@article {pmid40604707,
year = {2025},
author = {Kensche, A and Pohl, C and Basche, S and Dürasch, A and Henle, T and Hannig, M and Hannig, C},
title = {Bovine milk and milk protein- promotor or inhibitor of bacterial biofilm formation at the tooth surface?.},
journal = {BMC oral health},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {992},
pmid = {40604707},
issn = {1472-6831},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The present study aimed to investigate if mouthrinses with different types of bovine milk or milk protein isolates influence the initial bacterial colonization of the tooth surface.

METHODS: From 8 subjects, different biofilm samples were collected in situ on bovine enamel slabs: after 3 min of pellicle formation, mouthrinses with homogenized UHT-milk (0.3% and 3.5% fat), homogenized fresh milk (3.5% fat), non-homogenized milk 3.8%, 30% UHT-cream or a 3% micellar casein isolates containing preparation were performed, followed by a continued intraoral slab exposure for 8 h overnight. As control, no rinse was adopted. Afterwards, bacterial adhesion was quantified by DAPI staining and bacterial viability was determined by BacLight LIVE/DEAD-staining. Extracellular polysaccharides were visualized by Concanavalin A/Alexa-Fluor 594-staining. Statistical analysis was performed by the Kruskal-Wallis test and the Mann-Whitney U test followed by Bonferroni-Holm correction.

RESULTS: After 8 h of intraoral biofilm formation, 1.62*10[6]±1.68*10[6] bacteria/cm[2] were quantified in the control samples. Viability staining showed a distribution of 35% vital to 65% avital bacteria. None of the applied mouthrinses showed a significant change (p > 0.01) in bacterial colonization. A tendency to reduce bacterial colonization in situ was observed for non-homogenized milk and casein micelles.

CONCLUSION: Mouthrinsing with bovine milk and milk protein isolates had no significant impact on initial biofilm formation at the tooth surface. Clearly, it does not increase bacterial colonization.},
}

@article {pmid40604387,
year = {2025},
author = {Tang, Y and Deng, H and Xu, Z and Yu, Z and Xiang, Y and Wen, Z and Han, S and Chen, Z and Hou, T},
title = {Repurposing AZD-5991 for inhibiting growth and biofilm formation of Staphylococcus aureus by disrupting the cell membrane and targeting FabI.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {393},
pmid = {40604387},
issn = {1471-2180},
support = {NS2024007, NS2023008, NSZD2024023, NSZD2024032, NS2022046, NS2024001Z, NS2024038//Shenzhen Nanshan District Scientific Research Program of the People's Republic of China/ ; NS2024007, NS2023008, NSZD2024023, NSZD2024032, NS2022046, NS2024001Z, NS2024038//Shenzhen Nanshan District Scientific Research Program of the People's Republic of China/ ; NS2024007, NS2023008, NSZD2024023, NSZD2024032, NS2022046, NS2024001Z, NS2024038//Shenzhen Nanshan District Scientific Research Program of the People's Republic of China/ ; 82172283//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2022A1515110096, 2024A1515013276//Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation of Guangdong Province/ ; SMZ202303037//Sanming Project of Medicine in Shenzen Municipality/ ; JCYJ20220530141614034, JCYJ20240813114503005//Science, Technology and Innovation Commission of Shenzhen Municipality of basic research funds/ ; SZXK06162//Shenzhen Key Medical Discipline Construction Fund/ ; },
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Staphylococcus aureus infections have emerged as a global public health threat. Two key factors—drug resistance and biofilm formation—substantially impair the efficacy of the antimicrobial treatment for S. aureus infections using conventional antibiotics. Consequently, discovering novel antimicrobial agents with potent antibacterial and antibiofilm activity has become a hotspot in recent years. Herein, the research first reported the remarkable inhibitory activity of AZD-5991, a selective Mcl-1 inhibitor, against S. aureus. The MIC50 and MIC90 values of AZD-5991 against S. aureus were 12.5 µM, and significant growth inhibition was observed at a subinhibitory concentration of 1/2 × MIC. Additionally, AZD-5991 exhibited bactericidal activity and a robust capacity for inhibiting S. aureus biofilm formation, with minimal cytotoxicity toward host cell lines. Membrane permeability assays revealed that AZD-5991 compromised S. aureus cell membrane integrity, while bacterial phospholipid components were found to neutralize the antibacterial activity of AZD-5991. Moreover, whole-genome sequencing and proteomic analysis were also applied to gain insights into the possible impact of AZD-5991 on the fatty metabolism of S. aureus. Furthermore, the antibacterial activity of AZD-5991 was remarkably declined by exogenous fatty acids linoleic acid (C18:2Δ9,12) and arachidonic acid (C20:4Δ5,8,11,14). Lastly, the biolayer interferometry assay supported the direct interaction of AZD-5991 with FabI, a key protein essential for bacterial growth and fatty acid metabolism. Conclusively, this study demonstrates that AZD-5991 inhibits S. aureus planktonic growth and biofilm formation by disrupting cell membrane integrity and targeting FabI. These findings position AZD-5991 as a promising novel antibiotic candidate for treating S. aureus infections resistant to traditional clinical antibiotics.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT: [Image: see text]

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12866-025-04104-2.},
}

@article {pmid40604381,
year = {2025},
author = {Veisi, M and Hosseini-Nave, H and Tadjrobehkar, O},
title = {Biofilm formation ability and swarming motility are associated with some virulence genes in Proteus mirabilis.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {388},
pmid = {40604381},
issn = {1471-2180},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Proteus mirabilis/genetics/physiology/pathogenicity/isolation & purification ; *Virulence Factors/genetics ; Humans ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics ; Virulence/genetics ; Proteus Infections/microbiology ; Urinary Tract Infections/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Proteus mirabilis (P. mirabilis) is one of the frequent causes of urinary tract infection in humans. This pathogen armed by diverse virulence associated factors. Biofilm formation and swarming motility are two surface living behaviors of P. mirabilis and their association with virulence associated genes was investigated in the present study. Biofilm formation ability and swarming motility were evaluated by microtiter plate assay and top-agar travel tracking in 91 P. mirabilis isolates respectively. The polymerase chain reaction method was used for screening of 10 virulence associated genes. Association of virulence associated genes with biofilm formation ability and also swarming motility was analyzed statistically. The zapA (100%) and hlyA (41.8%) genes had maximum and minimum frequency respectively. Forty-one, 35 and 15 isolates were categorized as weak, intermediate and strong biofilm producers respectively. While, 11%, 38.5% and 50.5% of isolates were grouped as weak, intermediate and strong swarmers respectively. Adhesin encoding genes such as mrpA were more prevalent in strong biofilm producers in comparison to the other isolates. Reversal association of rsmA gene with swarming motility was detected. The frequency of hlyA gene was associated directly with swarming motility and in opposite way with biofilm formation. Reverse correlation of biofilm formation ability and swarming motility was estimated. Based on the study findings it is hypothesized that P. mirabilis benefited from adhesins such as MR/P fimbriae for production of biofilm and successful colonization and then they shift from biofilm formers to strong swarmers in order to reach deeper urinary organs and HlyA toxin is used to overcome the immune system cells. However, it has to confirmed trough future studies.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Proteus mirabilis/genetics/physiology/pathogenicity/isolation & purification
*Virulence Factors/genetics
Humans
Bacterial Proteins/genetics
Virulence/genetics
Proteus Infections/microbiology
Urinary Tract Infections/microbiology

@article {pmid40603841,
year = {2025},
author = {Hendricks, AL and More, KR and Devaraj, A and Buzzo, JR and Robledo-Avila, FH and Partida-Sanchez, S and Bakaletz, LO and Goodman, SD},
title = {Author Correction: Bacterial biofilm-derived H-NS protein acts as a defense against Neutrophil Extracellular Traps (NETs).},
journal = {NPJ biofilms and microbiomes},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {126},
doi = {10.1038/s41522-025-00761-3},
pmid = {40603841},
issn = {2055-5008},
}

@article {pmid40603704,
year = {2025},
author = {Prado, A and Veiga, FF and de Oliveira Brito, R and da Cruz Alves Pereira, E and Negri, M and Svidzinski, TIE},
title = {Biofilm formation efficiency by Candida species isolated from gastric mucosa of intragastric balloon patient under extremely low pH.},
journal = {Folia microbiologica},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40603704},
issn = {1874-9356},
support = {code 001//Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior/ ; 406645/2022-1//Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia da Criosfera/ ; 3128262023-0//Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia da Criosfera/ ; },
abstract = {This study characterized biofilms formed by Candida albicans and C. tropicalis isolated from the gastric mucosa biopsies of an intragastric balloon (IGB) patient user. Both were cultivated to form single and mixed artificial biofilms at pH 2.5 and 5.5 for 24 and 48 h. The biofilms were assessed for biochemical, metabolic, and ultrastructural properties. Yeast counts in monospecies C. albicans and C. tropicalis biofilms were higher than their respective levels in mixed biofilms across both pH values. Single C. tropicalis biofilms exhibited greater metabolic activity at both time points than C. albicans and mixed biofilms. While there were no notable pH or time-dependent differences in C. albicans and C. tropicalis monospecies biofilm formation, mixed biofilms displayed significantly higher biomass at pH 2.5. Ct also demonstrated pronounced filamentation within 24 h at pH 5.5. Scanning electron microscopy revealed cellular damage in mixed biofilms at pH 2.5; although, the biofilm structure was well developed within 24-48 h. Our findings indicate that yeasts isolated from IGB patients can form mono and polymicrobial biofilms under harsh conditions, with both species demonstrating biofilm viability at pH 2.5. Notably, C. tropicalis exhibited increased competitiveness in mixed biofilms under these conditions.},
}

@article {pmid40603621,
year = {2025},
author = {Kushwaha, M and Dalal, N and Chaudhary, S and Ahmed, A and Makharia, GK and Singh, AK and Kumar, A},
title = {Colorectal cancer biofilm composition reveals distinct bacterial species signature.},
journal = {Applied microbiology and biotechnology},
volume = {109},
number = {1},
pages = {159},
pmid = {40603621},
issn = {1432-0614},
support = {Core grant//National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; Humans ; *Colorectal Neoplasms/microbiology ; Male ; Female ; India ; Middle Aged ; *Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification ; Aged ; In Situ Hybridization, Fluorescence ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Dysbiosis/microbiology ; Colon/microbiology ; Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; Escherichia coli/isolation & purification/genetics ; Adult ; Klebsiella pneumoniae/isolation & purification/genetics ; },
abstract = {Human colon hosts a highly organized protective microbial ecosystem in the form of biofilms, increasingly recognized as key contributors to colorectal cancer (CRC) progression through microbial dysbiosis and complex host-microbiota interactions. In India, CRC ranks among the top ten cancers, with an age-standardized incidence rate of approximately 6.3 per 100,000 in males and 3.7 per 100,000 in females highlighting a higher risk in men, late-stage diagnosis, inadequate screening, and treatment limitations, particularly in urban populations. This study aims to explore the microbial composition of colonic biofilms from the Indian cohort of colorectal cancer patients from New Delhi, which is witnessing a rise in the incidence of CRC. Colorectal biopsies were taken from tumors (n = 15) and adjacent non-tumor tissues (n = 15) at the Gastrointestinal Department of AIIMS, New Delhi, India. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) was employed to determine the bacterial population in the biofilm. The workflow included microtomy, deparaffinization, tissue permeabilization, and hybridization with bacterial 16S rDNA probes, and the detected signals were visualized by confocal microscopy. The results showed quite different microbial patterns and tumor-associated biofilms were found to have an increased density of Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Bacteroides fragilis, while Fusobacterium nucleatum and E. coli (pks[+]) with a pks[+] genomic island encoding the genotoxin colibactin were seen less often. These results confirm significant dysbiosis and the formation of invasive biofilms in CRC tissues. Understanding the composition of these biofilms may facilitate the development of targeted strategies to restore microbial balance and reduce CRC risk both in the Indian and global population. KEY POINTS: • Tumor-associated biofilms show distinct microbial dysbiosis in Indian CRC patients. • Enrichment of Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Bacteroides fragilis was observed at tumor site. • Insights into biofilm composition may aid to targeted interventions for CRC risk reduction.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
Humans
*Colorectal Neoplasms/microbiology
Male
Female
India
Middle Aged
*Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification
Aged
In Situ Hybridization, Fluorescence
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
Dysbiosis/microbiology
Colon/microbiology
Gastrointestinal Microbiome
Escherichia coli/isolation & purification/genetics
Adult
Klebsiella pneumoniae/isolation & purification/genetics

@article {pmid40603427,
year = {2025},
author = {Xia, M and Cao, S and Liu, Z and Zhao, J and Yuan, Y and Ni, J and Guo, Z and Wang, W and Yin, H and Zou, Z},
title = {Multifunctional nano-delivery system based on DNase I and photodynamic therapy for combatting enterococcus faecalis biofilm infections.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {23343},
pmid = {40603427},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {62175261//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2021-I2M-1-058//Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Innovation Fund for Medical Sciences/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Enterococcus faecalis/drug effects/physiology ; *Deoxyribonuclease I/administration & dosage/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Photochemotherapy/methods ; Liposomes/chemistry ; Photosensitizing Agents/pharmacology/administration & dosage ; Humans ; Chlorophyllides ; *Porphyrins/pharmacology/administration & dosage ; *Drug Delivery Systems ; *Gram-Positive Bacterial Infections/drug therapy/microbiology ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; },
abstract = {Persistent or refractory apical periodontitis is primarily caused by microbial retention, as conventional root canal treatment often fails to eliminate infections completely, and systemic antibiotic therapy is insufficient to achieve effective concentrations for eradicating bacterial biofilms within root canals. This highlights the urgent need for novel therapeutics offering safe and effective antimicrobial strategies. Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) is a promising approach for root canal disinfection. However, commonly used photosensitizers such as Ce6 suffer from poor water solubility and strong aggregation tendencies, resulting in limited penetration into infected sites. In this study, we developed a DNase I-Lip@Ce6 nanodelivery system by combining deoxyribonuclease I (DNase I) with liposome-encapsulated Ce6. The liposomal carrier facilitated efficient delivery of Ce6 into target bacterial cells, while DNase I degraded extracellular DNA in the biofilm matrix, weakening its protective barrier. This synergistically enhanced Ce6 penetration and therapeutic efficacy, leading to the successful eradication of planktonic Enterococcus faecalis and in vitro biofilms. This strategy offers a novel approach for the precision treatment of persistent oral infections and holds strong potential for clinical translation.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Enterococcus faecalis/drug effects/physiology
*Deoxyribonuclease I/administration & dosage/pharmacology/chemistry
*Photochemotherapy/methods
Liposomes/chemistry
Photosensitizing Agents/pharmacology/administration & dosage
Humans
Chlorophyllides
*Porphyrins/pharmacology/administration & dosage
*Drug Delivery Systems
*Gram-Positive Bacterial Infections/drug therapy/microbiology
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology

@article {pmid40602894,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, L and Zhuo, W and He, T and Peng, Z and Mou, Y and Wan, M and Pan, X and Li, Y and Yang, Z},
title = {Insights into microbial actions on hydraulic concrete structures: Effects of ammonia and sulfate on community structure, function and biofilm morphology.},
journal = {Journal of environmental sciences (China)},
volume = {157},
number = {},
pages = {430-442},
doi = {10.1016/j.jes.2024.12.027},
pmid = {40602894},
issn = {1001-0742},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Ammonia ; *Construction Materials/microbiology ; *Sulfates ; Corrosion ; },
abstract = {Microbial corrosion of hydraulic concrete structures (HCSs) has received increasing research concerns. However, knowledge on the morphology of attached biofilms, as well as the community structures and functions cultivated under variable nutrient levels is lacking. Here, biofilm colonization patterns and community structures responding to variable levels of ammonia and sulfate were explored. From field sampling, NH4[+]-N was proven key factor governing community structure in attached biofilms, verifying the reliability of selecting target nutrient species in batch experiments. Biofilms exhibited significant compositional differences in field sampling and incubation experiments. As the nutrient increased in batch experiments, the growth of biofilms gradually slowed down and uneven distribution was detected. The proportions of proteins and β-d-glucose polysaccharides in biofilms experienced a decrease in response to elevated levels of nutrients. With the increased of nutrients, the mass losses of concretes exhibited an increase, reaching a highest value of 2.37 % in the presence of 20 mg/L of ammonia. Microbial communities underwent a significant transition in structure and metabolic functions to ammonia gradient. The highest activity of nitrification was observed in biofilms colonized in the presence of 20 mg/L of ammonia. While the communities and their functions remained relatively more stable responding to sulfate gradient. Our research provides novel insights into the structures of biofilms attached on HCSs and the metabolic functions in the presence of high level of nutrients, which is of significance for the operation and maintenance of hydraulic engineering structures.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Ammonia
*Construction Materials/microbiology
*Sulfates
Corrosion

@article {pmid40602889,
year = {2025},
author = {Wu, X and Jin, C and Zhang, C and Li, P and Huang, JJ and Wu, J and Wu, J and Hu, Z},
title = {Mixotrophic Chlorella pyrenoidosa biofilm with enhanced biomass production, microalgal activity, and nutrient removal from nutrient-rich wastewater.},
journal = {Journal of environmental sciences (China)},
volume = {157},
number = {},
pages = {366-377},
doi = {10.1016/j.jes.2024.06.017},
pmid = {40602889},
issn = {1001-0742},
mesh = {*Chlorella/physiology ; *Wastewater/chemistry ; *Biofilms ; Biomass ; *Waste Disposal, Fluid/methods ; Microalgae/physiology ; Phosphorus/metabolism ; Nitrogen/metabolism ; *Water Pollutants, Chemical/metabolism/analysis ; Nutrients ; },
abstract = {Microalgae possess significant advantages in nitrogen and phosphorus removal from nutrient-rich wastewater that are highly efficient and independent of the C/N ratio. However, challenges such as low biomass productivity, high variability in nutrient removal under different trophic types, and difficulty in harvesting biomass limits the large-scale application of microalgae wastewater treatment. This study attempted to employ mixotrophic microalgae biofilm to address these issues. The biomass production, microalgal activity, and nutrient removal of Chlorella pyrenoidosa biofilms with different trophic types were compared for nutrient-rich wastewater treatment. The results showed that the biomass productivity of the mixotrophic microalgal biofilm (0.215 g/(L·d)) was 2.3, 8.6, and 6.0 times higher than that of photoautotrophic microalgal biofilm, heterotrophic microalgal biofilm, and photoautotrophic suspended microalga, respectively. Additionally, the dehydrogenase activity (DHA), indicating microalgal activity, of the mixotrophic biofilm was 2.3 and 16.5 times higher than that of photoautotrophic and heterotrophic biofilms, respectively. Meanwhile, the mixotrophic biofilm removed 96.0 % of NH4[+]-N and 99.2 % of PO4[3-]-P, more efficient than that with other types of biofilms and suspended microalgae. In an open-ended air-lift photobioreactor, the mixotrophic microalgal biofilm produced biomass at 0.12 g/(L·d) and removed 90.0 % of NH4[+]-N and 97.6 % of PO4[3-]-P. This study suggests that the mixotrophic microalgal biofilm shows promise in treating nutrient-rich wastewater and producing microalgal biomass for value-added products.},
}

*Chlorella/physiology
*Wastewater/chemistry
*Biofilms
Biomass
*Waste Disposal, Fluid/methods
Microalgae/physiology
Phosphorus/metabolism
Nitrogen/metabolism
*Water Pollutants, Chemical/metabolism/analysis
Nutrients

@article {pmid40602447,
year = {2025},
author = {Xue, Y and Yan, A},
title = {Capsaicin inhibits the biofilm of Klebsiella pneumoniae by targeting the transcriptional regulator SdiA.},
journal = {Microbial pathogenesis},
volume = {207},
number = {},
pages = {107860},
doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2025.107860},
pmid = {40602447},
issn = {1096-1208},
abstract = {Pneumonia, particularly when caused by the bacterium Klebsiella pneumoniae, presents a major global health challenge. This gram-negative bacterium is a notable pathogen in healthcare-associated infections, leading to severe conditions such as urinary tract infections, pneumonia, and the bloodstream infections, mainly in immunocompromised subjects. The bacterium's ability to resist multiple antibiotics complicates the treatment, posing a major concern in hospital settings. Capsaicin, one the major capsaiciniods present in Capsicum plants, is known for the bacteriostatic and bactericidal properties, though detailed studies on effects of capsaicin on biofilm in K. pneumoniae is not thoroughly investigated. Preliminary analyses indicate that capsaicin can inhibit the growth of K. pneumoniae at MIC (256 μg/ml). Capsaicin effectively inhibits biofilm development (72.65 ± 3.23 %) and reduces the metabolic activity (46.64 ± 4.31 %) of biofilms. Furthermore, exopolysaccharide production was diminished along with the eradication of established biofilm by capsaicin. Treatment of capsaicin decreased the cell surface hydrophobicity and induced the intracellular ROS production. The transcription level of biofilm and QS-related genes were also downregulated in presence of capsaicin. Computational analysis revealed that capsaicin interacts with transcriptional regulator SdiA with binding energy -5.6 kcal/mol. Molecular simulations validated the stability of SdiA-capsaicin complex under physiological conditions. The complex was mainly stabilized by the van der Waals forces. This study shows the potential of capsaicin in managing pneumonia complications, particularly those caused by K. pneumoniae. The findings suggest that capsaicin may serve as a promising agent in development of new therapeutic drug to combat bacterial infections associated with biofilm and antibiotic resistance.},
}

@article {pmid40602446,
year = {2025},
author = {Kumar, V and Nayakvadi, S and Prakash, K and Revanasiddappa, ST and Ranjitha, G and Pavan Kalyan, N and Chauhan, M},
title = {Isolation, antimicrobial resistance and biofilm gene analysis of MRSA in clinical and sub-clinical bovine mastitis.},
journal = {Microbial pathogenesis},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {107851},
doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2025.107851},
pmid = {40602446},
issn = {1096-1208},
abstract = {Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a significant public health concern due to its zoonotic potential, multidrug resistance, and persistence in livestock environments. This study aimed to isolate and characterize MRSA from clinical and subclinical mastitis cases in dairy cows in the rural regions of North Bengaluru, India. A total of 133 milk samples from mastitis-affected cows were analysed, revealing that 48.8% (65/133) exhibited coagulase-positive colonies on Mannitol Salt Agar. Of these, 28 isolates were confirmed as S. aureus via detection of the nuc gene and among them, 16 isolates (12%) were positive for the mecA gene, confirming MRSA. Subclinical mastitis accounted for the majority of MRSA isolates (87.5%) suggesting that asymptomatic carrier of the pathogens. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing of isolates showed high resistance to cefoxitin (75%) and penicillin (68.75%), with highest sensitivity observed against chloramphenicol (93.75%), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (87.5%), and linezolid (87.5%). Among MRSA isolates, 62.5% exhibited multidrug resistance. Molecular screening for biofilm and adhesion-associated virulence genes revealed that all MRSA isolates harboured cna and clfA, while 93.75% were positive for fnbpA and eno, and 81.25% for icaA and ebps. The agrI gene was present in 56.25% of isolates, indicating regulatory variability in biofilm-associated gene expression. These findings highlight the emerging role of MRSA in bovine mastitis, especially in subclinical infections, and emphasize the need for enhanced surveillance, responsible antimicrobial usage, and biosecurity interventions in dairy farming to mitigate the spread of drug-resistant pathogens.},
}

@article {pmid40602346,
year = {2025},
author = {Hansen, S and Thomsen, K and Mattsson, AH and Comstedt, P and Moser, C and Ciofu, O},
title = {Pseudomonas aeruginosa vaccine identified by the AI-immunology™ platform improves outcomes in a murine biofilm lung infection model.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {61},
number = {},
pages = {127416},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2025.127416},
pmid = {40602346},
issn = {1873-2518},
abstract = {The Gram-negative opportunistic bacterial pathogen, Pseudomonas aeruginosa is considered by WHO as a "priority pathogen" for which new antibacterial strategies are urgently needed due to antimicrobial resistance development. In addition, P. aeruginosa is a cause of difficult to treat chronic infections due to its ability to form biofilms. Therefore, pseudomonal vaccines have been proposed as alternative strategies to combat these infections for the last 50 years, however, no vaccines are available on the market for human use. The aim of this study was to investigate the capacity of a vaccine composed of seven antigens, identified using EDEN™ (Efficacy Discriminative Educated Network) - a proteome-wide in silico antigen prediction model within AI-Immunology™ platform - in improving outcomes in a murine model of chronic P. aeruginosa lung infection. The primary endpoint was quantitative bacteriology (Colony forming units - CFU) in the lungs of immunized animals compared to control animals. The secondary endpoints were clinical signs (a clinical score), body temperature and weight loss. Mice immunized with the heptavalent combination vaccine had a significantly 1.2 log10 lower lung CFU compared to the control group. Furthermore, the vaccinated mice presented significantly fewer clinical signs of infection, had less reduction in body temperature and weight loss as, compared to control mice. There was a statistically significant correlation between the lung bacteriology and secondary endpoints. Antibodies against all seven antigens were measured by ELISA confirming their immunogenicity. The encouraging results obtained in this, and previous studies provide a proof-of-concept that EDEN™ is a useful tool in identifying vaccine antigens against P. aeruginosa and possibly other problematic pathogens.},
}

@article {pmid40601387,
year = {2025},
author = {Jin, Y and Zhou, W and Chen, W and Xiao, Y},
title = {Penicillin-susceptible ST398 with strong biofilm-forming ability poses a significant threat to osteoarticular infections.},
journal = {The Journal of antimicrobial chemotherapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jac/dkaf208},
pmid = {40601387},
issn = {1460-2091},
support = {82402626//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2021YFC2300300//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; LQN25H200008//Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Osteoarticular infections (OAIs), primarily caused by Staphylococcus aureus (both MSSA and MRSA), pose significant clinical challenges due to their heterogeneity and complexity.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the epidemiology, clinical characteristics and bacterial features of S. aureus strains isolated from OAI patients treated at a major tertiary hospital in China over a 9-year period, with a focus on biofilm formation and colonization potential.

METHODS: A total of 178 S. aureus isolates (56.8% MSSA and 43.2% MRSA) were analyzed using whole-genome sequencing, antibiotic susceptibility testing, biofilm formation assays and phylogenetic analysis. A murine nasal colonization model and in vitro adhesion assays using A549 human epithelial cells were employed to evaluate colonization and adherence capabilities.

RESULTS: Penicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (PSSA) showed a significant rise during the study period, particularly within clonal complex ST398, which exhibited enhanced biofilm-forming capabilities. Phylogenetic analysis revealed minimal transmission events, suggesting independent cases. Comparative genetic analysis demonstrated distinct human-adaptive features in MRSA and MSSA-ST398 strains. PSSA-ST398 strains exhibited superior biofilm formation and increased adherence to human epithelial cells and murine nasal cavities compared with penicillin-resistant counterparts, indicating a potential advantage in colonization and persistence.

CONCLUSIONS: Penicillin-susceptible ST398 strains, particularly those with strong biofilm-forming capabilities, which increase their persistence in clinical settings, complicating treatment and eradication efforts, represent a significant threat to OAIs. Despite being penicillin-susceptible, these strains may still pose challenges due to their biofilm-mediated resistance and potential for chronic infection.},
}

@article {pmid40601177,
year = {2025},
author = {Şensoy Gün, B and Gurbanov, R and Tunalı, B},
title = {Biofilm-inhibiting ZnO@Eggshell nanocomposites: green synthesis, characterization, and biomedical potential.},
journal = {Biometals : an international journal on the role of metal ions in biology, biochemistry, and medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40601177},
issn = {1572-8773},
abstract = {This study explored the eco-friendly synthesis, characterization, optimization, and biomedical potential of zinc oxide-eggshell (ZnO@ES) nanocomposites using Althaea officinalis flower extract. HPLC analysis identified pink flower extract as the highest in quercetin (88.452 ppm), making it the optimal choice for synthesis. UV-Vis spectroscopy confirmed ZnO nanostructures (384 nm peak), while characterization analyses using different spectroscopic and microscopic techniques validated their successful incorporation within the eggshell matrix. The hemocompatibility of ZnO@ES nanocomposites was assessed through hemolysis tests, which demonstrated low hemolytic activity (<5%), ensuring blood compatibility. Antimicrobial assays against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans revealed significant inhibitory effects, particularly with ZnO@ES4. Agar well diffusion tests showed that while eggshell alone lacked antimicrobial activity, ZnO@ES2 formed inhibition zones against P. aeruginosa and E. coli, whereas ZnO@ES4 was effective against P. aeruginosa, E. coli, and S. aureus. Biofilm inhibition tests further demonstrated that ZnO@ES2 and ZnO@ES4 significantly reduced E. coli and P. aeruginosa biofilms, with ZnO@ES4 being more effective. MTT cytotoxicity assays using L929 fibroblast cells confirmed biocompatibility, with ZnO@ES2 enhancing cell proliferation. By repurposing eggshell waste, this study promotes a circular economy approach, transforming an abundant biowaste into value-added biomaterials. The green synthesis method eliminates the need for toxic chemicals, ensuring an environmentally friendly and sustainable clean production process. These findings support the development of antimicrobial and biocompatible nanocomposites with biomedical applications.},
}

@article {pmid40600172,
year = {2025},
author = {Fujii, A and Akatsu, T and Souno, H and Kawano, S and Minegishi, Y and Ota, N},
title = {Enhanced dominance of nitrate-reducing bacteria using a combination of nitrate and erythritol in in vitro cultured oral biofilm.},
journal = {Journal of oral microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {1},
pages = {2526069},
pmid = {40600172},
issn = {2000-2297},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Oral nitrate-reducing bacteria are associated with good oral health, with inorganic nitrate specifically promoting the growth of these beneficial bacteria. Sugar alcohols affect the composition of oral microbiota, potentially impacting oral health. The present study aimed to investigate the combined effects of nitrate and sugar alcohols on nitrate-reducing bacteria and nitrate metabolism in oral microbiota cultured in vitro.

METHODS: Species-level microbial analysis using 16S rRNA gene sequencing of DNA extracted from the supragingival plaque-derived biofilm cultured under micro-aerobic conditions for 48 h with nitrate and/or sugar alcohols was conducted. Nitrate metabolites, lactate, and pH in culture supernatants were also measured.

RESULTS: The combined addition of nitrate and erythritol, but not xylitol or sorbitol, significantly increased the relative abundance of Haemophilus parainfluenzae and Neisseria subflava, which are nitrate-reducing bacteria. This shift was accompanied by a corresponding decrease in Streptococcus oralis, which simultaneously induced an increase in the nitrate-reducing capacity and a decrease in lactate production and acidification from sugar metabolism.

CONCLUSIONS: The combination of nitrate and erythritol serve as a preventive and therapeutic approach for periodontitis or dental caries by promoting the growth of oral commensal nitrate-reducing bacteria. However, human clinical studies are required to clarify these beneficial effects.},
}

@article {pmid40599649,
year = {2025},
author = {Xander, C and Martinez, EE and Toothman, RG and Gardner, CL and Qiu, J and Snedeker, J and Bender, MH and Hlubb, C and Burke, CW and Bozue, JA and Mlynek, KD},
title = {Treatment of bacterial biothreat agents with a novel purified bioactive lactoferrin affects both growth and biofilm formation.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1603689},
pmid = {40599649},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Lactoferrin/pharmacology/isolation & purification/administration & dosage ; Animals ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/administration & dosage ; Mice ; *Burkholderia/drug effects/growth & development ; Cattle ; *Biological Warfare Agents ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Disease Models, Animal ; Francisella tularensis/drug effects/growth & development ; Burkholderia pseudomallei/drug effects ; Female ; },
abstract = {Lactoferrin is known to exhibit broad spectrum activity against a multitude of bacteria, fungi, and viruses due to its multi-functional mode of action. Recently, Lactea Therapeutics and its affiliates have developed a novel, patent-pending technology to purify naturally derived bovine lactoferrin (Lactea Lf) for use as a medical countermeasure that was not previously available. To assess the efficacy of Lactea Lf against biothreat pathogens, we performed biofilm inhibition assays and generated dose-response curves against Burkholderia pseudomallei, Burkholderia mallei, and Francisella tularensis for proof-of-principle studies. Here, we show that Lactea Lf can significantly inhibit biofilm and decrease the overall growth in a dose dependent manner for all Burkholderia species tested. Of note, Lactea Lf was found to completely inhibit biofilm formation by virulent B. pseudomallei without observing complete growth inhibition. The growth of F. tularensis was also significantly inhibited when cultured in the presence of Lactea Lf and appeared more sensitive to treatment when compared to B. pseudomallei. Based on these results, a pneumonic infection model using the F. tularensis LVS strain was performed prophylactically administering Lactea Lf and continuing treatment post challenge. No protection was observed in this model which prompted biodistribution studies using fluorescent tagged Lactea Lf. These experiments revealed that therapeutic material was mainly confined to the NALT region following intranasal delivery and then quickly dispersed or inactivated suggesting that future formulation and delivery method could be addressed to increase in vivo treatment efficacy. Taken together, these data support that Lactea Lf is a potentially new candidate for further studies as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial medical countermeasure with efficacy against several high priority biodefense-related bacterial pathogens.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Lactoferrin/pharmacology/isolation & purification/administration & dosage
Animals
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/administration & dosage
Mice
*Burkholderia/drug effects/growth & development
Cattle
*Biological Warfare Agents
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Disease Models, Animal
Francisella tularensis/drug effects/growth & development
Burkholderia pseudomallei/drug effects
Female

@article {pmid40599458,
year = {2024},
author = {Armoon, M and Babapour, E and Mirnejad, R and Babapour, M and Taati Moghadam, M},
title = {Evaluation of icaA and icaD Genes Involved in Biofilm Formation in Staphylococcus aureus Isolates from Clinical Sources Using Reverse Transcriptase PCR.},
journal = {Archives of Razi Institute},
volume = {79},
number = {6},
pages = {1329-1335},
pmid = {40599458},
issn = {2008-9872},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Staphylococcus aureus/genetics/physiology ; *Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction ; *Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology ; Humans ; },
abstract = {Staphylococcus aureus is recognized for its capacity to generate biofilms, which facilitate bacterial adhesion to diverse substrates and present a significant challenge to therapeutic intervention. The process of biofilm formation is dependent on the icaABCD operon, with the icaA and icaD genes playing a pivotal role in this intricate process. The objective of this study is to investigate the role of these genes in the biofilm formation of S. aureus isolates sourced from clinical settings. A total of 100 S. aureus isolates were collected from clinical sources and subsequently subjected to DNA and RNA extraction using a commercial kit from Kiagen Co. To transcribe the RNA samples into cDNA, a commercial kit from Kiagen Co. was employed. The capacity to produce phenotypic and molecular biofilm formation was then measured using the microtiter plate method and PCR, respectively. The expression levels of the icaA and icaD genes were determined via RT-PCR (Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction). The results indicated that 95% (95%) of the isolates were capable of producing biofilm, with 16 (16%) producing weak, 64 (64%) producing medium, and 15 (15%) producing strong biofilms. Furthermore, the icaA gene was detected in 72% of the isolates, while the icaD gene was detected in 58%. Of these isolates, 70 (97.2%) expressed the icaA gene, and 53 (73.6%) expressed the icaD gene. Conversely, four isolates (5.5%) that possessed the icaA gene but lacked the icaD gene did not form biofilm. One strain did not express either of the genes. The presence of either the icaA or icaD gene is crucial for the development of biofilm. However, further investigation is necessary to fully comprehend the intricacies of biofilm formation.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Staphylococcus aureus/genetics/physiology
*Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction
*Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology
Humans

@article {pmid40599435,
year = {2024},
author = {Soltani Borchaloee, A and Moosakazemi Mohammadi, LS and Khosh Ravesh, R and Allameh, SF and Tabatabaie Poya, FS and Fatehi, MA},
title = {Prevalence of Biofilm and Efflux Pump Genes Expression by PCR and Antibiotic Resistance Pattern in Pseudomonas Aeruginosa.},
journal = {Archives of Razi Institute},
volume = {79},
number = {6},
pages = {1281-1286},
pmid = {40599435},
issn = {2008-9872},
mesh = {*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/genetics/drug effects/physiology ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; *Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/genetics ; Polymerase Chain Reaction ; *Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Humans ; *Membrane Transport Proteins/genetics ; *Drug Resistance, Bacterial/genetics ; Pseudomonas Infections/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a significant pathogen responsible for nosocomial infections. P. aeruginosa is a multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterium that is postulated to be the result of its plasmid-borne and intrinsic resistance to a number of pharmaceutical agents. This study examined the potential for biofilm formation, the distribution of the pslD, pelF, and algD genes, and the expression of the MexAB-OprM efflux pump genes. Furthermore, the study examined the pattern of antibiotic resistance in multi-drug resistant P. aeruginosa isolates obtained from a range of clinical samples. A total of 76 strains of P. aeruginosa were obtained for this investigation from a range of clinical specimens. The susceptibility of the isolates to antibiotics was evaluated using the disk agar diffusion method. In conclusion, the term "multi-drug resistance" (MDR) is used to describe a specific pattern of resistance. The isolates were evaluated for the presence of three pivotal biofilm genes and their antimicrobial resistance patterns against ten standard antibiotic disks. The data were analyzed using version 25 of the SPSS statistical software. The examination of the isolates revealed that the most antibiotic sensitivity was associated with polymyxin, piperacillin, and ciprofloxacin. Additionally, the prevalence of biofilm-producing genes, specifically pslD, pelF, and algD, was determined to be 68.4%, 80.3%, and 69.7%, respectively. The prevalence of MexAB-OprM efflux genes in the examined isolates was 89.5% for the mexA gene, 90.8% for the mexB gene, and 90.8% for the oprM gene. The majority of the isolates in this investigation exhibited the presence of efflux pump genes, as evidenced by the findings. Furthermore, a robust correlation was identified between a select number of efflux genes and biofilm formation or the antibiotics tetracycline, meropenem, amikacin, and polymyxin B.},
}

*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/genetics/drug effects/physiology
*Biofilms/growth & development
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
*Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/genetics
Polymerase Chain Reaction
*Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Humans
*Membrane Transport Proteins/genetics
*Drug Resistance, Bacterial/genetics
Pseudomonas Infections/microbiology

@article {pmid40599327,
year = {2025},
author = {Vijay, D and Bedi, JS and Dhaka, P and Singh, R and Singh, J and Arora, AK and Gill, JPS},
title = {Prevalence, antimicrobial resistance and biofilm forming ability of Escherichia coli in milk, animal handlers and slurry samples from dairy herds of Punjab, India.},
journal = {Frontiers in veterinary science},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {1553468},
pmid = {40599327},
issn = {2297-1769},
abstract = {Antimicrobial-resistant Escherichia coli serves as an indicator for monitoring the occurrence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) at the human, animal, and environmental interface. The present study employs a 'One Health' framework to determine the prevalence, phenotypic and genotypic characterisation of the AMR profile and biofilm forming ability of E. coli isolates from milk, hand swabs and slurry samples of 405 dairy herds in Punjab, India. An overall prevalence of E. coli was 34.3% (139/405) (95% CI: 0.30 to 0.39) from pooled milk samples, 9.1% (37/405) (95% CI: 0.06 to 0.12) from the hand swabs of animal handlers and 64.4% (261/405) (95% CI: 0.60 to 0.69) in the slurry samples. Multidrug resistance (resistance to 3 or more classes of antimicrobials) was exhibited by 24.4% (34/139) of E. coli isolates from milk, 40.5% (15/37) from hand swabs, 60.5% (158/261) from slurry samples. Moreover, of the E. coli isolates, 11.51% (16/139) from milk, 24.32% (09/37) from hand swabs and 31.42% (82/261) from slurry samples were resistant to 5 or more antimicrobial classes. On molecular characterisation, 19.4% (27/139) of E. coli isolates from milk, 37.8% (14/37) from hand swabs, and 33.3% (87/261) from slurry samples harboured various genes. Principal component analysis and Shannon-Wiener diversity indices highlighted varying β-lactamase (ESBL/AmpC β-lactamase) gene distributions across samples, with milk exhibiting the highest diversity. Logistic regression analysis revealed a significant protective effect of milk hygiene scores against E. coli occurrence (OR = 0.18; 95% CI: 0.13-0.26, p < 0.001), while linear regression demonstrated a significant negative association between milk hygiene scores and the Multiple Antibiotic Resistance (MAR) index (p = 0.02). Biofilm assays revealed that 19.2% of isolates were strong biofilm formers, with a strong association (p < 0.01) between biofilm formation potential and MAR index. The multidrug-resistant (MDR) isolates were predominantly moderate biofilm producers, with 23.5% (milk), 20% (hand swabs), and 24.1% (slurry) classified as strong biofilm formers. The study findings underscore the need for One Health-integrated strategies to holistically address AMR challenges at the dairy-environment interface.},
}

@article {pmid40599100,
year = {2025},
author = {Sadiq, SI and Ghafil, JA},
title = {Polyhydroxybutyrate nanoparticle improving the sensitivity of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to ceftriaxone and reducing the biofilm formation in vitro.},
journal = {Polimery w medycynie},
volume = {55},
number = {1},
pages = {31-37},
doi = {10.17219/pim/203765},
pmid = {40599100},
issn = {0370-0747},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Humans ; *Nanoparticles/chemistry ; *Ceftriaxone/pharmacology ; *Hydroxybutyrates/chemistry/pharmacology ; Prohibitins ; Bacterial Adhesion/drug effects ; *Polyesters/chemistry/pharmacology ; Polyhydroxybutyrates ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Polyhydroxybutyrate nanoparticles (PHB-NPs) represent a promising strategy for addressing the growing threat of bacterial resistance to antibiotics - a major concern in global public health. Despite their potential, there is a noticeable gap in the current literature regarding their ability to enhance the efficacy of existing antibiotic therapies.

OBJECTIVES: This study investigates the synergistic effect of PHB-NPs in enhancing the antibacterial activity of ceftriaxone (CRO) against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, with a particular focus on mitigating key virulence factors such as biofilm formation and adhesion.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: Polyhydroxybutyrate nanoparticles were synthesized using the pH gradient and sonication method. The antibacterial activity of PHB-NPs, CRO and the combined formulation (PHB-NP-CRO) was assessed using minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) testing and the well diffusion method. Additionally, the effects of these formulations on P. aeruginosa biofilm formation on an abiotic surface (polystyrene) and bacterial adhesion to human oral mucosal epithelial cells (OMECs) were evaluated.

RESULTS: The diameters of the prepared PHB-NPs ranged from 15 nm to 34 nm, with an average size of 28.2 ±6.3 nm. All P. aeruginosa isolates were capable of biofilm production. A negative correlation was observed between the diameter of the CRO inhibition zones and the extent of biofilm formation among the 20 isolates. The MICs for PHB, PHB-NPs, CRO, and the combined formulation (PHB-NP-CRO) were 2,000, 1,000, 250, and 62.5 μg/mL, respectively. Sub-MIC concentrations (as low as 1/32 MIC) of both CRO and PHB-NP-CRO exhibited significant inhibitory effects on biofilm formation and bacterial adhesion to human OMECs (p < 0.050).

CONCLUSIONS: The combination of PHB-NPs with CRO significantly enhances the antibacterial activity of CRO against P. aeruginosa. Moreover, sub-inhibitory concentrations (sub-MICs) of both PHB-NP-CRO and CRO alone effectively reduce the bacterium's ability to form biofilms and adhere to biotic surfaces.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Humans
*Nanoparticles/chemistry
*Ceftriaxone/pharmacology
*Hydroxybutyrates/chemistry/pharmacology
Prohibitins
Bacterial Adhesion/drug effects
*Polyesters/chemistry/pharmacology
Polyhydroxybutyrates

@article {pmid40598247,
year = {2025},
author = {Vodianyk, A and Poniatovskyi, V and Shyrobokov, V},
title = {Biofilm formation on different types of central venous catheters in vitro.},
journal = {BMC research notes},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {267},
pmid = {40598247},
issn = {1756-0500},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; Humans ; *Pseudomonas aeruginosa/physiology/isolation & purification/drug effects ; *Central Venous Catheters/microbiology ; *Klebsiella pneumoniae/physiology/isolation & purification/drug effects ; *Staphylococcus aureus/physiology/isolation & purification/drug effects ; *Catheter-Related Infections/microbiology ; Chlorhexidine/pharmacology ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To determine the intensity of biofilm formation on different types of central venous catheters in vitro by clinical isolates of bloodstream infection pathogens in Ukraine.

METHODS: Four clinical strains of Klebsiella pneumonia, four clinical strains of Staphylococcus aureus and four clinical strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa were isolated from patients from Ukrainian tertial level children`s hospitals during 2023 with bloodstream infections including central line associated blood stream infections. Capacity to form biofilms was assessed using microtiter plate assay and ability to form biofilms in vitro was evaluated on three types of catheters: 1st catheter- surface from medical polyvinyl chloride; 2nd- surface from long-chain polymer based on methacrylate, polyethylene glycol and antiseptic polymeric biguanide; 3rd- silicon surface impregnated with an antimicrobial combination of chlorhexidine acetate and chlorhexidine. Scanning electron microscopy was conducted to assess biofilm formation on the surface of catheters.

RESULTS: Clinical isolates of K pneumonia had similar intensity of biofilm formation on different types of catheters: 1st catheter type- intensity of biofilm formation 0.30-0.34 OD; 2nd catheter type- 0.28-0.37 OD; 3rd catheter type- 0.32-0.37. Clinical isolates of S. aureus form biofilms on all types of catheters by biofilm formation on first type of catheter was lower compared to third type: 1st catheter type- 0.26-0.38 OD; 2nd catheter type- 0.3-0.4 OD; 3rd catheter type- 0.31-0.4 OD (p < 0.05 comparing with 1st catheter). Clinical isolates of P. aeruginosa had the highest ability to form biofilms on catheters. The ability to form biofilms was the most prominent of 3rd types of catheters: 1st catheter type- intensity of biofilm formation 0.38-0.66 OD; 2nd catheter type- 0.44-0.6 OD; 3rd catheter type- 0.54-0.91 OD (p < 0.05 comparing with 1st and 2nd catheter).

CONCLUSIONS: P.aeruginosa clinical strains form stronger biofilms compared to other bacteria on all types of catheters. All clinical isolates were able to form biofilm on catheter after 24 h incubation however intensity of biofilm formation by S.aureus and P.aeruginosa on catheters from medical polyvinyl chloride was lower than on other types. There was no difference in biofilm formation on different types of catheters by K.pneumonia strains in vitro.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
Humans
*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/physiology/isolation & purification/drug effects
*Central Venous Catheters/microbiology
*Klebsiella pneumoniae/physiology/isolation & purification/drug effects
*Staphylococcus aureus/physiology/isolation & purification/drug effects
*Catheter-Related Infections/microbiology
Chlorhexidine/pharmacology

@article {pmid40597263,
year = {2025},
author = {Hu, Y and Chen, Z and Mao, X and Qu, D and Zhai, D and Li, N and Zhou, S and Xue, X and Li, M},
title = {A novel tetrahedral framework nucleic acid-based antibiotic delivery system: overcoming biofilm barriers to combat chronic infections.},
journal = {Journal of nanobiotechnology},
volume = {23},
number = {1},
pages = {465},
pmid = {40597263},
issn = {1477-3155},
support = {82002187, 82273978, 82202575//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 20240314//Youth Talent Support Program of Shaanxi Provincial Science and Technology Association Project/ ; 2022JQ-813//the Natural Science Foundation of Shaanxi Province/ ; 2023-YBSF-629//Shaanxi Provincial Key Research and Development Project/ ; LHJJ24YX19//Xijing Innovation Research Institute - Joint Innovation Fund/ ; TZKN-CXTD-10//Shaanxi TCM Innovation Project/ ; 2024QCY-KXJ-058//the Foundation of Shaanxi province Qin Chuangyuan Project/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; Animals ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Mice ; *Drug Delivery Systems/methods ; Polymyxin B/pharmacology/chemistry ; Liposomes/chemistry ; *Nucleic Acids/chemistry ; Female ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Overcoming bacterial biofilm barriers to enhance the efficacy of antibiotics remains a major therapeutic challenge, necessitating the development of efficient and biocompatible drug delivery systems. While framework nucleic acids (FNAs) have emerged as promising candidates for overcoming biological barriers, their biofilm penetration efficiency and mechanistic interactions require systematic exploration. This study evaluates the biofilm-penetrating capacity of FNAs with distinct topological configurations (linear, triangular, and tetrahedral), investigates their antibiotic delivery performance in biofilm-infected models, and elucidates the structure-dependent interactions between FNAs and bacteria.

RESULTS: DNA tetrahedron (Td) demonstrated superior biofilm penetration, exhibiting 44-fold and 11-fold stronger fluorescence intensity at a biofilm depth of 20 μm compared to linear and triangular counterparts, respectively, while maintaining structural stability. The optimized polymyxin B-loaded Td (PMB@Td, with a PMB: Td ratio of 10:1) enhanced biofilm permeability by 6-fold relative to free PMB. PMB@Td outperformed conventional liposome-encapsulated PMB (PMB@Lipo), achieving half-maximal biofilm eradication concentrations (MBEC50) of 12.8 µM versus 16.3 µM for PMB@Lipo. In murine models of biofilm- associated skin and pulmonary infections, PMB@Td effectively controlled bacterial burden and mitigated inflammatory responses without observable toxicity. Mechanistic studies revealed that the tetrahedral topology facilitated efficient diffusion within the biofilm matrix and enhanced Td adhesion to bacterial membranes.

CONCLUSIONS: This work establishes Td as a robust nanoplatform for overcoming biofilm-mediated antibiotic resistance. The topology-dependent interactions provide critical design principles for engineering next-generation nanocarriers against biofilm-associated chronic infections, with significant translational potential in antibiofilm therapy.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
Animals
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Mice
*Drug Delivery Systems/methods
Polymyxin B/pharmacology/chemistry
Liposomes/chemistry
*Nucleic Acids/chemistry
Female

@article {pmid40595697,
year = {2025},
author = {Marra, D and Rizzo, M and Caserta, S},
title = {Microfluidics unveils role of gravity and shear stress on Pseudomonas fluorescens motility and biofilm growth.},
journal = {NPJ biofilms and microbiomes},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {122},
pmid = {40595697},
issn = {2055-5008},
support = {I-2021-03382//European Space Agency/ ; I-2021-03382//European Space Agency/ ; I53D24000060005//Agenzia Spaziale Italiana/ ; I53D24000060005//Agenzia Spaziale Italiana/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Pseudomonas fluorescens/physiology/growth & development ; *Stress, Mechanical ; *Microfluidics/methods ; *Gravitation ; },
abstract = {Biofilm proliferation in confined environments is a challenge in biomedical, industrial, and space applications. Surfaces in contact with fluids experience varying bulk stresses due to flow and gravity, factors often overlooked in biofilm studies. This research quantifies the combined effect of gravity and shear stress on Pseudomonas fluorescens SBW25 motility and biofilm growth. Using a rectangular-section microfluidic channel under laminar flow, we compared top and bottom surfaces, where gravity either pulls bacteria away or pushes them toward the surface. Results revealed an asymmetric bacterial distribution, leading to varying surface cell densities and contamination levels. We also analyzed spatial reorganization over time and classified bacterial motility under flow. Findings show that external mechanical stresses influence both motility and biofilm morphology, impacting biocontamination patterns based on shear stress and gravity direction. This study provides insights into biofilm control strategies in diverse environments.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Pseudomonas fluorescens/physiology/growth & development
*Stress, Mechanical
*Microfluidics/methods
*Gravitation

@article {pmid40595693,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhou, Y and Huang, F and Lin, H},
title = {Berberine chloride hydrate impairs Streptococcus mutans biofilm formation via inhibiting sortase A activity.},
journal = {NPJ biofilms and microbiomes},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {120},
pmid = {40595693},
issn = {2055-5008},
support = {No. 81970928//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Streptococcus mutans/drug effects/enzymology/physiology/genetics ; *Aminoacyltransferases/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism/genetics ; Animals ; *Cysteine Endopeptidases/metabolism/genetics ; *Bacterial Proteins/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism/genetics ; Dental Caries/microbiology/drug therapy ; *Berberine/pharmacology ; Cattle ; Dental Enamel/microbiology ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; },
abstract = {Dental caries is a biofilm-associated chronic progressive disease, results from the dissolution of mineralized tooth tissue by acidic generated from bacterial sugar fermentation. S. mutans, a prominent pathogen of dental caries, is acknowledged for its role in cariogenic biofilm formation, utilizing Sortase A (SrtA) to catalyse surface proteins, thus promoting biofilm formation. In our previous studies, the inhibitory effect of the berberine chloride hydrate (BH) on S. mutans biofilms was confirmed. Here, we further investigate the influence of BH on S. mutans biofilm-induced bovine enamel caries model and explore the effect of BH on S. mutans SrtA activity. We found that BH inhibited S. mutans biofilm formation in bovine enamel model, leading to a reduction in demineralization. Furthermore, we identified and characterized SrtA, which might catalyze SpaP of S. mutans to form fibrillar amyloid aggregates. Our findings showed that BH inhibited SrtA activity by binding to essential amino acid residues LEU-111, MET-123, and ARG-213. BH inhibited amyloid fibers formation by downregulating the expression of srtA gene, thus disrupting S. mutans biofilm formation. Taken together, our study provides new insight into the mechanism of antibiofilm activity of BH and reveals great potential for anticaries clinical applications.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Streptococcus mutans/drug effects/enzymology/physiology/genetics
*Aminoacyltransferases/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism/genetics
Animals
*Cysteine Endopeptidases/metabolism/genetics
*Bacterial Proteins/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism/genetics
Dental Caries/microbiology/drug therapy
*Berberine/pharmacology
Cattle
Dental Enamel/microbiology
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology

@article {pmid40595622,
year = {2025},
author = {Liao, C and Liu, Q and Luo, G and Luo, Y and Yao, D and Wang, Q and Zhang, J and Wu, Y and Jin, J and Xu, D and Lu, W},
title = {Human neutrophil α-defensin HNP1 interacts with bacterial OmpA to promote Acinetobacter baumannii biofilm formation.},
journal = {Nature communications},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {5629},
pmid = {40595622},
issn = {2041-1723},
support = {82030062//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; 82202529//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; ZD2021CY001//Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality (Shanghai Municipal Science and Technology Commission)/ ; 2021M690666//China Postdoctoral Science Foundation/ ; 2022T150129//China Postdoctoral Science Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {*alpha-Defensins/metabolism/genetics/immunology ; Humans ; *Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; *Acinetobacter baumannii/physiology/drug effects/pathogenicity/metabolism ; *Bacterial Outer Membrane Proteins/metabolism ; *Acinetobacter Infections/microbiology/immunology/metabolism ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Neutrophils/metabolism ; Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid/chemistry ; Animals ; Host-Pathogen Interactions ; },
abstract = {Acinetobacter baumannii is the causative agent of a wide range of nosocomial and community-acquired infections that remain extremely difficult to treat due largely to its antibiotic resistance contributed, in part, by biofilm formation. We find that the prototypic human neutrophil α-defensin HNP1, present in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluids from Acinetobacter baumannii-infected patients, promotes Acinetobacter baumannii biofilm formation through interactions with the bacterial outer membrane protein OmpA. As a result of HNP1-enhanced biofilm formation, Acinetobacter baumannii becomes more tolerant to antibiotics and more readily colonizes host cells and tissues. These unexpected findings contrast the protective roles HNP1 plays in innate immunity against microbial infection, showcasing an example of the host-pathogen arms race where a host defense peptide is exploited by a microbe for pathogenicity.},
}

*alpha-Defensins/metabolism/genetics/immunology
Humans
*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
*Acinetobacter baumannii/physiology/drug effects/pathogenicity/metabolism
*Bacterial Outer Membrane Proteins/metabolism
*Acinetobacter Infections/microbiology/immunology/metabolism
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Neutrophils/metabolism
Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid/chemistry
Animals
Host-Pathogen Interactions

@article {pmid40595376,
year = {2025},
author = {Watchaputi, K and Songdech, P and Jayasekara, C and Puttarak, P and Lamping, E and Cannon, RD and Soontorngun, N},
title = {Yeast-derived glycolipids disrupt Candida biofilm and inhibit expression of genes in cell adhesion.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {20405},
pmid = {40595376},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {28074//King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi's Postdoctoral Fellowship in fiscal year 2024 under KIRIM Research Project/ ; 27802//King Mongkut's university of Technology Thonburi: KMUTT partnering initiative grant fiscal year 2023 under KIRIM/ ; 27802//King Mongkut's university of Technology Thonburi: KMUTT partnering initiative grant fiscal year 2023 under KIRIM/ ; N42A650315//National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT) and King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi for Mid-Career Researcher grant/ ; 6620864//Excellent Research Laboratory for Yeast Innovation of Fiscal Year 2023/ ; },
mesh = {*Glycolipids/pharmacology/isolation & purification/chemistry ; *Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Cell Adhesion/drug effects/genetics ; *Antifungal Agents/pharmacology ; *Candida albicans/drug effects/physiology/genetics ; *Gene Expression Regulation, Fungal/drug effects ; Humans ; },
abstract = {Candida albicans is a leading fungal pathogen in humans, responsible for infections that span from mucosal surfaces to severe systemic diseases. This study aimed to investigate potential ability of yeast-derived glycolipids from Meyerozyma guilliermondii as an antifungal against Candida albicans biofilms. Glycolipid extract (64 µg/mL) reduced metabolic activity by 50% in both immature and mature biofilms, while biofilm mass was reduced at higher concentrations of 128 and 256 µg/mL, respectively. Adhesion, a key step in biofilm formation, decreased by over 50% when cells were treated with glycolipids (16 µg/mL). Gene expression analysis indicated that glycolipids downregulated key adhesion-related gene ACE2, confirming their role in disrupting C. albicans adhesion. Importantly, structural changes in C. albicans biofilms, including reduced hyphal production and wrinkled cell surfaces, were observed under SEM. Nocodazole, a cell cycle synchronizer, arrested cells in the G2/M phase, enhancing glycolipid's effects on lowing expression of biofilm-related genes. Lipidomics analysis also revealed a compound with same mass as sophorolipid. Furthermore, purification glycolipid fraction revealed two main forms: lactonic and acidic, compared to standards. Acidic fraction showed superior antibiofilm and anti-inflammatory activity with low toxicity. These findings highlight the potential of yeast-derived glycolipids for biopharmaceutical applications, particularly in treating Candida biofilms.},
}

*Glycolipids/pharmacology/isolation & purification/chemistry
*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Cell Adhesion/drug effects/genetics
*Antifungal Agents/pharmacology
*Candida albicans/drug effects/physiology/genetics
*Gene Expression Regulation, Fungal/drug effects
Humans

@article {pmid40595324,
year = {2025},
author = {Baseri, M and Naseri, A and Radmand, F and Hamishehkar, H and Memar, MY and Ebrahimi, A and Asnaashari, S and Kouhsoltani, M},
title = {Effect of nano liposomal herbal extracts against biofilm formation and adherence of streptococcus mutans.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {21917},
pmid = {40595324},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {64554//Tabriz University of Medical Sciences/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Streptococcus mutans/drug effects/physiology ; *Plant Extracts/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Liposomes/chemistry ; *Bacterial Adhesion/drug effects ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Dental Caries/microbiology ; Humans ; },
abstract = {Dental caries results from the colonization of oral microorganisms, such as Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans), and their adherence to teeth is the initial step in this process. Therefore, blocking the attachment to the enamel surface would lead to inhibition of biofilm formation. We investigated the antibacterial, antibiofilm, and anti-attachment effects of nano-liposomal herbal extracts, including Shirazi thyme (Zataria multiflora; Z. multiflora), Summer savory (Satureja hortensis; S. hortensis), and Red Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata f. rubra; BRSOR), against biofilm formation and adherence of S. mutans. S. mutans strain ATCC 35,668 was cultured, and aqueous extracts were prepared. An antibacterial assessment was conducted using the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) method by the broth microdilution method. Nanoliposomes of Z. multiflora (Z-NLP) and S. hortensis (S-NLP) were prepared and characterized. Anti-biofilm assay was performed using the minimum biofilm inhibitory concentration (MBIC) test. Finally, the effects of nanoliposomal herbal extracts were evaluated against S. mutans attachments to glass and enamel surfaces. The aqueous extract of BRSOR did not exhibit an antibacterial effect, and therefore, it was abandoned from further consideration in the work. No significant difference was observed between the herbal extracts and the control groups in MIC. Extract-loaded nanoliposomes demonstrated a significantly higher anti-biofilm effect compared to aqueous extracts. Among the study groups, only Z-NLP had a similar attachment level to enamel with Chlorhexidine 0.2%. According to the results, Z-NLP showed a significant effect on the attachment of S. mutans to enamel, thereby inhibiting biofilm formation.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Streptococcus mutans/drug effects/physiology
*Plant Extracts/pharmacology/chemistry
*Liposomes/chemistry
*Bacterial Adhesion/drug effects
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Dental Caries/microbiology
Humans

@article {pmid40595152,
year = {2025},
author = {Ibrahim, SI and Parambil, AM and Jha, N and Tomar, AK and Rajamani, P and Jian, X and Priyadarshini, E and Chuxiao, S},
title = {Targeting ESKAPE pathogens with ZnS and Au@ZnS Core-Shell nanoconjugates for improved biofilm control.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {21407},
pmid = {40595152},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {# 2024bsh001//Postdoctoral Research start-up Fund, Lishui Peoples Hospital/ ; CZ.10.03.1/00/22_003/0000048//Researcher Excellence For Region Sustainability and High-tech Industries (REFRESH) Project, European Union/ ; # 2022SJZC074 & 2022SJZC079//Municipal Public Welfare Self-financing Technology Application Research Project of Lishui/ ; # 2022SJZC074 & 2022SJZC079//Municipal Public Welfare Self-financing Technology Application Research Project of Lishui/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Gold/chemistry/pharmacology ; *Zinc Compounds/chemistry/pharmacology ; Quantum Dots/chemistry ; *Sulfides/chemistry/pharmacology ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Nanoconjugates/chemistry ; Humans ; },
abstract = {The escalating prevalence of antibiotic-resistant infections and implant-related complications caused by biofilm-forming pathogens from the ESKAPE group, as identified by the World Health Organization (WHO), underscores the urgent need for innovative anti-biofilm strategies. Their occurrence on medical implants & prosthetic devices, as well as nosocomial infections in co-morbid patients, has become a global concern in the healthcare sector. In response, we investigated the efficacy of as-synthesized ZnS quantum dots (ZnS QD) and novel Au@ZnS nanoconjugates (Au@ZnS NC) against a spectrum of ESKAPE pathogens. The present study aimed to elucidate their antibacterial and anti-biofilm efficacy, focusing on Acinetobacter baumannii, Enterobacter cloacae, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Enterococcus faecium, Proteus mirabilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus and Enterobacter aerogenes pathogens. The novel synthesis and application of ZnS QD and Au@ZnS core-shell NC demonstrate exceptional anti-biofilm efficacy, stability, and solubility in aqueous environments. Utilizing minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assays, tube dilution, and biofilm formation assay, we noticed a significant reduction in biofilm formation and extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) production upon treatment with Au@ZnS NC, even at low concentrations. Further investigations, including cell permeability assay, reactive oxygen species analysis, and comet analysis, demonstrated that the Au@ZnS NC induced oxidative stress, destabilizing cell structure, macromolecule destruction, and DNA strand breakage. Notably, Au@ZnS nanoconjugates effectively inhibited biofilm formation within 24 h across all tested strains, outperforming ZnS quantum dots. This research highlights the potential of Au@ZnS nanoconjugates to revolutionize infection control on medical devices and implants, offering a promising solution to the global healthcare challenge posed by biofilm-forming pathogens as we also observed minimal bacterial colonization on Au@ZnS treated urinary catheters.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Gold/chemistry/pharmacology
*Zinc Compounds/chemistry/pharmacology
Quantum Dots/chemistry
*Sulfides/chemistry/pharmacology
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Nanoconjugates/chemistry
Humans

@article {pmid40594258,
year = {2025},
author = {Peng, L and Wen, S and Yu, L and Li, H and Wang, F and Deng, X},
title = {Characterizations of sulfate-reducing bacteria biofilm formed on N80 carbon steel in artificial shale gas field produced water.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {22388},
pmid = {40594258},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Steel/chemistry ; Corrosion ; *Sulfates/metabolism ; *Carbon/chemistry ; *Oil and Gas Fields/microbiology ; Temperature ; *Bacteria/metabolism/growth & development ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning ; Water/chemistry ; },
abstract = {The corrosion of steel caused by sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) has been a big trouble resulting in the service failure of engineering equipment, and SRB biofilm is the direct reason leading to the corrosion acceleration. In this work, SRB biofilms formed on N80 carbon steel in an artificial shale gas field produced water with different test conditions were characterized carefully by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), fluorescence microscope, and three-dimensional stereoscopic microscope. Results demonstrate that test time, temperature, and initial SRB cell concentration can influence the growth and surface morphology of biofilm, and test time and temperature are primary factors. There is a highest corrosion rate of 0.100 ± 0.005 mm/y on the seventh day due to the high biological activity, and then corrosion rates gradually decline with time. The formed biofilms at different time have a similar morphology and the contents of elemental S in biofilms are high also suggesting SRB corrosion. Temperature can influence the biological activity of SRB, and then affect the formation of SRB biofilms. SRB has a higher biological activity at 20 and 37 °C than that of at 60 and 80 °C. The influence of initial SRB cell count differences on biofilm is weak.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Steel/chemistry
Corrosion
*Sulfates/metabolism
*Carbon/chemistry
*Oil and Gas Fields/microbiology
Temperature
*Bacteria/metabolism/growth & development
Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
Water/chemistry

@article {pmid40594086,
year = {2025},
author = {Leifels, M and Cheng, D and Cai, J and Nadhirah, N and Mohidin, AF and Santillan, E and Woo, Y and Hill, E and Wu, SW and Boon, N and Favere, J and Whittle, AJ and Wuertz, S},
title = {Biofilm detachment significantly affects biological stability of drinking water during intermittent water supply in a pilot scale water distribution system.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {22408},
pmid = {40594086},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {3S85419//the FWO Flanders/ ; 3S85419//the FWO Flanders/ ; S006221N//FWO-SBO Biostable project/ ; S006221N//FWO-SBO Biostable project/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Drinking Water/microbiology ; *Water Supply ; *Water Microbiology ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Pilot Projects ; Flow Cytometry ; Water Quality ; Bacteria/genetics/classification ; Water Purification ; },
abstract = {Intermittent service provision (IWS) in piped drinking water distribution systems is practiced in countries with limited water resources; it leads to stagnant periods during which water drains completely from de-pressurized pipes, increasing the likelihood of biofilm detachment upon reconnection when water is supplied to the consumer and thus affecting water quality. Our study examines the impact of uninterrupted or continuous water supply (CWS) and IWS on microbial communities and biofilm detachment, using data from three 30-day experiments conducted in an above-ground drinking water testbed with 90-m long PVC pipes containing residual monochloramine. Flow cytometry (FCM) revealed a significant increase in total and intact cell concentrations when water was supplied intermittently compared to CWS, and the microbial alpha-diversity was significantly higher in CWS sections by both 16S rRNA gene metabarcoding and phenotypic fingerprinting of flow cytometry data. Nitrate levels in the water were significantly higher during initial intermittent flow due to the activity of nitrifying bacteria in biofilms exposed to stagnant water in pipes. Overall, biofilm detachment significantly affects the biological stability of drinking water delivered through IWS compared to CWS. We developed a novel biofilm detachment potential index derived from FCM data to estimate the minimum amount of water needed to be discarded before microbial cell counts and community composition return to baseline levels.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Drinking Water/microbiology
*Water Supply
*Water Microbiology
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
Pilot Projects
Flow Cytometry
Water Quality
Bacteria/genetics/classification
Water Purification

@article {pmid40593407,
year = {2025},
author = {Abdelhakeem, E and Attia, H and Hashem, MM and Khalek, MAA and Badr-Eldin, SM and Adel, IM},
title = {Innovative Antimicrobial Nanofibers: Natural Integrations for Enhanced Wound Healing and Biofilm Disruption.},
journal = {AAPS PharmSciTech},
volume = {26},
number = {6},
pages = {181},
pmid = {40593407},
issn = {1530-9932},
mesh = {*Nanofibers/chemistry ; *Biofilms/drug effects ; *Wound Healing/drug effects ; *Anti-Infective Agents/chemistry/pharmacology/administration & dosage ; *Plant Extracts/chemistry/pharmacology/administration & dosage ; Polyurethanes/chemistry ; Drug Liberation ; Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Interactions ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests/methods ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Animals ; Drug Delivery Systems/methods ; },
abstract = {Wound infections caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria present a substantial challenge in healthcare. Nanofibers, particularly when infused with natural extracts, are emerging as promising platforms for antimicrobial applications. This study investigates the potential of Anastatica hierochuntica extract-loaded electrospun nanofibers prepared with thermoplastic polyurethane for combating infections and promoting wound healing. Electrospinning was utilized to prepare nanofibers infused with Anastatica hierochuntica extract, resulting in uniform rod-shaped structures confirmed by scanning electron microscopy. The hydrophilicity of the nanofibers was assessed through water contact angle (WCA) measurements and swelling tests. Mechanical properties, including strain and stress were evaluated to determine suitability for drug delivery. The formulation with optimal properties, designated as NF20, underwent further investigation. Drug release profiles were analyzed over 72 h, and antimicrobial efficacy was tested against various pathogens, with comparisons made to Silymarin as a standard. A biofilm study evaluated the anti-virulence activity, while wound healing assays assessed the optimized extract loaded nanofibers potential in fostering tissue repair. The extract-loaded nanofibers exhibited enhanced hydrophilicity, with a WCA of 43.1 ± 0.6° and swelling of 216.67 ± 2.36% after 1 h. NF20 demonstrated superior mechanical properties, with strain and stress values of 67.6% and 0.0486 N/mm[2], respectively. The sustained release profile indicated 73.40 ± 1.31% release after 72 h. Antimicrobial tests revealed significant reductions in minimum inhibitory concentration, minimum bactericidal concentration, and minimum fungicidal concentration against key pathogens. The biofilm study confirmed extract loaded nanofiber's efficacy in inhibiting biofilm formation and disrupting established biofilms. These findings underscore the potential of the extract-loaded nanofiber composed of thermoplastic polyurethane as innovative wound dressings that enhance antimicrobial properties, promote accelerated healing and support tissue regeneration.},
}

*Nanofibers/chemistry
*Biofilms/drug effects
*Wound Healing/drug effects
*Anti-Infective Agents/chemistry/pharmacology/administration & dosage
*Plant Extracts/chemistry/pharmacology/administration & dosage
Polyurethanes/chemistry
Drug Liberation
Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Interactions
Microbial Sensitivity Tests/methods
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Animals
Drug Delivery Systems/methods

@article {pmid40593004,
year = {2025},
author = {Johnson, MP and Al Bataineh, MT and Sreedharan, SP and Jelinek, HF and Hughes, MP},
title = {Vm and ζ-potential of Candida albicans corelate with biofilm formation.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {22475},
pmid = {40593004},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {FSU-2022-020//Khalifa University of Science, Technology and Research/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Candida albicans/physiology ; *Membrane Potentials ; Humans ; },
abstract = {Microbial biofilms are known to defend against the host's immune system and provide resistant to antimicrobial medications. Biofilms can form on various human organ systems spanning the gastrointestinal, respiratory, cardiovascular, and urinary organ systems. Conditions caused by the yeast Candida albicans can range from irritating thrush, to systemic and life-threatening candidiasis. Initial contact between organism and surface is mediated electrically, with subsequent interactions developed biochemically. Since different cells have different electrical characteristics, we hypothesised that alteration in these properties may align with different strains' propensity for biofilm formation. We used three strains of C. albicans with different tendencies for biofilm formation and filament phenotype (the most filamentous strain nrg1 Δ/Δ, the least filamentous ume6 Δ/Δ, and wildtype DK318), we investigated the passive electrical properties, membrane potential Vm and ζ-potential at two conductivities. Results suggest Vm and ζ-potential correlate with a cell's ability to form biofilms, suggesting correlation between membrane potential, ζ-potential and biofilm formation. Understanding this relationship may suggest potential routes to future prevention of biofouling and biofilm-related illness.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Candida albicans/physiology
*Membrane Potentials
Humans

@article {pmid40592250,
year = {2025},
author = {Hatamian, G and Noghabi, ZS and Shakeri, A and Ebrahimipour, G and Fazly Bazzaz, BS and Soheili, V},
title = {Chalcone derivatives against biofilm production of Streptococcus mutans by glucosyltransferase C inhibition.},
journal = {Biochemical and biophysical research communications},
volume = {777},
number = {},
pages = {152273},
doi = {10.1016/j.bbrc.2025.152273},
pmid = {40592250},
issn = {1090-2104},
abstract = {Dental caries remain an unresolved public health issue. Streptococcus mutans, a principal microorganism in the mouth, is closely associated with the onset and progression of dental caries. S. mutans adheres to tooth surfaces and synthesizes extracellular polysaccharides via the enzyme glucosyltransferase (Gtf), utilizing sucrose and forming biofilms. GtfC is linked to soluble and insoluble glucan synthesis, a significant factor in the adhesion of S. mutans to tooth surfaces and bacterial cell aggregation within biofilms. Chalcones, primary precursors for flavonoid and isoflavonoid biosynthesis, have demonstrated notable therapeutic efficacy in treating various diseases, including anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anticancer effects. This study aims to evaluate the inhibitory effects of six chalcone derivatives on GtfC, the prevention of biofilm formation by S. mutans, and the assessment of the cytotoxicity of these derivatives. To predict interactions between chalcone derivatives (5a, 5b, 5d, 5h, NME2, and BA) and GtfC, molecular docking was employed. The effectiveness of chalcone derivatives in inhibiting S. mutans biofilm formation and evaluating the potential of the compounds to destroy biofilms was assessed using a colorimetric method, with dye absorbance measured by an ELISA reader. The same method was applied for cytotoxicity assessment. All chalcone derivatives inhibited the growth of S. mutans, S. sanguinis, and S. salivarius, exhibiting antibiofilm properties against S. mutans. Compounds 5a, 5b, 5d, and NME2 successfully eradicated the S. mutans biofilm. All compounds demonstrated low cytotoxicity on HepG2 cells. The results indicate that compound 5a exhibited the strongest effect among the six chalcone derivatives, showing effectiveness at lower concentrations in all assays, including MBIC and MBEC tests.},
}

@article {pmid40590993,
year = {2025},
author = {Chaudhary, N and Ahmad, I and Samreen, and Althubiani, AS},
title = {Prevalence of Biofilm-Forming, ESβLs and Metallo-β-lactamase Producing Gram-Negative MDR Bacteria in the Domestic and Hospital Wastewater of Aligarh City.},
journal = {Current microbiology},
volume = {82},
number = {8},
pages = {354},
pmid = {40590993},
issn = {1432-0991},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *beta-Lactamases/genetics/metabolism ; *Wastewater/microbiology ; *Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/genetics ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Hospitals ; *Gram-Negative Bacteria/genetics/drug effects/isolation & purification/enzymology/physiology/classification ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Prevalence ; Humans ; India ; },
abstract = {Gram-negative pathogenic bacteria are a major contributor to antibiotic-resistant infections in hospitals and communities. The emergence of multidrug resistance (MDR) and biofilm formation complicates chemotherapy. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) biofilm-forming, extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESβL) and metallo-beta-lactamase (MβL) producers in wastewater, which pose a public health threat. During 2022-2023, 117 enteric/Gram-negative isolates were isolated using selective culture techniques. Antimicrobial resistance was assessed via disc diffusion assay. ESβL and MβL production was confirmed through phenotypic and PCR-based methods. Biofilm formation was determined using a microtiter plate assay. Biofilms developed on glass coverslips were visualized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Isolates with bla-CTX-M, bla-SHV, and bla-NDM-1 genes were identified by partial 16S rRNA gene sequencing. A total of 93.16% of isolates were resistant to multiple drug classes (≥ 4), with the increased resistance to ampicillin (100%) and the lowest to gentamicin (12.82%). Biofilm assays indicated that 32.48% of MDR strains formed strong biofilms, 31.62% moderate, and 35.90% weak. β-lactamase activity appeared in 58.97% of isolates, with 56.41% confirmed as ESβL producers. PCR detection in ESβL-positive strains showed 84.61% carried CTX-M, 46.15% SHV, and 53.84% NDM-1 genes. 16S rRNA gene sequencing identified selected MDR strains as Escherichia coli (5), Klebsiella pneumoniae (1), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (1), Salmonella sp. (1), Enterobacter sp. (1), Citrobacter sp. (1), and Proteus sp. (1). The findings reveal the prevalence of biofilm-forming, ESβL, and MβL-producing Gram-negative pathogens in Aligarh's wastewater, underscoring the need for effective treatment to reduce public health risks from MDR bacteria and AMR genes.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*beta-Lactamases/genetics/metabolism
*Wastewater/microbiology
*Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/genetics
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Hospitals
*Gram-Negative Bacteria/genetics/drug effects/isolation & purification/enzymology/physiology/classification
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Prevalence
Humans
India

@article {pmid40589528,
year = {2025},
author = {Zareshahrabadi, Z and Sahmeddini, S and Meimandinezhad, M and Tondari, A and Zomorodian, K},
title = {Influence of Filler Content and Polishing on Candida and Streptococci Biofilm Formation in Resin-Based Composites: An In Vitro Evaluation.},
journal = {The Canadian journal of infectious diseases & medical microbiology = Journal canadien des maladies infectieuses et de la microbiologie medicale},
volume = {2025},
number = {},
pages = {5734405},
pmid = {40589528},
issn = {1712-9532},
abstract = {Aim: The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of filler content and polishing of resin-based composites on in vitro biofilm formation of Candida and Streptococci species. Materials and Methods: Specimens of four commercially available resin-based composites including Z100, P60, Z250, and Z350, with different filler amounts and volumes, were prepared according to the manufacturer's instructions. Each group was divided into polished and unpolished specimens, which were then placed in a 24-well tissue culture plate with microbial suspension and incubated. The XTT technique was used to evaluate biofilm formation. Results: Z250 resin-based composites, which had the highest percentage of filler (68%), had the highest biofilm metabolic activity. A significantly less microbial biofilm metabolic activity was noted on P60 polished resin-based composites than on unpolished groups (p < 0.001). Polishing procedures reduce biofilm metabolic activity. Streptococcus salivarius produced the least biofilm metabolic activity among the Streptococcal species (p < 0.001). However, there were no statistically significant differences between Candida species in the biofilm metabolic activity. Conclusion: The results revealed that the amount of filler in resin-based composites had a major impact on the biofilm metabolic activity. Therefore, resin-based composites with a minimized excess resin matrix, minimized filler amount, and smoother surfaces might be more useful in reducing biofilm metabolic activity and secondary caries. These findings may be useful for modifying novel resin-based composite formulations to improve oral health and patient wellbeing.},
}

@article {pmid40586542,
year = {2025},
author = {Bruno, JS and Heidrich, V and Restini, FCF and Alves, TMMT and Miranda-Silva, W and Knebel, FH and Cóser, EM and Inoue, LT and Asprino, PF and Camargo, AA and Fregnani, ER},
title = {Dental biofilm serves as an ecological reservoir of acidogenic pathobionts in head and neck cancer patients with radiotherapy-related caries.},
journal = {mSphere},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0025725},
doi = {10.1128/msphere.00257-25},
pmid = {40586542},
issn = {2379-5042},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Radiotherapy-related caries (RRC) is an aggressive and debilitating oral toxicity that affects half of the patients who undergo radiotherapy for head and neck cancer. However, the etiology of RRC is not fully established, and there are no clinically validated methods for preventing it. To gain a better understanding of the risk factors and the microbiome's role in causing RRC, we compared clinicopathological characteristics, oncological treatment regimens, oral health condition, and the oral microbiota at three different oral sites of radiotherapy-treated patients with (RRC+) and without radiotherapy-related caries (RRC-). We observed no significant differences between these groups in the clinicopathological characteristics and treatment regimens. However, RRC+ patients were older and had poorer oral health conditions at the start of the radiotherapy treatment, with a lower number of teeth and a higher proportion of rehabilitated teeth. RRC+ patients had lower microbiota diversity and the dental biofilm of RRC+ patients displayed striking alterations in microbiome composition compared to RRC- patients, including enrichment of acidogenic species and altered metabolic potential, with a higher abundance of genes linked to energy-related pathways associated with the synthesis of amino acids and sugars. We also compared the microbiota of RRC+ tissue with conventional caries tissue, revealing lower bacterial diversity and enrichment of Lactobacillaceae members in RRC+. The insights into the irradiated oral microbiota enhance the understanding of RRC etiology and highlight the potential for microbial-targeted therapies in its prevention and treatment.

IMPORTANCE: This study focuses on a dedicated collection of diverse oral sites to comprehensively investigate microbial differences between patients who develop RRC and those who do not. RRC is a severe oral disease that profoundly impacts on the oral health and overall quality of life of cancer survivors. Leveraging shotgun metagenomics, we characterize the unique microbial variations in in vivo irradiated dental biofilms, unveiling novel insights into the microbial ecology of radiotherapy-treated patients. Furthermore, this research integrates extensive data on oral health and oncological profiles, providing a comprehensive understanding of the intricate relationship between oral microbial communities and the outcomes of radiotherapy-induced toxicity.},
}

@article {pmid40585315,
year = {2025},
author = {Bhaumik, R and Beard, A and Harrigan, O and Ramos-Hegazy, L and Mattoo, S and Anderson, GG},
title = {Role of SMF-1 and cbl pili in Stenotrophomonas maltophilia biofilm formation.},
journal = {Biofilm},
volume = {9},
number = {},
pages = {100253},
pmid = {40585315},
issn = {2590-2075},
abstract = {Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is an emerging multidrug-resistant, Gram-negative opportunistic pathogen. It causes many healthcare-associated infections such as sepsis, endocarditis, meningitis, and catheter-related urinary tract infections. It also affects individuals with cystic fibrosis, exacerbating their lung condition. S. maltophilia often causes pathogenesis through the formation of biofilms. However, the molecular mechanisms S. maltophilia uses to carry out these pathogenic steps are unclear. The SMF-1 chaperone/usher pilus has been thought to mediate S. maltophilia attachment. To confirm this role, we created an isogenic deletion of the smf-1 pilin gene and observed a defect in biofilm compared to wild type. We also discovered an additional chaperone/usher pilus gene cluster: cbl. Mutation of cbl also affects biofilm levels. Intriguingly, through transmission electron microscopy studies, we found suggestive evidence that the mutation of one pilus (e.g. smf) is not phenotypically compensated by another (e.g. cbl). Additionally, infection of Galleria mellonella larvae revealed increased virulence of an smf-1 deletion mutant and an smf-1 cbl double deletion mutant. Together, these studies show that pili have an important role in switching between acute and chronic infections in conducting S. maltophilia virulence. Understanding their activity may help identify therapeutic targets for this pathogen.},
}

@article {pmid40585314,
year = {2025},
author = {Coenye, T and Goeres, DM and Kjellerup, BV and Kovács, ÁT},
title = {A guide to publishing in Biofilm: how to avoid a desk rejection.},
journal = {Biofilm},
volume = {9},
number = {},
pages = {100282},
pmid = {40585314},
issn = {2590-2075},
}

@article {pmid40585313,
year = {2025},
author = {Rajasekharan, SK and Angelini, LL and Kroupitski, Y and Mwangi, EW and Chai, Y and Shemesh, M},
title = {Mitigating Candida albicans virulence by targeted relay of pulcherriminic acid during antagonistic biofilm formation by Bacillus subtilis.},
journal = {Biofilm},
volume = {9},
number = {},
pages = {100244},
pmid = {40585313},
issn = {2590-2075},
abstract = {The antagonistic biofilms formed by probiotic Bacilli may significantly mitigate persistent strains of Candida albicans, which are often involved in severe oral, vulvovaginal or systemic infections in humans. Here, we report on a spatiotemporal antagonistic activity mediated through pulcherriminic acid (PA) production by biofilm-forming B. subtilis, which is subsequently transported to the extracellular environment and binds ferric iron to form red-coloured pigment pulcherrimin. We show that the pulcherrimin building-up is targeted towards the C. albicans macrocolony via B. subtilis biofilm branching and successive PA relay. Furthermore, biofilm-forming B. subtilis cells demonstrate robust hyphal colonization that results subsequent eradication of C. albicans. Besides, extracted pulcherrimin mitigates C. albicans biofilm formation and yeast-to-hyphae (Y-H) transition. We further find that the mode of hyphal colonization could be regulated via SpoA-SinI pathway, while pulcherrimin relay is connected to surfactin production machinery. We assume therefore that the pulcherrimin relay for iron hijacking, in parallel to the direct hyphal colonization by biofilm-forming Bacilli, may provide a promising platform for developing therapeutic concepts to overcome antibiotic persistence in pathogenic yeasts.},
}

@article {pmid40584603,
year = {2024},
author = {Abrantes, PMDS and Chesnay Stuurman, K and Arthur Klaasen, J and Joyce Africa, CW},
title = {Monitoring of Candida biofilm inhibition by Galenia africana using real-time impedance-based technology.},
journal = {Current medical mycology},
volume = {10},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40584603},
issn = {2423-3439},
abstract = {BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Yeasts of the Candida genus are responsible for localized and disseminated infections, especially in immunocompromised populations. These infections are exacerbated by the rapid increase in drug-resistant strains, which limits treatment options and increases patient morbidity and mortality. Therefore, the utilization of easily accessible natural products as alternatives to conventional medicines has gained interest. South Africa is home to a rich biodiverse natural flora of which many are known for their antimicrobial activity, including the antifungal effects of their plant extracts. Galenia africana (kraalbos) is a local indigenous plant found to have various traditional uses, including the treatment and prevention of various human infections.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this study, the activity of G. africana against Candida albicans and Candida glabrata preformed biofilm formation and its antibiofilm activity were tested using the xCELLigence system, which monitors biofilm formation in real time using impedance.

RESULTS: Presence of G. africana resulted in a dose-dependent decrease in Candida biofilms and was found to be effective in the prevention of Candida biofilm formation and disruption of the existing Candida biofilms.

CONCLUSION: The xCELLigence impedance-based system proved to be an effective tool for medication screening. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported study to use real-time monitoring of a medicinal plant on microbial biofilm formation.},
}

@article {pmid40583555,
year = {2025},
author = {Dinelli, RG and Shibli, JA and Tolentino, PHMP and da-Silva, LDA and Brugnera-Junior, A and Piattelli, A and Bueno, MR and Dos Santos, NR and Figueiredo, LC and Bueno-Silva, B},
title = {5-Aminolevulinic Acid Gel Associated with Light-Emitting Diode Modulates the in Vitro Subgingival Multispecies Oral Biofilm.},
journal = {Photobiomodulation, photomedicine, and laser surgery},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1089/photob.2025.0014},
pmid = {40583555},
issn = {2578-5478},
abstract = {Objective: This study assessed the impact of a 5% combination of 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) (Aladent) in a multispecies in vitro biofilm model subgingival pathogens. Methods: The 33-species biofilm model was established in the Calgary Biofilm Device during a duration of 7 days. The biofilm treatments comprised various groups: control, light-emitting diode (LED), Aladent (ALADA), and Aladent with LED (ALAD+L), administered on day 6. The Aladent was in contact with the biofilm for 45 min before to the 7-min LED treatment. The LED (λ = 630 nm, power ≈ 380 mW/cm[2]) was placed 2 mm from the biofilm. Subsequently, during 7 days of biofilm formation, the metabolic activity of the biofilms was assessed utilizing triphenyltetrazolium chloride, and the presence of 33 bacterial species was evaluated through DNA-DNA hybridization. Results: The findings indicated that the ALAD+L treatment was the sole intervention demonstrating a statistically significant reduction (∼70%) in the metabolic activity of the biofilms relative to the control group. Moreover, ALAD+L markedly diminished the overall biofilm count and the average counts of five bacterial species: S. intermedius, V. parvula, A. israelii, P. gingivalis, and E. saburreum. Conclusion: The integration of the photosensitizer Aladent with LED application significantly diminished metabolic activity and bacterial species count in the multispecies subgingival biofilm model, indicating substantial promise for the treatment of peri-implantitis.},
}

@article {pmid40582537,
year = {2025},
author = {Yu, D and He, J and Zhang, X and Liu, Y and Yang, Y and Yin, L and Luan, S and Tang, H},
title = {Biofilm penetrating and disrupting polymers to effectively treat endotracheal-tube-associated biofilm infections.},
journal = {Acta biomaterialia},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.actbio.2025.06.053},
pmid = {40582537},
issn = {1878-7568},
abstract = {Endotracheal-tube-associated biofilm infections (ETTABIs) are directly responsible for most of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), one of the most frequent ICU-acquired infections with up to 13% mortality rates. Herein, we report a new type of biofilm penetrating and disrupting polymers that can be readily used to effectively treat the ETTABIs. A series of mixed-charge brush polymers with dextran main-chains and random copolypeptide side-chains (e.g., Dex-GnEm) were synthesized by a combination of ring-opening polymerization and side-chain or end-group modifications. The effects of α-amino-acid residue compositions, cationic species, and brush-like topological structures on antibiofilm activities were revealed. The top-performing polymer, namely Dex-G15E15 with equivalent guanidinium-modified L-lysine and L-glutamic acid residues showed efficient biofilm penetrating activity significantly outperforming its cationic polymer counterpart. It also showed potent biofilm disrupting activity that over 90% biofilm can be readily eradicated within 24 h. The majority of the bacteria in the biofilms were killed by a membrane disruption mechanism. In addition, Dex-G15E15 could eradicate biofilms formed in endotracheal tubes, inhibit lung infections, and reduce inflammatory responses in a mouse endotracheal intubation model. This work provides a promising antibiofilm reagent candidate to efficiently treat ETTABIs and VAP. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Endotracheal-tube-associated biofilm infections (ETTABIs) present a major challenge in critical care settings, driving persistent infections, antimicrobial resistance, and ventilator-associated pneumonia. Conventional antimicrobial strategies often fail to penetrate biofilms or inadvertently promote bacterial adaptation. Herein, we developed a biofilm penetrating and disrupting polymer to effectively treat ETTABIs. The polymer with brush-like structure and mixed-charge side-chain showed potent biofilm eradication efficacy by efficient penetrating the biofilm, disrupting both biofilm EPS and bacterial membranes, outperforming conventional antibiotics (e.g., ceftazidime, tobramycin, and ciprofloxacin) and linear or brush-like cationic polymers. It also showed potent inhibition of lung infections and reduction of inflammatory responses in a mouse endotracheal intubation model, making it a promising candidate to combat the ETTABIs.},
}

@article {pmid40581610,
year = {2025},
author = {Camilo Pattini, V and de Assis, L and Almeida, MTG and Regasini, LO and van der Mei, HC},
title = {2-Hydroxy-dibenzylideneacetone as a multifunctional coating inhibiting biofilm formation of Candida albicans.},
journal = {Journal of applied microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jambio/lxaf155},
pmid = {40581610},
issn = {1365-2672},
abstract = {AIM: Candida albicans emerges as an opportunistic fungus among nosocomial infections, which can include sepsis, bloodstream infections and infections-associated with medical devices. Therefore, we investigated the effectiveness of 2-hydroxy-dibenzylideneacetone, a monocarbonyl curcuminoid as an antifouling-coating against C. albicans.

METHODS AND RESULTS: Polystyrene (hydrophobic) and glass (hydrophilic) were used to study the influence of a curcuminoid-coating on biofilm formation. Fourier-transform-infrared-spectroscopy spectra indicated a successful curcuminoid coating on both surfaces. Atomic-force-microscopy data showed that the curcuminoid-coating on polystyrene decreased the adhesion strength of C. albicans, but had minimal effect on glass. Hyphal growth, a key virulence factor, was significantly reduced on both coated-surfaces. Biofilm formation was significantly reduced on coated polystyrene, but not on glass. Gene expression revealed downregulation of adhesion and biofilm-related genes (HWP1, ALS3, ALS5). Exposure of a 48-h biofilm to curcuminoid decreased the metabolic activity of the biofilm. The curcuminoid coating was biocompatible and non-cytotoxic against human oral keratinocytes and human gingival fibroblasts.

CONCLUSIONS: This study underscores the potential of a curcuminoid-coating to prevent C. albicans adhesion, reduced hyphal and biofilm formation, and reduced metabolic activity of biofilms, highlighting its potential use as an antifouling coating against Candida-associated infections.},
}

@article {pmid40581597,
year = {2025},
author = {Tran, PN and Michalczyk, AA and Catubig, RA and Glasson, J and Puelles, JS and Ghorbani, M and Somers, AE and Forsyth, M and Ackland, ML},
title = {Corrosion of AISI 1030 mild steel is influenced by bacteria type, oxygen availability and biofilm formation under controlled laboratory conditions.},
journal = {Journal of applied microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jambio/lxaf154},
pmid = {40581597},
issn = {1365-2672},
abstract = {AIM: Bacteria are reported to have both stimulatory and inhibitory effects on the corrosion of metal. To investigate this, we measured corrosion of AISI 1030 mild steel by four species of bacteria: P. aeruginosa, Lelliottia WAP21, B. subtilis and E. cloacae in cultures with normal and restricted access to O2.

METHODS AND RESULTS: Scanning electron microscopy, three-dimensional profilometry and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry were used to measure corrosion. Under aerobic conditions, all four bacterial strains protected the metal surface from pit formation compared with abiotic cultures, most likely through the formation of a biofilm that restricting oxygen access. In contrast, in low-oxygen environments, bacteria caused greater surface corrosion and biofilm formation. Specifically, Lelliottia WAP21 caused corrosion pits more than ten times deeper than those in abiotic cultures and 18-fold more Fe release relative to abiotic controls. Biofilm structures varied with oxygen availability, with each bacterial strain producing distinct biofilms with different elemental composition compared with the abiotic corrosion products. The O2 utilisation in the presence of metal may be related to bacterial metabolic activities including biofilm formation. The presence of Fe was metabolically favourable for bacteria and stimulated growth particularly in low O2 conditions.

CONCLUSION: Our findings show species-specific effects of bacteria on corrosion, where bacterial activity can either enhance or inhibit corrosion depending on oxygen availability.},
}

@article {pmid40580700,
year = {2025},
author = {Xiong, S and Zhang, N and Sun, H and Zhang, M and Li, X and Luo, X and Zhang, Y and Lu, R},
title = {LtrA is critical for biofilm formation and colonization of Vibrio parahaemolyticus on food-related surfaces.},
journal = {International journal of food microbiology},
volume = {441},
number = {},
pages = {111327},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2025.111327},
pmid = {40580700},
issn = {1879-3460},
abstract = {Vibrio parahaemolyticus is the leading causative agent of seafood-associated acute gastroenteritis. The formation of biofilms is one of the key reasons for its resistance to adverse environments and its persistence in seafood. Investigating the regulatory mechanisms of biofilm formation is beneficial for the development of new intervention methods to reduce V. parahaemolyticus contamination during seafood processing and storage. In this study, we identified a global regulator, LtrA (VPA0519), which is involved in regulating biofilm formation in V. parahaemolyticus. The deletion of ltrA led to a significant alteration in the transcription levels of 706 genes, including those associated with type III and VI secretion systems and biofilm formation. LtrA positively regulated biofilm formation by enhancing the production of exopolysaccharides, extracellular proteins, extracellular DNA, and cyclic di-GMP (c-di-GMP), as well as by decreasing swimming and swarming motility. The deletion of the ltrA gene also led to a reduction in the metabolic activity of biofilm cells but did not affect the production of capsular polysaccharide. Furthermore, the deletion of the ltrA gene resulted in a decrease in the biofilm formation ability of V. parahaemolyticus on the surfaces of shrimp (Parapenaeopsis hardwickii), crab (Portunus trituberculatus), polypropylene plastic, glass, and stainless steel. The findings in this study extend our understanding of the roles of LtrA and the genetic determinants involved in biofilm formation by V. parahaemolyticus.},
}

@article {pmid40578698,
year = {2025},
author = {Shao, S and Liu, J and Pan, D and Wu, X},
title = {New insight on nitrogen and phosphorus removal of moving bed biofilm reactor driven by ferromanganese binary oxide: Performances and mechanisms.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {132891},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2025.132891},
pmid = {40578698},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {The moving bed biofilm reactor with different iron-manganese ratios was developed to treat the simulated domestic wastewater with a low carbon-to-nitrogen ratio. The result showed that NH4[+]-N and NO3[-]-N of 96 ± 2 % and 55 ± 5 %, 97 ± 1 % and 34 ± 6 %, and 40 ± 5 % and 75 ± 4 % were removed in phases II-IV, and phosphorus removal included adsorption of biological iron and manganese oxides and biological removal. Ferromanganese binary oxide stimulated the extracellular polymeric substances secretion, and dissolved organic matter accelerated the iron-manganese redox cycling. Furthermore, fate of manganese and iron was explored, indicating that location of iron-manganese redox cycling was mainly outside the cells. Specific mechanism of iron-manganese redox cycling driven nitrogen and phosphorus removal was clarified including biofilm community. In conclusion, iron-manganese redox cycling reduced the reactive oxygen species level, and Proteobacteria and Planctomycetota were the dominant genera for nutrient, Fe(II), and Mn(II) removal. This study provides a novel method for efficient removal of nutrients.},
}

@article {pmid40578390,
year = {2025},
author = {Copeland, R and Yunker, P},
title = {Biofilm vertical growth dynamics are captured by an active fluid framework.},
journal = {Physical biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1088/1478-3975/ade928},
pmid = {40578390},
issn = {1478-3975},
abstract = {Bacterial biofilms, surface-attached microbial communities, grow horizontally across surfaces and vertically above them. Although a simple heuristic model for vertical growth was experimentally shown to accurately describe the behavior of diverse microbial species, the biophysical implications and theoretical basis for this empirical model were unclear. Here, we demonstrate that this heuristic model emerges naturally from fundamental principles of active fluid dynamics. By analytically deriving solutions for an active fluid model of vertical biofilm growth, we show that the governing equations reduce to the same form as the empirical model in both early- and late-stage growth regimes. Our analysis reveals that cell death and decay rates likely play key roles in determining the characteristic parameters of vertical growth. The active fluid model produces a single, simple equation governing growth at all heights that is surprisingly simpler than the heuristic model. With this theoretical basis, we explain why the vertical growth rate reaches a maximum at a height greater than the previously identified characteristic length scale. These results provide a theoretical foundation for a simple mathematical model of vertical growth, enabling deeper understanding of how biological and biophysical factors interact during biofilm development.},
}

@article {pmid40578100,
year = {2025},
author = {Xia, Z and Ng, HY and Hu, J and Bae, S},
title = {Enhanced sulfamethoxazole removal by co-substrate supplementation in membrane-aerated biofilm photoreactor treating mariculture wastewater: multi-omics insights into performance, microbial mechanisms and antibiotic resistance genes.},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {285},
number = {},
pages = {124073},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2025.124073},
pmid = {40578100},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {The widespread overuse of antibiotics in mariculture poses significant environmental and health risks. Membrane-aerated biofilm photoreactor (MABPR), leveraging membrane aeration and microalgal-bacterial functionality, has demonstrated potential for nitrogen and antibiotic removal from wastewater. However, its application for antibiotic risk control under the high salinity and low organic strength typical of mariculture effluents remains largely unexplored. Co-metabolism, facilitated by co-substrate addition, has emerged as a promising strategy for enhancing antibiotic mitigation under environmental stresses. Yet, its effectiveness and underlying mechanisms in MABPR are not well understood. This study evaluated the effectiveness of external co-substrate (sodium acetate) supplementation for sulfamethoxazole (SMX) removal and control of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in MABPR treating mariculture effluents. Results demonstrated that MABPR could achieve considerable SMX removal from mariculture wastewater. Concurrently, the addition of co-substrate developed an active "energy conservation-metabolic enzyme machinery" in MABPR, significantly upregulating the expression of metabolic enzymes and energy conservation pathways (up to 8.25-fold upregulation than control), with microalgae as the primary contributors, thereby fostering metabolic functions and activities. This enhancement significantly improved SMX removal efficiencies by 41.1 %-80.6 %, while also enhancing system resilience even under high SMX loading. Concurrently, co-substrate supplementation alleviated oxidative stress, reducing intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels by approximately 14 %. Total ARG abundance decreased by 14.2-20.4 % under the co-substrate-amended condition. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that co-substrate addition significantly upregulated antioxidant defense systems while suppressing gene expression involved in the SOS response and conjugative transfer. These transcriptomic changes showed significant correlation with the ARG abundance reductions, suggesting that co-substrate supplementation likely restricts ARG dissemination by modulating cellular stress responses. Our findings not only highlight the potential of external co-substrate supplementation for antibiotic risk mitigation during mariculture wastewater treatment, but also provide unique insights into the co-substrate-mediated underlying regulatory mechanisms for antibiotic risk control in MABPR.},
}

@article {pmid40575777,
year = {2025},
author = {Almutairy, B},
title = {Flavonoid-mediated biofilm inhibition and toxicological evaluation of Atriplex laciniata against multidrug-resistant MRSA.},
journal = {Frontiers in pharmacology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1577052},
pmid = {40575777},
issn = {1663-9812},
abstract = {Multidrug-resistant (MDR) superbugs threaten the efficacy of antibiotics, so new drug formulations from synthetic or natural sources are needed to combat antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) infections. Traditional herbs are often considered alternatives for treating AMR and MDR infections. The present study involves evaluations of the efficacy and safety of Atriplex laciniata aqueous (AL-Aq-Ext) and flavonoid-rich (AL-Flv-Ext) extracts against MDR MRSA strains. The efficacies of the extracts against MRSA were tested for bacterial viability and biofilm inhibition through the MTT assay, OD600 nm measurements, confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) for morphological observations, and amyloid-staining Congo-red phenotypic method. The safety of each extract was evaluated through comprehensive toxicological assessments, including acute toxicity, tissue biocompatibility, vital organ toxicity, and relative hemolysis. The results indicate MRSA cell viability at minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 512 μg/mL for AL-Aq-Ext and 256 μg/mL for AL-Flv-Ext. At these MICs, the extracts also exhibited bactericidal effects with zones of inhibition of 22 mm for AL-Aq-Ext and 20 mm for AL-Flv-Ext, which are comparable to the 25 mm for vancomycin. Both extracts showed more than 90% biofilm inhibition, which were confirmed through OD600 nm measurements, morphological detection based on reduction in fluorescence intensities via CLSM, and phenotype by the Congo-red amyloid-staining assay. The time-kill kinetics assays indicated prolonged bactericidal effects lasting approximately 73 h against MRSA. In terms of safety, acute toxicity studies were conducted by administering MIC doses of AL-Aq-Ext and AL-Flv-Ext orally to mice over 10 d, which revealed 100% survival rates and no immediate adverse effects. Histopathological analysis of the vital organs (liver and kidneys) showed no tissue damage, confirming the absence of acute organ toxicity; hemolysis assays demonstrated no red blood cell lysis at any tested concentration, indicating excellent blood compatibility. These findings demonstrate that A. laciniata extracts (AL-Aq-Ext and AL-Flv-Ext) are rich in flavonoids, safe, biocompatible, and suitable for further pharmacological development, with promising potential for preclinical and clinical trials. However, the present study is limited to acute toxicity and short-term exposure evaluations; hence, future research should focus on identifying specific bioactive compounds, evaluating the long-term toxicities, studying the pharmacokinetics, assessing the efficacies in disease models, and investigating potential immunogenicity and drug interactions to fully establish the therapeutic potential of the extracts.},
}

@article {pmid40575738,
year = {2025},
author = {Behshood, P and Tajbakhsh, E},
title = {Systematic review and meta-analysis of the association between biofilm formation and antibiotic resistance in MRSE Isolated from Iranian patients.},
journal = {Caspian journal of internal medicine},
volume = {16},
number = {2},
pages = {225-232},
pmid = {40575738},
issn = {2008-6164},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Biofilms are organized communities of microorganisms encased in a self-produced matrix that adheres to surfaces and can have both beneficial and detrimental effects in various environments. These biofilms have been linked to severe infections in humans. We investigated the association between antibiotic resistance and biofilm formation in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis (MRSE) isolates.

METHODS: A comprehensive search was conducted through data medical data bases using a combination of mesh terms. The data were analyzed using STATA meta-analysis software, and a random effects model was employed to determine the pooled prevalence with a 95% confidence interval (CI).

RESULTS: Our findings revealed that the prevalence of MRSA was 61.75% (95% CI: 35.6-99.1). The cumulative rate of biofilm formation in MRSE strains was reported to be 83.4% (95% CI: 47.8-99.4). Among the biofilm-related genes, the SdrG gene exhibited the highest frequency (98%), followed by the atlG gene with a frequency of 84%.

CONCLUSION: Out of the seven, three documented a positive association. Given the propensity of MRSE strains to form biofilms, it is crucial to implement preventive measures against infections caused by these strains.},
}

@article {pmid40575561,
year = {2025},
author = {Shinde, RA and Adole, VA and Patil, RH and Khairnar, BB and Jagdale, BS and Almutairi, TM and Patel, H and Islam, MS and Ahmad, I and Kumar, AR and Selvaraj, S and Pawar, TB and Alam, M},
title = {Harnessing thiazole chemistry for antifungal strategies through an experimental and computational chemistry approach: anti-biofilm, molecular docking, dynamics, and DFT analysis.},
journal = {RSC advances},
volume = {15},
number = {27},
pages = {21838-21858},
pmid = {40575561},
issn = {2046-2069},
abstract = {This study reports the design, synthesis, and evaluation of four novel (E)-2-(2-(1-(5-chlorothiophen-2-yl)ethylidene)hydrazineyl)-4-(aryl)thiazole derivatives (4a-4d) as potential anti-biofilm agents against Candida albicans. The compounds were structurally characterized by FT-IR, [1]H NMR, [13]C NMR, and HRMS spectral techniques. Biofilm inhibition assays revealed that derivatives 4a-4c suppressed over 50% of biofilm formation at a concentration of 12.5 μg mL[-1], although exopolysaccharide production remained largely unaffected. Molecular docking indicated strong binding affinities toward lanosterol 14α-demethylase, with 4a achieving the highest docking score (-8.715 kcal mol[-1]) through hydrogen bonding and π-π stacking interactions. Stability of the 4c-protein complex was confirmed by molecular dynamics simulations, supported by RMSD and flexibility analyses. An in-depth computational analysis was also performed on the most active thiazole derivative, compound 4c. DFT and NBO analyses of 4c indicated favourable geometry and key electron delocalization, while ELF, LOL, NCI, and RDG studies highlighted the role of non-covalent interactions in stabilizing the molecular framework. Additionally, the ADME profile of 4c demonstrated favourable pharmacokinetic properties, including high gastrointestinal absorption and a moderate lipophilicity index, highlighting its potential as a lead antifungal scaffold.},
}

@article {pmid40570495,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, X and Niu, Z and Chen, M and Ma, Y and Wang, Y and Sun, Y and Zhang, Y},
title = {Characterization of phthalate esters (PAEs) in urban water supply system: PAE-degrading bacteria existed in the pipeline biofilm.},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {285},
number = {},
pages = {124055},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2025.124055},
pmid = {40570495},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {The water supply system is a crucial infrastructure related to the people's livelihood. To enhance the performance of pipelines, additives are commonly added to the plastic pipes. Among these, phthalate esters (PAEs), a type of emerging contaminants, have been proven to be released from plastic pipes to water. In this study, we investigated the occurrence of PAEs in drinking water supply systems, isolated PAE-degrading bacteria and explored their characteristics. Firstly, a total of six PAEs were detected throughout the process from raw water to tap water, and the concentrations of Σ6PAEs in tap water at three sampling sites were all higher than those in the finished water. Secondly, using PAEs as the sole carbon source, four strains of PAE-degrading bacteria were isolated from the simulated pipeline biofilm. Within 12 h, the degradation rates of these four strains towards Σ4PAEs (initial concentration: 1 mg/L) were 34.83 % - 56.54 %. Thirdly, considering the presence of multiple carbon sources, residual chlorine, and other bacteria, the behavior of the isolated PAE-degrading bacteria in the actual pipeline environment was examined. It showed that PAE-degrading bacteria preferentially used other carbon sources in tap water rather than PAEs, and the residual chlorine inhibited the bacteria's ability to degrade PAEs. Moreover, despite the presence of other bacteria from the biofilm, the PAE-degrading bacteria still became the dominant bacteria. Consequently, this study demonstrated the feasibility of PAE degradation by bacteria isolated from the pipeline biofilm, which was helpful for understanding the biochemical degradation process of PAEs in drinking water supply systems.},
}

@article {pmid40570492,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, N and Liu, Y and Wan, H and Long, L and Xing, J and Shao, S and Liu, G and van der Meer, WGJ},
title = {Nature-inspired water purification: Integrating riverbank filtration and biofilm-regulating nanofiltration.},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {285},
number = {},
pages = {124077},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2025.124077},
pmid = {40570492},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {Nanofiltration (NF) is an effective method for removing various emerging pollutants in drinking water. However, its conventional application, primarily adapted from desalination practices, faces challenges such as stringent pretreatment requirements, high energy consumption, and severe membrane fouling. To address these issues, we modified the NF process by transitioning from the traditional spiral-wound configuration to a submerged flat-sheet configuration and incorporating riverbank filtration (RBF) as a pretreatment. Experimental results demonstrated that the RBF-NF system could selectively remove natural organic matter (60.6 %) and various trace organic compounds (30.7 %-68.0 %), without the losses of beneficial ions. Additionally, the RBF-NF system reduced the risk of microbial regrowth in treated water by effectively lowering assimilable organic carbon and phosphorus levels, with removal of 52.1 % and 35.0 %, respectively. More importantly, a membrane biofilm naturally developed on the NF membrane surface over a 6-month filtration period, which facilitated the self-cleaning of the NF by biodegrading foulants and loosening the fouling cake structure. This resulted in stabilized filtration without an increase in transmembrane pressure, highlighting the potential for cleaning-free and low-maintenance operation. Additionally, the RBF-NF process reduced energy consumption by 94.6 % and carbon emissions by 87.4 % compared to traditional NF processes, primarily through the reduction of driving pressure and the elimination of crossflow. These findings demonstrate that RBF-NF is an efficient, chemical-free, and nature-based water treatment technology with significant operational and environmental benefits.},
}

@article {pmid40570060,
year = {2025},
author = {},
title = {Correction to 'TasA Fibre Interactions Are Necessary for Bacillus subtilis Biofilm Structure'.},
journal = {Molecular microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/mmi.70004},
pmid = {40570060},
issn = {1365-2958},
}

@article {pmid40568169,
year = {2025},
author = {Holley, CL and Dhulipala, V and Van, AL and Balthazar, JT and Oliver, VJ and Jerse, AE and Shafer, WM},
title = {Gentamicin induction of the gonococcal hicAB toxin-antitoxin encoding system and impact on gene expression influencing biofilm formation and in vivo fitness in a strain-specific manner.},
journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1101/2025.06.11.659166},
pmid = {40568169},
issn = {2692-8205},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: The continued emergence of Neisseria gonorrhoeae (Ng) isolates resistant to first-line antibiotics has focused efforts on understanding how alternative therapies such as expanded use of gentamicin (Gen) might counteract this global public health problem. Focusing on Gen as a viable alternative antibiotic for treatment of gonorrheal infections, we used RNA-Seq to determine if sub-lethal levels of Gen might impact gonococci on a transcriptional level. We found that sub-lethal Gen levels altered expression of 23 genes in Ng strain FA19. Many of the differentially regulated genes were associated with known stress responses elaborated by Ng under different harmful conditions. We found that the transcripts of the hicAB operon, which encodes a putative HicA-HicB toxin-antitoxin system that is encoded by tandem genes with the prophage Ngo φ3, were increased in response to Gen. While loss of hicAB did not impact gonococcal susceptibility to a variety of antimicrobial agents or harmful environmental conditions it did reduce biofilm formation in Ng strains F62, FA1090, WHO X and CDC200 but not that of strain FA19. Further, in strain F62, but not FA19, loss of hicAB reduced the in vivo fitness of Ng during experimental lower genital tract infection of female mice. Further, we found that expression of hicAB can influence levels of the norB transcript, which encodes the nitrate reductase shown previously to be upregulated in gonococcal biofilms. We propose that sub-lethal Gen has the capacity to influence gonococcal pathogenesis through the action of the HicAB toxin-antitoxin system.

IMPORTANCE: During antibiotic treatment bacteria can be exposed to sub-lethal levels that could serve as a stress signal resulting in changes in gene expression. The continued emergence of multi-drug resistant strains of Ng has rekindled interest in expanded use of gentamicin (Gen) for treatment of gonorrheal infections. We report that sub-lethal levels of Gen can influence levels of Ng transcripts including that of the gonococcal hicAB -encoded toxin-antitoxin (TA) locus, which is embedded within an integrated prophage, While loss of this TA locus did not impact Ng susceptibility to Gen it reduced the biofilm forming ability of 4/5 Ng strains. Further, in an examined strain in this group we found that Ng fitness during experimental infection was negatively impacted. We propose that that levels of the hicA-hicB transcripts can be increased by sub-lethal levels of an antibiotic used in treatment of gonorrhea and that this could influence pathogenicity.},
}

@article {pmid40567056,
year = {2025},
author = {Xie, J and Huang, W and Liu, S and Cui, Z and Huang, B and Tian, J and Zhang, W},
title = {Supramolecular Nanoplatform for Biofilm Eradication and Anti-inflammatory by Phototherapies and Macrophage Repolarization.},
journal = {Advanced healthcare materials},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e2501162},
doi = {10.1002/adhm.202501162},
pmid = {40567056},
issn = {2192-2659},
support = {52333014//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Biofilm dispersion and persistent inflammation are key challenges in treating bacterial infections. Phototherapies, including photodynamic therapy (PDT) and photothermal therapy (PTT), have emerged as promising approaches for treating bacterial infections. However, several challenges continue to impede the treatment effectiveness, particularly, the inevitable inflammatory side effects. Herein, a supramolecular nanoplatform (R-AuSTP-Be) is developed for precise targeting to bacterial infection sites, effective antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory for infected wound healing. R-AuSTP-Be can neutralize bacterial exotoxins for remodeling bacteria microenvironment, and disperse biofilms by precise phototherapies with dual-mode bacteria targeting by glycoprotein covalent bonding and electrostatic attraction. Meanwhile, R-AuSTP-Be reshapes the inflammatory environment by down-regulating M1 macrophage expression and up-regulating M2 macrophage expression. The excellent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects of R-AuSTP-Be provide a competitive strategy for treating bacterial infectious diseases.},
}

@article {pmid40565706,
year = {2025},
author = {Seres-Steinbach, A and Szabó, P and Bányai, K and Schneider, G},
title = {Effect of Temperature, Surface, and Medium Qualities on the Biofilm Formation of Listeria monocytogenes and Their Influencing Effects on the Antibacterial, Biofilm-Inhibitory, and Biofilm-Degrading Activities of Essential Oils.},
journal = {Foods (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {12},
pages = {},
pmid = {40565706},
issn = {2304-8158},
support = {2024-2.1.1-EKÖP//The Hungarian Ministry of Culture and Innovation/ ; SA-27/2021//Eötvös Loránd Research Network/ ; RRF-2.3.1-21-2022-00001//Hungarian National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; },
abstract = {Listeria monocytogenes is a foodborne pathogen with a high tolerance to a wide range of environmental conditions, making its control in the food chain a particular challenge. Essential oils have recently been considered as potential antilisterial agents. In this study, the antilisterial effects of 57 EOs were tested on 13 different L. monocytogenes. Thirty-seven EOs were found to be effective in a strain and temperature-dependent manner. At 37 °C, all EOs were effective against at least one strain of L. monocytogenes. However, at 14 °C and 23 °C, 12 EOs, such as Minth, Nutmeg, Neroli, Pepperminth, etc., became drastically ineffective. The efficacy of the EOs increased at the lowest temperature, as only four EOs, such as Dill seed, Juniper, lemon eucalyptus, and sandalwood, were found to be ineffective at 4 °C. Ajowan and thyme were the only EOs that were antibacterial against each strain at all temperatures tested (4, 14, 23, 37 °C). Biofilm-inhibition tests with 57 EOs, performed on polystyrene plates with different surface qualities and stainless steel, using 0.1% and 0.5% final concentrations, showed the outstanding inhibitory abilities of ajowan, geranium, Lime oil, melissa, palmarosa, rose geranium, sandalwood, and thyme. Fennel, lemon eucalyptus, and chamomile had the potential to inhibit biofilm formation without affecting live bacterial cell counts. Ajowan, geranium, thyme, and palmarosa reduced the biofilm to the optical density of 0.0-0.08, OD: 0.0-0.075, 0.0-0.072, and 0.0-0.04, respectively, compared to the bacterium control 0.085-0.45. The mature antibiofilm eradication ability of the EOs revealed the outstanding features of ajowan, geranium Lime, melissa, palmarosa, rose geranium, and thyme by suppressing the established biofilm to one tenth. The different sensitivities of the isolates and the temperature-dependent antilisterial effect of the tested EOs have to be taken into account if an EO-based food preservation technology is to be implemented, as several L. monocytogenes become resistant to different EOs at medium temperature ranges such as 14 °C and 23 °C.},
}

@article {pmid40563396,
year = {2025},
author = {Wilkinson, D and Váchová, L and Palková, Z},
title = {Hostile Environments: Modifying Surfaces to Block Microbial Adhesion and Biofilm Formation.},
journal = {Biomolecules},
volume = {15},
number = {6},
pages = {},
pmid = {40563396},
issn = {2218-273X},
support = {LasApp CZ.02.01.01/00/22_008/0004573//European Union and the state budget of the Czech Republic/ ; RVO 61388971//Czech Academy of Sciences/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; *Bacterial Adhesion/drug effects ; Humans ; Quorum Sensing/drug effects ; Surface Properties ; Extracellular Matrix/metabolism ; Animals ; },
abstract = {Since the first observations of biofilm formation by microorganisms on various surfaces more than 50 years ago, it has been shown that most "unicellular" microorganisms prefer to grow in multicellular communities that often adhere to surfaces. The microbes in these communities adhere to each other, produce an extracellular matrix (ECM) that protects them from drugs, toxins and the host's immune system, and they coordinate their development and differentiate into different forms via signaling molecules and nutrient gradients. Biofilms are a serious problem in industry, agriculture, the marine environment and human and animal health. Many researchers are therefore investigating ways to disrupt biofilm formation by killing microbes or disrupting adhesion to a surface, quorum sensing or ECM production. This review provides an overview of approaches to altering various surfaces through physical, chemical or biological modifications to reduce/prevent microbial cell adhesion and biofilm development and maintenance. It also discusses the advantages and disadvantages of each approach and the challenges faced by researchers in this field.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
*Bacterial Adhesion/drug effects
Humans
Quorum Sensing/drug effects
Surface Properties
Extracellular Matrix/metabolism
Animals

@article {pmid40561859,
year = {2025},
author = {Meenatchi, R and Priya, PS and Appikatla, NS and Mohanakrishna, R and Kesavan, D and Leema, JTM and Nair, SSD and Gupta, S and Yadav, P and Narayanane, S and Balachandran, KRS and Rangamaran, VR and Verma, P and Kumar, AG and Vinithkumar, NV and Pasupuleti, M and Gopal, D and Arockiaraj, J},
title = {Harnessing a deep-sea EAL-domain enzyme for quorum quenching and biofilm control in food pipelines.},
journal = {International journal of food microbiology},
volume = {441},
number = {},
pages = {111326},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2025.111326},
pmid = {40561859},
issn = {1879-3460},
abstract = {This study explores the potential of quorum-quenching (QQ) enzymes from deep-sea bacteria to disrupt bacterial communication and biofilm formation. Among 21 psychrophilic marine isolates, Vibrio sp. strain SAT06 showed broad-spectrum QQ activity by degrading both short (C6-HSL) and long-chain (3-O-C12-HSL) acyl homoserine lactones. The QQ enzyme, identified as an EAL-domain-containing protein, exhibited high activity under refrigerated conditions (0-15 °C) and alkaline pH, further enhanced by Mg[2+] and Ca[2+] ions. Enzyme kinetics confirmed its hydrolytic activity against C6-HSL and 3-O-C12-HSL, validated by HPLC and acidification assays. SAT06 enzyme significantly reduced biofilm thickness (40-60 %) in Listeria monocytogenes and Pseudomonas fluorescens. It downregulated the agrA gene, a key regulator of biofilm formation in Gram-positive bacteria, and modified antibiotic resistance, restoring susceptibility in resistant pathogens. Mechanistically, the enzyme acts via lactone ring hydrolysis and modulates intracellular cyclic-di-GMP levels, as demonstrated by qualitative Congo red assays, thereby inhibiting quorum sensing-regulated biofilm formation and motility. The cold-active and stable nature of SAT06 under food processing conditions underscores its potential as an effective biofilm control agent. Future work may focus on enhancing enzyme durability through nanocoating for industrial deployment. This study also establishes a proof-of-concept for the SAT06 enzyme as a functional anti-biofilm surface coating within a model food-grade pipeline system.},
}

@article {pmid40560268,
year = {2025},
author = {Dakheel, KH and Rahim, RA and Al-Obaidi, JR and Razali, N and Neela, VK and Hun, TG and Yusoff, K},
title = {Proteomic analysis reveals phage-driven metabolic shifts and biofilm disruption in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).},
journal = {World journal of microbiology & biotechnology},
volume = {41},
number = {7},
pages = {230},
pmid = {40560268},
issn = {1573-0972},
support = {FRGS/1/2015/SGOS/UPM/01/2//Ministry of Higher Education, Malaysia/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/virology/metabolism/physiology/genetics ; Proteomics ; Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics ; Proteome/analysis ; *Staphylococcus Phages/physiology ; Spectrometry, Mass, Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption-Ionization ; *Bacteriophages/physiology ; },
abstract = {Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) biofilms pose a severe risk to public health, showing resistance to standard antibiotics, which drives the need for novel antibacterial strategies. Bacteriophages have emerged as potential agents against biofilms, especially through their phage-encoded enzymes that disrupt the biofilm matrix, enhancing bacterial susceptibility. In this study, two bacteriophages, UPMK_1 and UPMK_2, were propagated on MRSA strains t127/4 and t223/20, respectively. Biofilms formed by these strains were treated with phages at specified concentrations, followed by protein extraction and analysis. Comparative proteomic profiling was performed using one-dimensional and two-dimensional SDS-PAGE, with protein identification facilitated by MALDI-TOF/TOF MS spectrometry, to observe biofilm degradation effects. Proteomic analysis revealed that phage treatment induced significant changes in biofilm protein expression, particularly with upregulated ribosome-recycling factors and elongation factors linked to enhanced protein synthesis, reflecting a reactivation of amino acid metabolism in the treated biofilms. This was marked by upregulated intracellular proteases like CIpL, which play a role in protein refolding and degradation, critical for phage progeny production and biofilm disruption. Phage treatment demonstrated notable effects on the metabolic and protein synthesis pathways within MRSA biofilms, suggesting that phages can redirect bacterial cellular processes to favour biofilm breakdown. This indicates the potential of bacteriophages as a viable adjunct to traditional antimicrobial approaches, particularly in combating antibiotic-resistant infections like MRSA. The study underscores the efficacy of bacteriophages as anti-biofilm agents, offering a promising strategy to weaken biofilms and combat antibiotic resistance through targeted disruption of bacterial metabolic pathways and biofilm integrity.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/virology/metabolism/physiology/genetics
Proteomics
Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics
Proteome/analysis
*Staphylococcus Phages/physiology
Spectrometry, Mass, Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption-Ionization
*Bacteriophages/physiology

@article {pmid40559585,
year = {2025},
author = {Panariello, B and Dias Panariello, F and Misir, A and Barboza, EP},
title = {An Umbrella Review of E-Cigarettes' Impact on Oral Microbiota and Biofilm Buildup.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {6},
pages = {},
pmid = {40559585},
issn = {2076-0817},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; Humans ; *Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems ; *Microbiota/drug effects ; *Mouth/microbiology ; *Vaping/adverse effects ; Dysbiosis ; Oral Health ; },
abstract = {E-cigarettes, a form of electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS), have gained significant popularity, particularly among adolescents who often view vaping as a "cool" lifestyle choice. This growing trend has spurred extensive research on the effects of ENDS on both oral and systemic health. By synthesizing data from systematic reviews and meta-analyses, this umbrella review offers a comprehensive evaluation of the impact of e-cigarettes on oral biofilm accumulation and microbiota composition. A systematic search was conducted up to 12 March 2025, across PubMed/MEDLINE, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, and Scopus for studies published between 2015 and 2025. Ten studies met the eligibility criteria. The quality of the selected papers, as assessed using the AMSTAR 2 tool, ranged from moderate to high. The findings of this review suggest that e-cigarette use may contribute to dysbiosis in the oral microbiota and foster biofilm accumulation, thereby increasing the risk of oral diseases such as periodontitis, peri-implantitis, oral candidiasis, and caries. The findings also highlight the need for further research into the long-term effects of e-cigarette use on oral health. This review is registered with PROSPERO (CRD420251025639).},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
Humans
*Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems
*Microbiota/drug effects
*Mouth/microbiology
*Vaping/adverse effects
Dysbiosis
Oral Health

@article {pmid40559574,
year = {2025},
author = {Kaczorek-Łukowska, E and Foksiński, P and Małaczewska, J and Wójcik, R and Szyryńska, N},
title = {The Effects of Low Concentrations of Nisin on Biofilm Formation by Staphylococcus aureus Isolated from Dairy Cattle.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {6},
pages = {},
pmid = {40559574},
issn = {2076-0817},
support = {Funded by the Minister of Science under "the Regional Initiative of Excellence Program//Funded by the Minister of Science under "the Regional Initiative of Excellence Program/ ; },
mesh = {*Nisin/pharmacology ; *Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; Animals ; Cattle ; *Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology/isolation & purification ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; *Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology/veterinary ; Tetracycline/pharmacology ; Female ; Mastitis, Bovine/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Staphylococcus aureus is one of the aetiological agents of mastitis in dairy cattle. Their biofilms are relevant for human and veterinary medicine. It has been shown that some antibiotics at low concentrations can stimulate the production of biofilms, but there is little information on the effects of low concentrations of nisin, which is considered a therapeutic agent and has been added to food products for years as a biopreservative. In our study, we used Staphylococcus aureus strains (n = 28) isolated from dairy cattle. The MIC of nisin were determined using the broth microdilution method. Based on the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) results, the following concentrations were selected for further analyses: nisin at 39, 19, 9 IU/mL; nisin in combination with tetracycline at 39 IU/mL + 0.06 μg/mL, 18 IU/mL + 0.06 μg/mL, and 9 IU/mL + 0.06 μg/mL; and tetracycline alone at 0.06 μg/mL. The biofilm-forming capacity was determined via crystal violet staining in 96-well plates, icaD gene expression was determined using the 2-ΔΔCt method, and microscopic evaluation was carried out using scanning electron microscopy. Results: The MICs were 156 IU/mL (46%) and 312 IU/mL (43%) for most strains. Due to large statistical deviations, there were no statistically significant changes in the biofilm-forming capacity or icaD gene expression despite a visible increasing trend. Despite the absence of statistically significant differences, it was observed that for all concentrations analysed biofilm formation was noticeably greater for both nisin alone and for tetracycline and its mixtures than for untreated cells. Conclusions: In our opinion, the effects of nisin, especially at low concentrations, on biofilm structure show a certain worrying trend that may pose a future threat.},
}

*Nisin/pharmacology
*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
Animals
Cattle
*Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology/isolation & purification
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
*Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology/veterinary
Tetracycline/pharmacology
Female
Mastitis, Bovine/microbiology

@article {pmid40559544,
year = {2025},
author = {Wełna, J and Napiórkowska-Mastalerz, M and Cyrankiewicz, M and Bogiel, T and Kwiecińska-Piróg, J},
title = {Characteristic of Virulence and Parameters of Mixed Biofilm Formed by Carbapenem-Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Proteus mirabilis Strains Isolated from Infected Chronic Wounds.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {6},
pages = {},
pmid = {40559544},
issn = {2076-0817},
support = {WF PDB 839//Nicolaus Copernicus University/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; *Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology/isolation & purification/pathogenicity/genetics ; *Proteus mirabilis/drug effects/physiology/isolation & purification/pathogenicity/genetics ; Virulence ; Humans ; *Wound Infection/microbiology ; *Carbapenems/pharmacology ; *Pseudomonas Infections/microbiology ; Quorum Sensing ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Proteus Infections/microbiology ; Drug Resistance, Bacterial ; },
abstract = {A biofilm is a group of bacterial cells in the polysaccharide matrix bonded to the surface (biotic or abiotic). Clinicians now realize that most infections are biofilm-related. Biofilm infections are often induced by more than one bacterial species. The aim of this study is to characterize a mixed biofilm composed of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Proteus mirabilis strains. Forty-six isolates derived from chronic wound infections were cultivated to establish mature biofilms. The biofilm biomass and cell viability were measured by colorimetric assays. P. aeruginosa strains were tested for the presence of virulence and biofilm-related genes. The quorum sensing assay using the biosensor strain was also performed. A mixed biofilm of P. aeruginosa and P. mirabilis was visualized using fluorescence microscopy. Four groups of P. aeruginosa and P. mirabilis pairs, also visualized with fluorescence microscopy, were distinguished based on the biofilm biomass growth and metabolic activity loss. The exoY gene observed among P. aeruginosa isolates was connected to the metabolic activity loss of the biofilm. Generally, the interactions between P. aeruginosa and P. mirabilis species are not uniform. It is crucial to further research the interactions between microorganisms in biofilms. This may provide information on the mechanisms of biofilm formation in the complicated chronic wound environment.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology/isolation & purification/pathogenicity/genetics
*Proteus mirabilis/drug effects/physiology/isolation & purification/pathogenicity/genetics
Virulence
Humans
*Wound Infection/microbiology
*Carbapenems/pharmacology
*Pseudomonas Infections/microbiology
Quorum Sensing
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Proteus Infections/microbiology
Drug Resistance, Bacterial

@article {pmid40559149,
year = {2025},
author = {Barrera-Ortega, CC and Rodil, SE and Silva-Bermudez, P and Delgado-Cardona, A and Almaguer-Flores, A and Prado-Prone, G},
title = {Fluoride Casein Phosphopeptide and Tri-Calcium Phosphate Treatments for Enamel Remineralization: Effects on Surface Properties and Biofilm Resistance.},
journal = {Dentistry journal},
volume = {13},
number = {6},
pages = {},
pmid = {40559149},
issn = {2304-6767},
abstract = {Objectives: This study aimed to compare in vitro the protective effect of two enamel remineralizing agents, a varnish containing β-tricalcium phosphate with sodium fluoride (β-TCP-F) and a paste containing casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate with sodium fluoride (CPP-ACP-F), on artificially demineralized human enamel. Methods: A total of 120 human third molar enamel specimens were randomly assigned to four groups (n = 30 each): Group I (healthy enamel, control), Group II (initially demineralized, lesioned enamel), Group III (demineralized enamel and treated with β-TCP-F), and Group IV (demineralized enamel and treated with CPP-ACP-F). Groups II-IV underwent, for 15 days, a daily pH cycling regimen consisting of 21 h of demineralization under pH 4.4, followed by 3 h of remineralization under pH 7. Groups III and IV were treated with either β-TCP-F or CPP-ACP-F, prior to each 24 h demineralization-remineralization cycle. Fluoride ion release was measured after each pH cycle. Surface hardness, roughness, wettability, and Streptococcus mutans biofilm formation were assessed on days 5, 10, and 15 after a daily pH cycle. Results: CPP-ACP-F treatment showed a larger improvement in surface hardness (515.2 ± 10.7) compared to β-TCP-F (473.6 ± 12.8). Surface roughness decreased for both treatments compared to initially lesioned enamel; however, the decrease in roughness in the β-TCP-F group only reached a value of 1.193 μm after 15 days of treatment, a significantly larger value in comparison to healthy enamel. On the other hand, the decrease in roughness in the CPP-ACP-F treatment group reached a value of 0.76 μm, similar to that of healthy enamel. Contact angle measurements indicated that wettability increased in both treatment groups (β-TCP-F: 71.01°, CPP-ACP-F: 65.24°) compared to initially lesioned samples in Group II, reaching WCA values similar to or smaller than those of healthy enamel surfaces. Conclusions: Both treatments, β-TCP-F and CPP-ACP-F, demonstrated protective effects against enamel demineralization, with CPP-ACP-F showing superior enhancement of surface hardness and smoother enamel texture under in vitro pH cycling conditions. β-TCP-F varnish and CPP-ACP-F paste treatments counteracted surface modifications produced on human healthy enamel by in vitro demineralization.},
}

@article {pmid40558967,
year = {2025},
author = {Arantes, BBA and Cabral, AKLF and Dos Santos, KS and Mendonça, MB and Dos Santos, RC and Bugalho, BCM and Fernandes, LS and Martinez, LR and Fusco-Almeida, AM and Mendes-Giannini, MJS},
title = {Characterization of Biofilm Formation by the Dermatophyte Nannizzia gypsea.},
journal = {Journal of fungi (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {11},
number = {6},
pages = {},
pmid = {40558967},
issn = {2309-608X},
support = {2023/035561//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo/ ; 9794/2023//National Council for Scientific and Technological Development/ ; 431455/2018-0//National Council for Scientific and Technological Development/ ; 311923/2023-2//National Council for Scientific and Technological Development/ ; },
abstract = {Dermatophytosis is a fungal infection that affects the skin, hair, and nails, impacting approximately 25% of the global population. Nannizzia gypsea is a geophilic fungus that can cause infections in humans and animals. Several studies have been conducted regarding its virulence, or ability to cause disease. This species may produce keratinolytic enzymes and form biofilms, which can increase resistance to treatment. Thus, this study focuses on investigating the biofilm formation of N. gypsea isolated from canine dermatophytosis using an ex vivo hair model, its biofilm extracellular matrix macromolecular contents, and the expression of genes involved in the colonization of keratinized surfaces. The biofilm was analyzed for metabolic activity using the XTT reduction assay, crystal violet staining to measure biofilm biomass, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the presence of polysaccharides, proteins, and extracellular DNA in the biofilm extracellular matrix. The virulence genes subtilisin 7, fungalysin (extracellular metalloproteinase), and efflux pump (Multidrug and Toxin Extrusion Protein 2) were evaluated by qPCR, comparing the planktonic and biofilm phenotypes. N. gypsea formed a robust biofilm, which matured after 5 days. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed the presence of an extensive extracellular matrix. In the hair model, the characteristic ectothrix parasitism of the species is observable. The gene expression analysis revealed a higher expression of all evaluated genes in the biofilm form compared to the planktonic form. Thus, N. gypsea exhibits a biofilm characterized by a robust extracellular matrix and high gene expression of factors related to pathogenesis and resistance.},
}

@article {pmid40558939,
year = {2025},
author = {Nikoomanesh, F and Sedighi, M and Bourang, MM and Rafiee, M and Santos, ALSD and Roudbary, M},
title = {Exploring the Antifungal Potential of Lawsone-Loaded Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles Against Candida albicans and Candida glabrata: Growth Inhibition and Biofilm Disruption.},
journal = {Journal of fungi (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {11},
number = {6},
pages = {},
pmid = {40558939},
issn = {2309-608X},
abstract = {The incidence of fungal infections is significantly rising, posing a challenge due to the limited class of antifungal drugs. There is a necessity to combat emerging resistant fungal infections by developing novel antifungal agents. This study aimed to evaluate the antifungal effects of lawsone (LAW), a natural component extracted from herbal medicine, and LAW-loaded mesoporous silica nanoparticles (LAW-MSNs) on growth, biofilm formation, and expression of ALS1 and EPA1 genes contributing to cell adhesion of Candida spp. Twenty C. albicans and twenty C. glabrata isolates, including ten fluconazole-resistant and ten fluconazole-susceptible isolates, were examined. The findings of the study indicated that LAW and LAW-MSNs inhibited Candida isolates growth at MIC range of 0.31->5 µg/mL and significantly reduced biofilm formation in C. albicans and C. glabrata. Moreover, both LAW and LAW-MSNs downregulated the expression of the adhesion genes ALS1 and EPA1 in C. albicans and C. glabrata. Based on the obtained findings, LAW emerged as a promising antifungal candidate. However, the nano-formulation (LAW-MSNs) improved its antifungal properties.},
}

@article {pmid40558165,
year = {2025},
author = {Amin, I and Abdelkhalek, A and El-Demerdash, AS and Pet, I and Ahmadi, M and Abd El-Aziz, NK},
title = {Cellulose Nanocrystal/Zinc Oxide Bio-Nanocomposite Activity on Planktonic and Biofilm Producing Pan Drug-Resistant Clostridium perfringens Isolated from Chickens and Turkeys.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {6},
pages = {},
pmid = {40558165},
issn = {2079-6382},
abstract = {Background/Objectives:Clostridium perfringens is a normal inhabitant of the intestinal tract of poultry, and it has the potential to induce cholangiohepatitis and necrotic enteritis (NE). The poultry industry suffers significant financial losses because of NE, and treatment becomes more challenging due to resistant C. perfringens strains. Methods: The antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities of cellulose nanocrystals/zinc oxide nanocomposite (CNCs/ZnO) were assesses against pan drug-resistant (PDR) C. perfringens isolated from chickens and turkeys using phenotypic and molecular assays. Results: The overall prevalence rate of C. perfringens was 44.8% (43.75% in chickens and 58.33% in turkeys). Interestingly, the antimicrobial susceptibility testing of C. perfringens isolates revealed the alarming PDR (29.9%), extensively drug-resistant (XDR, 54.5%), and multidrug-resistant (MDR, 15.6%) isolates, with multiple antimicrobial resistance (MAR) indices ranging from 0.84 to 1. All PDR C. perfringens isolates could synthesize biofilms; among them, 21.7% were strong biofilm producers. The antimicrobial potentials of CNCs/ZnO against PDR C. perfringens isolates were evaluated by the agar well diffusion and broth microdilution techniques, and the results showed strong antimicrobial activity of the green nanocomposite with inhibition zones' diameters of 20-40 mm and MIC value of 0.125 µg/mL. Moreover, the nanocomposite exhibited a great antibiofilm effect against the pre-existent biofilms of PDR C. perfringens isolates in a dose-dependent manner [MBIC50 up to 83.43 ± 1.98 for the CNCs/ZnO MBC concentration (0.25 μg/mL)]. The transcript levels of agrB quorum sensing gene and pilA2 type IV pili gene responsible for biofilm formation were determined by the quantitative real time-PCR technique, pre- and post-treatment with the CNCs/ZnO nanocomposite. The expression of both genes downregulated (0.099 ± 0.012-0.454 ± 0.031 and 0.104 ± 0.006-0.403 ± 0.035, respectively) when compared to the non-treated isolates. Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of CNCs/ZnO nanocomposite's antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities against PDR C. perfringens isolated from chickens and turkeys.},
}

@article {pmid40558146,
year = {2025},
author = {Mulat, M and Banicod, RJS and Tabassum, N and Javaid, A and Karthikeyan, A and Jeong, GJ and Kim, YM and Jung, WK and Khan, F},
title = {Multiple Strategies for the Application of Medicinal Plant-Derived Bioactive Compounds in Controlling Microbial Biofilm and Virulence Properties.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {6},
pages = {},
pmid = {40558146},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {RS-2023-00241461 and RS-2021-NR060118//Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF), funded by the Ministry of Education/ ; },
abstract = {Biofilms are complex microbial communities encased within a self-produced extracellular matrix, which plays a critical role in chronic infections and antimicrobial resistance. These enhance pathogen survival and virulence by protecting against host immune defenses and conventional antimicrobial treatments, posing substantial challenges in clinical contexts such as device-associated infections and chronic wounds. Secondary metabolites derived from medicinal plants, such as alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and essential oils, have gained attention as promising agents against biofilm formation, microbial virulence, and antibiotic resistance. These natural compounds not only limit microbial growth and biofilm development but also disrupt communication between bacteria, known as quorum sensing, which reduces their ability to cause disease. Through progress in nanotechnology, various nanocarriers such as lipid-based systems, polymeric nanoparticles, and metal nanoparticles have been developed to improve the solubility, stability, and cellular uptake of phytochemicals. In addition, the synergistic use of plant-based metabolites with conventional antibiotics or antifungal drugs has shown promise in tackling drug-resistant microorganisms and revitalizing existing drugs. This review comprehensively discusses the efficacy of pure secondary metabolites from medicinal plants, both as individuals and in nanoformulated forms or in combination with antimicrobial agents, as alternative strategies to control biofilm-forming pathogens. The molecular mechanisms underlying their antibiofilm and antivirulence activities are discussed in detail. Lastly, the current pitfalls, limitations, and emerging directions in translating these natural compounds into clinical applications are critically evaluated.},
}

@article {pmid40555950,
year = {2025},
author = {Liang, Z and Zhao, Y and Ji, H and Li, Z},
title = {Algae-bacteria symbiotic biofilm system for low carbon nitrogen removal from municipal wastewater: A review.},
journal = {World journal of microbiology & biotechnology},
volume = {41},
number = {7},
pages = {218},
pmid = {40555950},
issn = {1573-0972},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Wastewater/microbiology/chemistry ; *Nitrogen/metabolism ; *Symbiosis ; *Carbon/metabolism ; Water Purification/methods ; *Microalgae/physiology/metabolism/growth & development ; *Bacteria/metabolism/growth & development ; Denitrification ; Sewage/microbiology ; Biodegradation, Environmental ; },
abstract = {The treatment of municipal wastewater has become a significant challenge due to its intricate composition and low carbon-to-nitrogen ratio. In order to meet the discharge standards, a large amount of energy is consumed. In this context, the incorporation of microalgae into the conventional activated sludge process has become a promising strategy for low-carbon denitrification. This study aims to integrate research on algal-bacterial symbiotic systems with biofilm technology to enhance energy-efficient nitrogen removal in municipal wastewater treatment. Through comprehensive analysis, this paper elucidates (1) the developmental dynamics of algal-bacterial symbioses, (2) the process of combining algal-bacterial symbiotic systems with biofilm systems, (3) the fundamentals and operational determinants of algal-bacterial symbiotic membrane systems, and (4) the potential applications in sustainable water treatment. The proposed hybrid system demonstrates significant potential for carbon-neutral wastewater treatment through synergistic pollutant degradation, offering an innovative approach to address critical challenges in environmental sustainability and water resource management.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Wastewater/microbiology/chemistry
*Nitrogen/metabolism
*Symbiosis
*Carbon/metabolism
Water Purification/methods
*Microalgae/physiology/metabolism/growth & development
*Bacteria/metabolism/growth & development
Denitrification
Sewage/microbiology
Biodegradation, Environmental

@article {pmid40552900,
year = {2025},
author = {Xu, J and Esnal, JPP and Jin, L and Wu, Q and Duan, C and Pan, Y and Lauridsen, TL},
title = {New Insights Into Epiphytic Biofilm Formation, Composition, and Their Role in Submerged Macrophyte Decline Under Environmental Pollution.},
journal = {Environmental microbiology},
volume = {27},
number = {6},
pages = {e70121},
doi = {10.1111/1462-2920.70121},
pmid = {40552900},
issn = {1462-2920},
support = {32471620, 32071537//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 202301BF070001-024//Yunnan Fundamental Research Projects, China/ ; 202203AC100002//Key Research and Development Program of Yunnan Province/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; *Environmental Pollution ; *Plants/microbiology ; Bacteria/growth & development ; Lakes/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Over evolutionary time, submerged macrophytes and their epiphytic biofilms have developed complex interactions, particularly mutualistic interactions. However, environmental pollution can alter biofilms, potentially shifting their influence from supportive to neutral or even inhibitory. This change may be one of the significant driving factors for the decline of submerged macrophytes, yet a systematic review of this phenomenon is still lacking. To this end, we examine the formation and composition of epiphytic biofilms, summarize their effects on submerged macrophyte growth in freshwater lakes, and discuss how they mediate plant changes under increasing exposure to environmental pollution. Epiphytic biofilms, composed of complex biotic and abiotic components, influence submerged macrophytes by modifying light conditions and gas exchange, modulating nutrient competition and antioxidant responses, and releasing allelopathic substances; the magnitude of these effects varies with the biofilm's composition. Environmental pollution might favor resistant or fast-growing species that better compete for nutrients, impair light capture and gas exchange, and release harmful allelopathic substances. This diminishes the beneficial effects of epiphytic biofilms on submerged macrophytes, sometimes even resulting in detrimental impacts. This review examines how environmental pollution alters epiphytic biofilm composition and influences submerged macrophyte communities, providing novel insights into the dynamics of submerged macrophyte communities.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
*Environmental Pollution
*Plants/microbiology
Bacteria/growth & development
Lakes/microbiology

@article {pmid40552168,
year = {2025},
author = {Shatri, AMN and Bere, SK and Bouman, D and Mumbengegwi, DR},
title = {Antimicrobial, Time-Kill Kinetics, and Biofilm Inhibition Properties of Diospyros lycioides Chewing Stick Used in Namibia Against Enterococcus faecalis.},
journal = {Journal of tropical medicine},
volume = {2025},
number = {},
pages = {7544856},
pmid = {40552168},
issn = {1687-9686},
abstract = {Background: Medicinal plants are used in Namibia for oral hygiene and to treat oral diseases. Validating the content and efficacy of medicinal chewsticks used in communities helps to provide proof of concept of medicinal plants used as a complementary/alternative medicine for oral diseases. Aim: This study presents the first report on quantified phytoconstituents, antimicrobial, time-kill kinetics, and biofilm inhibition properties of Diospyros lycioides organic and aqueous extracts against Enterococcus faecalis. Methodology: Dry plant materials were ground into powder and macerated in methanol and distilled water. Different phytoconstituents were quantified by Folin-Ciocalteu colorimetric method, ferric reducing antioxidant power assay, and DPPH free radical scavenging. An antibacterial assay was performed using the agar well diffusion method and a resazurin 96-well-based assay. Kill-time assay was done at various concentrations over 4 h. Biofilm inhibition was done using the crystal violet method. Results: Higher total flavonoid, total phenol contents, and free radical scavenging abilities were reported in methanol twig extracts. Inhibition zones of 28 ± 0.82 mm, with MICs of 15.6 ± 0.00 μg/mL, are reported against E. faecalis. The bactericidal endpoint of D. lycioides organic extracts for E. faecalis was reached after 4 h of incubation at 8 × MIC (124.8 μg/mL). These were comparable to the positive control, gentamicin. The organic extracts showed ≥ 50% biofilm inhibition against root canal-infecting E. faecalis at concentrations between 7.8 and 500 μg/mL, indicating strong biofilm inhibition. Conclusion: The study demonstrated that D. lycioides crude extracts have promising antibacterial properties and can eradicate E. faecalis biofilms in root canal treatments.},
}

@article {pmid40550731,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, Z and Liu, B and Chen, W and Liu, D and Li, L and Ren, Y and Wang, W and Yuan, H and Pang, H and Zhang, Z and Liao, B and Lu, J},
title = {Corrigendum to "Enhancing sewer low-loss transportation by food waste microencapsulation treatment: Dual suppression of organic leaching and biofilm architecture-function for mitigating hazardous gases and blockage risks" [Water Research Volume 282 (2025) 123749].},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {123998},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2025.123998},
pmid = {40550731},
issn = {1879-2448},
}

@article {pmid40550367,
year = {2025},
author = {Lu, M and Feng, Q and Qin, F and Wu, Y and Duan, H and Fu, S and Guo, R},
title = {Enhanced denitrification and fouling control in hydrogen-based membrane biofilm reactor using novel flat membrane module.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {435},
number = {},
pages = {132848},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2025.132848},
pmid = {40550367},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {In hydrogen-based membrane biofilm reactors (H2-MBfR), the most critical concerns revolve removal rate and membrane fouling. This study introduces a novel flat membrane module to enhance denitrification efficiency and the operational stability of MBfR. The membrane module featured an additional layer of polyester material on outer side of the membrane. Experimental results demonstrated that membrane fouling occurred after one week, while the flocking layer extended the fouling-free operation to over eight weeks, representing an eightfold improvement at least. Low temperature and high loading were observed to impact the denitrification efficiency, although it maintained around 50 % without nitrite accumulation. Following the removal of operational disturbances, the MBfR rapidly restored with removal efficiencies reaching 93.8 % to 100 %. As the MBfR operated, microbial analysis revealed a decrease in microbial diversity, and differential expression levels of denitrification genes. The novel membrane module contributed to improving fouling control and removal flux.},
}

@article {pmid40549774,
year = {2025},
author = {Şenel, K and Uzun, I and Alqawasmi, R},
title = {An in vitro evaluation of biofilm removal from simulated root canals using sodium hypochlorite irrigation solution at various temperature settings.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {20},
number = {6},
pages = {e0325431},
pmid = {40549774},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Sodium Hypochlorite/pharmacology ; *Dental Pulp Cavity/microbiology/drug effects ; *Root Canal Irrigants/pharmacology ; Humans ; *Enterococcus faecalis/drug effects/physiology ; Temperature ; Therapeutic Irrigation ; Molar/microbiology ; X-Ray Microtomography ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Using sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) irrigation solution at various temperatures is common for removing biofilms in root canals and the isthmus. Numerous studies have examined the impact of temperature on biofilm removal in extracted teeth. However, this study aimed to assess the effect of needle irrigation using NaOCl solution heated to different temperatures on the structure of E. faecalis biofilm in artificial teeth produced by 3D printing technology.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: The isthmus in the mesial canals of 55 artificial tooth samples, which were produced from the 3D model obtained by micro-CT of the mandibular first molars, was evaluated. The standard strain E. faecalis ATCC 19433 was used to infect artificial tooth specimens. The samples were divided into a control group and four experimental groups receiving sodium hypochlorite solutions at 21°C, 45°C, 60°C, and 150°C. Following irrigation, scanning electron microscope (SEM) imaging was conducted at varying magnifications to visualize the remaining biofilm areas in the root canals and the isthmus. The ImageJ program quantified biofilm areas in the isthmus region. Statistical analyses, including Shapiro-Wilks, Kruskal Wallis H, and t-tests, were conducted on the measurements. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS: The results did not differ between the control and 21 °C groups (p > 0.05). However, removal areas were larger in the 45°C, 60°C, and 150°C groups than in the control group (p < 0.05). No difference was observed in the biofilm removal efficiency in different isthmus regions (p > 0.05). The findings revealed that an increase in temperature enlarged the removal areas.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Sodium Hypochlorite/pharmacology
*Dental Pulp Cavity/microbiology/drug effects
*Root Canal Irrigants/pharmacology
Humans
*Enterococcus faecalis/drug effects/physiology
Temperature
Therapeutic Irrigation
Molar/microbiology
X-Ray Microtomography

@article {pmid40549683,
year = {2025},
author = {Nishizawa, M and Saleh, B and Marcucio, R and Morioka, K},
title = {A Unique Mouse Model for Quantitative Assessment of Biofilm Formation on Surgical Implants in Subcutaneous Abscess.},
journal = {Journal of visualized experiments : JoVE},
volume = {},
number = {220},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3791/68067},
pmid = {40549683},
issn = {1940-087X},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; Animals ; Mice ; *Disease Models, Animal ; *Abscess/microbiology ; Staphylococcus aureus/physiology ; *Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology ; *Prostheses and Implants/microbiology ; *Prosthesis-Related Infections/microbiology ; Female ; },
abstract = {To develop a novel biomaterial with antibacterial properties for orthopedic surgical procedures, establishing an experimental animal model of implant-related infections that closely mimics the pathological state is crucial. Additionally, a quantitative comparison with control samples is required to assess biofilm formation on materials. However, current animal models, which involve implanting each individual with a single material, may yield inconsistent outcomes due to the heterogeneity of infection status among subjects. Furthermore, accurately quantifying biofilm formation on materials in vivo remains challenging, and the findings may lack reliability. To address these issues, this study demonstrated a unique mouse model of implant-related infection that enables the simultaneous incubation of two implants with bacteria in an enclosed environment within a single mouse, forming an encapsulated subcutaneous abscess. A mature air pouch was initially created beneath the skin of the back. Two stainless steel wires were connected and placed into the pouch, followed by the inoculation of Xen 36, a bioluminescent strain of Staphylococcus aureus. By 14 days after inoculation, a subcutaneous abscess had formed around the wires. The biofilm was completely removed from the surface of each wire, and the dissolved bacterial suspensions were accurately measured using optimized methods to assess biofilm formation on the implant, determine colony-forming units, and perform quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis. By leveraging the lux operon of the bioluminescent bacteria, the relative expression levels of luxA and 16S rRNA were used to determine the bacterial load within the biofilm on each wire. This optimized comparative analytical approach enables precise assessments of biofilm formation on two wires under uniform infection conditions within a single mouse model and may facilitate the advancement of biomaterials with antibacterial properties.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
Animals
Mice
*Disease Models, Animal
*Abscess/microbiology
Staphylococcus aureus/physiology
*Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology
*Prostheses and Implants/microbiology
*Prosthesis-Related Infections/microbiology
Female

@article {pmid40546280,
year = {2025},
author = {Abban, MK and Ayerakwa, EA and Isawumi, A},
title = {Biofilm and surface-motility profiles under polymyxin B stress in multidrug-resistant KAPE pathogens isolated from Ghanaian hospital ICUs.},
journal = {Experimental biology and medicine (Maywood, N.J.)},
volume = {250},
number = {},
pages = {10350},
pmid = {40546280},
issn = {1535-3699},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Polymyxin B/pharmacology ; Ghana ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; *Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/drug effects ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Klebsiella pneumoniae/drug effects/physiology ; Humans ; Intensive Care Units ; Acinetobacter baumannii/drug effects/physiology ; Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology ; *Enterobacter/drug effects/physiology ; Hospitals ; },
abstract = {The threat of antimicrobial resistance in Ghana is increasing with the recent emergence of KAPE pathogens (K. pneumoniae, A. baumannii, P. aeruginosa and Enterobacter species) from the hospital environment. As opportunistic pathogens, KAPE leverage the formation of biofilms and swarms to survive stringent environmental conditions. As research continues to investigate approaches that bacteria employ to exacerbate infection, this study explored biofilm and swarm formation in MDR KAPE pathogens under polymyxin B stress emerging from Ghanaian hospitals. The antimicrobial susceptibility profile of KAPE pathogens to conventional antibiotics and polymyxin B was investigated via antibiotic disk diffusion and broth microdilution assays. Biofilm inhibition and eradication assays, swarm motility and a resazurin-based metabolic assay were used to profile bacterial phenotypic characteristics under polymyxin B stress. The strains exhibited resistance to the tested antibiotics with a high level of resistance to polymyxin B (PMB) (≥512 μg/mL). Additionally, the strains formed biofilms and bacterial swarms at 37°C. In the presence of PMB (≥512 μg/mL), KAPE pathogens formed swarms with no significant reduction in bacterial swarms at 1,048 μg/mL. Biofilm was observed for all strains with PMB neither inhibiting nor eradicating at high PMB (2048 μg/mL). Additionally, there were no significant differences in the phenotypic and antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of clinical and environmental KAPE pathogens from Ghanaian ICUs. Overall, the study established that clinical and environmental KAPE pathogens from Ghanaian ICUs exhibit adaptive phenotypic and resistance characteristics that could potentially enhance bacterial survival during host colonization and infection. This could undermine treatment strategies and pose public health challenges in Ghana.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Polymyxin B/pharmacology
Ghana
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
*Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/drug effects
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Klebsiella pneumoniae/drug effects/physiology
Humans
Intensive Care Units
Acinetobacter baumannii/drug effects/physiology
Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology
*Enterobacter/drug effects/physiology
Hospitals

@article {pmid40544938,
year = {2025},
author = {Thibodeau, AJ and Mouchet, F and Nguyen, VX and Pinelli, E and Barret, M},
title = {Experimental assessment of antibiotic resistance in a Biofilm - Grazer system.},
journal = {Environmental pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {126682},
doi = {10.1016/j.envpol.2025.126682},
pmid = {40544938},
issn = {1873-6424},
abstract = {Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global health threat, with environmental compartments such as soil, water, and biofilms playing key roles in the dissemination and persistence of resistance genes. In this study, we explored the dynamics of AMR within a controlled Biofilm-Grazer system using Xenopus laevis larvae and biofilms A and B collected from two distinct rivers in Occitanie, France (collected respectively upstream from the large city of Toulouse and downstream from a wastewater treatment plant). The objective of the study was to investigate bacterial interactions between gut microbiota and biofilms, as well as the modulation of ARG (Antibiotic Resistance Gene) abundance and diversity over a 12-day period. Results showed a decrease of resistome in Xenopus gut microbiota feeding on both biofilms compared to feeding on commercial feed. In addition, an increase of resistome of Biofilm B compared to Biofilm A was observed. Procruste analysis and Pearson's correlations revealed a link between bacterial communities changes and ARG abundances in biofilms. Rhodobacter genus could be an ARG host shared between compartments. Furthermore, bacterial immigration predominantly occurred from the gut to the biofilms, with both biofilms acting as reservoirs for ARGs. Notably, Biofilm B, collected from a more polluted river, demonstrated a higher relative abundance of aac3-IVa resistance genes in the gut microbiota of larvae, compared to Biofilm A and a higher immigration rate from biofilm to gut. These findings highlight the complexity of interactions between biofilm communities and the gut microbiota, which may influence AMR dissemination.},
}

@article {pmid40543864,
year = {2025},
author = {Peng, P and Yan, X and Chen, L and Li, X and Yang, H and Miao, Y and Zhao, F},
title = {Electroactive biofilm enhances synergistic degradation of sulfamethoxazole and roxarsone in actual livestock wastewater: extracellular electron transfer drives metabolic network remodeling.},
journal = {Environmental research},
volume = {284},
number = {},
pages = {122173},
doi = {10.1016/j.envres.2025.122173},
pmid = {40543864},
issn = {1096-0953},
abstract = {Livestock wastewater is characterized by high concentrations of organic matter and diverse antibiotics. A major challenge in its anaerobic treatment is the effective degradation and thorough removal of coexisting antibiotic contaminants. In this study, an external voltage was applied to establish an electroactive biofilm, thereby enhancing the co-metabolic degradation of sulfamethoxazole and roxarsone. Application of +0.6 V (Ag/AgCl) increased the 72 h TOC removal efficiency to 52.1 %. At the same time, sulfamethoxazole and roxarsone removal efficiencies reached 90.8 % and 100 %, respectively. The results from liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) and density functional theory calculations revealed sulfamethoxazole degradation pathways: N-O bond cleavage and hydroxylation. Roxarsone degradation primarily involved nitro group reduction and C-As bond cleavage. The pharmacophore of sulfamethoxazole was effectively removed, and inorganic arsenic from roxarsone degradation was efficiently immobilized. Toxicity analysis confirmed that the electroactive biofilm notably reduced toxic intermediate accumulation. Elevated concentrations of NADH and ATP in the electroactive biofilm indicated enhanced microbial substrate metabolism and generation of more electron donors. The higher absolute abundance of the sulfamethoxazole degradation gene (SadABC) in the electroactive biofilm indicated that sulfamethoxazole degrading enzyme (sadABC) gained more electrons. Microbiome analysis revealed the upregulation of genes linked to extracellular electron transfer, the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, nitro-reduction, and sulfate reduction pathway, confirming the electroactive biofilm enhances substrate metabolism and co-metabolic antibiotic degradation. Electroactive biofilm offers a viable strategy for antibiotic removal in livestock wastewater.},
}

@article {pmid40543823,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, H and Jiang, H and Jin, L and Yin, J and Zeng, W and Wang, T and Cheng, Y and Wang, J and Bai, L and Liang, H},
title = {Self-corroding microelectrolysis enhanced membrane aeration electroactive biofilm for antibiotic and antibiotic resistance gene reduction.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {132855},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2025.132855},
pmid = {40543823},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {A three-dimensional bioelectrochemical system was developed by coupling self-corrosive Fe/C microelectrodes with a membrane-aerated electroactive biofilm reactor (IC-MAEBR) to enhance antibiotic and antibiotic resistance gene (ARG) reduction. The IC-MAEBR significantly enriched aromatic proteins as dominant fluorescent components in cathode biofilms, while exhibiting an elevated α-helix to (β-sheet + random coil) (62.8 %), enhanced biofilm dense. Besides, the coordinated action of applied potential and microelectrolysis reduced sul1 and sul2 abundances in cathode biofilms by -2.6 log2 and -1.6 log2, respectively, primarily through host microorganism inactivation. Although higher potential differences (0.75 V) narrowed SMX removal difference between membrane-aerated electroactive biofilm reactors (MAEBR) and IC-MAEBR, IC-MAEBR demonstrated superior performance at lower potentials (0.5 V), achieving rapid SMX degradation within 12 h and maintained accelerated removal kinetics even post-discharge cycles, outperforming MABR and MAEBR by 4.2 μg/L/h and 9.7 μg/L/h, respectively. This study provides new insights into microelectrolysis enhanced electroactive-biofilm in antibiotics and ARGs removal.},
}

@article {pmid40543395,
year = {2025},
author = {Pu, Y and Feng, F and Hou, Y and Hou, S and Guo, Z and Zhu, C and Chen, S},
title = {Impact of yeast extract on bacterial metabolism and nickel microbiologically influenced corrosion: Insights into medium optimization and biofilm electron transfer mechanism.},
journal = {Bioelectrochemistry (Amsterdam, Netherlands)},
volume = {166},
number = {},
pages = {109027},
doi = {10.1016/j.bioelechem.2025.109027},
pmid = {40543395},
issn = {1878-562X},
abstract = {Yeast extract (YE) serves as a complex nutrient source and plays a pivotal role in the formation and development of microbial biofilms. This work elucidates the critical role of YE in modulating the metabolic activity of Desulfovibrio vulgaris, characteristics of passive films, and the associated microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) behavior of nickel (Ni). The presence of YE suppresses corrosion processes linked to extracellular electron transfer (EET) by reducing the necessity for D. vulgaris to directly extract electrons from Ni. In the absence of YE, a greater number of D. vulgaris cells adhere to the Ni surface, forming biofilms with an increased reliance on EET from Ni, thereby exacerbating localized corrosion. This is evidenced by increased weight loss, deeper pitting, and elevated localized corrosion current density, establishing a clear correlation between YE availability and the mitigation of EET-mediated MIC. Meanwhile, YE mitigates EET-driven corrosion by regulating the biofilm structure, facilitating the formation of a protective layer, and modifying the passive film on Ni. A key implication of this work is the reconsideration of YE as a universal nutrient in MIC research, emphasizing the need for caution when using YE in MIC studies that focus on EET-driven mechanisms.},
}

@article {pmid40542899,
year = {2025},
author = {Saci, S and Houali, K and Schena, R and Issad, HA and Mourabiti, F and Sebbane, H and Saoudi, B and De Martino, L and Nocera, FP},
title = {Phenotypic and genotypic characterization of biofilm-producing avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) isolates from Algerian poultry: associations between antimicrobial resistance and virulence genes.},
journal = {Veterinary research communications},
volume = {49},
number = {4},
pages = {232},
pmid = {40542899},
issn = {1573-7446},
mesh = {Animals ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; Algeria/epidemiology ; *Poultry Diseases/microbiology/epidemiology ; *Escherichia coli Infections/veterinary/microbiology/epidemiology ; *Chickens ; *Escherichia coli/genetics/pathogenicity/drug effects/physiology ; Virulence Factors/genetics ; Virulence/genetics ; *Drug Resistance, Bacterial/genetics ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Phenotype ; Genotype ; },
abstract = {Avian colibacillosis, caused by avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC), represents a major threat to the poultry industry, leading to significant economic losses. This study aimed to characterize selected biofilm-producing APEC strains isolated from diseased chickens in the Tizi-Ouzou region of Algeria and to explore potential associations between antimicrobial resistance and the presence of virulence factors. Twenty-four confirmed biofilm-producing E. coli isolates were analyzed for serotype distribution, antimicrobial resistance patterns and virulence gene profiles. While none belonged to the O157 serogroup, all isolates demonstrated concerning resistance profiles, with high rates observed for tetracycline (83.3%), ampicillin (75%), and ciprofloxacin (62.5%). Notably, 40% of the strains exhibited biofilm-forming capability, predominantly showing weak to moderate production levels.Virulence gene profiling revealed traT, bcsA, and csgA as nearly ubiquitous (95.8%), with fimH present in 83.3% of isolates. Intermediate prevalence was noted for iutA (62.5%), fliC (45.8%), and agn43 (33.3%), while fyuA (29.2%) and several other virulence markers (kpsMT II, papC, cnf1, ibeA) occurred at lower frequencies (< 10%). Statistical analysis identified significant correlations between virulence gene content and phenotypic characteristics, including a positive association between virulence gene number and biofilm intensity (p < 0.05). Moreover, the fimH gene showed a strong positive correlation with resistance to the antibiotic nalidixic acid. Resistance to β-lactam antibiotics (cefotaxime, cefepime, aztreonam) was positively correlated (p < 0.05) with papC and ibeA, but negatively correlated with csgA. These findings underscore the complex interplay between antimicrobial resistance and virulence in Algerian biofilm-producing APEC strains, highlighting the need for enhanced surveillance programs and tailored intervention strategies. This study provides critical baseline data for developing effective control measures against colibacillosis poultry production systems.},
}

Animals
*Biofilms/growth & development
Algeria/epidemiology
*Poultry Diseases/microbiology/epidemiology
*Escherichia coli Infections/veterinary/microbiology/epidemiology
*Chickens
*Escherichia coli/genetics/pathogenicity/drug effects/physiology
Virulence Factors/genetics
Virulence/genetics
*Drug Resistance, Bacterial/genetics
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Phenotype
Genotype

@article {pmid40542494,
year = {2025},
author = {Olivan-Muro, I and Guío, J and Alonso-Tolo, G and Sevilla, E and Fillat, MF},
title = {Towards the control of biofilm formation in Anabaena (Nostoc) sp. PCC7120: novel insights into the genes involved and their regulation.},
journal = {The New phytologist},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nph.70317},
pmid = {40542494},
issn = {1469-8137},
support = {PID2019-104889GB-I00//Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (España)/ ; E35_20R Biología Estructural//Gobierno de Aragón/ ; },
abstract = {Cyanobacteria are major components of biofilms in light-exposed environments, contributing to nutrient cycling, nitrogen fixation and global biogeochemical processes. Although nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria have been successfully used in biofertilization, the regulatory mechanisms underlying biofilm formation remain poorly understood. In this work, we have identified 183 novel genes in Anabaena sp. PCC7120 potentially associated with exopolysaccharide (EPS) biosynthesis and biofilm formation, unveiling conserved and novel regulatory connections shared with phylogenetically distant bacteria. Anabaena possesses homologues of two-component systems such as XssRS and ColRS from Xanthomonas spp., and AnCrpAB from Methylobacillus, suggesting that these homologues play essential or advantageous roles in biofilm formation across diverse bacterial lineages. Additionally, Anabaena features homologues of several proteins exhibiting the GG-secretion motif typical of small proteins required for biofilm formation in unicellular cyanobacteria. A wide array of biofilm-related genes in Anabaena, including major gene clusters participating in the synthesis and translocation of EPS and key regulatory proteins involved in the control of biofilms in other bacteria are modulated by ferric uptake regulator proteins. These findings link the control of biofilm formation in Anabaena to environmental cues such as metal availability, desiccation and nitrogen levels, providing new insights to improve the use of nitrogen-fixing cyanobacterial biofilms in sustainable agriculture and environmental management.},
}

@article {pmid40541930,
year = {2025},
author = {Ranava, D and Lander, SM and Kuan, SY and Winkelman, JD and Prindle, A and Yap, MF},
title = {A promiscuous Bcd amino acid dehydrogenase promotes biofilm development in Bacillus subtilis.},
journal = {NPJ biofilms and microbiomes},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {112},
pmid = {40541930},
issn = {2055-5008},
support = {R35GM147170/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; NSF 2239567//National Science Foundation/ ; R01GM121359/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; F31GM143907/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; R35 GM147170/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; W911NF-19-1-0136//Army Research Office/ ; R01 GM121359/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; 2018-68055//David and Lucile Packard Foundation/ ; F31 GM143907/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AI150986/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; 2019-A-06953//Pew Charitable Trusts/ ; },
mesh = {*Bacillus subtilis/enzymology/genetics/physiology/growth & development ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; Staphylococcus aureus/genetics/enzymology ; *Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics ; *Amino Acid Oxidoreductases/metabolism/genetics ; Glutamate Dehydrogenase/metabolism/genetics ; NAD/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) resides at the crossroads of nitrogen and carbon metabolism, catalyzing the reversible conversion of L-glutamate to α-ketoglutarate and ammonium. GDH paralogs are ubiquitous across most species, presumably enabling functional specialization and genetic compensation in response to diverse conditions. Staphylococcus aureus harbors a single housekeeping GDH (GudB), whereas Bacillus subtilis encodes both a major and a minor GDH, GudB and RocG, respectively. In an unsuccessful attempt to identify an alternative GDH in S. aureus, we serendipitously discovered previously unrecognized GDH activity in two metabolic enzymes of B. subtilis. The hexameric Val/Leu/Ile dehydrogenase Bcd (formerly YqiT) catabolizes branched-chain amino acids and to a lesser extent glutamate using NAD[+] as a cofactor. Removal of gudB and rocG unmasks the dual NAD(P)[+]-dependent GDH activity of RocA, which otherwise functions as a 3-hydroxy-1-pyrroline-5-carboxylate dehydrogenase. Bcd homologs are prevalent in free-living and obligate bacteria but are absent in most, if not all, staphylococci. Despite low sequence homology, Bcd structurally resembles the GudB/RocG family and can functionally compensate for the loss of GudB in S. aureus. Bcd is essential for the full maturation of biofilms. B. subtilis lacking GDHs exhibits severe impairments in rugose architecture and colony expansion of biofilms. This study underscores the importance of metabolic redundancy and highlights the critical role of substrate promiscuity in GDHs during biofilm development.},
}

*Bacillus subtilis/enzymology/genetics/physiology/growth & development
*Biofilms/growth & development
Staphylococcus aureus/genetics/enzymology
*Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics
*Amino Acid Oxidoreductases/metabolism/genetics
Glutamate Dehydrogenase/metabolism/genetics
NAD/metabolism

@article {pmid40541129,
year = {2025},
author = {Yawen, Z and Tiantian, S and Yangyang, S and Yiling, L and Siyue, L and Yu, W and Xiao, G and Bolei, L and Biao, R and Lei, C},
title = {Dodecylmethylaminoethyl methacrylate inhibits the growth of Candida albicans and Enterococcus faecalis biofilm and the formation of osteoclast.},
journal = {Archives of oral biology},
volume = {177},
number = {},
pages = {106331},
doi = {10.1016/j.archoralbio.2025.106331},
pmid = {40541129},
issn = {1879-1506},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial ability on the dual-species biofilm formed by C. albicans and E. faecalis and osteoclysis inhibition of DMAEM.

DESIGN: DMAEM monomer was used to evaluate the antmicrobial ability on the dual-species biofilm of C. albicans and E. faecalis by biomass quantification, Scanning electron microscope and confocal laser scanning microscopy scanning, and RT-qPCR. The biosafty and inhibition ability on the dual-species biofilm and osteoclysis of the experimental root canal sealers containing DMAEM was tested by biomass quantification, Cell Counting kit-8, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining, flow cytometry analysis, and RT-qPCR.

RESULTS: The biomass of the dual-species biofilm formed by C. albicans and E. faecalis was significantly decreased by 26.3-51.3 % under 8-256 μg/mL DMAEM. 8 μg/mL DMAEM could reduce E. faecalis's survival rate to 77.4 % (p < 0.001) and down-regulated its virulence gene expression. Meanwhile, the mycelium count proportion of C. albicans in the dual-species biofilm was reduced from 50 % to 0 % (p < 0.0001). The experimental sealers with DMAEM content could also decrease the survival rate of C.albicans and E.faecalis in the dual-species biofilm. Moreover, the elution of experimental root canal sealers containing ≤ 2.5 % DMAEM was biosafe and improved 81.0 % (p < 0.05) osteoclastic inhibition compared with it of unmodified sealers at least.

CONCLUSIONS: The antimicrobial ability on the dual-species biofilm formed by C. albicans and E. faecalis and osteoclastic inhibition of DMAEM suggested its potential clinical application of DMAEM in the treatment of periapical inflammation.},
}

@article {pmid40540859,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, S and Li, Y and Jiang, L and Cao, M and Xing, Z and Dong, D and Fang, L},
title = {Insights on the characteristics of plastic surface degradation and biofilm microorganisms: Exploring the impacts of three aerobic composting (AC) as well as UV irradiation and cycles of freeze-thaw (CFTs).},
journal = {Journal of hazardous materials},
volume = {495},
number = {},
pages = {138960},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhazmat.2025.138960},
pmid = {40540859},
issn = {1873-3336},
abstract = {Organic fertilizers applied to soil often contain significant amounts of plastics, which typically undergo a process of aerobic composting (AC) that induces specific physical and chemical changes on their surfaces. In this study, we simulated the environmental actions of AC source plastic film under typical soil environmental exposure, exploring how AC affects the response of plastics to ultraviolet (UV) radiation and cycles of freeze-thaw (CFTs). The results showed that varying composting conditions significantly impacted the fungal and bacterial community structures on the plastic surface; and plastic degradation under AC present various surface properties, including embrittlement, wear, corrosion, and reduced transparency, with specific yellowing and breakage, and strong microbial adhesion. UV exposure exacerbated the degradation of plastics sourced from AC. Plastics subjected to both AC and UV displayed significant changes after experiencing intense stress from CFTs. The structures of polyethylene (PE) and polylactic acid (PLA) were severely disrupted, resulting in the formation of powder or debris. Moreover, PLA and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) showed slightly reduced yellowing and unsaturation, while releasing total dissolved solids (TDS), micro/nanoplastics and additives. This study highlights the distinct characteristics of plastic pollution originating from AC processes associated with organic fertilizer land-use.},
}

@article {pmid40539790,
year = {2025},
author = {Adams, CO and Campbell, JA and Zhang, B and Cleaver, L and Bier, SB and Mayoral, J and White, RC and Garnett, JA and Cianciotto, NP},
title = {Legionella pneumophila type II secretome reveals a polysaccharide deacetylase that impacts intracellular infection, biofilm formation, and resistance to polymyxin- and serum-mediated killing.},
journal = {mBio},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0139325},
doi = {10.1128/mbio.01393-25},
pmid = {40539790},
issn = {2150-7511},
abstract = {Prior analyses suggested that the type II secretion system (T2SS) of Legionella pneumophila secretes ≥47 proteins beyond its 26 known substrates. Upon examination of mutants of wild-type strain 130b that lack those exoproteins most conserved across the Legionella genus, we discovered that protein "06635" majorly promotes L. pneumophila replication within amoebae. Immunoblotting, proteomics, and whole-cell enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) confirmed that 06635 exists in culture supernatants and on the bacterial outer surface and does so in a T2SS-dependent manner. Bioinformatic analyses identified 06635 as a novel member of the carbohydrate esterase family 4, whose members deacetylate bacterial surface polysaccharides, peptidoglycan, chitins, and/or xylans. Given 06635's T2SS-dependent secretion, low-level amino acid similarity to known peptidoglycan deacetylases, and the unaltered lysozyme resistance of a 06635 mutant, we pursued the hypothesis that 06635 deacetylates a polysaccharide on L. pneumophila's surface. Supporting this, the 06635 mutant exhibited increased binding to both wheat germ agglutinin (i.e., more surface N-acetylglucosamine) and antibodies that recognize acetylated lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis of isolated mutant vs wild-type LPS confirmed that 06635 promotes LPS deacetylation. Thus, we designated 06635 as PdaA, for polysaccharide deacetylase A. Compatible with its altered surface, the pdaA mutant showed greater autoaggregation, increased biofilm formation, and heightened sensitivity to both polymyxin and human serum. Thus, we hypothesize that, following its secretion via the T2SS, PdaA deacetylates LPS, and perhaps other moieties, impacting many significant processes. While defining PdaA, we identified many more putative substrates of the L. pneumophila T2SS, bringing the size of the T2SS output to approximately 120.IMPORTANCELegionella pneumophila is the principal cause of Legionnaires' disease, an increasingly common form of pneumonia. Although prior work demonstrated that the bacterium utilizes its type II protein secretion system (T2SS) to survive in aquatic environments and to cause lung infection, the full scope and impact of this Legionella secretion system is still relatively underappreciated. By utilizing an expanded proteomic approach and testing newly made mutants in a wide range of assays, we have determined that the L. pneumophila type II secretome encompasses approximately 120 proteins, and among these proteins is a novel polysaccharide deacetylase (PdaA) that modulates the L. pneumophila surface and lipopolysaccharide, impacting intracellular infection, biofilm formation, and resistance to both antibiotics and human serum. Moreover, since T2SSs and homologs of PdaA were found in many other bacteria, our findings should also have implications for understanding other infectious diseases and environmental processes.},
}

@article {pmid40539031,
year = {2025},
author = {Jordana-Lluch, E and Escobar-Salom, M and Torrens, G and Barceló, IM and Estévez, MÁ and González-Alsina, A and Iglesias, A and Pont-Antona, PJ and Macià, MD and Albertí, S and Williams, P and Cosío, BG and Juan, C and Oliver, A},
title = {Corticosteroids modulate biofilm formation and virulence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa.},
journal = {Biofilm},
volume = {9},
number = {},
pages = {100289},
pmid = {40539031},
issn = {2590-2075},
abstract = {Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory drugs commonly administered to patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis and similar lung pathologies, in which persistent infections with Pseudomonas aeruginosa are frequent. However, their therapeutic value is debatable because of their adverse impact on host immunity. The aim of this work was to determine the impact of budesonide and fluticasone propionate on P. aeruginosa biology. We found that these corticosteroids attenuated its intrinsic pro-inflammatory properties (reduction of IL-8 release compared to controls ca. 15 % (budesonide) and 50 % (fluticasone propionate)) and cellular invasiveness (25 % and 40 % respectively). Corticosteroids enhanced P. aeruginosa biofilm formation in a time/dose-dependent manner (around 1.6-fold for the highest concentration, with this increase occurring more readily in sputum media)) and stimulated the release of extracellular DNA (2-fold increase), a key component of the biofilm matrix. Regarding the mechanisms involved, our results suggest that corticosteroids diffuse through P. aeruginosa's membrane influencing its fluidity and triggering cell envelope stress signalling pathways, as shown by an initial increase in mucA (σ[22] regulon) expression, outer membrane vesicle release and accumulation of cyclic diguanylate (c-di-GMP). Changes in the levels of this intracellular signalling molecule, responsible for the switch from planktonic to biofilm lifestyle, may explain some of the phenotypes observed. In conclusion, our data, first obtained with type strains and proved to be reproducible when using COPD clinical isolates, suggest that corticosteroids could mediate a faster acquisition of the phenotypic characteristics associated with P. aeruginosa long-term adaptation to the chronic lung niche without undergoing mutation.},
}

@article {pmid40538224,
year = {2025},
author = {Sun, S and Xin, Q and Ma, Z and Gao, W and Cheng, J and Liu, Y and Huang, Y and Zhang, H and Yang, Y and Lin, X and Zheng, L and Xu, X and Ding, C and Li, J},
title = {Self-Assembled Photothermal Particles Boost Synergistic Biofilm Eradication and Remineralization in Early Dental Caries Treatment.},
journal = {Small (Weinheim an der Bergstrasse, Germany)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e2503224},
doi = {10.1002/smll.202503224},
pmid = {40538224},
issn = {1613-6829},
support = {2022YFC2405905//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; 52373295//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; U22A20158//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 52473311//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; RD-03-202409//Interdisciplinary Innovation Project of West China Hospital of Stomatology/ ; sklpme 2023-2-02//State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering/ ; 2024NSFSC0241//Sichuan Science and Technology Program/ ; },
abstract = {Dental caries, driven by dietary habits and microbial biofilms, remains a significant global health issue. In situ biomimetic remineralization is considered a promising method, but its low efficiency is a key challenge. Additionally, the interference of cariogenic bacteria further exacerbates the problem. In this study, self-assembled photothermal particles (PAEB) with light-boosted synergistic biofilm eradication and remineralization properties for caries treatment are reported. Composed by polyaspartic acid-stabilized amorphous calcium phosphate (Pasp-ACP) and ε-poly-L-lysine/baicalein (EPL-BC), PAEB enable efficient light-to-heat conversion under near-infrared light exposure due to polymerization and stacking of baicalein. The localized hyperthermia, accompanied with EPL-BC disrupts bacterial membranes and eradicates biofilm by more than 99%, which is seven times higher than the non-radiation group (12.86%) and ≈21 times higher than the fluoride group (4.35%). Meanwhile, the releasing of calcium and phosphate ions is accelerated for rapid remineralization, with highest hardness recovery (1.96 GPa) of all groups, comparable to untreated healthy enamel. Moreover, in vivo microbiome analysis confirms that PAEB selectively reduces the abundance of cariogenic Streptococcus spp. while maintaining overall microbial diversity and oral ecological balance, presenting a promising solution for non-invasive dental caries treatment. This photothermal-enhanced strategy gives a reference for the design of bioactive therapeutic dental materials.},
}

@article {pmid40538014,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhao, X and He, G and Liu, B and Liu, J and Wang, Y and Han, Y and Jia, R},
title = {The Influence of SDM on the Performance of the EGSB-Two-Stage A/O Biofilm Process for Pig Wastewater Treatment and Mechanism Investigation.},
journal = {Water environment research : a research publication of the Water Environment Federation},
volume = {97},
number = {6},
pages = {e70127},
doi = {10.1002/wer.70127},
pmid = {40538014},
issn = {1554-7531},
support = {2023TZXD019//Key Technology Research and Development Program of Shandong Province/ ; 2023TSGC0079//Shandong Province Science and Technology Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) Innovation Capacity Enhancement Project/ ; },
abstract = {To address the treatment of pig wastewater containing high levels of organic matter, this study investigated the impact of sulfadimethoxine (SDM) on the performance and underlying mechanisms of an expanded granular sludge bed (EGSB) combined with a two-stage anoxic/oxic (A/O) biofilm process. The reactor demonstrated robust organic loading tolerance (up to 12,195 mg/L COD) while maintaining stable treatment performance, achieving > 95% COD removal efficiency and 70%-80% ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N) elimination. Systematic analysis of sludge microstructure and microbial consortia was conducted through integrated techniques, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and high-throughput sequencing. The introduction of SDM induced significant restructuring of microbial architecture and population dynamics, with Proteobacteria (21.73%-89.74%), Firmicutes (5.54%-33.53%), Chloroflexi (1.22%-23.07%), Bacteroidetes (2.48%-12.23%), and Synergistetes (15.64%-26.86%) emerging as dominant phyla. Notably, Proteobacteria and Firmicutes demonstrated superior resistance under the reaction process. Concurrently, microbial analysis revealed a significant enrichment of nitrogen-phosphorus-removing genera Acinetobacter and Pseudomonas during the reaction process, establishing that these bacterial taxa play a central role in the biodegradation of organic pollutants. Therefore, the microorganisms exhibited adaptability to high-load antibiotic-containing environments, substantiating the hybrid reactor's potential for livestock and poultry breeding wastewater treatment. SUMMARY: The presence of antibiotics reduces the removal of conventional pollutants by the combined process. Antibiotics cause changes in microbial population structure. EGSB-two-stage A/O combination process can effectively treat high organic load wastewater.},
}

@article {pmid40537365,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, CH and Chao, WH and Wu, PC and Fan, CH},
title = {Remote biofilm dislodgment using focused acoustic vortex.},
journal = {Ultrasonics sonochemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {107423},
doi = {10.1016/j.ultsonch.2025.107423},
pmid = {40537365},
issn = {1873-2828},
abstract = {Biofilms constitute a major challenge in treating implant-associated and chronic infections due to their structural resilience and drug resistance, particularly as implant demand rises due to aging populations. Conventional methods are often invasive, complex, and costly, while focused ultrasound (FUS) poses risks related to biocompatibility and tissue damage. Distinguished by its helical phase structure and rotational energy distribution, focused acoustic vortex (FAV) theoretically generates stronger rotational forces and acoustic streaming than FUS under identical acoustic conditions. This study investigates the feasibility of FAV technique for biofilm removal. Biofilms in vitro model were established using Escherichia coli, and a 2-MHz custom-built ultrasound transducer was employed to generate either FAV or FUS. Results indicated that FAV activation generated a centripetal vortical flow with rapid rotation, which was adjustable via acoustic pressure and duty cycle. Conversely, FUS generated solely outward acoustic streaming, exhibiting a flow velocity 43.6 % lower than that of FAV. At 1.75 MPa, implementing a 10 % duty cycle and a 180 s treatment, FAV removed 97 % of the biofilm, whereas FUS removed only 7 %. To achieve a comparable removal rate (95.8 %), FUS required 4 MPa for 10 minutes. Streaming velocity (R[2] = 0.99) exhibited a strong correlation with biofilm removal, while inertial cavitation (R[2] = 0.19) exhibited a weak correlation; thus, the former was identified as the primary contributing mechanism. Importantly, FAV treatment resulted in minimal thermal elevation (<5 °C) and no significant reduction in cell viability, demonstrating its biosafety under the applied acoustic parameters. Synergistic tests with antibiotics further suppressed biofilm regrowth for up to 72 h, reducing bacterial concentration by 91 %. Future work will focus on in vivo biofilm models and assessing the safety and efficacy of combined treatments to advance clinical applications.},
}

@article {pmid40535507,
year = {2025},
author = {Alshehri, T and Alkhalifah, I and Alotaibi, A and Alsulaiman, AF and Al Madani, A and Almutairi, B and Balhaddad, AA},
title = {The impact of Caralluma munbyana extracts on Streptococcus mutans biofilm formation.},
journal = {Frontiers in dental medicine},
volume = {6},
number = {},
pages = {1575161},
pmid = {40535507},
issn = {2673-4915},
abstract = {BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Caralluma plants have a wide range of anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities. This study aims to assess the antibacterial effect of water, methanol, and ethanol extracts of Caralluma munbyana against Streptococcus mutans biofilms.

METHODS: Three extracts of C. munbyana were prepared using water, methanol, and ethanol. Multiple concentrations ranging between 2.93 and 93.75 mg/ml were achieved, alongside a control group with no extract, and incubated with an overnight culture of S. mutans. In the following day, the total absorbance was measured at 595 nm. Then, the biofilms were fixed and stained with 0.5% crystal violet to measure the biofilm absorbance at 490 nm. One-way ANOVA and Tukey's post-hoc tests were applied to identify which specific concentrations differed from the control.

RESULTS: C. munbyana methanol and ethanol extracts significantly affected the total absorbance of S. mutans (P ≤ 0.001) at 46.87 and 93.75 mg/ml. For biofilm inhibition, C. munbyana water extract was effective (P ≤ 0.001) in reducing the biofilm growth at 23.44 (1.34 ± 0.08), 46.87 (1.31 ± 0.15), and 93.75 (1.04 ± 0.07) mg/ml when compared to the control (1.58 ± 0.11). More reduction was observed among methanol and ethanol extracts, as C. munbyana methanol extract significantly (P ≤ 0.001) inhibited the S. mutans biofilm growth at 23.44 (0.99 ± 0.15), 46.87 (0.12 ± 0.02), and 93.75 (0.09 ± 0.01) mg/ml. Similarly, C. munbyana ethanol extract's biofilm inhibition was observed at the concentrations of 23.44 (0.45 ± 0.12), 46.87 (0.10 ± 0.02), and 93.75 (0.09 ± 0.04) mg/ml.

CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that C. munbyana possesses antibacterial properties against S. mutans biofilms, particularly through its methanol and ethanol extracts.},
}

@article {pmid40535265,
year = {2025},
author = {Abdelrazek, HM and Ghozlan, HA and Sabry, SA and Abouelkheir, SS},
title = {Retraction notice to "Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) as a key player in the production of oil-based paint against biofilm and other activities" [Heliyon 10 (2024) e29758].},
journal = {Heliyon},
volume = {11},
number = {9},
pages = {e43267},
doi = {10.1016/j.heliyon.2025.e43267},
pmid = {40535265},
issn = {2405-8440},
abstract = {[This retracts the article DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e29758.].},
}

@article {pmid40533735,
year = {2025},
author = {Dias-Souza, MV and Haq, IU and Pagnin, S and Veiga, AA and Dos Santos, VL},
title = {Liposome-encapsulated antibiotics and biosurfactants: an effective strategy to boost biofilm eradication in cooling towers.},
journal = {Microbial cell factories},
volume = {24},
number = {1},
pages = {135},
pmid = {40533735},
issn = {1475-2859},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Liposomes/chemistry ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Glycolipids/pharmacology/chemistry ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Surface-Active Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects ; Meropenem/pharmacology ; Stenotrophomonas maltophilia/drug effects ; Biosurfactants ; },
abstract = {An excessive amount of water is needed for cooling towers in oil refineries to cool the machinery. However, water has been observed to favor microbial growth and biofilms significantly. The microbial biofilms are usually treated with synthetic biocides, which are ineffective and generate toxic by-products harmful to the environment. This study explores using rhamnolipid and free or encapsulated antimicrobials in liposomes to control several bacterial species exhibiting low antimicrobial susceptibility in planktonic and biofilm forms. The antimicrobial efficacy of rhamnolipid was evaluated through minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) tests, showing values between 0.244 and 31.25 µg/mL. Biofilm inhibition assays revealed that rhamnolipid significantly reduced biofilm viability, performing comparably to meropenem and more effectively than chloramphenicol. Liposomes were produced with initial diameters of 100 and 200 nm, and encapsulation efficiencies were 56.7% for rhamnolipid, 47.3% for meropenem, and 31.25% for chloramphenicol. Among the formulations, 100 nm rhamnolipid-loaded liposomes exhibited the highest antibiofilm efficacy, achieving up to 92% biofilm reduction in Stenotrophomonas maltophilia 94 (p < 0.01). Meropenem liposomes of 100 nm also performed better than their 200 nm counterparts, with up to 85% reduction in Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms (p < 0.05). No significant size-dependent differences were observed for chloramphenicol liposomes, with maximum inhibition around 60% at both sizes. Long-term stability and antibiofilm activity were evaluated exclusively for S. maltophilia 94 over 90 days of refrigerated storage (4 °C). Dynamic light scattering revealed significant vesicle size increases over time for both formulations (p < 0.05), yet their antibiofilm activity remained stable. Rhamnolipid liposomes (100 nm) maintained significantly higher efficacy than 200 nm vesicles throughout the period (p < 0.01). Meropenem liposomes retained considerable activity, though a moderate decrease was noted after 60 days. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) at days 0 and 90 confirmed the antimicrobial impact of liposomal treatments: biofilms showed disrupted architecture, reduced extracellular matrix, and evident morphological damage to bacterial cells, supporting quantitative results. These findings demonstrate that liposome-encapsulated rhamnolipids and antibiotics are effective against resilient biofilms. The successful formulation and long-term stability of rhamnolipid liposomes highlight their potential as a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative for industrial biofilm control, reducing reliance on conventional biocides and minimizing environmental impact.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Liposomes/chemistry
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Glycolipids/pharmacology/chemistry
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Surface-Active Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects
Meropenem/pharmacology
Stenotrophomonas maltophilia/drug effects
Biosurfactants

@article {pmid40533450,
year = {2025},
author = {Romero, M and Luckett, J and Dubern, JF and Figueredo, GP and Ison, E and Carabelli, AM and Scurr, DJ and Hook, AL and Kammerling, L and da Silva, AC and Xue, X and Blackburn, C and Carlier, A and Vasilevich, A and Sudarsanam, PK and Vermeulen, S and Winkler, DA and Ghaemmaghami, AM and Boer, J and Alexander, MR and Williams, P},
title = {Combinatorial discovery of microtopographical landscapes that resist biofilm formation through quorum sensing mediated autolubrication.},
journal = {Nature communications},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {5295},
pmid = {40533450},
issn = {2041-1723},
support = {EP/P029868/1//RCUK | Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC)/ ; EP/K005138/1//RCUK | Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC)/ ; EP/X001156/1//RCUK | Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC)/ ; EP/N006615/1//RCUK | Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC)/ ; 103882/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; 103884/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; BB/R012415/1//RCUK | Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC)/ ; H2020-MSCA-ITN-2015;676338//EC | Horizon 2020 Framework Programme (EU Framework Programme for Research and Innovation H2020)/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; *Quorum Sensing/physiology ; *Pseudomonas aeruginosa/physiology/genetics/drug effects ; Animals ; Mice ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Bacterial Adhesion ; Biofouling/prevention & control ; Glycolipids/metabolism ; 4-Butyrolactone/analogs & derivatives/pharmacology/metabolism ; Pseudomonas Infections/microbiology/prevention & control ; Surface Properties ; Female ; Polymers/chemistry ; Ligases ; Transcription Factors ; },
abstract = {Bio-instructive materials that intrinsically inhibit biofilm formation have significant anti-biofouling potential in industrial and healthcare settings. Since bacterial surface attachment is sensitive to surface topography, we experimentally surveyed 2176 combinatorially generated shapes embossed into polymers using an unbiased screen. This identified microtopographies that, in vitro, reduce colonization by pathogens associated with medical device-related infections by up to 15-fold compared to a flat polymer surface. Machine learning provided design rules, based on generalisable descriptors, for predicting biofilm-resistant microtopographies. On tracking single bacterial cells we observed that the motile behaviour of Pseudomonas aeruginosa is markedly different on anti-attachment microtopographies compared with pro-attachment or flat surfaces. Inactivation of Rhl-dependent quorum sensing in P. aeruginosa through deletion of rhlI or rhlR restored biofilm formation on the anti-attachment topographies due to the loss of rhamnolipid biosurfactant production. Exogenous provision of N-butanoyl-homoserine lactone to the rhlI mutant inhibited biofilm formation, as did genetic complementation of the rhlI, rhlR or rhlA mutants. These data are consistent with confinement-induced anti-adhesive rhamnolipid biosurfactant 'autolubrication'. In a murine foreign body infection model, anti-attachment topographies are refractory to P. aeruginosa colonization. Our findings highlight the potential of simple topographical patterning of implanted medical devices for preventing biofilm associated infections.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
*Quorum Sensing/physiology
*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/physiology/genetics/drug effects
Animals
Mice
Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Bacterial Adhesion
Biofouling/prevention & control
Glycolipids/metabolism
4-Butyrolactone/analogs & derivatives/pharmacology/metabolism
Pseudomonas Infections/microbiology/prevention & control
Surface Properties
Female
Polymers/chemistry
Ligases
Transcription Factors

@article {pmid40533040,
year = {2025},
author = {Kim, IH and Shin, JH and Jeong, SB and Hwang, GB and Park, CW and Jung, JH},
title = {Compact and Cost-Effective Autofluorescence Sensor for Real-time Environmental Biofilm Monitoring.},
journal = {Environmental research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {122171},
doi = {10.1016/j.envres.2025.122171},
pmid = {40533040},
issn = {1096-0953},
abstract = {Biofilms, microbial communities embedded in extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), exhibit strong resistance to antimicrobial agents and physical cleaning, making their removal challenging. As persistent sources of contamination, biofilms pose significant challenges in industrial, medical, and environmental sectors. This study presents the development of compact, cost-effective sensor module for real-time biofilm monitoring under ambient light conditions. Using Staphylococcus epidermidis as a model biofilm, autofluorescence properties were analyzed, identifying 285 nm as the optimal excitation wavelength. Five sensor modules were evaluated for sensitivity, linearity, and cost efficiency, leading to the selection of the most suitable photodetector. A prototype was constructed by integrating a 285 nm LED, a photodetector, and a lock-in amplifier (LIA) to minimize environmental light interference. The compact sensor module (90 × 90 × 32 mm) demonstrated stable fluorescence detection under ambient light levels up to 200 lux. This study advances biofilm detection beyond laboratory-based methods, enabling real-time monitoring and management in industrial and everyday environments.},
}

@article {pmid40532644,
year = {2025},
author = {Tang, Y and Chen, H and Deng, J and Yang, X and Shi, H and Li, Q},
title = {Flagellin deficiency drives multi-drug resistance in Salmonella through biofilm adaptation and efflux pump activation.},
journal = {Veterinary microbiology},
volume = {307},
number = {},
pages = {110607},
doi = {10.1016/j.vetmic.2025.110607},
pmid = {40532644},
issn = {1873-2542},
abstract = {Salmonella remains a leading foodborne pathogen of global public health concern. Of particular clinical relevance is the monophasic variant of S. Typhimurium, serotyped as S. 4,[5],12:i:-, which has emerged as an increasingly prevalent multi-drug resistance (MDR) strain worldwide. Characterized by the absence of phase 2 flagellar antigen expression, this variant has drawn significant attention due to its association with antimicrobial resistance. In this study, we systematically investigated the impact of flagellin deficiency on antibiotic tolerance in S. Typhimurium and S. Choleraesuis through the construction of isogenic mutants rSC0196 (S. Typhimurium UK-1(ΔfljBΔfliC)) and rSC0199 (S. Choleraesuis C78-3(ΔfljBΔfliC)). Our findings reveal that flagellin gene deletion confers enhanced antibiotic resistance in both serovars, despite significantly impairing their biofilm-forming capacity. Intriguingly, while biofilm biomass was reduced in the mutants, the residual biofilms displayed markedly increased antibiotic tolerance. Further studies demonstrated that flagellin deficiency significantly upregulated efflux pump activity in both mutant strains. These findings provide compelling evidence that flagellin deletion may serve as a key driver of MDR in S. 4,[5],12:i:- clinical isolates, potentially through dual mechanisms involving biofilm phenotypic alterations and efflux pump potentiation. This work not only advances our fundamental understanding of flagellin function in Salmonella pathogenesis but also provides valuable insights for the development of novel antimicrobial strategies targeting flagellin-mediated pathways.},
}

@article {pmid40532556,
year = {2025},
author = {Anandraj, FN and Panda, TK and Thangarasu, S and Palanisamy, G and Neerugatti, KE},
title = {Persulfate salts to combat bacterial resistance in the environment through antibiotic degradation and biofilm disruption.},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {284},
number = {},
pages = {123941},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2025.123941},
pmid = {40532556},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {Antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) and antibiotic-resistant genes (ARGs) have become a critical topic among researchers because of the excessive use of antibiotics in human and animal health care. Globally, it poses a serious threat to human health and the environment. Antibiotics are often poorly metabolized, with 30-90 % excreted into the environment, contaminating aquatic and ground ecosystems, and fostering resistance. Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), particularly sulfate radical-based AOPs (SR-AOPs), offer promising solutions for degrading antibiotics and resistant biofilms. Persulfate (PS) and Peroxymonosulfate (PMS) are key oxidants in these processes, generating sulfate and hydroxyl radicals when activated by heat, UV light, or transition metals. PS with a redox potential of E°=2.01 V is an affordable and effective oxidant. However, PS requires activation for the degradation of contaminants. PMS is stable across a broad pH range and produces both sulfate and hydroxyl radicals, allowing it to function independently without activation. Thus, PMS serving as a versatile agent for environmental treatment. This review broadly describes the degradation mechanisms of different classes of antibiotics and biofilms. Despite these promising developments, SR-AOPs still face challenges in managing complex wastewater systems, which often contain multiple pollutants. Moreover, gaps remain in understanding of the toxicity of reaction intermediates and in optimizing the large-scale application of these processes. Future research should focus on the in-situ generation of sulfate radicals, combining different activation methods to enhance degradation efficiency, and developing sustainable and cost-effective approaches for large-scale wastewater treatment.},
}

@article {pmid40530873,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, F and Chen, S and Zhou, J and Zhu, R and Chen, J and Wang, Y},
title = {ARTP mutagenesis for genome-wide identification of genes important for biofilm regulation in spoilage bacterium Pseudomonas fluorescens PF08.},
journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology},
volume = {91},
number = {6},
pages = {e0021825},
pmid = {40530873},
issn = {1098-5336},
support = {32302168//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; LQ24C200014//Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
mesh = {*Pseudomonas fluorescens/genetics/physiology ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; *Mutagenesis ; *Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; *Genome, Bacterial ; Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial ; Cyclic GMP/analogs & derivatives/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Pseudomonas fluorescens is a vital food spoilage bacterium and commonly spoils foods in the form of biofilms. Yet its biofilm regulation strategies have not been fully revealed. Here, we conducted a genome-wide screen of genes important for biofilm regulation using atmospheric and room temperature plasma mutagenesis together with the whole-genome resequencing technology. Three genes (D7M10_RS02105, D7M10_RS27690, and D7M10_RS25705) encoding GGDEF-EAL domain-containing proteins were found to have different mutation manifestations between biofilm cells and free cells. On direct testing, null mutants of D7M10_RS02105 and especially D7M10_RS27690 exhibited significantly elevated cyclic di-GMP (c-di-GMP) levels. Further studies indicated that a higher level of c-di-GMP caused by the null mutant of D7M10_RS27690 triggered cell growth, the production of siderophore and exopolysaccharide as well as autoaggregation, and hindered cell motility, all of which together promote biofilm formation. RNA-sequencing analysis revealed the transcription profile regulated by D7M10_RS27690, mostly including flagellar assembly and peptidoglycan biosynthesis pathways. Therein, the downregulated genes enriched in flagellar assembly were verified by qRT-PCR; the result of which was in agreement with the decreased cell motility.IMPORTANCEBiofilms formed by spoilage bacterium Pseudomonas fluorescens will bring about food quality and safety issues. In this study, we present the establishment of a genetic method and verified its reliability and efficiency for identifying genes associated with biofilm regulation. The genes we discovered offer new perspectives on the mechanisms of biofilm regulation in spoilage bacterium P. fluorescens. Moreover, the gene screen method based on atmospheric and room temperature plasma mutagenesis and whole-genome resequencing-coupled technology overcomes the labor-intensive issues caused by traditional methods and should generally be suitable for identifying genes associated with biofilm formation or dispersion in other bacteria.},
}

*Pseudomonas fluorescens/genetics/physiology
*Biofilms/growth & development
*Mutagenesis
*Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism
*Genome, Bacterial
Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial
Cyclic GMP/analogs & derivatives/metabolism

@article {pmid40530673,
year = {2025},
author = {Yang, G and Yang, R and Zhu, X and Xu, Q and Niu, X and Miao, C and Wei, W and Wang, C and Wang, T and Wu, D},
title = {In vitro and in vivo activity of sodium houttuyfonate and sodium new houttuyfonate against Candida auris infection by affecting adhesion, aggregation, and biofilm formation abilities.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0022225},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.00222-25},
pmid = {40530673},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Candida auris is a rapidly spreading multidrug-resistant fungus that causes fatal infections under certain global conditions. Sodium houttuyfonate (SH) and sodium new houttuyfonate (SNH) are stable derivatives of houttuynin (decyl aldehyde) extracted from Houttuynia cordata, both possessing antifungal and antibacterial pharmacological activities. However, the inhibitory effects of SH and SNH on C. auris remain unclear. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the potential activity and possible mechanisms of SH and SNH as antifungal agents against C. auris. First, our results showed that SH and SNH exhibit significantly inhibitory activity against fluconazole-resistant C. auris strains, but do not possess effective fungicidal activity. In addition, transcriptome and RT-qPCR studies revealed that SH and SNH can repress the expression of genes related to adhesion, aggregation, and biofilm formation. Next, we observed that SH and SNH can disrupt the adhesion and aggregation of early-stage C. auris. Furthermore, using the XTT assay, crystal violet staining, and confocal laser scanning microscopy, we found that the biofilm formation ability of C. auris was disrupted by SH and SNH. We also found that SH and SNH can potentially increase chitin content and expose β-1,3-glucan in the cell wall. Finally, infection models using Galleria mellonella larvae and mice with systemic candidiasis demonstrated that SH and SNH significantly inhibited the colonization and pathological damage of C. auris in vivo. Therefore, our presented results suggest that SH and SNH can effectively inhibit the growth, adhesion, aggregation, and biofilm formation to treat its colonization and pathological damage to the host of C. auris.

IMPORTANCE: Recently, the annual proportion of non-C. albicans infections has been rising. The most notable characteristic of C. auris is its resistance to drugs, including multidrug resistance, which results in treatment failures and poses significant challenges in controlling its spread. Sodium houttuyfonate (SH) and sodium new houttuyfonate (SNH) are effective and stable derivatives of houttuynin (decyl aldehyde) extracted from traditional Chinese herbal medicine Houttuynia cordata, both possessing antifungal and antibacterial pharmacological activities. However, the inhibitory effects of SH and SNH on C. auris remain unclear. Through in vitro and in vivo approaches, we have demonstrated that SH and SNH can effectively inhibit the growth, adhesion, aggregation, and biofilm formation to treat its colonization and pathological damage to the host of C. auris. Thus, our findings provide new insights into possible options for clinical applications in the anti-C. auris.},
}

@article {pmid40530663,
year = {2025},
author = {Kurbatfinski, N and Jurscisek, JA and Wilbanks, KQ and Goodman, SD and Bakaletz, LO},
title = {Respiratory tract antimicrobial peptides more effectively killed multiple methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae isolates after disruption from biofilm residence.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0306624},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.03066-24},
pmid = {40530663},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Bacteria newly released (NRel) from biofilm residence via multiple methodologies are commonly significantly more sensitive to antibiotics. We've induced NRel with this phenotype after incubation of biofilms formed by diverse human pathogens with an epitope-targeted monoclonal antibody directed at protective domains within bacterial DNABII proteins that provide structural support to the eDNA-dependent biofilm matrix. The observed heightened sensitivity was due, in part, to increased NRel membrane permeability. In three animal models of human biofilm-mediated infections, this monoclonal induced biofilm disruption with rapid concomitant bacterial clearance and disease resolution in the absence of any co-delivered antibiotic, which suggested a key role of innate immune effectors. Recently, we showed that NRel of the respiratory pathogen nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHI), as mediated by the DNABII-directed monoclonal, are also highly vulnerable to killing by human polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs). Here, we extended these observations to show that the transient, yet highly vulnerable anti-DNABII NRel phenotype of three isolates of both NTHI and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) included significant sensitivity to killing by three antimicrobial peptides commonly expressed within the respiratory tract or by PMNs (e.g., human β-defensins 1 and 3 as well as the cathelicidin, LL-37). We envision induction of the NRel phenotype by delivery of this monoclonal antibody to patients with recalcitrant biofilm-mediated diseases to provide greatly improved medical management. Ideally, clearance of NRel will be mediated by innate immune effectors of an immunocompetent host or, if needed, by co-delivered traditional antibiotics, which are canonically ineffective against biofilm-resident bacteria but would be highly effective against NRel.

IMPORTANCE: Pathogenesis of most common chronic and/or recurrent bacterial diseases (e.g., middle ear infections, urinary tract infections, rhinosinusitis, among others) can be attributed to biofilms that are canonically highly resistant to both immune effectors and antibiotics. If we treat biofilms formed by diverse human pathogens with a targeted monoclonal antibody directed at protective domains of bacterial DNA-binding proteins integral to the structural stability of the eDNA-rich biofilm matrix, they are rapidly disrupted with concomitant release of the resident bacteria. These newly released (NRel) bacteria are transiently significantly more sensitive to killing by both traditional antibiotics and human PMNs, and herein, we showed that they are also more readily killed by antimicrobial peptides. Clinically, we hope to leverage this understanding of the NRel phenotype for better medical management of these challenging infections, as well as perhaps even limit or eliminate further contribution to the global antimicrobial resistance 'pandemic'.},
}