamide (FBD). The strains were evaluated for their enzymatic activities, tolerance to pesticide mixtures, biodegradation efficiency (as measured by 2,6-dichlorophenol-indophenol (DCPIP) decolorization and biomass accumulation), and their ability to form biofilms under pesticide-induced stress. Significant enzymatic activities were recorded, with dehydrogenase activity ranging from 510 to 560 µg triphenyl formazan (TPF) mL[-1] (n = 3, mean ± SD: 535 ± 25 µg TPF mL[-1]) and catalase activity from 40.13 to 40.88 µmoles H2O2 min[-1] mg[-1] protein (n = 3, mean ± SD: 40.51 ± 0.38 µmoles H2O2 min[-1] mg[-1] protein). All strains exhibited considerable tolerance to CAP-FBD pesticide mixtures, with optical density (OD600) values ranging from 0.201 to 2.212 across the tested concentration range (50-3000 mg L[-1]) after 24 h of incubation. Biodegradation assays revealed efficient breakdown of CAP and FBD, with decolorization times ranging from 18 to 62 h. Notably, all strains formed robust biofilms, suggesting enhanced resilience to environmental stressors. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis confirmed that the bacterial consortium T3 (n = 3) achieved the highest FBD degradation rate of 98.23 % of 60 mg kg[-1] FBD after 20 days, with only 1.77 % residues, compared to C1 (native bacteria, FBD, without NPK, which gave 29.4 % degradation) and C2 (native bacteria, FBD, with NPK, which gave 31.70 %), indicating that nearly the entire pesticide loss was due to biological activity of T3 consortia rather than native bacteria. These findings highlight the adaptive capabilities of these bacterial isolates and their potential for environmentally sustainable pesticide remediation. The novelty of this study lies in its integrative assessment of enzymatic function, pesticide tolerance, and biofilm formation, offering a comprehensive understanding of microbial strategies for diamide pesticide bioremediation.},
}

@article {pmid41687216,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, F and He, J and Chen, J and Hou, Z and Li, S and Jiang, T and Jiang, X},
title = {Charge-switching and on-demand assembly of carbon dots in acidic biofilm microenvironment for synergistic low-temperature photothermal/cationic therapy.},
journal = {Colloids and surfaces. B, Biointerfaces},
volume = {262},
number = {},
pages = {115543},
doi = {10.1016/j.colsurfb.2026.115543},
pmid = {41687216},
issn = {1873-4367},
abstract = {Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE) biofilms establish a dynamic acidic microenvironment characterized by a pH gradient from the outer layers (∼pH 6.5) to the inner core (∼pH 5.5). Conventional pH-triggered strategies, limited by low activation thresholds (pH ≤ 5.5), fail to respond effectively across this gradient, resulting in incomplete biofilm eradication. Thus, we herein present novel nanocomposites (NPs) with an elevated pH response threshold of 6.5, formed through electrostatic assembly of vancomycin-conjugated carbon dots (CNDs@Van) and lysine-modified carbon dots (CNDs@Lys). The prepared NPs undergo on demand assembly and charge switching in the acidic biofilm microenvironment. At the biofilm periphery (pH ∼6.5), protonation-induced aggregation initiates low-temperature photothermal therapy, achieving > 90 % biofilm clearance in vitro under mild heating (≤45 °C). As NPs migrate into deeper acidic regions (down to pH 5.5), they release cationic CNDs@Lys, which penetrate the biofilm and cause ≈ 99.99 % bacterial mortality. In a murine subcutaneous infection model, NPs treatment under NIR irradiation led to ∼80 % abscess shrinkage within 2 days and a 3.1 log10 reduction in bacterial load. The synergy of cationic membrane disruption and mild phototherapy allows significant reductions in light intensity and exposure time while minimizing off-target thermal damage. This strategy not only extends the pH-activation range to cover broader biofilm microenvironments, but also enables spatiotemporally controlled dual-mode therapy via pH-gradient-driven assembly and charge switching, offering a precise and effective platform against drug-resistant biofilms.},
}

@article {pmid41684743,
year = {2025},
author = {Díaz-Velis, L and Salvador-Sagüez, F and Roach, F and Mancilla, E and Campos, MA and Ruiz-Gil, T and López-Moral, M and Garrido, G and Lázaro-Martínez, JL},
title = {Metagenomic and ribosomal transcript profiles of diabetic foot osteomyelitis in Hispanic patients: underestimated bacteria in biofilm persistence.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1729196},
pmid = {41684743},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {Humans ; *Diabetic Foot/microbiology/complications ; *Osteomyelitis/microbiology ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Female ; Hispanic or Latino ; *Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification ; Aged ; Chile ; Microbiota/genetics ; Metagenomics ; DNA, Bacterial/genetics ; Adult ; Bone and Bones/microbiology ; High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; DNA, Ribosomal/genetics ; White ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Diabetic foot osteomyelitis (DFO) is a serious complication of diabetes and a leading cause of lower-limb amputations. Conventional culture-based diagnostics often underestimate the microbial diversity of infected bone tissue. This study represents the first characterization of both total and ribosomally active bone microbiota in Hispanic patients with DFO using high-throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The work aims to contribute to the inclusion of underrepresented populations in microbiome research and informing molecular-based antimicrobial strategies.

METHODS: Bone specimens (n = 13) were collected from seven Chilean patients with histologically confirmed DFO. Samples were analyzed using conventional aerobic culture and 16S rRNA gene sequencing from both genomic DNA (gDNA) and complementary DNA (cDNA) to characterize the total bacterial community and the ribosomally active fraction. In three patients, samples were stratified by bone depth (superficial/top, middle and bottom). Microbial diversity and relative abundance were assessed across patients and bone layers.

RESULTS: Acute osteomyelitis was the predominant histopathological pattern. Culture yielded 19 bacterial isolates, 95% of which were Gram-negative bacilli. Sequencing identified 3,412 operational taxonomic units (OTUs), with Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, and Actinobacteria as dominant phyla. Enterobacteriaceae and Enterococcaceae were the most ribosomally active families. Microbial community composition varied substantially among patients and across bone depths. Staphylococcus aureus was infrequent (5% of culture isolates; ~1% of sequence reads), whereas low-abundance but ribosomally active taxa, such as Corynebacteriaceae, were consistently detected across all layers.

DISCUSSION: This combined metagenomic and ribosomal transcript analysis reveals a polymicrobial, patient-specific bone microbiota in Chilean patients with DFO, highlighting potentially active bacteria frequently overlooked by standard diagnostic methods. These findings underscore the value of integrating molecular approaches into clinical workflows to improve pathogen detection and support more personalized antimicrobial strategies, while also helping to address gaps in microbiome research among underrepresented populations.},
}

Humans
*Diabetic Foot/microbiology/complications
*Osteomyelitis/microbiology
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
*Biofilms/growth & development
Male
Middle Aged
Female
Hispanic or Latino
*Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification
Aged
Chile
Microbiota/genetics
Metagenomics
DNA, Bacterial/genetics
Adult
Bone and Bones/microbiology
High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing
Sequence Analysis, DNA
DNA, Ribosomal/genetics
White

@article {pmid41684446,
year = {2026},
author = {Boot, W and Schläppi, M and Post, V and Moriarty, TF and Wahl, P},
title = {Gentamicin fails to eradicate Staphylococcus aureus biofilm in vitro, even in combination with rifampin.},
journal = {Journal of bone and joint infection},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {65-76},
pmid = {41684446},
issn = {2206-3552},
abstract = {Introduction: Biofilm formation is one of the key elements making orthopaedic device-related infections (ODRIs) difficult to eradicate. Aminoglycosides such as gentamicin are frequently applied via local carriers, and systemic rifampin is added for its anti-biofilm activity. However, robust in vitro evidence of their ability to eradicate mature biofilm is limited. This study assessed whether gentamicin, alone or in combination with rifampin, can eradicate established Staphylococcus aureus biofilm in vitro. Methods: A clinical methicillin-susceptible S. aureus isolate was grown as a 5 d old biofilm on a peg lid microtiter plate. Three exposure regimens were tested: (i) continuous exposure to gentamicin (15-2000 mg L[-1]) for 28 d, (ii) intermittent 2 h exposures twice daily (at 15, 250 and 2000 mg L[-1]) for 28 d to reflect systemic twice-daily dosing and (iii) a 14 d burst release starting at 2000 mg L[-1] with stepwise decline to model release from local carriers. Rifampin was either absent or added at 3.3 mg L[-1], approximating peri-implant concentrations from preclinical pharmacokinetic studies. Biofilm viability was quantified as colony-forming units (CFUs) from sonicated pegs, and selected surviving isolates underwent susceptibility testing. Results: Across all regimens, concentration- and time-dependent decreases in CFU counts were observed, but no regimen resulted in bacterial counts falling below the lower limit of detection (LLOD). The addition of rifampin did not result in the sustained enhancement of biofilm killing, and, in some regimens, resulted in higher CFU counts. Isolates recovered from culture-positive pegs remained largely susceptible to gentamicin, whereas rifampin resistance arose sporadically. Conclusion: High-dose gentamicin exposures failed to eradicate 5 d old S. aureus biofilm in vitro, whatever the administration regimen. Rifampin co-administration did not alter the final outcome of biofilm persistence, despite its well-recognised anti-biofilm activity. These findings challenge the reliance on aminoglycoside-loaded carriers as curative strategies for ODRIs and suggest that persistent viability may reflect antibiotic tolerance that may not be overcome by antibiotics alone.},
}

@article {pmid41680277,
year = {2026},
author = {Doğrugören, R and Topsakal, KG and Aksoy, M and K Bakirhan, N and Şavluk, M and Ünal, N},
title = {Post-processing effects of Aloe vera on biofilm formation and physical properties of 3D-printed dental resins.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41598-026-39650-w},
pmid = {41680277},
issn = {2045-2322},
}

@article {pmid41680091,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, P and Wang, R and Guo, R and Su, Z and Wu, Y and Xie, C},
title = {Antiseptic Susceptibility and Sub-Inhibitory Concentration-Induced Biofilm Response in Staphylococcus epidermidis from Abdominal Surgical Site Skin.},
journal = {Surgical infections},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {10962964261425154},
doi = {10.1177/10962964261425154},
pmid = {41680091},
issn = {1557-8674},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Staphylococcus epidermidis, a commensal skin pathogen, is a key pathogen in surgical site infections (SSIs). This study characterized clinical isolates obtained from an abdominal operation to guide decolonization therapy.

METHODS: In total, 146 S. epidermidis isolates obtained from pre-operative skin swabs of patients undergoing gynecological procedures were analyzed. PCR was performed to detect mecA, efflux pump genes (qacA/B, smr, etc.), and biofilm-associated genes (icaA-D, aap). Methicillin-resistant S. epidermidis (MRSE) isolates were typed by multi-locus sequence typing. Broth microdilution was used to assess susceptibility to benzalkonium chloride (BAC) and chlorhexidine digluconate (CHG). Biofilm formation was measured in the presence or absence of sub-inhibitory antiseptic exposure.

RESULTS: Of the isolates, 49.3% were MRSE, and 63.0% and 29.5% carried qacA/B and smr, respectively. MRSE showed higher minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC50) values for both antiseptics. qac-positive strains exhibited significantly increased BAC MIC50 (1 vs. 0.25 µg/mL; p < 0.001). Biofilm-forming isolates (16.4%) had three-fold higher BAC MIC50 (p < 0.01). Sub-MIC exposure to BAC/CHG induced biofilm formation in prior non-producers (p < 0.05); among these, 81.3% were qac-positive, and 62.5% were MRSE.

CONCLUSIONS: The high prevalence of MRSE and efflux genes contributed to antiseptic tolerance. Sub-inhibitory antiseptic concentrations may enhance biofilm formation in resistant strains, underscoring the need for optimized decolonization tactics to prevent SSI.},
}

@article {pmid41678751,
year = {2026},
author = {Teng, A and Hu, Y and Cao, B},
title = {Engineering a High-Activity Photosensitive Synthase for Optogenetic Control of c-di-GMP and Biofilm Dynamics.},
journal = {ACS synthetic biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acssynbio.5c00775},
pmid = {41678751},
issn = {2161-5063},
abstract = {Bis(3'-5')-cyclic dimeric guanosine monophosphate (c-di-GMP) plays a crucial role in bacterial signaling pathways, allowing bacterial cells to respond to various environmental stimuli. The prevalence of c-di-GMP and its potential applications underscore the necessity for developing tools and methods to regulate intracellular c-di-GMP levels. Optogenetic control of c-di-GMP dynamics is particularly attractive because it enables tunable and spatiotemporal regulation of c-di-GMP metabolism. The development of sensitive optogenetic control systems requires highly active, light-responsive c-di-GMP synthases. Here, we report an engineered, highly active photosensitive c-di-GMP synthase, BphS-13. This engineered c-di-GMP synthase was developed from a near-infrared (NIR) light-activable bacteriophytochrome c-di-GMP synthase, BphS, using a three-step directed evolution process that included error-prone PCR, in vitro homologous recombination, and site-directed mutagenesis. After two rounds of this directed evolution strategy, we generated a BphS variant with 13 mutations, referred to as BphS-13. The diguanylate cyclase (DGC) activity of BphS-13 was approximately 13 times higher than that of the original BphS, and it exhibited tightly regulated DGC activity in response to NIR light with minimal leakage in the dark. We then demonstrated the effectiveness of BphS-13 in controlling biofilm dynamics. Overall, this study highlights BphS-13 as a highly active and photosensitive tool for optogenetic applications in biotechnology and suggests its future potential application in mammalian systems for precise control of gene expression, particularly given the lack of native c-di-GMP signaling pathways in mammalian cells.},
}

@article {pmid41675679,
year = {2026},
author = {Yu, J and Jia, S and Sun, R and Zhang, T and Cai, X and Song, M and Chen, L and Lin, H and Guan, S},
title = {MnOx-armored magnesium implants for anti-osteosarcoma and biofilm eradication by charge-transfer interference.},
journal = {Materials today. Bio},
volume = {37},
number = {},
pages = {102817},
pmid = {41675679},
issn = {2590-0064},
abstract = {Frequent tumor recurrence and postoperative bacterial infections after osteosarcoma surgery have increased the demand for advanced bone implants. Although magnesium and its alloys are considered promising candidates for next-generation bone implants, their clinical application remains limited due to inadequate corrosion resistance. In this work, manganese oxide (MnOx) nano-coatings with varying Mn[3+]/Mn[2+] ratios were fabricated on the surface of ZE21C alloys via heat treatment, effectively enhancing corrosion resistance. The MnOx nano-coatings consisted of multiple semiconductors with different Mn[3+]/Mn[2+] ratios, and Mn2O3 with a narrower band gap became the dominant phase with heat treatment, resulting in a significant improvement in the photothermal conversion performance. In vivo and in vitro experiments demonstrated that samples with higher Mn[3+]/Mn[2+] ratios disrupted redox homeostasis, inducing lipid peroxidation of biological membranes. Additionally, valence electrons in the semiconductors could be excited by NIR irradiation to generate photogenerated carriers, forming transmembrane electron-transfer channels with adhered tumor and bacterial cells, leading to structural membrane disruption and sustained antibacterial and tumor cell ablation. Furthermore, Mg alloys modified with MnOx nano-coatings exhibited excellent biocompatibility and did not inhibit mitochondrial function of normal cells. This work provides a broader range of options and practical solutions for developing intelligent bone tissue-engineering materials for postoperative osteosarcoma.},
}

@article {pmid41675305,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, Y and Hu, P and Yu, H and Furman, A and Habimana, O},
title = {Biofilm dynamics under salt exposure: insights from irrigation piping systems.},
journal = {ISME communications},
volume = {6},
number = {1},
pages = {ycag001},
pmid = {41675305},
issn = {2730-6151},
abstract = {Global agricultural dependence on blended saline and freshwater irrigation mandates a mechanistic understanding of how salinity influences microbial biofilms within distribution networks, which are pivotal mediators of water quality and pathogen viability. Here, we examine the architectural, mechanical, and operational reactions of multi-species biofilms to saline exposure (0.6% NaCl) utilizing a regulated laboratory-scale irrigation model. Through a cohesive methodology combining confocal microscopy, atomic force microscopy, 16S rRNA sequencing, and meta-transcriptomics, we elucidate that salinity instigates a pivotal trade-off in biofilm maturation. While salt stress consistently suppressed live and dead cell biovolumes, it induced a significant enhancement of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), leading to a thicker, EPS-rich biofilm architecture. These saline biofilms exhibited a lower adhesive force and Young's modulus, indicating a softer and less sticky surface. A community analysis revealed a reduction in taxonomic heterogeneity, along with an increase in specialized taxa associated with hydrocarbon decomposition functionalities, such as Hydrogenophaga and Nakamurella. Consequently, transcriptomic characterization revealed substantial upregulation of genes implicated in lipid distribution, ionic equilibrium, and oxidative stress mitigation, in conjunction with a downregulation of intercellular adhesion pathways. Our findings reveal that salinity drives biofilm adaptation towards a protected, EPS-dominated state with a functionally specialized community, suggesting a potential increase in the resilience of biofilms and risk of pathogen shielding in saline irrigation systems.},
}

@article {pmid41673299,
year = {2026},
author = {Smaje, D and Zhu, X and Hinton, JCD and Raval, R and Goodacre, R and Muhamadali, H},
title = {Investigating Salmonella biofilm responses to antibiotic treatment using optical photothermal infrared spectroscopy.},
journal = {Communications biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s42003-026-09655-2},
pmid = {41673299},
issn = {2399-3642},
support = {BB/R012415/1//RCUK | Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC)/ ; BB/X002950/1//Innovate UK/ ; },
abstract = {Biofilms are microbial communities of aggregated cells encased in extracellular matrix that are a pressing healthcare concern. Since biofilms have complex metabolic dynamics, in this study a new approach for studying biofilm metabolism is developed that employs optical-photothermal infrared (O-PTIR) spectroscopy imaging combined with [13]C stable isotope probing and cryosectioning to track the carbon metabolism of cells at different depths of the biofilm. This approach demonstrated that metabolic gradients can be visualised using O-PTIR imaging, revealing a core of cells with low metabolic activity at the centre of the biofilm, with outer regions showing significantly higher metabolic activity. By incorporating the heavy stable isotope of carbon into bacterial biomass, we monitored the metabolic activity of gentamicin-resistant Salmonella Typhimurium within the biofilm structure upon exposure to various antibiotics. O-PTIR imaging revealed altered metabolic responses at various depths of the biofilm, with variations that depend on the bacterial antibiotic susceptibility profile.},
}

@article {pmid41671657,
year = {2026},
author = {AlAhmari, FM and Lambarte, RNA and Sumague, TS and Vigilla, MGB and Shaheen, MY and Ajlan, S and Alssum, LR and Basudan, AM and Niazy, AA},
title = {An Oxygen-Releasing Mouthwash Reduces Porphyromonas gingivalis Biofilm and Suppresses fimA and hagA Expression.},
journal = {International dental journal},
volume = {76},
number = {2},
pages = {109432},
doi = {10.1016/j.identj.2026.109432},
pmid = {41671657},
issn = {1875-595X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION AND AIMS: Porphyromonas gingivalis is a key periodontal pathogen whose biofilm and virulence limit the effectiveness of mouthwashes such as chlorhexidine (CHX). This study evaluated the antibacterial, antibiofilm and virulence effects of an oxygen-releasing mouthwash against P. gingivalis, complemented by in silico docking and cytotoxicity testing on human oral fibroblasts.

METHODS: P. gingivalis ATCC 33277 was grown anaerobically. Minimum inhibitory (MIC), bactericidal (MBC) and biofilm inhibitory concentrations (MBIC) were determined by resazurin-based microdilution and crystal violet biofilm assays, with 0.12% CHX as control. Biofilm structure and viability were analysed by confocal microscopy. Quantitative PCR measured expression of 6 virulence- and biofilm-associated genes. Molecular docking of sodium perborate to protein targets used AutoDock GNINA. Fibroblast cytotoxicity (ISO 10993-5 threshold ≥70% viability) was evaluated over 30 min to 24 h.

RESULTS: Bluem mouthwash showed concentration-dependent inhibition of P. gingivalis with minimum inhibitory (MIC), bactericidal (MBC) and biofilm inhibitory concentrations (MBIC) values of 0.78%, 1.56% and 3.12%, respectively. At 0.78%, biofilm biomass decreased to around 45% and at concentrations of ≥3.12% was reduced to ≤20%, with greater reduction than 0.12% CHX. Confocal imaging showed reduced biomass and thickness with a predominance of nonviable cells at higher concentrations. Bluem mouthwash was associated with downregulation of virulence-related genes, with fimA and hagA expression reduced at concentrations ≥0.78%, whereas 0.12% CHX increased fimA expression. Molecular docking predicted moderate binding affinities of sodium perborate with key virulence proteins, including kgp and mfa1. Bluem concentrations ≤0.78% maintained noncytotoxic fibroblast viability, while ≥1.56% and 0.12% CHX were cytotoxic across all tested periods.

CONCLUSION: The oxygen-releasing mouthwash inhibited P. gingivalis biofilm formation, modulated virulence-associated gene expression and showed a wider noncytotoxic range on oral periodontal fibroblasts than chlorhexidine.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: These findings on an oxygen-releasing mouthwash may help guide concentration selection and inform its potential adjunctive use in periodontal protocols, but clinical outcome studies are still needed before routine use can be recommended.},
}

@article {pmid41670123,
year = {2026},
author = {Alencar, AA and Souza, LDG and Silva, LA and Lima, LO and Nogueira, PL and Oliveira Filho, AA and Guerra, FQS and Rocha, WPS and Castellano, LRC},
title = {Antifungal and anti-biofilm activity of patchouli essential oil (Pogostemon cablin) against oral isolates of Candida albicans.},
journal = {Brazilian journal of biology = Revista brasleira de biologia},
volume = {85},
number = {},
pages = {e293258},
doi = {10.1590/1519-6984.293258},
pmid = {41670123},
issn = {1678-4375},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Oils, Volatile/pharmacology/isolation & purification/chemistry ; *Candida albicans/drug effects/isolation & purification/physiology ; *Antifungal Agents/pharmacology/isolation & purification ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Pogostemon/chemistry ; Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry ; Humans ; },
abstract = {The Candida albicans species is part of the human microbiota and is associated with different types of infections. It is the most commonly isolated yeast in samples of oral cavity infections. The number of infections attributed to the Candida genus has grown significantly on a global scale and due to the rigorous and improper use of current antimicrobials, antimicrobial resistance has also increased. Pogostemon cablin Benth., popularly known as patchouli, is a medicinal herb of great relevance, with several pharmacological properties reported in the literature. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antifungal potential of P. cablin essential oil against 11 oral isolates of Candida albicans and a standard strain (ATCC90028). The chemical characterization of P.cablin was carried out using Gas Chromatography coupled with Mass Spectrophotometry (GC-MS) and 19 molecules were identified, including patchouli alcohol (15.11%), Δ-Guaiene (9.85%), α-Guaiene (8.06%) and α-Patchoulene (5.03%). The antifungal activity was analyzed using the microdilution technique to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and the minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC). The mechanism of action of the possible antifungal activity of the phytocomplex in question was analyzed using the sorbitol and ergosterol assays. In addition, some virulence factors were also investigated, such as biofilm formation capacity and morphogenesis. P. cablin showed MIC and MFC values between 2 and 128 µg/mL for the strains tested. The results suggest that this activity occurs through the complexation of the oil's constituents with the ergosterol of the fungal membrane. The essential oil slightly reduced the Morphology Index (MI) of the strains tested. For the most filamentous strain, there was a significant decrease in filament length, from 285.0 µm to 220.5 µm. In the formation of biofilms, the essential oil showed a reduction of 26% to 59% at concentrations of 4 to 40 µg/mL and in the reduction of biofilms formed, the values ranged from 49% to 68%. The essential oil of P. cablin showed a complex chemical composition and significant activity on C. albicans, which was considered fungicidal for most of the strains tested. It is suggested that this antifungal action is due to the complexation of the essential oil with the ergosterol of the fungal plasma membrane. In addition, P. cablin acted on the formation and reduction of biofilm and also exerted an influence on the morphogenesis of Candida albicans.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Oils, Volatile/pharmacology/isolation & purification/chemistry
*Candida albicans/drug effects/isolation & purification/physiology
*Antifungal Agents/pharmacology/isolation & purification
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Pogostemon/chemistry
Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry
Humans

@article {pmid41668882,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, Y and Qi, J and Gu, L and Yi, S and Liu, Y and Zhang, K and Guo, L and Zuo, Z},
title = {Overexpression of the crp gene promotes biofilm formation and increases antibiotic resistance in bovine-derived Klebsiella pneumoniae.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1766955},
pmid = {41668882},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The multidrug resistance of bovine-derived Klebsiella pneumoniae is a significant concern, with biofilm formation serving as a major factor in the escalation of antibiotic resistance. The function of cAMP receptor protein (CRP), which is encoded by the crp gene and acts as a central regulator of environmental sensing and virulence, remains unclear in pathogenic strains derived from livestock.

PURPOSE: This study aims to investigate the influence of CRP overexpression on biofilm formation and antibiotic resistancein bovine-derived Klebsiella pneumoniae, with a particular focus on its effect against cotrimoxazole.

METHODS: Recombinant strains with constitutive (Pkan) and inducible (Ptac) promoter-driven CRP overexpression were constructed using molecular cloning. Gene and protein expression were validated using RT-qPCR and immunoblotting analyses. Biofilm formation was quantified by crystal violet staining, antibiotic susceptibility to 23 agents was assessed using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method, and metabolic burden was evaluated through growth curve analysis.

RESULT: The CRP-overexpressing strain (KAN group) showed a 2.9-fold increase in CRP protein expression (p < 0.01) and a significant enhancement in biofilm formation (p < 0.0001), without significant impact on bacterial growth. Notably, a reversal in antibiotic susceptibility was observed: while the wild-type strain was sensitive to cotrimoxazole (inhibition zone: 22 mm), the CRP-overexpressing strain displayed complete resistance (inhibition zone: 7 mm).

CONCLUSION: Overexpression of CRP protein promotes biofilm formation and confers resistance to cotrimoxazole in bovine-derived Klebsiella pneumonia, indicating that CRP-mediated biofilm formation might be a key mechanism driving the observed cotrimoxazole resistance in this strain.},
}

@article {pmid41667443,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, D and Li, D and Su, L and Wang, DY and Ren, Y and van der Mei, HC and Shi, L and Chen, T and Busscher, HJ},
title = {Stimuli-responsive, antimicrobial-loaded nanocarriers for oral biofilm control and microbiome restoration.},
journal = {International journal of oral science},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {17},
pmid = {41667443},
issn = {2049-3169},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; Humans ; *Microbiota/drug effects ; *Drug Carriers ; *Anti-Infective Agents/administration & dosage/pharmacology ; *Mouth/microbiology ; Animals ; *Nanoparticles ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/administration & dosage ; },
abstract = {Nanotechnology has provided thousands of novel nano-antimicrobials possessing features uncommon in clinically available antimicrobials. Here, nanocarriers loaded with conventional antimicrobials and responding to environmental changes upon entry into oral biofilms are reviewed. Supra-gingival biofilms are characterized by acidic pH, the presence of bacterial enzymes, and the development of hypoxia in deeper layers. Sub-gingival biofilms are slightly alkaline, with hypoxia occurring over their entire depth. Upon entering biofilms, negatively charged, pH- and/or hypoxia-responsive nanocarriers become positively charged. This charge reversal leads to electrostatic double-layer attraction between positively charged nanocarriers towards negatively charged, water-filled channel walls in biofilms, enhancing their accumulation in a biofilm. Degradation of bacterial enzyme-responsive nanocarriers causes in-biofilm release of antimicrobial cargo, yielding higher local antimicrobial concentrations than can be achieved through their direct, oral administration without harming soft tissues. Enhanced antibiofilm activity after in-biofilm antimicrobial release from biofilm-responsive micelles and liposomes has been demonstrated in vitro towards single-species Streptococcus mutans and Staphylococcus aureus biofilms or in vivo using specific-pathogen-free rodents inoculated with selected pathogens. This preferential antibacterial activity regulated the microbial composition of ex vivo human oral biofilm towards a more healthy microbiome composition. Although clinical confirmation is limited, the potential benefits of stimuli-responsive, antimicrobial-loaded nanocarriers for oral biofilm control and microbiome restoration are worth further investigation towards clinical translation.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
Humans
*Microbiota/drug effects
*Drug Carriers
*Anti-Infective Agents/administration & dosage/pharmacology
*Mouth/microbiology
Animals
*Nanoparticles
Anti-Bacterial Agents/administration & dosage

@article {pmid41666731,
year = {2026},
author = {Yang, X and Li, C and Chen, P and Bai, Z and Zhao, Z and Yuan, K and Wang, W and Zhu, F and Li, Z and Li, S},
title = {Treatment of coking wastewater in a biological enhanced coupled biological fluidized bed-biological filter process: Biofilm formation and refractory organics degradation.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {401},
number = {},
pages = {128951},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2026.128951},
pmid = {41666731},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {Coking wastewater (CWW) contains complex, highly toxic organic compounds, posing substantial environmental risks. Conventional treatments are often ineffective in removing refractory organics, chemical oxygen demand (COD), and ammonium nitrogen (NH4[+]-N). In this study, a laboratory-scale biofilm-enhanced biological fluidized bed-biological filter (BF-BFB) system was developed for the treatment of real CWW, using a microbial consortium bioaugmented with Comamonas sp. ZF-3 as the inoculum. Preliminary comparative experiments employing different types of wastewater were conducted to evaluate the applicability of bioaugmentation, and the results demonstrated superior performance under high-concentration conditions. The BF-BFB system was then operated with high-strength influent. The integrated system showed excellent treatment efficiency, reducing COD from 858.78 to 44.21 mg/L and NH4[+]-N from 70.04 to 0.48 mg/L. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis showed that most refractory compounds, including phenol and pyridine, were completely degraded or significantly reduced. Dense and stable biofilms formed in all reactor units within 30 days, with average thicknesses of 171 μm in the facultative anaerobic biofilter, 175 μm in the aerobic fluidized bed, and 161 μm in the anaerobic biofilter. Microbial analysis revealed Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Chlorobi as the dominant phyla. Simulated degradation experiments confirmed the high removal efficiency of phenol and pyridine, achieving nearly complete pyridine degradation. Based on the laboratory-scale findings, the BF-BFB system was successfully implemented in a full-scale coking wastewater treatment project in Yunnan, achieving COD and NH4[+]-N removal efficiencies exceeding 99%. This study provides an effective, scalable technical solution for treating coking wastewater.},
}

@article {pmid41665726,
year = {2026},
author = {Kumar, V and Srivastava, A and Agarwal, V},
title = {Anti-quorum, anti biofilm activity of FDA approved drugs against P. aeruginosa: in silico and in vitro studies.},
journal = {Biotechnology letters},
volume = {48},
number = {2},
pages = {35},
pmid = {41665726},
issn = {1573-6776},
support = {AMR/ADHOC/184/2019-ECD-II//Indian Council of Medical Research/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology ; *Quorum Sensing/drug effects ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Molecular Docking Simulation ; United States ; Humans ; Computer Simulation ; },
abstract = {P. aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen that causes various nosocomial infections. The ability of P. aeruginosa to form biofilms is one of the main factors contributing to its pathogenicity. Due to biofilm formation, bacteria get embedded in it and is able to withstand extreme environmental conditions like chemicals, UV, temperature, pH, salinity, and antibiotics. Biofilm formation is an important virulence factor associated with quorum sensing (QS), which is a cell-to-cell communication system that is influenced by cell density. P. aeruginosa is a notorious pathogen that is known to cause severe complications in patients suffering from cystic fibrosis and immuno-compromised individuals in hospital setting as a result of biofilm formation. We might limit P. aeruginosa infection pathogenesis and biofilm formation if we can disrupt the signalling molecules involved in QS. In this study, we suggested that already-approved medications by the FDA could be employed as anti-quorum and anti-biofilm agents and potentially be helpful in curing P. aeruginosa associated infections. The anti-quorum and anti-biofilm properties of FDA-approved medications have been investigated here. We have also performed RT-PCR analysis and molecular docking experiments to assess the mechanism of action of these drugs. We have found that all four drugs have anti QS activity. Out of these four drugs Flurbiprofen was found to be more effective. RT data confirms that these drugs have significantly downregulated all four QS gene and therefore are able to inhibit the P. aeruginosa virulence factors. This study significantly opens up the new horizons for the development of novel therapeutics against P. aeruginosa and infections associated with it.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology
*Quorum Sensing/drug effects
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Molecular Docking Simulation
United States
Humans
Computer Simulation

@article {pmid41665193,
year = {2026},
author = {Kim, SH and Kim, HM and Chung, DR and Ko, JH and Huh, K and Cho, SY and Kang, CI and Peck, KR},
title = {In vitro activity of double and triple antimicrobial combinations against carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm.},
journal = {The Journal of antimicrobial chemotherapy},
volume = {81},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jac/dkag031},
pmid = {41665193},
issn = {1460-2091},
support = {SMX1230761//Future Medicine 2030 Project of the Samsung Medical Center/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/isolation & purification/physiology ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Humans ; Drug Synergism ; *Carbapenems/pharmacology ; Colistin/pharmacology ; Rifampin/pharmacology ; Pseudomonas Infections/microbiology/drug therapy ; Drug Combinations ; Azabicyclo Compounds/pharmacology ; Ceftazidime/pharmacology ; Imipenem/pharmacology ; Drug Therapy, Combination ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a common microorganism in chronic infections due to biofilm formation and antibiotic resistance. This study aimed to compare the synergistic effects of antibiotic combinations against carbapenem-resistant P. aeruginosa (CRPA) in planktonic and biofilm-embedded states.

METHODS: Twelve CRPA bloodstream isolates from the Asian Bacterial Bank (2016-2018) were analysed. The minimum biofilm eradication concentrations (MBECs) were determined using the peg lid system, and antimicrobial interactions were assessed using biofilm checkerboard assays, testing three double combinations (colistin-rifampin, colistin-imipenem, and rifampin-ceftazidime/avibactam) and two triple combinations (colistin-rifampin-imipenem and colistin-rifampin-ceftazidime/avibactam).

RESULTS: The MBEC values of all four antimicrobial agents (rifampin, colistin, imipenem, and ceftazidime/avibactam) were significantly higher than their corresponding minimum inhibitory concentration values (P < 0.001). Although single agents required markedly elevated concentrations to eradicate CRPA biofilms, approximately half of the double and triple antimicrobial combinations demonstrated synergistic activity. In the biofilm phase, synergism rates were comparable between triple combinations (colistin-rifampin-ceftazidime/avibactam, 50%; colistin-rifampin-imipenem, 66%) and double combinations (colistin-rifampin, 42%; rifampin-ceftazidime/avibactam, 42%; colistin-imipenem, 66%). The triple combinations showed lower FBEC indices (colistin-rifampin-imipenem: median 0.17; colistin-rifampin-ceftazidime/avibactam: 0.34) than the corresponding double combinations (colistin-rifampin: 0.53; colistin-imipenem: 0.20; rifampin-ceftazidime/avibactam: 0.78), although these differences were not statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS: Our study provides experimental evidence that antimicrobial combination therapy may offer advantages over single agents for CRPA biofilm eradication, supporting further investigation into the role of such regimens in biofilm-associated infections.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/isolation & purification/physiology
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Humans
Drug Synergism
*Carbapenems/pharmacology
Colistin/pharmacology
Rifampin/pharmacology
Pseudomonas Infections/microbiology/drug therapy
Drug Combinations
Azabicyclo Compounds/pharmacology
Ceftazidime/pharmacology
Imipenem/pharmacology
Drug Therapy, Combination

@article {pmid41665031,
year = {2026},
author = {Khalid, T and Rafey, HA and Mohammed, MMD and Rajput, TA and Ross, SA and Osman, AMA},
title = {Multifaceted Therapeutic Potential of Parthenium hysterophorus L.: Phytochemical Profiling, Toxicity, Biofilm Inhibition, and Antidiabetic Activity.},
journal = {Chemistry & biodiversity},
volume = {23},
number = {2},
pages = {e03322},
doi = {10.1002/cbdv.202503322},
pmid = {41665031},
issn = {1612-1880},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Hypoglycemic Agents/pharmacology/chemistry/isolation & purification ; Humans ; Molecular Docking Simulation ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Phytochemicals/pharmacology/chemistry/isolation & purification ; Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects ; *Plant Extracts/pharmacology/chemistry/isolation & purification ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry/isolation & purification ; Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects ; Antioxidants/pharmacology/chemistry/isolation & purification ; alpha-Glucosidases/metabolism ; *Asteraceae/chemistry ; Structure-Activity Relationship ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Glycoside Hydrolase Inhibitors/pharmacology/chemistry/isolation & purification ; Parthenium hysterophorus ; },
abstract = {Chronic diabetes, often linked to oxidative stress and microbial infections, requires safer, multifunctional therapies. Parthenium hysterophorus L., a member of the Asteraceae family, has long been used in traditional medicine for its therapeutic properties. This study explores its potential in managing diabetes and related complications. Chemical analysis revealed hydroxyl-rich compounds, such as phenols and phenolic acids, with a prominent Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) band at 3378.8 cm[-1]. The ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) and AQF fractions exhibited significant antioxidant activity (IC50: 14.71 ± 0.64 and 33.4 ± 0.89 µg/mL) and significant antibacterial effects against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (minimum inhibitory concentration: 312.5 µg/mL). Notably, the EAF fraction showed anti-biofilm activity (IC50: 3110 ± 0.10 µg/mL) and potent α-glucosidase inhibition (IC50: 0.112 ± 0.006 µg/mL). Molecular docking revealed that ferulic acid exhibited the highest binding affinity for the 3TOP transcriptional regulator's active site (-6.309 kcal/mol), while vanillic acid interacted robustly with the 2UV0 and 4F5S enzymes (docking scores: -6.299 and -6.161 kcal/mol). Cluster analysis confirmed stable binding clusters, particularly for ferulic acid. MD simulations revealed minimal RMSD fluctuations and favorable solvent accessible surface area (SASA) values, indicating stable complex formation and significant interaction stability. Ferulic acid showed the most favorable binding with the 3TOP enzyme, reinforced by hydrophobic and hydrogen bonding interactions. In case of pure compounds tested, ferulic acid demonstrated significant biofilm (IC50: 3.25 ± 0.54 µg/mL) as well as α-glucosidase inhibition (IC50: 0.067 ± 0.0013 µg/mL). Cytotoxicity assays on HEK293 (human embryonic kidney cells) showed no significant viability reduction at 2.5% concentration, but a 74% reduction at 10%, indicating dose-dependent cytotoxicity. These findings suggest P. hysterophorus L. as a promising natural source for multifunctional therapies targeting oxidative stress, infections, and hyperglycemia, with ferulic acid as a potent bioactive compound. Further studies on pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics are warranted to evaluate its therapeutic potential.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Hypoglycemic Agents/pharmacology/chemistry/isolation & purification
Humans
Molecular Docking Simulation
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Phytochemicals/pharmacology/chemistry/isolation & purification
Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects
*Plant Extracts/pharmacology/chemistry/isolation & purification
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry/isolation & purification
Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects
Antioxidants/pharmacology/chemistry/isolation & purification
alpha-Glucosidases/metabolism
*Asteraceae/chemistry
Structure-Activity Relationship
Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
Glycoside Hydrolase Inhibitors/pharmacology/chemistry/isolation & purification
Parthenium hysterophorus

@article {pmid41664943,
year = {2026},
author = {Mandal, P and Mottram, NJ and Mcginty, S},
title = {Mathematical modelling of biofilm growth on medical implants incorporating nutrient-dependent phenotypic switching.},
journal = {Mathematical medicine and biology : a journal of the IMA},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/imammb/dqag002},
pmid = {41664943},
issn = {1477-8602},
abstract = {Biofilm infections on medical implants are difficult to eradicate because insufficient nutrient availability promotes antibiotic-tolerant persister cells that survive treatment and reseed growth. Existing mathematical models usually omit nutrient-dependent phenotypic switching between proliferative and persister states. Without this mechanism, models cannot capture how environmental conditions control the balance between active growth and dormancy, which is central to biofilm persistence. We present a continuum model that couples nutrient transport with the dynamics of proliferative bacteria, persisters, dead cells, and extracellular polymeric substances. The switching rates between proliferative and persister phenotypes depend on local nutrient concentration through two thresholds, enabling adaptation across nutrient-poor, intermediate, and nutrient-rich regimes. Simulations show that nutrient limitation produces a high and sustained proportion of persister cells even when biomass is reduced, whereas nutrient-rich conditions support reversion to proliferative growth and lead to greater biomass. The model also predicts that persister populations peak at times that vary with nutrient availability, and these peaks coincide with turning points in biofilm growth, identifying critical intervention windows. By directly linking nutrient availability to phenotypic switching, our model reveals mechanisms of biofilm persistence that earlier models could not capture, and it points toward strategies that target nutrient-driven adaptation as a means to improve the control of implant-associated infections.},
}

@article {pmid41664634,
year = {2026},
author = {Deng, D and Chen, J and Meng, H and Wen, Y and Min, Y},
title = {AIE-active anthraquinone-derived sonosensitizers with enhanced reactive oxygen species generation for ultrasonic biofilm eradication.},
journal = {Journal of materials chemistry. B},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1039/d5tb02280k},
pmid = {41664634},
issn = {2050-7518},
abstract = {The development of highly efficient and biosafe sonosensitizers remains a significant challenge for sonodynamic antibacterial therapy. Herein, we report a novel class of aggregation-induced emission (AIE)-active anthraquinone-derived sonosensitizers (AQ and EQ) engineered to overcome aggregation-caused quenching limitations. Through rational molecular design featuring twisted donor-acceptor-donor architectures and rotor-integrated anthraquinone cores, these sensitizers exhibit exceptional reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation capabilities under low-intensity ultrasound irradiation. Nano-formulation with the biocompatible phospholipid DPPC further enhanced dispersibility and biofilm penetration capacity. The optimized sonosensitizer AQ@DPPC and EQ@DPPC demonstrated remarkable antibacterial efficacy, achieving outstanding eradication of both Gram-negative (Escherichia coli) and Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) biofilms at low concentrations (15 µM). This work establishes a new paradigm for designing AIE-enhanced organic sonosensitizers and provides a robust platform for ultrasound-activated antimicrobial applications, with significant potential for translation into non-thermal sterilization technologies.},
}

@article {pmid41664528,
year = {2026},
author = {Yang, Y and Zhou, YX and Jia, LY and Song, XY and Lai, YJ and Liu, SY and Wang, SY and Laborda, P and Shi, XC},
title = {Roles of spoVF operon subunits A and B (dipicolinic acid synthase) in regulating cell morphology and biofilm formation in the biocontrol agent Bacillus subtilis.},
journal = {Pest management science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/ps.70634},
pmid = {41664528},
issn = {1526-4998},
support = {32302433//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32172441//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 3251101410//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; KFJN2440//Large Instruments Open Foundation of Nantong University/ ; 24KJB0017//Funded by Basic Research Program of Jiangsu/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The spoVF operon, encoding the dipicolinic acid (DPA) synthase, is critical for sporulation in Bacillus subtilis. A recent study suggested that spoVF expression in vegetative cells promotes biofilm formation, yet the detailed regulatory pathways and the underlying metabolic connections remain to be fully elucidated.

RESULTS: In this study, deletion of spoVF subunits spoVFA and spoVFB severely reduced DPA synthesis, downregulated mreB gene expression, and impaired biofilm formation, with mutant ΔA showing stronger effects than mutant ΔB. Although wild type B. subtilis 168 cells exhibited rod shape, double mutant ΔAΔB cells were spherical. In the MT strain, engineered for enhanced spoVF expression during vegetative growth, the upregulation of key TCA cycle genes (e.g., citC) and glutamate synthesis genes (e.g., gltA) was observed. This metabolic reprogramming was accompanied by the promotion of Spo0A phosphorylation. The activated Spo0A~P then inhibited the SinR and AbrB repressors, which led to the activation of the eps and tasA biofilm operons. The MT strain showed superior stress tolerance to high temperature (42 °C), salt, acidic and alkaline pH, and UV-A and UV-B radiation. Additionally, the MT strain exhibited higher nutrient competition ability, and in vitro and in vivo antifungal activities against the sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L. Lam) storage root pathogen Ceratocystis fimbriata compared to mutant ΔA, ΔB, and ΔAΔB strains.

CONCLUSIONS: This study elucidates how the spoVF operon links the central metabolic pathways with B. subtilis cell morphology and biofilm formation, offering a novel target for engineering advanced Bacillus-based biocontrol agents. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.},
}

@article {pmid41664488,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, J and Xiong, LH and Tang, BZ and He, X},
title = {Engineering Bacteriophage Cocktail with Mutually Promoted Chemodynamic-Photodynamic Activity for Targeted and Synergistic Biofilm Eradication.},
journal = {ACS nano},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acsnano.5c19780},
pmid = {41664488},
issn = {1936-086X},
abstract = {Biofilms formed by bacterial symbiosis significantly strengthen bacterial resistance to external interference and cause chronic infections. Herein, a chemodynamic therapy (CDT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) coarmed bacteriophage cocktail was developed to eradicate Staphylococcus aureus biofilms by conjugating aggregation-induced emission photosensitizer (AIE PSs), glucose oxidase (GOx), and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) on the bacteriophage surface. Leveraging the particular specificity of the bacteriophage toward host bacteria, the three conjugates can penetrate the biofilm and colocalize on the inner bacterial surface. When thus enriched, AIE PSs exhibited intensified fluorescence, enabling labeling and killing pathogens via photoirradiation-generated singlet oxygen. After combining AIE PSs with GOx/HRP, which can convert glucose nutrients into H2O2 and ultimately to hydroxyl radicals via cascade catalysis, the bactericidal efficiency was dramatically improved compared to individual phage-CDT (>468%) or phage-PDT (>290%) at the same PFU concentration of phage. The colocalized PSs and enzymes on the confined space of the bacterial surface are mutually promoted in the microenvironment of the biofilm, realizing synergistic enhancement. This strengthened bacteriophage cocktail offers an effective strategy for treating biofilm-related clinical superbug infections.},
}

@article {pmid41664062,
year = {2026},
author = {Mokari, S and YousefiMashouf, R and Karami, P and Taheri, M},
title = {Genetic diversity, antimicrobial resistance, and biofilm-associated virulence in clinical Enterococcus faecalis isolates from Hamedan, Iran.},
journal = {BMC infectious diseases},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12879-026-12768-y},
pmid = {41664062},
issn = {1471-2334},
}

@article {pmid41663922,
year = {2026},
author = {Moustafa, MW and El-Banna, TE and Sonbol, FI and El-Bouseary, MM},
title = {Fosfomycin at sub-minimum inhibitory concentration impairs biofilm and efflux pump activity in multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12866-026-04720-6},
pmid = {41663922},
issn = {1471-2180},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Klebsiella pneumoniae plays a critical role in hospital-acquired infections, which pose a serious threat globally. Older antibiotics such as fosfomycin are being reconsidered to combat MDR K. pneumoniae. In healthcare settings, bacteria are exposed frequently to antibiotics at sub-inhibitory concentrations (sub-MICs), which may alter their virulent characteristics. The aim of this research was to investigate the impact of fosfomycin at sub-MICs on the virulence determinants of MDR K. pneumoniae.

METHODS: The effect of sub-MIC fosfomycin treatment on biofilm formation was evaluated by crystal violet assay and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). The cartwheel technique was employed to study efflux pump activity phenotypically. The expression of genes of biofilm (fimH, mrkD) and efflux pump (acrA, acrB) was determined using reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was also utilized to visualize the morphological changes.

RESULTS: The MIC of fosfomycin against K. pneumoniae MDR isolates ranged from 256 to 1024 µg/mL. The biofilm formation ability of isolates (n = 50) was reduced significantly (P < 0.05) following the exposure to ¼ MIC of fosfomycin. CLSM analysis revealed disruption of biofilm structure, reduced thickness and density, and increased percentages of dead cells. RT-qPCR revealed 20-60% downregulation of fimH and mrkD and downexpression of acrA and acrB. SEM analysis showed pronounced morphological changes, including a characteristic cauliflower-like deformation.

CONCLUSION: Fosfomycin at sub-inhibitory levels is able to disrupt biofilm architecture and the efflux pump activity in MDR K. pneumoniae, pointing to its possible role as an adjunct agent in combating antibiotic resistance.},
}

@article {pmid41661391,
year = {2026},
author = {Guchhait, KC and Dey, S and Panda, AK and Ghosh, C},
title = {Microbe-derived surfactant as promising Anti-Biofilm agent: current insights and future prospects.},
journal = {Folia microbiologica},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41661391},
issn = {1874-9356},
abstract = {Structured communities of microbial cells within an extracellular polymeric matrix, called biofilms are a significant cause of the persistence and severity of chronic infection. These biofilm-mediated infections pose significant complications in the treatment plans since they are more resistant to conventional antimicrobial drugs and they are also resistant to the host immune system. Hence, new approaches should be warranted over the traditional therapies to counter such infections. The use of biosurfactants is one of the promising strategies, as these amphiphilic molecules that are produced by microorganisms are present naturally and have strong antibiofilm capabilities. Biosurfactants, including rhamnolipids, sophorolipids, and lipopeptides, work in a range of ways, including interfering with the integrity of biofilms, modulation of microbial adhesion, and quorum sensing. This review discusses the biofilm characteristics and the step of biofilm development along with the detailed analyses of the major biosurfactants and their mechanisms of action as an alternative to the conventional therapy. Moreover, we have pointed out the most recent case studies on biosurfactants with their antibiofilm activities as well as biosurfactant-coated surfaces in biofilm prevention on medical devices to provide the new opportunities in managing biofilm-related infections. Overall, this review brings the better understanding about different biosurfactants to integrate it into clinical treatments.},
}

@article {pmid41660757,
year = {2026},
author = {Sezer, B and Bilgiç, E and Ercan, UK and Karaman, O and Pulat, G},
title = {Dual-functional urinary PVC catheters via peptide surface modification for the prevention of biofilm formation and fibrotic response in vitro.},
journal = {Journal of materials chemistry. B},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1039/d5tb02559a},
pmid = {41660757},
issn = {2050-7518},
abstract = {Prolonged urinary catheterization often leads to two major complications, bacterial biofilm formation and fibrotic tissue development, both of which hinder catheter function. However, current catheter designs fail to address these challenges simultaneously. In this study, the surface of a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) catheter was conjugated with TetraF2W-RR, an antimicrobial peptide (AMP) effective against drug-resistant methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MDRPA) strains, and DR8, an antifibrotic peptide (AFP) that inhibits excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) buildup to provide both antimicrobial and antifibrotic effects. Covalently co-immobilizing TetraF2W-RR and DR8 peptides onto PVC surfaces (PVC-AMP/AFP) via cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) created dual-functional urinary catheters that prevent biofilm formation by MRSA and MDRPA while diminishing fibrotic responses in vitro. PVC-AMP/AFP surfaces demonstrated strong antibacterial and antibiofilm activity without harming NIH 3T3 cells. In a TGF-β1-stimulated fibroblast model, PVC-AMP/AFP catheter groups significantly reduced fibrotic gene expression (COL1A1, FN1, ACTA2, and TGF-β1), lowered total collagen levels, and decreased COL1A1 and α-SMA expression by immunofluorescence staining. A wound healing assay in a TGF-β1-induced fibrotic fibroblast model further confirmed suppressed fibroblast migration in PVC-AMP/AFP catheter groups. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first attempt to simultaneously impart antibacterial and antifibrotic functionalities to PVC urinary catheters via covalent co-immobilization of AMP and AFP. This combined approach offers a promising strategy to improve the long-term safety and efficacy of indwelling urinary catheters and could be applied to a variety of implantable biomaterials.},
}

@article {pmid41659324,
year = {2026},
author = {Shayghan Mehr, A and Fazlzadeh, M and Dargahi, A and Mokhtari, SA and Alighadri, M},
title = {Optimization of moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) operation for biodegradation of Diuron herbicide and organic load removal from synthetic wastewater.},
journal = {RSC advances},
volume = {16},
number = {9},
pages = {7726-7743},
pmid = {41659324},
issn = {2046-2069},
abstract = {This study evaluates the performance of a laboratory-scale Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR) for the biological removal of the herbicide Diuron and simultaneous reduction of chemical oxygen demand (COD) from synthetic wastewater. The reactor was operated under varying hydraulic retention times (HRT = 24, 48, and 72 h), carrier fill fractions (30%, 50%, and 70%), influent COD levels (500-1500 mg L[-1]), and Diuron concentrations (10-25 mg L[-1]). Results show that increasing HRT and carrier fill fraction significantly enhanced treatment efficiency. The highest Diuron removal (98.68%) and COD removal (93.4%) were achieved at HRT = 71.7 h, carrier fill fraction = 52.6%, organic load = 502.4 mg L[-1], and Diuron concentration = 10.13 mg L[-1]. Statistical analysis (ANOVA, p < 0.05) confirmed that HRT, fill fraction, Diuron concentration, and organic load all significantly influenced removal performance. Although the MBBR demonstrated high efficiency for Diuron degradation, residual concentrations under even optimal conditions (e.g., ∼212 µg L[-1] from 10 mg per L influent) remain well above regulatory thresholds (e.g., EU limit: 0.1 µg L[-1]), indicating that MBBR is best suited as a pre-treatment step prior to advanced polishing technologies. The system proved robust under elevated Diuron loads (up to 25 mg L[-1]) and variable organic loading, highlighting its potential for treating pesticide-laden industrial and agricultural effluents when integrated into a multi-barrier treatment train.},
}

@article {pmid41658093,
year = {2026},
author = {Hakme da Silva, AM and Baptista, A and Albuquerque, VBS and de Moraes, J and Fortulan, CA and Fraga, MA and Gelamo, RV and Navarro, RS and Moreto, JA},
title = {Impact of Nb2O5 Coating Produced by Using the Reactive Sputtering Technique on Bacterial Biofilm Formation.},
journal = {ACS omega},
volume = {11},
number = {4},
pages = {5883-5893},
pmid = {41658093},
issn = {2470-1343},
abstract = {The reactive sputtering technique has been employed to deposit niobium pentoxide (Nb2O5) thin films onto the surfaces of the Ti-6Al-4 V alloy, which is widely used in trauma care and tissue repair. This approach has shown significant potential in enhancing the alloy's resistance to uniform and localized corrosion, as well as improving its wear and fatigue performance. In this study, Nb2O5 thin films were deposited on Ti-6Al-4 V surfaces using reactive DC sputtering, and their biofilm-modulating effects were evaluated in the presence of artificial saliva (AS) and two clinically relevant bacteria strains(?)Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 (Gram-positive) and Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 (Gram-negative). The extent of biofilm coverage, expressed as a percentage, was quantitatively assessed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). This combined analytical approach allowed for detailed morphological examination of the biofilm's distribution. Results demonstrated that the uncoated Ti-6Al-4 V surfaces exhibited 99.83% organic retention after saliva exposure and up to 74.94% biofilm coverage with E. coli, while Ti-6Al-4 V/Nb2O5 specimens showed lower retention under the same conditions (85.11 and 51.10%, respectively). Notably, S. aureus adhesion was markedly reduced on the coated samples (67.42%) when compared to that on the AS sample (40.68%), suggesting species-specific modulation of bacterial colonization. These findings indicate that Nb2O5 coatings can alter the surface wettability and biofilm architecture, reducing nonspecific organic adsorption and selectively influencing bacterial adhesion. This study underscored the potential of Nb2O5 coatings for the development of multifunctional biomedical surfaces exhibiting both antimicrobial and biointeractive properties.},
}

@article {pmid41657994,
year = {2025},
author = {Paul, A and Joardar, SN and Samanta, I and Batabyal, K and Dey, S and Ghosh, P and Wahed, AAE and Bardhan, R and Dhara, KC and Datta, S},
title = {Novel insights into antimicrobial-resistant, virulent and biofilm-forming Salmonella: Molecular and phenotypic evidence from duck at the human-animal-environment interface.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1753559},
pmid = {41657994},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {The present study provides first time the comprehensive molecular and phenotypic characterization of antimicrobial-resistant, biofilm-forming, and virulent Salmonella spp. isolated from apparently healthy ducks and their environments in West Bengal, India. A total of 462 samples from Indigenous, Khaki Campbell, and Pekin ducks yielded 436 isolates, of which 42.2% were ESBL producers carrying bla TEM (36.5%), bla CTX-M (20.6%), bla SHV (17.7%), and bla AmpC (32.6%). Sequence analysis revealed multiple clinically relevant alleles, including bla TEM -164, bla CTX-M -15, and bla SHV -45, underscoring their potential public health significance. The isolates were also screened for biofilm genes (csgA, sdiA, rpoS, rcsA), and the virulence gene invA. Biofilm-associated genes were widely distributed (csgA: 54.59%, sdiA: 52.52%, rpoS: 80.28%, rcsA: 63.76%), while 141 (32.34%) of isolates possessed the invA virulence marker. Of 26 selected strains, high multi-drug resistance was detected, mainly against tetracycline and cefixime. Phylogenetic analysis of ESBL gene sequences showed clustering across avian, animal, and clinical (human) Salmonella isolates, indicating potential interspecies transmission and evolutionary divergence. Notably, strong positive correlations were observed among biofilm formation, multidrug resistance, and virulence (τ = 0.656, ρ = 0.765, p < 0.001). Western blotting further identified two unique polypeptide markers (69 and 35 kDa) with diagnostic potential for detecting resistant, virulent, and biofilm-forming Salmonella. In short, these findings highlight, for the first time, duck as silent reservoirs of high-risk Salmonella strains, and propose novel protein markers to facilitate early detection at the human-animal-environment interface.},
}

@article {pmid41657986,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhao, M and Zhang, C and Jaiswal, Y and Xie, X and Huang, D and He, Z and Williams, L and Guan, Y and Bian, H and Song, X},
title = {JR20, a novel natural product-derived compound, exhibits potent anti-biofilm activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1743534},
pmid = {41657986},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: JR20, a novel sesamin-derived arylnaphthalene lignan, has demonstrated potent antifungal activity. This study further investigates its antibacterial potential against MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus).

METHODS: The highlights of this research include the use of SYTO9 and PI fluorescence double staining, along with three-dimensional confocal microscopy to reveal the thickness and viability of biofilms under JR0's influence. Additionally, scanning and transmission electron microscopy were employed to observe the morphological changes of MRSA under JR0's impact. By combining the observed reduction in ATP content within MRSA, a preliminary mechanism was hypothesized. In vivo anti-infection experiments were further conducted to evaluate the compound's biological activity in liver and spleen tissues of mice.

RESULTS: JR20 exhibited potent anti-MRSA activity (IC50 = 20.88 μg/mL). Mechanistic investigations revealed multi-level effects: confocal microscopy demonstrated altered biofilm thickness and viability; SEM/TEM confirmed distinct morphological changes in bacterial cells; And ATP content reduction indicated metabolic disruption. In vivo experiments validated these antibacterial effects and further revealed anti-inflammatory properties, underscoring JR0's therapeutic potential against MRSA infections.

CONCLUSION: This study confirms JR0's potent anti-MRSA activity, clarifies its effects on biofilms and MRSA morphology, and proposes a preliminary mechanism by reduced ATP. JR20 demonstrates significant potential for combating drug-resistant bacteria and advancing antibiofilm drug discovery.},
}

@article {pmid41655799,
year = {2026},
author = {Phatak, A and Rathod, D and Patel, K and Patil, RB and Mittal, S and Sangshetti, J and Patil, R},
title = {Multi-targeted antimicrobial action of Juglone against Proteus mirabilis biofilm and virulence.},
journal = {Microbial pathogenesis},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {108367},
doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2026.108367},
pmid = {41655799},
issn = {1096-1208},
abstract = {Proteus mirabilis is a uropathogen frequently implicated in catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs), largely due to its ability to form biofilms and express multiple virulence factors. The limitations of conventional antibiotics, along with increasing resistance rates, necessitate the exploration of natural compounds with broader antimicrobial mechanisms against such pathogens. This study investigated the antibiofilm and anti-virulence potential of Juglone, a phytochemical derived from Juglans regia, against P. mirabilis. A series of in vitro assays demonstrated that Juglone not only inhibited bacterial proliferation in a dose- and time-dependent manner but also significantly restricted biofilm formation, as visualized by FE-SEM, while simultaneously impairing motility and reducing the secretion of critical virulence-associated enzymes. Membrane depolarization and altered membrane fluidity indicated compromised bacterial envelope integrity. Gene expression analysis using RT-qPCR further revealed the downregulation of multiple adherence- and virulence-associated genes. Complementing these findings, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations confirmed stable interactions between Juglone and the MrpH adhesin protein, highlighting its potential to interfere with host attachment mechanisms. Importantly, untargeted LC-MS-based metabolomic profiling revealed widespread metabolic reprogramming in Juglone-treated P. mirabilis, characterized by enhanced oxidative stress, redox imbalance, and suppression of core biosynthetic and energy-generating pathways. Taken together, these findings establish Juglone as a promising multi-target antimicrobial agent against P. mirabilis, with potential applications in the prevention of catheter-associated infections.},
}

@article {pmid41654547,
year = {2026},
author = {Malmi, H and Pakharukova, N and Paul, B and Tuittila, M and Ahmad, I and Knight, SD and Uhlin, BE and Ghosal, D and Zavialov, AV},
title = {Antiparallel stacking of Csu pili drives Acinetobacter baumannii 3D biofilm assembly.},
journal = {Nature communications},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41467-026-68860-z},
pmid = {41654547},
issn = {2041-1723},
support = {Stipend 2025//Suomen Kulttuurirahasto (Finnish Cultural Foundation)/ ; Senior Research Fellow 2024//Sigrid Juséliuksen Säätiö (Sigrid Jusélius Foundation)/ ; 360760 and 360760//Academy of Finland (Suomen Akatemia)/ ; APP1196924//Department of Health | National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC)/ ; SMK21-0076//Kempestiftelserna (Kempe Foundations)/ ; 2019-01720 and 2020-06136//Svenska Forskningsrådet Formas (Swedish Research Council Formas)/ ; },
abstract = {Many Gram-negative nosocomial pathogens rely on adhesive filaments, known as archaic chaperone-usher pili, to establish stress- and drug-resistant, multi-layered biofilms. Here, we uncover the mechanism by which these pili build three-dimensional (3D) biofilm architectures. In situ analyses of Acinetobacter baumannii biofilms using electron microscopy (EM) reveal an extensive network of ultrathin, flat stacks of archaic Csu pili interconnecting bacterial cells in 3D space. Cryo-EM structures of a single native pilus, pilus pairs, and two types of multi-pilus stacks show that the pili pack into antiparallel sheets, with their rods connected laterally by junctions at their zigzag corners. This antiparallel arrangement ensures that contacts form primarily between pili from interacting cells rather than pili from the same cell. With a remarkably short helical repeat, archaic chaperone-usher pili spontaneously establish a high density of junctions that determines the biofilm's 3D architecture. Our findings may help develop new therapies against multidrug-resistant bacterial infections by targeting pilus-pilus interactions.},
}

@article {pmid41653623,
year = {2026},
author = {Pasupulety, L and Zaki, MI and Lakshmi, AN},
title = {Biofilm inhibition and microbial corrosion protection of carbon steel by a green surfactant based novel ZnO nanofluid.},
journal = {Bioelectrochemistry (Amsterdam, Netherlands)},
volume = {170},
number = {},
pages = {109240},
doi = {10.1016/j.bioelechem.2026.109240},
pmid = {41653623},
issn = {1878-562X},
abstract = {A stable nanofluid containing ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) and a plant-based surfactant, soapnut, was synthesized and its composite nature established by thermogravimetry, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analyses. Its effectiveness as a microbially induced corrosion (MIC) inhibitor was investigated. Gravimetric and electrochemical techniques-potentiodynamic polarisation and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, revealed a reduction in corrosion rates (from 31.63 to 1.17 mils/year), achieving an inhibition efficiency of up to 97% at a low nanofluid concentration of 4 vol%. Both the components- ZnO NPs and the soapnut extract (SN) exhibited pronounced bactericidal activity, leading to effective suppression of biofilm formation, as confirmed by biofilm inhibition assays (78%) and confocal laser scanning microscopy imaging. The amphiphilic nature of SN, together with the high surface availability of ZnO NPs, enhanced inhibitor adsorption on the metal surface which was supported by adsorption studies and surface analyses- field-emission scanning electron microscopy coupled with EDX. In the synthesized composite, SN acting as a ligand, prevented aggregation of ZnO NPs and thereby improved surface coverage and stability. Overall, the synergistic interaction between SN and ZnO NPs produced an environmentally benign nanofluid with strong potential for mitigating MIC in petrochemical pipeline systems.},
}

@article {pmid41653262,
year = {2026},
author = {Khambhati, K and Chaudhari, H and Patel, V and Ahire, P and Gohil, N and Bhattacharjee, G and Alzahrani, KJ and Ramakrishna, S and Maurya, R and Singh, V},
title = {Green Synthesis and Characterization of Silver Nanoparticles Using Traditional Medicinal Herb Phyllanthus Maderaspatensis for their Antibacterial and Anti-biofilm Activities.},
journal = {Applied biochemistry and biotechnology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41653262},
issn = {1559-0291},
support = {TU-DSPP-2024-05//Taif University/ ; 2021M3A9H3015390//National Science Foundation Korea/ ; SUR/2022/001937//Anusandhan National Science Foundation, India/ ; },
abstract = {The misuse of antibiotics has led to the rise of multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens, posing a significant threat to global health. The shortcoming of new antibiotics with novel mode of action augments this challenge. Nanoparticles, particularly synthesized through green synthesis methods, have emerged as promising agents to combat the growing issue of MDR. The current study focuses on the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using seed extract from the traditional medicinal herbaceous plant Phyllanthus maderaspatensis (PM). AgNPs were synthesized by mixing the PM seed extract (PMSE) with 3 mM silver nitrate at 80 °C for 15 min, followed by precipitation using acetone and drying at 70 °C. Characterization of the derived AgNPs with UV spectroscopy resulted absorption maximum at 430 nm. FTIR analysis revealed the capping of functional moieties such as alcohol, amine, aldehyde, alkene and halo to their surfaces. SEM and TEM analysis disclosed the spherical and quasi-spherical shaped nanoparticles, with smooth surface and notable lattice fringes appearance. The size of AgNPs ranges from ~ 5 nm to ~ 78 nm in diameter. The synthesised nanoparticles happen to be highly stable as deduced via mean zeta potential of -37.9 mV. XRD and energy dispersive X-ray spectrum of the synthesized AgNPs conforms the presence of silver in the synthesised nanoparticles. The antimicrobial potential of the synthesized AgNPs against different bacterial strains provides minimum inhibitory concentration values as low as 150 to 225 µg/mL. Additionally, the AgNPs also exhibited outstanding anti-biofilm capabilities. Crystal violet uptake assay and light microscopy studies indicates that membrane disruption contributes to their bactericidal effect. Altogether, the utilization of PMSE as a reducing agent holds promise as a cost-effective, scalable, and eco-friendly alternative to traditional AgNP synthesis methods. This PMSE derived AgNPs demonstrate strong potential for broad applications namely in agriculture for management of PM seeds and across medicine such as development of anti-bacterial coating or as an active ingredient in wound dressing.},
}

@article {pmid41652509,
year = {2026},
author = {Matthews, E and Moravek, A and Harper, D and Wilkinson, S and Bohutskyi, P and Sims, RC and Miller, CD and Buecherl, L},
title = {Rotating algal biofilm reactors retain core microbial communities during scale-up.},
journal = {Journal of biological engineering},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s13036-026-00635-y},
pmid = {41652509},
issn = {1754-1611},
}

@article {pmid41651879,
year = {2026},
author = {Luo, SC and Hu, PF and Wei, SM and Li, XL and Yang, QQ and Wong, KH and Zhang, BB},
title = {Food-grade Lacticaseibacillus paracasei postbiotics suppress oral Streptococcus mutans biofilm formation and cariogenicity.},
journal = {NPJ science of food},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41538-026-00742-6},
pmid = {41651879},
issn = {2396-8370},
support = {32472313//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Dental caries is a highly prevalent non-communicable disease driven by dysbiosis of the oral microbiota, in which Streptococcus (S.) mutans plays a keystone role. We discovered that cell-free supernatant (CFS) from food-associated Lacticaseibacillus (L.) paracasei disrupts S. mutans membranes, causing leakage, reduced viability, and decreased surface hydrophobicity. CFS also inhibits biofilms by decreasing biomass, metabolic activity, chain length, and exopolysaccharide (EPS) accumulation. Neutralization experiments revealed organic acids as the primary antibacterial factors: activity weakened at pH > 6 but remained stable after heating and long-term storage. In a hydroxyapatite disc model, CFS markedly suppressed biofilm formation and reduced free calcium release, indicating lower cariogenic potential. Transcriptomic analysis revealed downregulation of virulence and quorum-sensing genes (including stsR, gbpA, gbpB, scrB, ldh, aguB, atpA, atpD, luxS, ciaR, ciaH, and ciaX), while metabolomic studies identified creatine and phosphoenolpyruvate as key metabolites linked to these pathways. Our findings demonstrate that L. paracasei postbiotics can act as stable, food-compatible ingredients to modulate cariogenic biofilms, providing a mechanistic basis for developing next-generation postbiotic-based oral care and functional food products. This work connects the science of food-derived postbiotics with oral health, contributing to a One Health approach to caries prevention.},
}

@article {pmid41651183,
year = {2026},
author = {Lach, CE and Silveira, DD and Belli, TJ and Lapolli, FR and Lobo-Recio, MÁ},
title = {Bioelectrochemical hybrid system integrating anodic biofilm and cathodic Fenton into a microbial fuel cell for multifunctional treatment of azo dye wastewater.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {134149},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.134149},
pmid = {41651183},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {This study investigates a hybrid bioelectrochemical system that integrates an anodic biofilm (ABF) with a cathodic bio-electro-Fenton (BEF) process for the treatment of azo-dye-containing wastewater. Three operational strategies were evaluated by varying the RBV-5R/acetate ratio and hydraulic retention time (HRT). Under optimal conditions (20 mg L[-1] RBV-5R, 0.25 g L[-1] acetate, 6 h/12 h ABF/BEF), the system achieved a power density of 73.3 mW m[-2] and in situ H2O2 generation of 12.3 ± 0.2 mg L[-1], resulting in high removals of color (99.8%), COD (79.6%,), and a marked reduction in phytotoxicity after pH neutralization. Unlike conventional MFC-BEF configurations, this work demonstrates a redox-sequential, self-powered ABF + BEF architecture in which the anodic biofilm serves as an active pretreatment stage prior to oxidative polishing. These results highlight the potential of this integrated platform as a sustainable strategy for advanced wastewater treatment of azo dyes.},
}

@article {pmid41648539,
year = {2026},
author = {van Wijngaarden, EW and Brunette, MP and Goetsch, AG and Brito, IL and Hershey, DM and Silberstein, MN},
title = {Rheinheimera sp. T2C2 Bacterial Biofilm for Bioremediation of Cobalt (II).},
journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.64898/2026.01.21.700925},
pmid = {41648539},
issn = {2692-8205},
abstract = {Toxic metals, including cobalt, are often the cause of contamination of rivers and lakes in mining regions. Heavy metal water pollution has been linked to numerous human health problems, prompting the need for environmental remediation. Existing techniques for removing heavy metals from water, such as chemical precipitation and filtration, produce toxic waste, are costly, or require high power consumption for pumping. Biosorption is a potential alternative strategy that is cost-effective and uses readily available and naturally produced biomass and living material to absorb pollutants. Engineering living materials, such as biofilms, which consist of living cells and a secreted polymer matrix, offer potential to integrate toxin sensing, sequestration, and metabolism capabilities of cells to improve pollution remediation strategies. New biofilm producing candidates need to be explored to implement these material capabilities. Previous biosorption studies have primarily used bacterial biofilms from known pathogens and/or generate toxic waste in the form of the absorbent material combined with the heavy metal. Here, we describe a newly isolated bacterium called Rheinheimera sp. T2C2 that forms biofilms with promising biosorption characteristics. T2C2 is a non-pathogenic, aquatic bacterium with low nutrient requirements and high biofilm production. We demonstrate 1) the efficacy of Rheinheimera sp. T2C2 as a biosorbent for cobalt bioremediation; 2) how biosorption is altered by water conditions to establish the efficacy of this strategy in different environments; and 3) how the metal can be released from the biofilm for metal recycling. Our findings will provide a living materials strategy that overcomes existing barriers for bioremediation, and improve the health of ecosystems and humans through heavy metal removal and recycling.},
}

@article {pmid41648023,
year = {2025},
author = {Nir, I and Sharaby, A and Barak, H and Pavan, MJ and Friedlander, LR and Multanen, V and Kushmaro, A},
title = {Extensive biofilm covering on sgraffito wall art: a call for proactive monitoring.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1664404},
pmid = {41648023},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The study focuses on a black and white sgraffito decoration attached to a cement exterior wall in Kibbutz Yiftach, Israel. Since its creation in 1971, the artwork has experienced weathering processes, resulting in peeling, flaking, and the development of a microbial layer on the wall art decoration. Before its restoration in 2022, this study was initiated, aiming to address three primary questions: What is the composition of the microbial communities? What is the distribution of these microbial communities throughout the wall, and how do they interact with the substrate materials?

METHODS: Complementary methods, including mineral analysis, microscopic observations, and molecular techniques, were implemented to answer the study questions.

RESULTS: Five main groups of bacteria (e.g., Cyanobacteria, Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria, Bacteroidota, and Chloroflexi), as well as various types of fungi, were revealed. Nevertheless, although the same phyla were detected across samples, each displayed distinct diversity at the order level. Microscopic observations revealed the attachment of microbial components to both the porous plaster and the rough cement.

DISCUSSION: The study shows a well-developed microbial coating with a localized colonization pattern, underscoring the need for continued long-term monitoring of both the wall-art materials and their environmental conditions to support data-driven conservation.},
}

@article {pmid41648010,
year = {2025},
author = {Chen, K and Hao, H and Zhang, K and Li, K and Li, Y and Andrews, M and Zhang, H and Feng, Z and Zhang, J},
title = {motA-mediated flagellar motility modulates biofilm formation and competitive nodulation in Mesorhizobium ciceri USDA 3378.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1743961},
pmid = {41648010},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {The introduced rhizobial inoculum M. ciceri USDA 3378 demonstrates a significant competitive advantage over the indigenous M. muleiense CCBAU 83963 for nodulating chickpea in newly established planting areas in China. Previous genomic analyses revealed that USDA 3378 possesses a greater number of genes related to cell movement and flagella production compared to CCBAU 83963. Transcriptomic analysis indicated that the expression of the flagella-associated gene motA (flagellar motor protein) significantly changed under symbiotic conditions. Although the genome of M. ciceri USDA 3378 contains the motA gene, its biological function within this strain has not been previously reported. In this study, we constructed a motA mutant (ΔmotA-3378) in USDA 3378 using homologous recombination and biparental conjugation methods to assess the differences in bacterial structure, growth, motility, exopolysaccharide synthesis, biofilm formation, and competitive nodulation ability between the wild type and the mutant. Experimental results showed that the ΔmotA-3378 mutant was unable to produce flagella, leading to reduced motility, diminished biofilm formation, and lower exopolysaccharide production. In competitive nodulation with wild-type USDA 3378, the ΔmotA-3378 mutant's nodule occupancy was 40.43 %. Furthermore, its competitive nodulation advantage against CCBAU 83963 decreased from 100 % (achieved by wild-type USDA 3378) to 94.6 %. These findings indicate that the motA gene plays a crucial role in the motility, exopolysaccharide synthesis, biofilm formation, and competitive nodulation ability of M. ciceri USDA 3378.},
}

@article {pmid41647768,
year = {2025},
author = {Kumari, S and Rain, Z and Prakash, P and Kumar, D and Gupta, MK and Singh, AK and Tilak, R},
title = {Iron modulation drives biofilm formation and virulence enzyme production in emerging clinical Candida species: implications for diagnostics and therapeutics.},
journal = {Frontiers in fungal biology},
volume = {6},
number = {},
pages = {1746357},
pmid = {41647768},
issn = {2673-6128},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The changing epidemiology of candidemia indicates a rise in non-albicans Candida species, especially resistant Candida auris and emerging Candida utilis. Although iron impacts fungal virulence, its role in these species remains poorly understood. This study investigates how manipulating iron levels influences biofilm formation, virulence enzymes, and antifungal susceptibility in clinical isolates.

METHODS: A total of 216 isolates of Candida utilis, Candida albicans, and Candida auris from bloodstream infections over two years were identified via phenotypic methods, MALDI-TOF MS, VITEK 2, and 18S rRNA PCR. Susceptibility was tested using disc diffusion and broth microdilution with ferrous sulphate (FeSO4). Virulence enzyme activities and biofilm formation were assessed under iron-rich and control conditions.

RESULTS: Candida auris showed multidrug resistance, especially to fluconazole and caspofungin, with iron increasing caspofungin MICs up to 16-fold. Candida utilis exhibited strong biofilm formation and increased phospholipase and proteinase activities in the presence of FeSO4, and also showed 4- to 32-fold increases in fluconazole resistance. Biofilm biomass was unaffected by iron, but enzyme activities varied by species and enzyme. Candida albicans had high proteinase and haemolysin activity but responded minimally to iron.

CONCLUSIONS: Iron differentially influences virulence-associated traits (biofilm-related enzyme activities) and antifungal resistance across these Candida species. C. utilis exhibits iron-responsive increases in phospholipase and proteinase activities together with amplified azole resistance, while C. auris shows iron-linked enhancement of echinocandin resistance and sustained expression of key virulence-associated enzymes. These results underscore the importance of accounting for host iron levels and species-specific responses when managing candidemia and indicate the potential for therapies targeting iron.},
}

@article {pmid41646428,
year = {2026},
author = {Lima, RD and Bauer, OR and Pauer, H and Hajiarbabi, K and Moreira, DA and Parente, TE and Ferreira, RBR},
title = {Cutibacterium acnes inhibits Staphylococcus lugdunensis biofilm formation through inhibition of autolysis and purine biosynthesis.},
journal = {Research square},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.21203/rs.3.rs-8408722/v1},
pmid = {41646428},
issn = {2693-5015},
abstract = {Cutibacterium acnes is a predominant member of the human skin microbiome that plays a pivotal role in maintaining homeostasis and protecting the host against pathogen colonization. Staphylococcus lugdunensis , while also a resident of the skin microbiota, is an opportunistic pathogen capable of causing severe infections, associated with its ability to form biofilms. Building on our previous observation that C. acnes secretes molecules capable of inhibiting S. lugdunensis biofilm formation without inhibiting planktonic growth, we investigated the underlying molecular mechanisms of this phenomenon and its impact on pathogenicity. Here, we demonstrate that cell-free supernatants from various C. acnes strains exhibit dose-dependent antibiofilm activity targeting the initial stages of S. lugdunensis biofilm development. Additionally, extracellular molecules from C. acnes cultures significantly reduced the ability of S. lugdunensis to adhere to and invade human epithelial cells (A549) and to adhere to keratinocytes (HaCaT). Transcriptomic analysis revealed that C. acnes -derived molecules significantly repressed the expression of genes involved in purine biosynthesis in S. lugdunensis , while inducing the expression of the negative regulators of autolysis, lrgA and lrgB . Functional assays confirmed that C. acnes -derived molecules inhibit autolysis and extracellular DNA (eDNA) release by S. lugdunensis . Crucially, the addition of exogenous guanine suppressed the effect of C. acnes molecules on both biofilm formation and lrgA gene expression. Collectively, our data indicate that C. acnes molecules inhibit S. lugdunensis biofilm formation by depleting the intracellular guanine pool, which leads to repression of autolysis, thereby reducing the release of eDNA essential for biofilm structural integrity. These findings underscore the potential of exploiting interspecies microbiome interactions to better understand their role in pathogen exclusion.},
}

@article {pmid41645117,
year = {2026},
author = {Kattner, S and Hochreiter, M and Dörr, AK and Engler, A and Möhlen, H and Freitag, V and Pawlytta, K and Brenner, T and Meyer, F and Kraiselburd, I},
title = {Biofilm formation on venovenous ECMO cannulas can lead to re-introduction of pathogens during the decannulation process - a small-scale study reveals new insights when combining cultures and molecular results.},
journal = {BMC infectious diseases},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {273},
pmid = {41645117},
issn = {1471-2334},
}

@article {pmid41644633,
year = {2026},
author = {Rodriguez-Alvarez, JS and Xu, Y and Gutierrez-Aceves, J and De, S and W Miller, A and Krishna, V},
title = {Broad spectrum antimicrobial nanoparticles with low toxicity to prevent biofilm formation on urologic devices.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41598-026-36969-2},
pmid = {41644633},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {Glickman Urology Fellowship//Cleveland Clinic/ ; Caregiver Catalyst Award//Cleveland Clinic Foundation/ ; Seed Funds//Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41644069,
year = {2026},
author = {Wei, J and Li, S and Ma, S and Jiang, P and Riaz, A and Feng, F and Niu, H and He, J},
title = {Cyclic Dipeptides Inhibit Staphylococcus aureus Biofilm Formation and Virulence via Agr-Quorum Sensing, ica, and sarA Pathways.},
journal = {Microbial pathogenesis},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {108359},
doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2026.108359},
pmid = {41644069},
issn = {1096-1208},
abstract = {Staphylococcus aureus is a major human pathogen mainly involved in chronic biofilm-related infections, especially at epithelial surfaces and wound sites, owing to its ability to form antibiotic-resistant biofilms and release virulence factors. Conventional antibiotics often fail to eradicate established biofilms and may contribute to the emergence of drug resistance, underscoring the urgent need for alternative biofilm-inhibiting and antivirulence strategies. Herein, we synthesized several dicyclic peptides, including cyclo(L-Phe, L-Hyp) and its stereoisomers cyclo(L-Phe, D-Hyp) and cyclo(D-Phe, L-Hyp), to evaluate their ability to inhibit S. aureus biofilm formation. All cyclic dipeptides exhibited a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 1 mg/mL. Biofilm inhibition was assessed via crystal violet staining and confocal laser scanning microscopy. At 0.5 mg/mL (1/2 MIC), the compounds exhibited superior inhibition of 24-hour biofilm formation compared with vancomycin, with cyclo(L-Phe, D-Hyp) showing the most profound inhibitory activity. qRT-PCR revealed that at 0.25 mg/mL (1/4 MIC), cyclo(L-Phe, D-Hyp) significantly downregulated the expression of the Agr-quorum-sensing system (RNAIII: -75.7%; hla: -61.7%; psm-α: -73.3%), the ica operon (icaA: -71%; icaD: -76.7%), and sarA (-69.3%) (P < 0.0001). Notably, cyclo(L-Phe, D-Hyp) showed low cytotoxicity (CC50 = 5.13 ± 0.27 mg/mL) and negligible hemolysis (<1 %) at twice its MIC, indicating a favorable safety margin for antimicrobial use. These cyclo dipeptides can be formulated for topical delivery to sites such as skin, mucosa, or open wounds, providing a practical approach for localized treatment of biofilm-associated infections. These findings identify cyclo(L-Phe, D-Hyp) as a promising lead for the development of topical anti-infective agents targeting chronic S. aureus biofilm-associated infections.},
}

@article {pmid41643609,
year = {2026},
author = {Dykes, C and Pearson, J and Bending, G and Abolfathi, S},
title = {Biofilm growth is insufficient to retain large buoyant microplastics in constructed wetlands.},
journal = {Journal of hazardous materials},
volume = {504},
number = {},
pages = {141265},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.141265},
pmid = {41643609},
issn = {1873-3336},
abstract = {Microplastics (MPs) are emerging contaminants, with wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) as principal hotspots for their release into downstream systems, including constructed wetlands (CWs), a nature-based solution for water treatment. While non-buoyant MPs readily settle, buoyant MPs risk bypassing CWs and entering aquatic environments. Biofilm formation could influence MP transport by altering buoyancy, promoting sinking, and enhancing MP retention, yet its role in CWs remains unknown. This study, for the first time, quantifies the effects of MP polymer type, particle characteristics, exposure time, and seasonality on biofilm colonisation and its impact on terminal rising velocities of initially buoyant MPs in a UK-based CW receiving partially treated wastewater. Polypropylene (PP), expanded polystyrene (PS), and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) particles (3-5 mm) in spherical, beaded, and film shapes were incubated in situ over 12 months. Sampling followed two approaches: (1) a rolling bi-monthly schedule to capture seasonal variation, and (2) a long-term deployment with subsets retrieved every two months. Biofilm biomass was quantified by crystal violet staining, surface characteristics were captured by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and terminal rising velocity experiments measured buoyancy changes. Biofilm growth showed strong seasonality, with peak biomass in late spring showing up to a 1972 % increase compared to winter. Despite widespread colonisation, changes in terminal rising velocity were minimal and largely non-significant (p < 0.05), indicating that biofilm formation alone is insufficient to retain initially buoyant MPs in CWs. These findings are crucial for deriving MP transport models and challenge assumptions that biofilm-induced density changes drive MP retention in CWs.},
}

@article {pmid41642439,
year = {2026},
author = {Tortamano, ACAC and Kassa, CT and Magalhães, FD and Ferreira, GF and de Holanda Lima, S and Pavani, C and Rodriguez, VS and Kato, IT and Wainwright, M and Prates, RA},
title = {Evaluation of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy with Butyl toluidine blue O for inactivation of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans biofilm.},
journal = {Photochemical & photobiological sciences : Official journal of the European Photochemistry Association and the European Society for Photobiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41642439},
issn = {1474-9092},
abstract = {As an adjunctive intervention to mechanical periodontal treatment, antimicrobial photodynamic therapy aims to induce the production of reactive oxygen species, thereby reducing microbial infection. Butyl toluidine blue O, a novel photosensitizer from the phenothiazine family, was developed through physicochemical modifications of the structure of toluidine blue, demonstrating decreased aggregation and increased singlet oxygen production and lipophilicity. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of butyl toluidine blue O on Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans biofilm. A biofilm was grown on bovine dental samples, followed by the application of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy. The experimental design included the following groups: Control, Light, incubation with PS without irradiation (0), and three aPDT groups (1, 3, or 5 min of irradiation time duration). A laser with a wavelength of 660 nm and 100 mW of radiant power was employed. After the procedures, the samples were cultivated under microaerophilic conditions, counted, and converted into colony-forming units for analysis and comparison. The samples exhibiting statistically significant differences were analyzed through scanning electron microscopy. Antimicrobial photodymanic therapy with 5 min irradiation period achieved a 99.99% reduction in biofilm microbial load. In conclusion, the approach mediated by butyl toluidine blue O demonstrated efficacy against A. actinomycetemcomitans biofilm.},
}

@article {pmid41641988,
year = {2026},
author = {Kenzaka, T and Ichijo, T and Yamazaki, T},
title = {High extracellular polymeric substance production and biofilm-forming capacity of Ralstonia pickettii isolates from ISS potable water.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0291325},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.02913-25},
pmid = {41641988},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {The potable water dispenser (PWD) system plays a critical role as a source of drinking water for astronauts on the International Space Station (ISS). In this study, we examined the bioburden in the potable water produced by the PWD. The amount of extracellular polymeric substances (EPSs) in the PWD water was approximately 19 or 55 times greater than the bacterial count, and the EPS biomass accounted for approximately 24% or 86% of the bacterial biomass. Ralstonia pickettii consistently comprised approximately 70% or 80% of the bacteria for 3 years. Under simulated microgravity conditions, the isolated R. pickettii strains exhibited higher cell and EPS concentrations and higher total volume concentrations (average volume multiplied by concentration) of cell and EPS than under 1G conditions, whereas the average cell volume was smaller and the average EPS volume was larger. The ISS isolates showed higher EPS production and biofilm-formation abilities than terrestrial strains under nutrient-rich conditions and possessed high biofilm-formation ability comparable to those of terrestrial strains under nutrient-poor conditions. The ability of R. pickettii to produce EPS may play a crucial role in its adaptation to the water environment on the ISS.IMPORTANCEIn space habitation environments, the use of recycled water is indispensable, and ensuring its microbiological safety is essential. In this study, we elucidated the microbiological characteristics of water from the potable water dispenser (PWD) on the International Space Station (ISS). Our findings revealed that bacteria of the Ralstonia pickettii are the predominant species in PWD water and that extracellular polymeric substances (EPSs) constitute a large proportion of the biomass. Furthermore, the isolated R. pickettii was shown to possess high EPS production ability and strong biofilm-forming capacity. Since EPS plays a crucial role in biofilm formation, these abilities may be important factors enabling R. pickettii to adapt to the water environment of the ISS.},
}

@article {pmid41637976,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, YN and Hu, Y and Cao, B},
title = {Controlling biofilm dynamics to unlock the future of biofilm-based biocatalysis.},
journal = {Current opinion in biotechnology},
volume = {98},
number = {},
pages = {103447},
doi = {10.1016/j.copbio.2026.103447},
pmid = {41637976},
issn = {1879-0429},
abstract = {Biofilms have emerged as promising biocatalysts due to their distinct structural and functional advantages. Since biofilm dynamics shape biofilm architecture and catalytic performance, engineering strategies to control these dynamics are key to improving biofilm-based catalysis. In this review, we outline the fundamental features and catalytic benefits of biofilms, with a focus on biofilm dynamics. We highlight recent advances in regulatory strategies, from the manipulation of biofilm-associated genes to the design of synthetic circuits based on signaling networks that govern biofilm development. We further discuss current challenges, including limited regulatory efficiency, restricted applicability beyond model organisms, and the need for biofilm functional enhancement. Collectively, these insights position the control of biofilm dynamics as a frontier for advancing next-generation biofilm-based biocatalysis.},
}

@article {pmid41636982,
year = {2026},
author = {Doğan, SY and Kaya, S and Solak, EK},
title = {Postbiotic-Mediated Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles: Revealing Potent Antimicrobial, Anti-Biofilm, Antioxidant, and Anticancer Properties using Paenibacillus xylanexedens.},
journal = {Probiotics and antimicrobial proteins},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41636982},
issn = {1867-1314},
}

@article {pmid41636357,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, D and Xu, B and Ren, F and Yu, J and Tong, Y and Deng, S and Jiang, H},
title = {Lipase-Activated MnO2 Nanoflowers for Precise Biofilm Imaging and Oxygen-Enhanced Sonodynamic Therapy to Promote Diabetic Wound Healing.},
journal = {Advanced healthcare materials},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e05333},
doi = {10.1002/adhm.202505333},
pmid = {41636357},
issn = {2192-2659},
support = {2024YFFK0193//Funds of Sichuan Science and Technology Program/ ; 2682025ZTPY042//Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities/ ; 2025152//Student Research Training Program/ ; 2022LHXD-05//Chengdu Medical College-Xindu District People's Hospital Joint Research Project/ ; },
abstract = {Diabetic wound healing is substantially impaired by biofilm infections, oxidative stress, and persistent hypoxia, which present major challenges for timely diagnosis and treatment. In this study, theranostic nanoparticles (NPs) were engineered to facilitate lipase-triggered biofilm theranostics and accelerate wound healing. Theranostic Mn-TC NPs were prepared by grafting a fluorescent sonosensitizer, meso-tetra (4-carboxyphenyl) porphine (TCPP), onto manganese dioxide (MnO2) nanoflowers, quenching the fluorescence emissions of TCPP. Upon encountering biofilms in vivo, the elevated lipase hydrolyzes ester linkages within the Mn-TC NPs, liberating TCPP to restore its fluorescence emission and enabling the real-time visualization of biofilm-infected wounds. MnO2 nanoflowers offer abundant reaction sites for TCPP grafting while enhancing the catalysis of hydrogen peroxide to generate oxygen. The boosted oxygen evolution promoted the sonodynamic therapy effect of ultrasound-activated TCPP, achieving 94.0% reduction in biofilm biomass and 99.9% bacterial clearance. Engineering NPs accelerate wound healing by simultaneously eradicating biofilms, modulating inflammatory states, enhancing collagen deposition, and promoting angiogenesis. This study presents a novel theranostic strategy for biofilm-triggered visual imaging and an antibiotic-free therapy for diabetic wounds.},
}

@article {pmid41634699,
year = {2026},
author = {Wu, H and Chen, J and Ma, X and Li, H and Wu, Q and Jiang, Z and Xi, T and Zhang, C and Guo, G and Han, P},
title = {Glutamate nanoregulator for metabolic immunotherapy of biofilm-associated implant infections.},
journal = {Journal of nanobiotechnology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12951-025-04016-3},
pmid = {41634699},
issn = {1477-3155},
support = {No. 82202727//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; No. ynyq202301//the Excellent Talent Cultivation Project of Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital/ ; No. 2023YFC2410804//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; No. 23Y11908200//Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41634676,
year = {2026},
author = {Esnaashari, F and Alidoust, FA and Jafari, N and Ghasemi, M and Asadi Rahmani, F and Sedaghat Safsari, S and Zahmatkesh, H},
title = {Berberine-ZnO loaded chitosan nanoparticles inhibits biofilm formation in Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 through targeting extracellular polymeric substances.},
journal = {BMC biotechnology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12896-026-01103-7},
pmid = {41634676},
issn = {1472-6750},
}

@article {pmid41634273,
year = {2026},
author = {Ferré, C and Gbaguidi, L and Fagervold, SK and Carrion, C and Adouane, E and Gorand, Y and Nicole, L and Lami, R},
title = {Multiscale insights into biofilm development on hydrophobic fouling-release coatings.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41598-026-35567-6},
pmid = {41634273},
issn = {2045-2322},
abstract = {Marine biofilms develop under the combined influence of environmental conditions and substrate properties. Among antifouling strategies, fouling-release coatings (FRCs) aim to promote the detachment of microorganisms considering their surface characteristics, offering an opportunity to examine how unfavorable adhesion conditions shape microfouling processes. Hydrophobic interpenetrating polymer networks (IPNs) based on tetrafluoroethyl methacrylate (TFEMA) and a commercial PDMS-based FRC were immersed for 6 months in natural seawater (Banyuls-sur-Mer, NW Mediterranean Sea), followed by exposure to moderate hydrodynamic shear stress using a rotor device. Biofilms were analyzed through a multiscale and multiomics approach combining biomass assays, microscopy, metabarcoding, and metabolomics. Community structure varied with time and substrate, but taxonomic convergence occurred during the mature stage. Notably, fungi appeared as overlooked contributors to biofilm dynamics on low-adhesion surfaces, suggesting that their roles in FRCs warrant further attention. Exposure to moderate hydrodynamic stress induced partial biomass loss while the overall community composition was largely unaffected. Metabolomic profiles further revealed coating-specific signatures, reflecting distinct physiological strategies. Together, these findings underscore how FRC surfaces modulate biofilm maturation and resilience under mechanical stress.},
}

@article {pmid41631454,
year = {2026},
author = {Jo, BS and Lee, DW and Lee, JY and Seok, S and Kim, YB and Lee, JY and Park, SY and Cho, YD and Seol, YJ and Park, YS and Ghanaati, S and Zadeh, HH and Chung, CP and Park, YJ},
title = {A Multifunctional β-Defensin-3 Mimetic Peptide Modulates Host-Biofilm Interactions and Reduces Bone Loss in Periodontitis.},
journal = {Journal of periodontal research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/jre.70079},
pmid = {41631454},
issn = {1600-0765},
support = {1711174358//the Korea Government (Ministry of Science and ICT, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, the Ministry of Health & Welfare, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety/ ; RS-2020-KD000091//the Korea Government (Ministry of Science and ICT, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, the Ministry of Health & Welfare, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety/ ; 1711174308//the Korea Government (Ministry of Science and ICT, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, the Ministry of Health & Welfare, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety/ ; RS-2020-KD000105//the Korea Government (Ministry of Science and ICT, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, the Ministry of Health & Welfare, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety/ ; 2021R1A6A1A03039462//the Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) funded by the Ministry of Education/ ; },
abstract = {AIM: This study evaluated the potential of a beta-defensin-3 mimetic peptide (BDMP), a synthetic cell-penetrating peptide with antimicrobial and immunomodulatory properties, as an adjunctive therapeutic approach for periodontitis.

METHODS: BDMP was formulated in a hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) gel and assessed for binding affinity, release kinetics, and ability to penetrate cells and gingival tissues. Anti-inflammatory and osteoclast-related signaling pathways were examined in vitro using RAW264.7 macrophages stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Effects on osteogenic recovery were evaluated in periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) under inflammatory conditions. Antimicrobial activity against multispecies biofilms was analyzed by confocal microscopy. In a ligature-induced experimental periodontitis model in beagle dogs, BDMP gel was compared with a subgingival instrumentation (SI)-only (standard-of-care) control, and minocycline gel was included as an active adjunctive comparator. Clinical parameters, inflammatory markers, microbial load, radiographs, micro-CT images, and histology were evaluated.

RESULTS: In vitro, BDMP reduced histone deacetylase 5 (HDAC5) phosphorylation and attenuated downstream NF-κB-associated inflammatory signaling without altering upstream kinase activity. BDMP decreased osteoclast differentiation, reduced inflammatory cytokine transcription, and partially restored osteogenic capacity in LPS-stimulated PDLSCs. BDMP also demonstrated broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and disrupted mature multispecies biofilms. In vivo, BDMP resulted in greater reductions in gingival inflammation, bleeding, IL-1β levels, and oral spirochetes over 12 weeks compared with the SI-only control. Radiographic images provided qualitative support for reduced bone loss, which was corroborated by micro-CT and histology, indicating attenuation of alveolar bone resorption. When compared with the combination of SI and minocycline arm, BDMP showed comparable or greater improvements in several inflammatory and microbiological parameters.

CONCLUSION: BDMP exhibited sustained antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity and attenuated bone loss in a beagle periodontitis model when used alongside standard SI therapy. These findings support BDMP as a promising adjunctive therapeutic candidate for managing periodontal inflammation and biofilm-associated disease, although further studies are needed to confirm long-term safety and to define its mechanistic contributions to periodontal tissue preservation.},
}

@article {pmid41631269,
year = {2026},
author = {Campobasso, C and Henderix, P and Jalomo-Khayrova, E and Bolognini, S and Bange, G and Lavigne, R and Tavanti, A and Wagemans, J and Di Luca, M},
title = {Directed evolution of phage Romulus in biofilm-embedded Staphylococcus aureus: mutations in baseplate proteins enhanced its antibiofilm activity.},
journal = {Biofilm},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {100345},
pmid = {41631269},
issn = {2590-2075},
abstract = {The ability of Staphylococcus aureus to form biofilm and the emergence of multidrug-resistant strains make staphylococcal infections often chronic and difficult to treat. To face these challenges, alternative or adjunct strategies to antibiotics are urgently required. In this context, phage therapy gained renewed interest as promising approach to target multidrug-resistant bacteria. To enhance their efficacy as natural phages, they can undergo directed evolution via serial host passages. To date, most protocols focus on planktonic cultures, while the effects towards biofilm-targeted evolution remain poorly explored. Our study aims at investigating the potential of a new directed evolution protocol designed to specifically enhance the efficacy of phage Romulus to target staphylococcal sessile communities and to identify whether specific phage proteins are involved in this process. The method involved 31 serial passages with a two-step incubation: 1 h for phage adsorption and infection, followed by 8 h for its amplification. Mutant phages were isolated, sequenced, and phenotypically characterised. Mutations emerged in two baseplate proteins (gp54 and gp58), involved in host adsorption. Three mutants (R31, R31p2, R31p5) showed enhanced bactericidal activity against planktonic cells and improved efficacy against biofilm, achieving up to a 4-log10 reduction. While their host range remained consistent with the wildtype, phage Romulus mutants exhibited higher efficiency of plating against the nine out of 21 sensitive S. aureus strains. Overall, our results underscore the potential of biofilm-adapted phages to improve phage efficacy towards both planktonic and sessile cells, without impacting on the phage host range. The analysis of mutations suggested that the baseplate plays a crucial role in targeting biofilm-embedded cells, even if further investigation is necessary to explain the molecular basis responsible for the enhanced lytic efficacy.},
}

@article {pmid41630754,
year = {2025},
author = {Ali, MK and Galut, HS and Matar, EETM and Mamand, SF and Sabrie, LS and Mala, SF and Jghef, MM},
title = {Exploring the antibacterial and anti-biofilm properties of Rosmarinus officinalis extracts: A natural strategy against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.},
journal = {Open veterinary journal},
volume = {15},
number = {11},
pages = {5549-5561},
pmid = {41630754},
issn = {2218-6050},
mesh = {*Rosmarinus/chemistry ; *Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects ; *Biofilms/drug effects ; *Plant Extracts/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Humans ; HCT116 Cells ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR), particularly methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), has posed a significant challenge to global health care. The increasing ineffectiveness of conventional antibiotics has driven the need for alternative antimicrobial agents. Rosmarinus officinalis L. (rosemary) is known for its diverse biological properties, including antibacterial and anti-biofilm activities.

AIM: This study aimed to investigate and compare the antibacterial and anti-biofilm effects of different R. officinalis L. solvent extracts against MRSA.

METHODS: Antibacterial efficacy was determined using the well-diffusion method, followed by the assessment of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) against 10 MRSA strains. The antibiofilm potential was analyzed using a crystal violet assay. In addition, cytotoxicity was evaluated using an MTT assay on HCT-116 colorectal carcinoma cells.

RESULTS: Methanol demonstrated the highest antibacterial activity among the tested extracts. The MIC values ranged between 0.108 and 0.320 mg/ml, with corresponding MBC results confirming strong bactericidal effects. The anti-biofilm analysis indicated that the ethyl acetate extract exhibited the greatest inhibition of MRSA biofilm formation, followed by the dichloromethane and methanol extracts.

CONCLUSION: Rosmarinus officinalis L. (rosemary) extracts, particularly those extracted with methanol and ethyl acetate, exhibited strong antibacterial and anti-biofilm effects against MRSA.},
}

*Rosmarinus/chemistry
*Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects
*Biofilms/drug effects
*Plant Extracts/pharmacology/chemistry
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Humans
HCT116 Cells

@article {pmid41629629,
year = {2026},
author = {Iqbal, M and Urooj, S and Huda, NU and Khan, FZ and Hassan, Z and Khan, A and Shar, NA and Khan, MN and Siddiqui, A and Khan, AB and Khan, S and Mirani, ZA},
title = {Biofilm formation and associated biomechanical traits co-segregate with multidrug resistance in typhoidal Salmonella.},
journal = {The Journal of antibiotics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41629629},
issn = {1881-1469},
abstract = {Typhoidal Salmonella continues to pose a severe public health threat, with its management increasingly complicated by the rise of antimicrobial resistance. This study investigated 50 clinical isolates of Salmonella Typhi (S. Typhi) and S. Paratyphi to delineate the association between antibiotic resistance, biofilm formation, and nanoscale mechanical traits. Our results revealed that 22% of isolates were multidrug-resistant (MDR), displaying the classical resistance pattern against ampicillin, chloramphenicol, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Among these resistant isolates, 54% formed biofilms, and this trait was strongly associated with multidrug resistance; 100% of MDR isolates were biofilm-positive (p = 0.001). Atomic force microscopy (AFM) revealed a distinct "hard-shell" bio-mechanical phenotype in biofilm-positive isolates, exhibiting significantly higher stiffness (31.3 ± 9.8 vs. 8.2 ± 2.3 kPa), adhesion force (17.8 ± 4.6 vs. 5.4 ± 1.4 nN), and surface roughness (11.6 ± 3.2 vs. 3.6 ± 1.0 nm) (p < 0.001 for all). This mechanical reinforcement was accompanied by a 2.7-fold increase in cell surface hydrophobicity (80.4 ± 8.9% vs. 30.3 ± 11.9%) and a 13.5-fold enhancement in desiccation survival (40.4 ± 10.7% vs. 3.0 ± 2.9%). Correlation analysis revealed these traits are highly interdependent (ρ = 0.78--0.89, p < 0.001), forming a cohesive "hard-shell" persistence phenotype. In summary, multidrug-resistant Salmonella possesses a unified trait that enhances its structural strength, ability to adhere, and environmental survival.},
}

@article {pmid41627250,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, B and Xie, Q and Hong, G and Wang, M and Chen, M and Zhou, X and Ren, R and Tang, S and Fang, J and Zhao, Z and Guo, J},
title = {Sugar-Responsive Enzyme-Polyphenol 'Tooth Nanoarmor' for Long-Lasting Caries Prevention via Glucose Depletion and Biofilm Suppression.},
journal = {Nano letters},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acs.nanolett.5c05438},
pmid = {41627250},
issn = {1530-6992},
abstract = {High sugar intake in modern dietary patterns heightens the risk of dental caries, yet current preventives neither address dietary sugars nor effectively inhibit cariogenic biofilms. Herein, we introduce a fully biomass-derived enzyme-polyphenol 'tooth nanoarmor' that self-assembles from glucose oxidase (GOx) and ellagic acid, a natural phenolic molecule found in pomegranate peels and tree bark. Noncovalent interactions mediate the self-assembly, yielding a porous supramolecular phenolic framework, with nanochannels exhibiting remarkable bioadhesion and biostability. Adhering to tooth enamel, the 'tooth nanoarmor' continuously depletes glucose and generates bactericidal H2O2. The 'tooth nanoarmor' reduces bacterial viability by 59% and exopolysaccharide accumulation by 83% in vitro. It also exhibits a long-lasting preventive effect manifested by a 94% reduction in Keyes score and a 47% increase in dentin mineral density in vivo. Our findings highlight an effective biohybrid 'tooth nanoarmor' based on the natural self-assembly of proteins and polyphenols for long-lasting prevention of dental caries.},
}

@article {pmid41629499,
year = {2026},
author = {Saddik, JN and Naguib, MM and Labib, LM and El-Gendy, AO and Molham, F},
title = {Nano-chitosan modified restorative materials suppress Streptococcus mutans biofilm and virulence gene expression.},
journal = {AMB Express},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s13568-025-02004-2},
pmid = {41629499},
issn = {2191-0855},
}

@article {pmid41627021,
year = {2026},
author = {Povšič, K and Munjaković, H and Zayed, N and Teughels, W and Seme, K and Fidler, A and Gašperšič, R},
title = {Electrolyzed saline as an alternative to chlorhexidine: Antimicrobial and biofilm volume outcomes in a 4-day non-brushing randomized controlled clinical trial.},
journal = {Journal of periodontology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/jper.70070},
pmid = {41627021},
issn = {1943-3670},
support = {P3-0293//Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Republic of Slovenia/ ; TP-2023026//Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Republic of Slovenia/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The biofilm-inhibitory effects of electrolyzed saline (EOS) vary widely due to differences in formulations and treatment methods. This study analyzed the impact of EOS on key oral microbial species and used serial 3D-intraoral scans to evaluate its effects on de novo biofilm formation.

METHODS: This was a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, cross-over, 4-day, non-brushing, plaque-regrowth study on periodontally healthy individuals. Each subject participated in three trial arms. During each 4-day arm, the subjects refrained from mechanical oral hygiene. Instead, they rinsed their oral cavities twice-daily with EOS, 0.12% chlorhexidine (CHX), or placebo. De novo plaque accumulation after 4 days was assessed as the primary outcome using the Turesky Modification of the Quigley-Hein Plaque Index (TMQHPI) and the volumetric plaque index (VPI). qPCR analyses of key-microbial species and measurements of active-matrix-metalloproteinase-8 (aMMP-8) in gingival crevicular fluid were performed to complement the clinical data.

RESULTS: The biofilm-inhibitory effect of CHX was superior to that of EOS at the level of TMQHPlI and VPI, although both significantly reduced biofilms compared with placebo. The broad-spectrum antimicrobial effect of CHX caused significant reductions in overall bacterial loads, while the action of EOS was more selective. Both CHX and EOS markedly reduced the bacterial loads of Tannerella forsythia; CHX remained more effective against Treponema denticola. In contrast, only EOS demonstrated stronger antimicrobial effects against Fusobacterium nucleatum and Prevotella intermedia while showing no significant impact on periodontal commensals. No significant effects on aMMP-8 were observed.

CONCLUSIONS: EOS showed substantial, but inferior biofilm-inhibitory, effects compared with CHX. However, EOS had more selective and dysbiosis-controlling effects than CHX. The clinical trial was registered at Clintrials.gov under no. NCT05709015.

PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: This study investigated the effectiveness of electrolyzed saline (EOS) in preventing biofilm build-up on teeth. The efficacy of EOS mouthwash was compared with a positive control (chlorhexidine, CHX) and a negative control (distilled water). A method based on 3D scans of teeth was used to measure changes in the biofilm volume. In the study, participants stopped brushing their teeth for 4 days and rinsed their mouths twice daily with either EOS, CHX, or a placebo instead. They were then assessed for biofilm levels and changes in oral bacteria numbers. The results showed that CHX was more effective than EOS in reducing biofilm, although both were more effective than placebo. Chlorhexidine significantly lowered harmful bacteria but also negatively affected the beneficial bacteria. On the other hand, EOS also reduced specific harmful bacteria, but did not lower the beneficial ones as much. Overall, while EOS was less effective at reducing biofilm than CHX, it was better at maintaining a healthy balance of oral bacteria.},
}

@article {pmid41625154,
year = {2025},
author = {Ranganathan, S and Nagarajan, H and Busi, S and Esakkiraj, P and Parasuraman, P and Mariasoosai, RCC and Vetrivel, U},
title = {Editorial: Decoding biofilm resilience: integrative multi-omics approaches and novel disruption strategies.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1756728},
pmid = {41625154},
issn = {2235-2988},
}

@article {pmid41624430,
year = {2026},
author = {Pan, X and Zhu, Y and Zhang, Y and Zhao, J and Gao, X and Li, C and Yu, Y and Ma, J},
title = {Amino acid starvation and iron limitation facilitate the biofilm formation of Klebsiella pneumoniae within urine.},
journal = {Biofilm},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {100347},
pmid = {41624430},
issn = {2590-2075},
abstract = {Biofilm formation is a critical virulence mechanism in pathogens such as Klebsiella pneumoniae, a Gram-negative, encapsulated bacterium that has emerged as a zoonotic threat capable of infecting both humans and animals. Its biofilm-forming ability is closely associated with catheter-related and urinary tract infections. Given its potential to cross species barriers and cause significant public health concern, elucidating the environmental cues and conserved molecular pathways driving biofilm formation is essential for developing cross-species prevention strategies. Here we found that K. pneumoniae exhibited significantly greater biofilm-forming efficiency in urine than in nutrient-rich medium under comparable biomass conditions. Transposon-insertion sequencing (Tn-seq) identified 19 fitness genes essential for optimal growth in urine, most involved in the de novo biosynthesis of amino acids, particularly arginine, methionine, and isoleucine. Urine represents an amino acid-starved (AAS) environment for K. pneumoniae, modulating c-di-GMP signaling to promote biofilm formation. Eight diguanylate cyclase (DGC, c-di-GMP synthesis) genes, four phosphodiesterase (PDE, c-di-GMP degradation) genes, and four DGC + PDE genes were significantly regulated in response to urine. Furthermore, transcriptomic analysis comparing K. pneumoniae grown in urine with that grown in M9 medium revealed significant activation of genes associated with exopolysaccharide (EPS) biosynthesis, including those encoding lipopolysaccharides (LPS), capsules, peptidoglycan, and enterobacterial common antigen (ECA). Notably, K. pneumoniae increases EPS biosynthesis under the iron-limited conditions in urine, further promoting biofilm development. In conclusion, AAS-mediated c-di-GMP signaling and iron limitation are key drivers of biofilm formation by K. pneumoniae in urine, providing mechanistic insights that may guide strategies to disrupt biofilm formation.},
}

@article {pmid41623765,
year = {2025},
author = {Thakkar, RR and Yadav, N and Kumar, A and Duseja, S and Mavi, S and Sahoo, U},
title = {Machine learning for predicting antimicrobial efficacy of periodontal gel formulations in vitro biofilm models.},
journal = {Bioinformation},
volume = {21},
number = {10},
pages = {3866-3870},
pmid = {41623765},
issn = {0973-2063},
abstract = {Periodontal disease caused by dysbiotic biofilms poses a major challenge and predicting the efficacy of topical antimicrobial gels is limited by biofilm resistance and resource-intensive in vitro testing. Therefore, it is of interest to develop machine learning (ML) models to predict antimicrobial efficacy of novel gel formulations against multi-species periodontal biofilms. Hence, a total of 120 formulations with varying polymers, agents, concentrations and enhancers were tested using the Calgary Biofilm Device and efficacy data were used to train Random Forest, SVM, Gradient Boosting and Neural Network models. Gradient Boosting achieved the best performance (accuracy 92.8%, AUC-ROC 0.96), with antimicrobial type, concentration and polymer viscosity as key predictors. ML, particularly Gradient Boosting, offers a reliable tool for predicting periodontal gel efficacy, enabling faster formulation optimization and reducing the need for extensive laboratory screening.},
}

@article {pmid41623748,
year = {2025},
author = {Kakade, M and Sharma, S and A, N and Pandey, T and G, U and Rao, V},
title = {Performance of chitosan nanoparticle-loaded irrigants on biofilm disruption.},
journal = {Bioinformation},
volume = {21},
number = {10},
pages = {3823-3827},
pmid = {41623748},
issn = {0973-2063},
abstract = {Biofilm-associated infections pose a major clinical problem due to their resistance to conventional antimicrobial therapies. Therefore, it is of interest to evaluate the effectiveness of chitosan nanoparticle-loaded irrigants in disrupting established Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms. Using in vitro 96-well plate models, biofilm biomass reduction and bacterial viability were assessed with crystal violet assay, CFU counts and SEM imaging after exposure to 2% and 1% chitosan nanoparticles, 0.2% chlorhexidine and saline. Data showed that 2% chitosan nanoparticles produced the greatest biofilm disruption (89.7±3.2%) and bacterial reduction (4.8±0.3 log10 CFU/mL), significantly outperforming 1% chitosan and chlorhexidine. Thus, we show that chitosan nanoparticle irrigants, particularly at higher concentrations, may serve as effective alternatives for managing biofilm-associated infections.},
}

@article {pmid41623691,
year = {2026},
author = {Hadadi, M and Esfahani, BN and Mirzaei, A and Moghim, S},
title = {Molecular Characterization and Clonal Analysis of Carbapenem-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii: Insights Into Biofilm-Related Gene Coexistence in Clinical Isolates.},
journal = {BioMed research international},
volume = {2026},
number = {},
pages = {2304337},
pmid = {41623691},
issn = {2314-6141},
mesh = {*Acinetobacter baumannii/genetics/drug effects/isolation & purification ; *Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; Humans ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Carbapenems/pharmacology ; beta-Lactamases/genetics ; *Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/genetics/drug effects ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; *Acinetobacter Infections/microbiology/drug therapy/genetics ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics ; Colistin/pharmacology ; Imipenem/pharmacology ; Intensive Care Units ; },
abstract = {The emergence of multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (MDR A. baumannii) and biofilm-producing ability have become a worldwide serious concern. This study is aimed at investigating the clonal relationships, coexistence of carbapenemase-resistant and biofilm-related genes, and biofilm biomass capacity in 57 A. baumannii isolates obtained from patients in intensive care units (ICUs). Antibiotic resistance patterns to 11 antibiotics were determined using the disc diffusion test. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of imipenem and colistin were evaluated by the microdilution method. All isolates were subjected to PCR for the detection of carbapenemase- and biofilm-related genes and examined for the biofilm-forming ability using crystal violet staining methods. The clonality relationship was identified by rep-PCR. Overall, 49 (86%) isolates were characterized as extensively drug-resistant (XDR) with a high MIC for imipenem. Eight isolates were resistant to colistin (MIC>64 μg/mL). Additionally, 86.21% of isolates were strong biofilm formers, which correlated with the PDR phenotype. All isolates carried at least three genes related to biofilm formation. Genotypically, 100% of isolates had bla OXA-51-like, bla OXA-24-like, and bla TEM genes, followed by bla VIM (61.4%), bla OXA-23-like (24.6%), bla SHV (1.8%), and bla KPC (1.8%), whereas bla CTX-M and bla OXA-58-like genes were not found in the isolates. The rep-PCR analysis identified 10 distinct genotypes, among which GTG Type 3 showed a significant correlation with strong biofilm formation. Moreover, the greatest number of colistin-resistant isolates (MIC>64 μg/mL) were located in this cluster. This study highlights the emergence of PDR A. baumannii strains carrying a variety of β-lactamase and biofilm-related genes in ICUs, underscoring the urgent need for improved infection control measures and antimicrobial stewardship programs to address the spread of these formidable pathogens.},
}

*Acinetobacter baumannii/genetics/drug effects/isolation & purification
*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
Humans
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Carbapenems/pharmacology
beta-Lactamases/genetics
*Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/genetics/drug effects
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
*Acinetobacter Infections/microbiology/drug therapy/genetics
Bacterial Proteins/genetics
Colistin/pharmacology
Imipenem/pharmacology
Intensive Care Units

@article {pmid41623631,
year = {2025},
author = {An, C and Chen, R and Wu, B and Chen, S and Zou, S and Lin, Y and Yang, B and Luo, C},
title = {Iron dictates the growth, biofilm formation, and virulence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in pulmonary infections.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1742683},
pmid = {41623631},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the most prevalent pathogen responsible for persistent pulmonary infections. Iron concentrations in the human lung are known to vary considerably between health and disease states. We hypothesized that increased iron availability is a key driver of persistent infection establishment and sought to define the impact of iron on P. aeruginosa in the context of persistent lung infection.

METHODS: Clinically isolated strains of P. aeruginosa from persistent lung infections and the reference strain PAO1 were collected. We examined bacterial growth rates, virulence determinants such as biofilm formation and pyocyanin production, and adhesion to lung epithelial cells under different iron conditions. Virulence was assessed using a Galleria mellonella model, and pathogenicity was evaluated in a mouse model.

RESULTS: Compared to P. aeruginosa grown in iron-deficient medium, bacteria cultured in iron-rich medium exhibited significantly enhanced growth rates and biofilm formation, while virulence determinants were attenuated. The Galleria mellonella model also showed reduced virulence. Additionally, iron-rich conditions enhanced bacterial adhesion to lung epithelial cells. In the mouse model, weakened pathological damage and higher bacterial loads in the lungs were observed.

CONCLUSION: Our findings indicate that environmental iron facilitates the growth and biofilm formation of P. aeruginosa causing pulmonary infections, while attenuating its virulence. This iron-mediated adaptation may be associated with the persistence of P. aeruginosa pulmonary infections, and these findings merit further investigation.},
}

@article {pmid41623626,
year = {2025},
author = {Joshi, S and Bruni, GO and Zimmerman, T and Terrell, E and Salter, J and Kashem, MNH and Nam, S},
title = {Phenotypic variation in growth and biofilm formation of Leuconostoc spp. from sugar beet factories.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1745936},
pmid = {41623626},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Leuconostoc bacteria are common colonizers of sugar crop processing environments, resulting in sucrose losses and the formation of exopolysaccharides (EPS) and biofilms that can lead to reduced product quality and higher operational costs. Although Leuconostoc species are present in abundance, strain-specific differences in biofilm formation, EPS production, and matrix structure are not well understood. In this study, nine sugar beet factory-derived Leuconostoc isolates were grown and evaluated using a combination of batch adherence and continuous flow biofilm bioreactor assays, cryo scanning electron microscopy (SEM), EPS quantification, viscosity testing, and growth rate analysis to determine which phenotypes correlate with biofilm formation. The results from the adherence batch-phase biofilms indicated significant phenotypic variation among isolates, with the highest bacterial proliferation by L. suionicum BSDF25-7 and BSDF48-3, exceeding 5 × 10[8] colony-forming units/cm[2] on stainless steel coupons. In contrast, the highest biofilm biomass accumulated was BSDF2-3 and BSDF25-7, indicating differences in cell proliferation and biofilm matrix structure. CryoSEM imaging revealed diverse biofilm structures, such as silo-like aggregates and patchy surface colonization, indicating strain-specific extracellular matrix assembly strategies. Flow-through biofilm bioreactor assays further identified BSDF2-3 and BSDF5-1 as predominant biofilm formers with the highest CFU/cm[2] present at 4 × 10[8] and 1 × 10[9], respectively, while BSDF2-3 accumulated twice the biofilm biomass as BSDF5-1. Leuconostoc strains BSDF25-7 and BSDF48-3 produced high levels of dextran and EPS, while BSDF2-3 consistently formed dense, shear-resistant biofilms despite slow growth and low EPS levels, suggesting the possibility of alternative matrix composition or structural adaptations. Individual Leuconostoc strains adapt uniquely, adding to the functional diversity of biofilms that impact formation, matrix complexity, and resistance to environmental stressors. This study furthers our understanding of EPS and growth phenotypes involved in biofilm formation while providing a working model, enabling the development of future antimicrobial mitigation strategies.},
}

@article {pmid41623114,
year = {2026},
author = {Rahman, MRT and Fliss, I and Biron, E},
title = {Prevention of Staphylococcus aureus biofilm formation on catheters, contact lenses, and contact lens cases by a synthetic analogue of the antimicrobial lipopeptide humimycin.},
journal = {Biofouling},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-11},
doi = {10.1080/08927014.2026.2621190},
pmid = {41623114},
issn = {1029-2454},
abstract = {Biofilm-associated infections, particularly those caused by Staphylococcus aureus, pose a persistent challenge in clinical settings and in medical devices such as catheters, wound dressings, orthopaedic and dental implants, and contact lenses. The resilience of biofilms to conventional antimicrobial treatments underscores the need for innovative strategies. This study evaluated the efficacy of a synthetic analogue of the antimicrobial lipopeptide humimycin as a preventive measure against biofilm formation of S. aureus on catheters, contact lenses and contact lens cases, both as a coating agent and in combination with commercial multipurpose contact lens solutions. The results demonstrate a dose-dependent reduction in biofilm formation with the humimycin analogue coatings achieving up to 98% inhibition at 256 µg/mL. This significant reduction was accompanied by a marked decrease in bacterial metabolic activity, indicating that the humimycin analogue disrupts biofilm integrity and impairs bacterial function. When combined with commercial contact lens solutions such as Opti-Free[®] Express[®] and Solocare Aqua[®], the biofilm-disrupting activity of the lipopeptide was further enhanced, with lower minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum biofilm inhibitory concentration values. These findings suggest that the humimycin analogue holds significant promise as a novel antimicrobial strategy for preventing S. aureus biofilm-related infections acquired from medical devices.},
}

@article {pmid41619601,
year = {2026},
author = {Bilgiç, E and Özkaya, Ş and Gençer, D and Karaman, O and Pulat, G},
title = {Dual-functional β-TCP based injectable bone grafts functionalized with peptides for enhanced osteogenesis and broad-spectrum biofilm inhibition.},
journal = {Biomaterials advances},
volume = {183},
number = {},
pages = {214739},
doi = {10.1016/j.bioadv.2026.214739},
pmid = {41619601},
issn = {2772-9508},
abstract = {Bone defects with irregular geometries and high infection risk remain a major clinical challenge. Injectable bone grafts (IBGs) offer minimally invasive and moldable solutions, yet conventional β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP)-based formulations often lack sufficient mechanical strength and antimicrobial activity. Here, a dual-functional β-TCP-based putty-form IBG was developed by combining powdered and sintered granules at optimized ratios to enhance mechanical stability, osteogenic potential, and handling properties. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), KR-12 and its anti-MRSA analog KR-12-a5, were covalently immobilized onto β-TCP surfaces via cold atmospheric plasma (CAP), which created reactive sites without compromising structural integrity to ensure stable peptide conjugation and sustained antimicrobial activity. The AMP-functionalized IBGs demonstrated potent anti-biofilm activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and MRSA with KR-12-a5, while KR-12 more effectively promoted human mesenchymal stem cell (hMSC) viability, osteogenic differentiation, and extracellular matrix deposition. Osteogenic markers were analyzed using alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and collagen deposition to assess protein levels, and the expression of OCN, OPN, COL1, ALP and RUNX2 genes was evaluated by quantitative PCR (qPCR). To our knowledge, this is the first injectable bone graft that simultaneously integrates osteogenic and broad-spectrum anti-biofilm functionalities for treating complex, infection-prone, and irregularly shaped bone defects.},
}

@article {pmid41618063,
year = {2026},
author = {de Carvalho, LF and Badaró, MM and Stolf, SC and Maske, TT and Marques, GÁ and da Cunha, LM and Longaray, JS and Peña, CLD and Lund, RG and de Andrade, JSR},
title = {Influence of S-PRG-based restorative and adhesive systems on biofilm formation and enamel demineralization in a simulated oral environment.},
journal = {Clinical oral investigations},
volume = {30},
number = {2},
pages = {67},
pmid = {41618063},
issn = {1436-3771},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of bioactive restorative materials on biofilm formation and cariogenic processes using an in vitro dynamic cariogenic biofilm model simulated by a Multifunctional Oral Cavity Simulator. The experimental design included composite resins and adhesive systems containing S-PRG particles (Beautifil and FL-Bond II – Shofu), compared against a conventional composite (Filtek Z350XT – 3 M ESPE) and a conventional adhesive system (Clearfil SE Bond – Kuraray).

METHODS: Samples were exposed to a controlled cariogenic environment and analyzed for colony-forming unit (CFU) counting, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), microhardness, and chemical modifications by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). One-way ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc test was performed (α = 0.05).

RESULTS: CFU counting and SEM analysis revealed no significant differences in biofilm volume or microbial counts among groups (P > 0.05), indicating no reduction with bioactive materials. FTIR analysis showed a marked reduction in phosphate and carbonate absorption peaks compared to sound enamel, indicating a similar demineralization pattern regardless of material. Microhardness analysis revealed no significant differences among materials (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION: Our findings did not reveal superior protection of bioactive materials containing S-PRG particles against cariogenic challenges. In this context, more robust clinical evidence is still needed to confirm the effectiveness of bioactive materials in enhancing restoration longevity and caries control.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Under dynamic cariogenic conditions, S-PRG-based materials performed similarly to conventional restoratives materials. These findings indicate that the purported bioactivity may not result in measurable clinical benefits.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00784-025-06731-5.},
}

@article {pmid41617289,
year = {2026},
author = {Xie, F and Jiang, L and Lu, Y and Li, L and Jiang, W and Cai, J},
title = {Self-healing quaternized chitosan-phenylboronic hydrogel with ceria nanozymes and stem-cell exosomes simultaneously eradicates MRSA biofilm and regenerates diabetic wounds.},
journal = {Carbohydrate polymers},
volume = {377},
number = {},
pages = {124882},
doi = {10.1016/j.carbpol.2025.124882},
pmid = {41617289},
issn = {1879-1344},
mesh = {*Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology ; *Chitosan/chemistry/pharmacology ; Animals ; *Biofilms/drug effects ; *Hydrogels/chemistry/pharmacology ; *Wound Healing/drug effects ; Mice ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Exosomes/chemistry/metabolism ; *Cerium/chemistry/pharmacology ; *Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/drug therapy ; *Boronic Acids/chemistry/pharmacology ; Staphylococcal Infections/drug therapy ; Stem Cells ; Humans ; Male ; Nanoparticles/chemistry ; },
abstract = {Diabetic wounds represent a major clinical challenge due to their susceptibility to bacterial biofilm infections, persistent oxidative stress, and impaired tissue regeneration. Current therapeutic approaches typically address these pathological factors individually, limiting their overall efficacy in achieving complete wound closure. There is thus an urgent need for integrated platforms capable of simultaneously targeting multiple barriers to healing. Here we show that a self-healing hydrogel composed of quaternized chitosan-phenylboronic acid (QCSP), ceria nanoparticles (CeNPs), and embryonic stem cell-derived exosomes (ESC-Exo) effectively eradicates methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) biofilms, scavenges reactive oxygen species, and promotes tissue regeneration in diabetic mice. The QCSP matrix provides inherent antibacterial activity and injectable, self-healing properties, while CeNPs function as catalytic antioxidants through reversible Ce[3+]/Ce[4+] redox cycling. Incorporation of ESC-Exo further enhances angiogenesis and re-epithelialization. In an MRSA-infected diabetic wound model, this multifunctional hydrogel achieves near-complete wound closure within 12 days alongside significant biofilm clearance and collagen deposition. This work demonstrates that integrating natural polymer-based hydrogels with nanozymes and bioactive exosomes offers a promising strategy for managing complex chronic wounds.},
}

*Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology
*Chitosan/chemistry/pharmacology
Animals
*Biofilms/drug effects
*Hydrogels/chemistry/pharmacology
*Wound Healing/drug effects
Mice
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
*Exosomes/chemistry/metabolism
*Cerium/chemistry/pharmacology
*Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/drug therapy
*Boronic Acids/chemistry/pharmacology
Staphylococcal Infections/drug therapy
Stem Cells
Humans
Male
Nanoparticles/chemistry

@article {pmid41616246,
year = {2026},
author = {Chourashi, R and Weiner, JM and Hoang, T-M and Ouattara, K and Oglesby, AG},
title = {The Pseudomonas aeruginosa PrrF sRNAs and PqsA promote biofilm formation at body temperature.},
journal = {Journal of bacteriology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0050725},
doi = {10.1128/jb.00507-25},
pmid = {41616246},
issn = {1098-5530},
abstract = {Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a gram-negative opportunistic pathogen that causes both acute and chronic infections in vulnerable populations. Treatment of P. aeruginosa infections is increasingly challenging due to multi-drug resistance, and biofilm formation during infection further increases antibiotic tolerance. Iron, which is sequestered by the host innate immune system, is also a key nutrient that is required for P. aeruginosa biofilm formation. The iron-responsive PrrF small regulatory RNAs (sRNAs) are key to P. aeruginosa's iron starvation response, promote the production of the Pseudomonas quinolone signal (PQS) quorum sensing molecule, and are required for virulence in murine lung infection. Prior work showed that the PrrF sRNAs are dispensable for biofilm formation; however, these studies were performed using flow-cell biofilms grown at room temperature. Here, we demonstrate a temperature dependency for PrrF in P. aeruginosa biofilm formation: the genes for these sRNAs are required for optimal biofilm formation at 37°C but not 25°C. We further show that a ∆pqsA mutant, which lacks production of PQS and related metabolites, phenocopies the ∆prrF mutant. These studies demonstrate the importance of the PrrF sRNAs in P. aeruginosa biofilm formation at body temperature and reveal a previously underappreciated role of temperature in iron homeostasis and P. aeruginosa biofilm physiology.IMPORTANCEBiofilm formation is a critical virulence trait for many microbial pathogens that confers tolerance to the host immune system and antimicrobials. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen that forms biofilms resulting in treatment failure. Iron is a known requirement for P. aeruginosa biofilm formation, yet the precise role of iron in biofilm physiology remains unclear. Here, we show that temperature alters the requirement for the PrrF small regulatory RNAs, key components of P. aeruginosa's iron starvation response, for biofilm formation. Specifically, PrrF is required for the optimal formation of flow-cell biofilms at 37°C but not at 25°C, yet most flow-cell biofilm studies are conducted at 25°C. These results demonstrate a previously underappreciated role of temperature in P. aeruginosa biofilm physiology.},
}

@article {pmid41615575,
year = {2026},
author = {López-Ramos, RP and Merino, L and Angarita-Díaz, MDP and Toledo, A and Cabrera, L and Jimenez-Hualpa, BR and Gilman, RH and Pajuelo, MJ},
title = {Streptococcus dentisani and Streptococcus mutans in dental biofilm of preschoolers with and without early childhood caries: a cross-sectional study.},
journal = {European archives of paediatric dentistry : official journal of the European Academy of Paediatric Dentistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41615575},
issn = {1996-9805},
support = {EF033-235-2015//FONDECYT/CIENCIAACTIVA scholarship/ ; D43 TW007393/TW/FIC NIH HHS/United States ; 5R01AI108695//the Fogarty International Center of the U.S. National Institutes of Health./ ; },
abstract = {AIM: To quantify Streptococcus dentisani and Streptococcus mutans in the dental biofilms of preschoolers with and without early childhood caries (ECC) and to assess their relationships with ECC-associated factors.

METHODS: A cross-sectional study involving 204 dental biofilm samples from children aged 3 to 5 years was conducted. ECC was diagnosed according to the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS II) criteria. DNA was extracted from the dental biofilm samples, and S. dentisani and S. mutans were quantified via quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Additional data were collected on oral hygiene status, salivary pH, cariogenic diet, and oral hygiene habits. Multivariate linear regression was employed to evaluate the relationships between ECC and the concentrations of S. dentisani and S. mutans (expressed in CFU/ng DNA), adjusting for confounding variables.

RESULTS: The mean concentration of S. dentisani in children with ECC was 0.52 log10 CFU/ng DNA lower than that in caries-free children after adjustment for confounders. Frequent consumption of sweets was associated with a 0.65 log10 CFU/ng DNA reduction in S. dentisani levels. Conversely, children with poor oral hygiene had significantly higher concentrations of S. mutans (2.39 log10 CFU/ng DNA).

CONCLUSION: S. dentisani was more abundant in the caries-free biofilm dental samples of children, whereas S. mutans predominated in those with ECC. These findings indicate that both bacteria may play a role in distinguishing between oral health and disease.},
}