@article {pmid41768750,
year = {2026},
author = {Yılmaz, MK and Esen, MK and Yalçın, MS and İnce, S and Özdemir, S},
title = {Design, Synthesis and Multitarget Biological Evaluation of Perfluoroalkylated Benzoylthiourea Compounds: From Biofilm Disruption to DNA Cleavage.},
journal = {ACS omega},
volume = {11},
number = {7},
pages = {11911-11919},
doi = {10.1021/acsomega.5c10893},
pmid = {41768750},
issn = {2470-1343},
abstract = {In the present study, a series of benzoylthiourea compounds bearing a perfluorinated group (-C8F17), namely N-((4-(heptadecafluorooctyl)-phenyl)-carbamothioyl)-benzamide (1) and N-((3-(heptadecafluorooctyl)-phenyl)-carbamothioyl)-benzamide (2) along with their non-fluorinated analogue, N-(phenylcarbamothioyl)-benzamide (3), were synthesized and characterized. Subsequently, various biological properties of the thiourea derivatives 1, 2, and 3 were evaluated, with a particular focus on elucidating the effect of the fluorinated group. The free radical scavenging activities of these compounds were evaluated with ascorbic acid and Trolox standards. Antioxidant activity peaked at 84.56% for 1 and 74.22% for 3. While 1 and 2 showed 97.70 and 96.50% inhibitory effects on α-amylase at 6.25 mg/L, 3 demonstrated 74.90% inhibitory effect at 100 mg/L. All compounds also displayed effective DNA nuclease activity. Additionally, antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities of benzoylthiourea compounds were also investigated. The most resistant microorganisms to the tested compounds were found to be Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In contrast, the most sensitive microorganisms were found to be Legionella pneumophila subsp. pneumophila and Enterococcus faecalis. The biofilm formation inhibition activities of benzoylthiourea compounds against S. aureus were 71.79, 69.80, and 63.53%, and against P. aeruginosa were 53.52, 63.33, and 70.00%, respectively, at the highest concentration. These findings provide a basis for proposing perfluorinated benzoylthiourea derivatives as potential potent, selective, and multitarget medicinal agents.},
}

@article {pmid41766602,
year = {2026},
author = {Jennings, JA and Abdelbary, H and Abdulla, FS and Arafah, O and Benzouak, T and Choe, H and Coenye, T and Coraça-Huber, DC and Drago, L and Gustavo Garcia, R and Goh, GS and Hamilton, J and Hamoudeh, R and Hickok, NJ and Jensen, LK and Lee, HG and Li, B and Manzary, M and Markovics, A and McDonald, K and Fintan Moriarty, T and Muthukrishnan, G and Nishitani, K and Norton, NJ and Oral, E and Parvizi, J and Del Pozo, J and Priddy, LB and Raafat, D and Saeed, K and Spiegel, C and Schwarz, EM and Siverino, C and Trobos, M and Tubbs, A and Yeasmin, R},
title = {2025 International Consensus Meeting on Musculoskeletal Infection: Summary From Biofilm Workgroup on Treatment of Biofilm-Related Infection and Preclinical Models.},
journal = {Journal of orthopaedic research : official publication of the Orthopaedic Research Society},
volume = {44},
number = {3},
pages = {e70169},
doi = {10.1002/jor.70169},
pmid = {41766602},
issn = {1554-527X},
abstract = {Despite advancements in surgical techniques, musculoskeletal infections (MSKI) remain severe complications following orthopedic surgery, imposing a substantial financial and personal burden on patients and healthcare systems globally. To establish the current state of knowledge in this field, International Consensus Meetings (ICM) were held in 2013, 2018, and 2025, including a Biofilm Section focused on establishing state-of-the-art basic science and translational research. The latest ICM utilized a 2-year-long Delphi process that commenced on May 31, 2023, and culminated in an in-person meeting involving voting on 30 questions by 47 delegates on May 8-10, 2025, in Istanbul, Turkey. Following the voting process, the Biofilm Section formed three workgroups (Biofilm Basic Science, Biofilm Treatment, and Research Priorities) to interpret the results and disseminate the findings in Consensus Articles that highlight priorities. The following is the summation of the Biofilm Treatment Workgroup, which aims to shape future pre-clinical MSKI research directions and grant funding with respect to: (1) elevating scientific rigor to ensure reproducibility and high-quality data in preclinical research; (2) transitioning mature therapeutic concepts into rigorous in vivo models to definitively prove their clinical feasibility; and (3) accelerating the development of novel molecular targets and advanced drug-delivery systems. Finally, the workgroup acknowledged a critical shift in the funding landscape. As government support faces future challenges, there is an urgent need for increased investment from industry and philanthropic partners. Such support is essential to develop effective treatments for serious orthopedic infections and to improve outcomes for patients facing life-altering illnesses.},
}

@article {pmid41765712,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhou, L and Dong, N and Fu, M and Yue, X and Jian, Y and Li, H and Zhuang, WQ},
title = {Corrigendum to "Dissimilatory sulfate reduction in an anaerobic biofilm reactor for tofu processing wastewater treatment: Bacterial community and their functional genes" [Sci. Total Environ. 892, (2023), 164579].},
journal = {The Science of the total environment},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {181598},
doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2026.181598},
pmid = {41765712},
issn = {1879-1026},
}

@article {pmid41765503,
year = {2026},
author = {Sato, T and Fukada, N and Kobayashi, H and Okaniwa, A and Okada, M and Yamazaki, K},
title = {Biofilm and Dermatophytoma.},
journal = {Medical mycology journal},
volume = {67},
number = {1},
pages = {71-77},
doi = {10.3314/mmj.26.006},
pmid = {41765503},
issn = {2186-165X},
abstract = {Dermatophytoma is a type of onychomycosis with distinctive clinical features. Clinically, it typically appears as a linear spike, triangular, or round white- or yellow-colored mass on the nail plate. Dermatophytes are thought to adhere to the nail surface and secrete extracellular polysaccharides (EPS), proteins, DNA, and other components, forming a biofilm matrix. EPS typically encases this microbial aggregation and is synthesized by the microbial constituents of the biofilm. Herein, we review dermatophytoma and the relationship between nail infection and biofilm. We also discuss green nails with dermatophytoma and infection models of biofilm formation.},
}

@article {pmid41765389,
year = {2026},
author = {Jurrat, H and Liaqat, I and Naseem, S and Abdul Latif, A and Saleem, G and Ali, A and Aftab, MN and Ali, S and Ismoilov, M},
title = {Biotechnological Evaluation of Anti-microbial and Anti-biofilm Properties of Biosurfactants Isolated from Catla catla Fats Derived Bacteria.},
journal = {Journal of oleo science},
volume = {75},
number = {3},
pages = {251-270},
doi = {10.5650/jos.ess25217},
pmid = {41765389},
issn = {1347-3352},
abstract = {Antibiotic resistance and biofilm-associated infections are major global health concerns, requiring sustainable antimicrobial alternatives. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial, antifungal, and antibiofilm potential of biosurfactants produced by Bacillus strains (H1, H2, and H5) isolated from the fat of Catla catla, a freshwater fish from the Sutlej River, Pakistan. The biosurfactants were extracted, purified, and characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, high-performance liquid chromatography, and mass spectrometry. Quantitative analysis revealed that strain H5 produced the highest levels of surfactin (107.5 ± 0.3 mg L[-1]) and iturin A (60.5 ± 0.5 mg L[-1]). The biosurfactants exhibited strong antibacterial activity, producing inhibition zones of up to 28.3 ± 0.3 mm against Bacillus licheniformis and 24.3 ± 0.3 mm against Escherichia coli. Minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations against Staphylococcus aureus were 6.6 ± 0.6 µg mL[-1] and 11.8 ± 0.4 µg mL[-1], respectively. Antifungal tests showed up to 34.6 ± 0.3 mm inhibition zones against Fusarium moniliforme. Antibiofilm assays demonstrated that the extracellular biosurfactant from strain H2 achieved the highest inhibition (82.7 ± 0.3 %) at 50 µg mL[-1]. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed the isolates as Bacillus subtilis (PV789583), Bacillus thuringiensis (PV789584), and Bacillus cereus (PV789585). These findings indicate that biosurfactants derived from Catla catla fat as a substrate represent a cost-effective and eco-friendly source of potent antimicrobial and antibiofilm compounds with promising biotechnological and therapeutic applications.},
}

@article {pmid41764148,
year = {2026},
author = {Murugesan, S and Rengarajan, S and Subbarayalu, A and Raman, S and Navaneethan, RD and S, SS and G, RR and Pandian, A and Chinnapandi, B},
title = {Sustainable fabrication of TiO2 nanoparticles using Gracilaria edulis extract: a study on biofilm inhibition and photocatalytic industrial dye degradation.},
journal = {Environmental geochemistry and health},
volume = {48},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {41764148},
issn = {1573-2983},
abstract = {Titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles were green-synthesized using whole Gracilaria edulis. The G. edulis was washed, dried, powdered and extracted, which is rich with various natural reducing, stabilizing, and capping agents. The TiO2 nanoparticles confirmed with strong UV-Vis absorption with peaks between 250 and 350 nm, consistent with the anatase TiO2 band gap. FTIR analysis revealed surface hydroxyl groups and organic residues from the algal extract, potentially facilitating reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. XRD confirmed a highly crystalline nature of green-synthesized TiO2 nanoparticles and showed irregular nanoscale morphology by SEM, while EDS confirmed Ti and O with minor algal-derived elements. TEM images showed mostly spherical, well-dispersed nanoparticles with minimal aggregation. Antimicrobial evaluation demonstrated stronger inhibition, with MIC values of 0.50 mg/mL for bacteria and 0.25 mg/mL for fungi. Photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue under sunlight achieved efficiencies of 90.1-94.4% at neutral pH (7) and 88.3-90.1% at alkaline pH (9), with performance improving at higher TiO2 loadings (10-30 ppm), while acidic pH showed slightly lower but variable degradation. Immobilization within sodium alginate produced uniform, stable beads with minimal leaching, suitable for reuse, and biofilm assays demonstrated concentration-dependent inhibition of bacterial biofilm formation. These results highlight that G. edulis-mediated TiO2 nanoparticles are promising sustainable materials in wastewater treatment and antimicrobial work because they have good physiochemical properties, strong antimicrobial and anti-biofilm action, and high dye degradation by photocatalysts.},
}

@article {pmid41763718,
year = {2026},
author = {Radcliffe, T},
title = {Overcoming Biofilm Detection and Mitigation Challenges to Improve Process Control of a Pharmaceutical Water-for-Injection System: Poster presented at PDA Microbiology Conference 2025.},
journal = {PDA journal of pharmaceutical science and technology},
volume = {80},
number = {1},
pages = {187-188},
doi = {10.5731/pdajpst.2026.26133},
pmid = {41763718},
issn = {1948-2124},
abstract = {The development and existence of bioburden in pharmaceutical water systems is often misunderstood. Microorganisms are always present and have a keen ability to adapt to their environment. This is especially true in a Water-for-Injection (WFI) system, where microbial attachment and biofilm growth will occur regardless of flow rate, material of construction, turbulent flow and low nutrient conditions. While industry makes every effort to control and eliminate bioburden, traditional sanitization methods are not one-hundred-percent effective at accomplishing this objective. Additionally, because of the limitations and time to result delay of conventional plate counting, we may be at a disadvantage for assessing bioburden, causing us to use water at risk. This poster explores real-life examples of biofilm in pharmaceutical water systems, risk mitigation strategies, and how real-time microbial detection could be used as a tool for improved risk management and process control.},
}

@article {pmid41763046,
year = {2026},
author = {Tao, Y and Zhang, Y and Liu, H and Xu, X and Zhuang, J and Huang, T and Lu, H and Wu, B},
title = {Sustainable nutrient removal without chemical addition: Pilot-scale performance of a biochar-enhanced hybrid biofilm system in municipal wastewater treatment.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {402},
number = {},
pages = {129151},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2026.129151},
pmid = {41763046},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {This study proposes a chemical-free and carbon-efficient strategy for advanced nutrient removal by integrating functional biochar into a hybrid biofilm system within a modified A[2]/O process. A long-term pilot-scale demonstration was conducted at a municipal wastewater treatment plant to evaluate system performance under realistic operating conditions. The biochar-enhanced system achieved stable treatment performance, consistently meeting China's Class 1A discharge standards without the addition of external carbon sources or chemical precipitants. The system achieved average removal efficiencies of 80.6% for total nitrogen and 94.2% for total phosphorus, with effluent concentrations consistently below 10 mg/L and 0.5 mg/L, respectively, which are well within the stringent regulatory limits. Biochar served as a multi-functional habitat and electron mediator, fostering the development of redox-stratified microenvironments and enhancing direct interspecies electron transfer. The introduction of biochar reduced aeration energy demand by 15-20%, which significantly decreased operational costs and enhanced overall system efficiency. High-throughput sequencing revealed the selective enrichment of key functional guilds, including denitrifying Caldilineaceae (12.3% relative abundance) and phosphorus-removing Saprospiraceae (8.7%). Structural equation modeling further quantified that biofilm-surface communities contributed 1.8-2.3 times more to pollutant removal than internal populations. The system also demonstrated robust adaptability to varying C/N ratios (2-8) and temperatures (15-30 °C), showcasing its potential for widespread application in diverse environments. These results provide not only insights into biochar-facilitated microbial processes but also a practical and scalable retrofit strategy for existing treatment plants to achieve sustainable nutrient management with reduced operational costs and chemical dependency.},
}

@article {pmid41759977,
year = {2026},
author = {Jing, K and Li, Y and Li, Y and Meng, Q and Zhang, J and Guan, Q},
title = {Migration of antibiotic resistance genes in process of biodegradation of sulfonamide antibiotics in biofilm-sediment: Mechanisms, microbial communities, and driving factors.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {448},
number = {},
pages = {134286},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.134286},
pmid = {41759977},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {The main removal pathway of sulfonamide antibiotics (SAs) in biofilm-sediment system is biodegradation, which not only promotes the enrichment of drug-resistant bacteria, but its metabolic intermediates also promote the horizontal gene transfer (HGT) of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). Since the biofilm-sediment multiphase system is closer to characteristics of the natural aquatic environment, the study of the dynamic migration process of ARGs in this system can reveal the propagation patterns of ARGs more realistically. Therefore, this study investigated the migration characteristics of ARGs and their driving mechanisms during the biodegradation of SAs in the biofilm-sediment system. The results showed that the migration of ARGs exhibited obvious stratification characteristics: the abundance of ARGs in the surface biofilm fluctuated in synchrony with the degradation of SAs, the HGT mediated by mobile genetic elements (MGEs) in middle sediments enabled the cross-layer migration and accumulation of ARGs, while deep sediments were limited in migration due to hypoxia and pore barriers. Changes in the bacterial community also facilitated the migration of ARGs, with the proliferation of host bacteria dominating the surface layer and the formation of a composite transfer system of "host bacteria-ARGs-MGEs" in the middle layer. The multivariate statistical analysis model confirmed that the synergistic effects of bacterial abundance, MGEs and environmental factors contributed 95-99% to the migration of ARGs in the surface and middle layers, with pH being the strongest positive regulator. These results demonstrated that the migration of ARGs is closely related to the degradation process of pollutants.},
}

@article {pmid41759553,
year = {2026},
author = {Felton, SM and Ficarrotta, JM and Kolling, GL and Papin, JA and Berger, BW},
title = {Enzyme-enhanced RNA isolation from biofilm-producing bacteria.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0307725},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.03077-25},
pmid = {41759553},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {RNA isolation is a critical first step for gene expression analysis; however, obtaining high-quality RNA from polysaccharide-rich or biofilm-producing microbial samples remains challenging. High polysaccharide content hinders cell lysis, decreases RNA yield, and reduces sample purity, limiting the reliability and accuracy of downstream techniques such as RNA-seq and RT-qPCR. In this study, we evaluated the use of polysaccharide lyase, Smlt1473, as a pre-processing step to improve RNA isolation from Pseudomonas species. Incorporation of Smlt1473 into a commercial RNA extraction kit workflow significantly improved RNA extraction for mucoid clinical and agricultural pseudomonads and did not adversely affect the non-mucoid isolate, PA14. More specifically, RNA-seq analysis demonstrated that pre-processing with Smlt1473 increased the proportion of assigned reads without introducing significant changes in gene expression. Only a limited set of genes-primarily hypothetical proteins and potential phage-associated elements-were differentially expressed, while global transcriptional profiles remained stable. Together, these findings demonstrate that pre-processing with Smlt1473 provides an effective, easily integrated method to enhance RNA isolation from biofilm-forming bacteria and improves RNA-seq data quality without perturbing the underlying biology.IMPORTANCEPseudomonas aeruginosa, along with other clinically relevant pathogens, is notorious for forming complex biofilms. Microbial biofilms can be composed of anywhere from 50% to 90% polysaccharides. This high polysaccharide content of microbial biofilms severely hinders RNA extraction by complicating bacterial cell lysis, causing a decrease in yield and purity. Challenges with isolating RNA from clinically relevant biofilm-forming pathogens limit our ability to study and better understand bacterial pathogenesis. Low quality and quantity of RNA impede the accuracy and reproducibility of downstream analysis and may ultimately obstruct the discovery of novel drug targets and therapeutic interventions. Developing strategies to overcome these barriers, such as enzymatic pre-processing, is therefore critical to improving RNA recovery from biofilm-producing bacteria to enable more accurate transcriptomic studies that advance both basic science and clinical applications.},
}

@article {pmid41758651,
year = {2026},
author = {Bjarnsholt, T and Lex, C and Stewart, P},
title = {The biofilm paradigm: A milestone, not the destination.},
journal = {Cell reports},
volume = {45},
number = {3},
pages = {117014},
doi = {10.1016/j.celrep.2026.117014},
pmid = {41758651},
issn = {2211-1247},
abstract = {Biofilms have profoundly shaped our understanding of chronic infection, yet their explanatory reach is limited. This commentary argues that chronicity emerges from a host-pathogen partnership, where host-derived structural, metabolic, immune, and systemic constraints define persistence, tolerance, and treatment responses beyond microbial architecture alone.},
}

@article {pmid41758321,
year = {2026},
author = {Pathak, A and Singh, J and Swati, and Dwibedi, V},
title = {Deciphering microbial biofilm: mechanism, infection, and advanced approaches for control.},
journal = {Folia microbiologica},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41758321},
issn = {1874-9356},
abstract = {Microbial biofilms are densely organised microbial communities that adhere to biotic and abiotic surfaces, encased within an extracellular polymeric substance (EPS). Microorganisms within these biofilm structures gain enhanced protection, versatility, and resistance to external stresses, antibiotics, and host immune systems. The biofilm formation follows a series of steps, including initial microbial adherence, microcolony establishment, EPS production, regulation by quorum sensing (QS), and dispersal. This flexibility enables biofilm survival in multiple environments, such as medical devices and natural systems, posing serious challenges in healthcare, agricultural, and industrial sectors. The review focuses on the mechanisms involved in biofilm formation and discusses the role of EPS in promoting biofilm stability and resistance to antimicrobials. It addresses biofilm-associated infections in medical environments, such as chronic wounds, cystic fibrosis, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and complications with implanted medical devices. The capacity of biofilm-forming microorganisms to evade immune responses and persist through extended antibiotic use highlights the urgent demand for novel therapeutic approaches. The discussion includes emerging strategies for biofilm control, including anti-biofilm agents, QS inhibitors, enzymatic treatments, and innovative combination therapies combining antibiotics with biofilm-disrupting agents. Emerging technologies, like antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), CRISPR-Cas systems, nanotechnology, and bioelectric therapies, present innovative biofilm disruption and removal approaches. This paper discusses the effectiveness of natural products, plant-derived compounds, and bacteriophage therapies for mitigating biofilm-associated infections linked to biofilms. The review examines the dynamic challenges posed by biofilms, particularly their role in chronic and device-related infections, which contribute to significant healthcare complications. The study highlights the significance of adopting new approaches to overcome biofilm-induced antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and improve therapeutic outcomes. Furthermore, this paper discusses the promising potential of emerging technologies, such as nanomaterials, QS interference, and biofilm-specific antimicrobial agents, in enhancing biofilm control and prevention measures across clinical, industrial, and environmental domains.},
}

@article {pmid41757890,
year = {2026},
author = {Tarasov, K and Zarubin, M and Yakhnenko, A and Gangapshev, A and Kravchenko, E},
title = {Metagenomic analysis of the biofilm community at the oxic-anoxic interface of a deep-underground saline spring at the Baksan Neutrino Observatory.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0210325},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.02103-25},
pmid = {41757890},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {In this work, the first-ever metagenomic study of the microbial community from the deep-underground saline spring located at the Baksan Neutrino Observatory (BNO) (Kabardino-Balkaria, Russia) is presented. Using the metagenomic approach, we obtained 19 metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) attributed to the phyla Pseudomonadota (the dominant phyla), Planctomycetota, Myxococcota, Nitrospirota, Gemmatimonadota, Armatimonadota, and Cyanobacteriota. Archaea are generally absent in the metagenome. The microbial community of the Baksan Neutrino Observatory demonstrates a high metabolic diversity, including carbon dioxide-fixing, methane-oxidizing, dinitrogen-fixing, nitrate- and iron-reducing, anammox, nitrifying, and predatory bacteria. Hydrogen, methane, ammonia, and reduced iron compounds, present in the ecosystem, provide energy for primary organic production. The abundance and diversity of bacteria capable of carrying out various stages of the nitrogen cycle suggest that nitrogen compounds are of great significance for microbial community metabolism. On the basis of the Genome Taxonomy Database Toolkit classification of MAGs and comparison to the closest RefSeq genomes, we have identified six new genera, with the proposed names-"Candidatus Jinrbaksania," "Candidatus Neutrinellum," "Candidatus Jinrextremum," "Candidatus Inrsubterrania," "Candidatus Inralta," and "Candidatus Neutrinobacter." Comparative analysis with metagenomes of microbial communities from the deep underground granitic sites and karst caves reveals that the BNO microbial community represents a unique transitional ecosystem on the boundary between the deep anoxic and surface aerobic biosphere.IMPORTANCEThe deep biosphere makes up 12-20% of the Earth's biomass and is poorly studied due to its inaccessibility. To date, only a few metagenomic studies of local deep biospheres have been performed in Russia. The Baksan Neutrino Observatory (BNO) is a deep-underground laboratory, with some abandoned tunnels. One of them hosts a mineral spring saturated with volcanic gases from the peripheral magma chamber of Mount Elbrus. The metagenomic analysis of the biofilm from this mineral spring has revealed the presence of unique microbial community whose composition occupies a transitional position between deep-underground microbial communities and communities of karst caves. We believe that this study of the microbial metagenome of the saline spring of the BNO will make a valuable contribution to understanding the composition and functioning of microbial communities formed at the oxic-anoxic interface.},
}

@article {pmid41757571,
year = {2026},
author = {Tian, X and Liu, K and Wang, P},
title = {Flower-Shaped Supramolecular Polymer Enabling Biofilm Eradication, Improved Foliar Affinity, and Bacterial Disease Management.},
journal = {Angewandte Chemie (International ed. in English)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e25538},
doi = {10.1002/anie.202525538},
pmid = {41757571},
issn = {1521-3773},
support = {22578085//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32560673//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 82404431//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 22467025//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; JYB2025XDXM701//Fundamental and Interdisciplinary Disciplines Breakthrough Plan of the Ministry of Education of China/ ; GCC[2023]008//Innovation Program for High-level Talents of Guizhou Province/ ; ZK[2022]017//Guizhou Provincial S&T Project/ ; QianKeHe Basic-[2024] Youth 315//Guizhou Provincial Science and Technology Projects/ ; Guidakechuangtuan[2023]03//Research and Innovation Team of Guizhou University/ ; Guidazhuanjihe[2024]02//Natural Science Special Project of Guizhou University/ ; },
abstract = {The management of bacterial plant diseases is impeded by biofilm fortifications and the poor foliar affinity of conventional antimicrobials. Supramolecular assemblies have recently emerged as promising biofilm-eradicating agents with enhanced surface adhesion. Yet, supramolecular polymers, although endowed with comparable or even greater potential, remain largely untapped in this arena. Herein, we introduce NOP@CB[8], a flower-like supramolecular polymer self-assembled in water from a de novo designed cationic pyridinium salt (NOP) and cucurbit[8]uril (CB[8]). Acting as a multifunctional agent, NOP@CB[8] disrupts bacterial membranes, perturbs redox equilibrium, disintegrates biofilms, and concurrently enhances foliar affinity. These combined attributes endow NOP@CB[8] with potent in vivo efficacy, exhibiting protective and curative efficacies of 56.1% and 51.2%, respectively, at 200 µg mL[-1] against rice bacterial leaf blight, thereby surpassing both free NOP (47.9%/43.1%) and thiodiazole copper (TC, 36.2%/33.7%). Remarkably, NOP@CB[8] delivers high control efficacy with uncompromised safety toward both target and non‑target organisms, even demonstrates enhanced safety in zebrafish relative to free NOP. Extending its scope to citrus and kiwifruit cankers, NOP@CB[8] achieves approximately 80% protective and over 60% curative efficacy, consistently outperforming NOP and TC. Together, this study delineates a green alternative for crop protection and a conceptual framework for next-generation functional supramolecular polymers.},
}

@article {pmid41757472,
year = {2026},
author = {Das, S and Roy, R and Malik, M and Paul, P and Chakraborty, P and Chatterjee, S and Maiti, D and Tribedi, P},
title = {Piperine inhibits biofilm formation in co-cultures of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus.},
journal = {Biofouling},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-18},
doi = {10.1080/08927014.2026.2630947},
pmid = {41757472},
issn = {1029-2454},
abstract = {Polymicrobial biofilms of Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa pose serious clinical challenges due to their persistence, metabolic adaptability, and antibiotic tolerance. The present study investigated the ability of these two bacteria to co-exist and form mixed-species biofilms and evaluated the antibiofilm potential of piperine, a plant-derived alkaloid from Piper nigrum. Co-existence of S. aureus and P. aeruginosa was confirmed by enumeration of colony-forming units, growth kinetics, cross-streaking, metabolic fingerprinting, Gini coefficient analysis, and antibiotic susceptibility. Sub-minimum inhibitory concentrations of piperine significantly inhibited mixed-species biofilm formation, as demonstrated by biochemical, microbiological and microscopic analysis. Piperine treatment led to noticeable reductions in biofilm biomass, exopolysaccharide content, total protein content, metabolic activity and extracellular DNA. Mechanistic investigations revealed that piperine impaired biofilm-forming determinants by reducing cellular co-aggregation and cell surface hydrophobicity, inducing intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, and increasing membrane permeability. Significantly, piperine effectively disrupted pre-established mixed-species biofilms, and its antibiofilm efficacy was further validated in a catheter model, highlighting its relevance against device-associated infections. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that piperine inhibits and disintegrates S. aureus-P. aeruginosa biofilms through diverse mechanisms, positioning it as a promising phytochemical for managing biofilm-associated infections.},
}

@article {pmid41756912,
year = {2026},
author = {Fields, JL and Sebastian, CC and Zhang, H and Zia, A and Robertson, AN and Wu, H and Kiedrowski, MR and Wang, F},
title = {The archaic CUP pilus SMF-1 utilizes a specific antiparallel bundling mechanism to initiate biofilm formation.},
journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.64898/2026.02.19.706768},
pmid = {41756912},
issn = {2692-8205},
abstract = {Bacterial biofilms represent a survival strategy that enables microbial communities to withstand environmental stress. Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is an emerging, antibiotic-resistant, Gram-negative, opportunistic pathogen that frequently colonizes the lungs of individuals with cystic fibrosis. Its chaperone-usher pathway (CUP) pilus, SMF-1, is present in nearly all clinical isolates and is essential for biofilm development; however, its molecular architecture has remained unknown. Here, we present a 4.0 Å cryo-EM structure revealing that SMF-1 is an archaic, rather than a classic, CUP pilus. SMF-1 forms thin, zigzag filaments that assemble into defined antiparallel "pili-couples," which further aggregate into thick bundles. These bundles act as robust intercellular tethers, facilitating the rapid cell-to-cell aggregation required for biofilm initiation. Despite high sequence and structural similarity to classic CUP systems, SMF-1 lacks the interfaces required to form a rod-like architecture, suggesting it may represent an evolutionary intermediate between the CUP classes. Finally, we demonstrate that SMF-1 producing bacteria initiate biofilm formation within 24 hours and that flagella can further accelerate this process. Together, these findings uncover a conserved bundling mechanism that promotes bacterial colonization and may contribute to pathogenicity.},
}

@article {pmid41754955,
year = {2026},
author = {Skiba-Kurek, I and Namysł, M and Kania, K and Czekajewska, J and Sepioło, A and Gosiewski, T and Olechowska-Jarząb, A},
title = {In Vitro Activity of Rezafungin Against Planktonic and Biofilm Forms of Candida albicans and Nakaseomyces glabratus Clinical Isolates from Vascular Infections in Poland: A Pilot Study.},
journal = {Pharmaceutics},
volume = {18},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41754955},
issn = {1999-4923},
support = {N42/DBS/000093//the Jagiellonian University Medical College's statutory funds/ ; },
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Certain yeast species are recognized as significant opportunistic pathogens, capable of causing severe systemic infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals or those with disrupted physiological barriers. The rising incidence of invasive candidiasis associated with vascular infections poses a significant clinical challenge due to the high mortality rates and the limited efficacy of conventional antifungal therapies. The formation of resilient biofilms on vascular catheters by species such as Candida albicans and Nakaseomyces glabratus further complicates treatment, often leading to persistent fungemia and necessitating device removal. With the emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains, there is a critical need for new therapeutic agents like rezafungin-a novel, long-acting echinocandin with potential enhanced antibiofilm activity. Methods: This study tested susceptibility to antimycotics available in Poland (fluconazole, voriconazole, posaconazole, amphotericin B, anidulafungin, caspofungin, and micafungin) using the commercial Micronaut-AM test (Bruker, Bremen, Germany). Susceptibility to rezafungin (Angene Chemical, Great Britain) was determined using the microdilution method in RPMI medium, recommended by European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (EUCAST), with amphotericin B as a control compound. We evaluated the biofilm-forming capacity and the in vitro activity of rezafungin against 42 clinical isolates of Candida albicans and Nakaseomyces glabratus recovered from positive blood cultures. Results: The obtained minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values suggest rezafungin activity against all the tested isolates, with different susceptibility to echinocandins and other antifungal drugs (azoles, amphotericin B) currently registered and used in Poland. The MIC readings for rezafungin were in the range of 0.008-0.5, with MIC50 = 0.016 and MIC90 = 0.25. The isolates were categorized as low, moderate, or strong biofilm producers according to established Stepanović criteria (cut-off values OD630 < 0.019, 0.19-0.38, >0.38, respectively). Furthermore, the higher minimum biofilm eradication concentrations (MBECs) compared to the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of planktonic cells confirm the reduced activity of rezafungin against biofilms. Conclusions: Critically, the high antibiofilm efficacy at clinically achievable concentrations suggests that rezafungin shows promise as a potential therapeutic option for catheter-related candidemia, though further clinical studies are needed. Furthermore, the high susceptibility of N. glabratus isolates-a species frequently associated with azole resistance-suggests rezafungin may be a valuable addition to the existing antifungal arsenal of multidrug-resistant (MDR) fungal infections in hospital settings. Future research should focus on in vivo models to confirm if these in vitro results translate into accelerated clearance of vascular biofilms.},
}

@article {pmid41754826,
year = {2026},
author = {Bolotnikov, G and Gruber, D and Walter, JC and Kühnel, K and Kemal, T and Rodriguez, A and Preising, N and Ständker, L and Firacative, C and Spellerberg, B and Stenger, S and Rosenau, F and Kissmann, AK},
title = {Phage Display-Derived Peptides Have Neutralizing Activities Against Biofilm Formation by Candida albicans, Candidozyma auris and Candida parapsilosis.},
journal = {Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {19},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41754826},
issn = {1424-8247},
support = {FTI22-G-012//Gesellschaft für Forschungsförderung (GFF) of Lower Austria/ ; WST-F-5035462/004-2024//Förderstelle Wirtschaft, Tourismus und Technologie (WST)/ ; 915477//Austrian Research Promotion Agency (FFG)/ ; 465229237//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG, German Research Foundation)/ ; A 2025//Anschubfinanzierung A 2025 of Ulm University/ ; },
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Infections caused by Candida albicans, Candidozyma auris, and Candida parapsilosis increasingly challenge current treatment options as resistance to currently used antifungals is continuously developing. Neutralizing antimicrobial peptides (nAMPs), which modulate pathogenic behavior rather than inducing cell death, represent a promising approach to fighting against fungal infections. Methods: This study established a whole-cell phage display workflow to identify novel nAMPs, and therefore three independent biopanning processes with the Ph.D.-12 phage display library against C. albicans, C. auris, and C. parapsilosis cells were conducted. Results: Phage display produced species-selective, high-affinity peptides that were non-cytotoxic to human cells and did not affect planktonic Candida viability. These peptides inhibited early biofilm formation, and several also slowed early biofilm maturation down. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that whole-cell phage display as a powerful and adaptable discovery tool is suitable for identifying nAMPs that neutralize biofilm development without toxicity towards human cells. Beyond the peptides described here, this approach expands the methodological toolbox for antifungal research and provides a sustainable approach for generating targeted peptides.},
}

@article {pmid41754445,
year = {2026},
author = {Duda-Madej, A and Bazan, H and Łabaz, J and Viscardi, S},
title = {Berberine Interferes with the Molecular Landscape of Biofilm-Driven Pathogenicity.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41754445},
issn = {2076-0817},
abstract = {Biofilm-associated infections pose a significant clinical challenge due to their increased antibiotic tolerance and strong association with multidrug-resistant pathogens. The biofilm protects bacteria against antimicrobial agents and host immune response through a complex matrix, altered cell metabolism, activation of quorum sensing, and overexpression of efflux pumps. Despite the availability of numerous therapeutic strategies, the effectiveness of treatment of these infections remains limited, justifying the search for new pharmaceutics, e.g., compounds of natural origin. Berberine, an isoquinoline alkaloid from the plants of the Berberidaceae family, is of growing interest due to its broad spectrum of antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge regarding the molecular mechanisms of action of berberine against the biofilm forming Gram-(+) and Gram-(-) bacteria. Its effect on bacterial cell adhesion, modulation of quorum sensing, inhibition of extracellular matrix synthesis, disruption of biofilm maturation, and the dispersion process are discussed. The role of berberine as an adjuvant to antibiotic therapy was also analyzed, in particular, its ability to restore bacterial sensitivity to different classes of antibiotics. The pharmacokinetic limitations of berberine and the prospects for the use of modern delivery systems are also considered. The collected data indicate that berberine is a promising factor supporting the treatment of biofilm-related infections.},
}

@article {pmid41754440,
year = {2026},
author = {Gerges, B and Rosenblatt, J and Truong, YL and Jiang, Y and Raad, I},
title = {Elevated Antibacterial Activity of a Polygalacturonic + Caprylic Acids Wound Ointment Compared with Hypochlorous Acid in a Three-Dimensional Wound Biofilm Model.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41754440},
issn = {2076-0817},
abstract = {Bacterial biofilms play a major role in delayed wound-healing and in the development of chronic, non-healing wounds. Natural, plant-based agents, which can eradicate bacterial biofilms, are alternatives to antibiotics and antiseptics in the treatment of bacterially contaminated wounds. Bacterial wound biofilms are three-dimensional and complex microbial communities. Therefore, in this study, we used a three-dimensional fibrin-gel wound biofilm (FGWB) model to compare a commonly used natural agent in wound care, hypochlorous acid (HOCl), to a combination of two natural plant-based agents, polygalacturonic acid (PG) and caprylic acid (CAP) (PG + CAP), for their abilities to eradicate resistant bacterial biofilms of common wound pathogens methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), multi-drug resistant (MDR) Pseudomonas aeruginosa, metallo β-Lactamase Escherichia coli, and Streptococcus pyogenes. PG + CAP produced a significantly greater reduction in viable organisms when compared to HOCL (p ≤ 0.05) against all tested bacterial isolates. PG + CAP was highly effective against biofilms of all resistant bacterial isolates and is a promising option that merits further study for treating chronic wounds contaminated with bacterial biofilms.},
}

@article {pmid41753773,
year = {2026},
author = {Zammit, G and Fenech, K and Sinagra, E},
title = {Responses of Biofilm-Forming Halophilic Calothrix and Coelastrella Strains to Environmental Stressors Associated with Climate Change.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41753773},
issn = {2076-2607},
abstract = {Research into the effects of environmental stressors associated with global climate change (GCC) on cyanobacteria and microalgae is scarce, with bloom-forming planktonic cyanobacteria being the exception. This study aimed to address the issue by assessing morphological and biochemical changes in cyanobacterial and microalgal cells exposed to an increased temperature (T), ultraviolet radiation (UVR) and carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration. The strains selected were Calothrix sp. SLM0211 and Coelastrella sp. SLM0503, which were isolated from a coastal environment in the central Mediterranean island of Malta. Elevated UVR had a pronounced effect on Calothrix sp. filaments, which produced screening compounds and resorted to trichome coiling to enhance self-shading. Enhanced growth was observed in cultures of Calothrix sp. grown at an increased CO2 concentration, which produced significantly high amounts of biomass, chlorophylls and carotenoids. An increased T resulted in stunted growth and low biomass accumulation in both strains. Each strain exhibited a unique response to T and UVR stressors, which stimulated the production of exopolymeric substances (EPS) and mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs) in cultures of Calothrix sp. and lipid production in Coelastrella sp. cells. Our findings indicate that the effects of stressors related to GCC on cyanobacterial and microalgal cells are strain-specific, making changes at community and ecosystem levels difficult to predict.},
}

@article {pmid41753655,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, Y and Hu, H and Pan, W and Wang, Z and Chen, Y and Qiu, M and Luo, X and Xu, Q and Su, H and Lin, F and Huang, T},
title = {A Biofilm-State Bacillus thuringiensis Formulation Drives Midgut Structural Disruption and Transcriptomic Reprogramming in Ectropis grisescens.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41753655},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {2023XQ019//Fujian Science and Technology Planning Project/ ; N2023Z007//Nanping Academy of Resource Industrialization Chemistry Project/ ; },
abstract = {Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is one of the most extensively used microbial insecticides, attributed to the action of insecticidal crystal proteins (ICPs), primarily Cry toxins, which mediate damage to the insect midgut epithelium. Recent evidence suggests that Bt toxicity is also strongly influenced by its physiological state and interactions with the host gut environment. Biofilm formation represents an important adaptive strategy that enhances bacterial stress tolerance and may modulate insecticidal performance, although the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. However, it is still unclear how Bt in the biofilm state alters host responses at the structural and transcriptomic levels. Using the tea plantation pest Ectropis grisescens as a model, we systematically evaluated the insecticidal efficacy of biofilm-state Bt formulations and their synergistic effects with a biofilm inducer system composed of Tween-80, tea saponin, matrine, and tea polyphenols. Bioassays showed that the biofilm-state Bt supplemented with composite inducers achieved the highest corrected mortality and reduced the LC50 against neonate larvae by 2.88-fold compared with conventional planktonic Bt. Histopathological, biochemical, and transcriptomic analyses further revealed that biofilm-state Bt caused more severe midgut damage and induced extensive remodeling of detoxification- and stress-response-related pathways. These findings highlight Bt physiological state as a critical determinant of formulation efficacy and provide a novel framework for Bt optimization through microbial physiological regulation.},
}

@article {pmid41753598,
year = {2026},
author = {Romo-González, C and Aquino-Andrade, A and Pérez-Carranza, A and Chaparro-Camacho, D and Becerril-Osnaya, A and García-Romero, MT},
title = {Antimicrobial Susceptibility Patterns and Biofilm Formation of Staphylococcus aureus Strains Isolated from Pediatric Patients with Atopic Dermatitis.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41753598},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {073/2019//This research was supporting the Mexican Government Ministry of Taxes Program E022 for Health Research Development project/ ; },
abstract = {Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by barrier dysfunction and susceptibility to Staphylococcus aureus colonization. Biofilm formation modifies antibiotic resistance and the host immune response. This longitudinal study analyzed antimicrobial susceptibility and biofilm formation in 136 S. aureus isolates obtained over 18 months from lesional, nonlesional, and nasal samples of 26 pediatric patients with moderate-to-severe AD. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was determined by the disk diffusion method, and biofilm production was quantified using a crystal violet microtiter assay. Clinical parameters, including disease severity, treatment response, and the administration of dilute bleach baths, were evaluated in relation to bacterial characteristics. Overall, 60.2% of isolates exhibited moderate-to-strong biofilm production, significantly associated with severe AD at baseline (p = 0.01), lack of clinical improvement (p = 0.04), and persistent moderate-to-severe disease (p = 0.01). Resistance rates for penicillin, gentamicin, clindamycin, and erythromycin exceeded 15%. Isolates from patients using dilute bleach baths showed greater resistance to ciprofloxacin (p < 0.0001) and exhibited constitutive or inducible macrolide-lincosamide-streptogramin B (MLSB) resistance, with ermA detected in 80% of inducible cases. In conclusion, S. aureus biofilm formation is linked to disease severity and treatment failure in pediatric AD, underscoring the importance of culture-guided, targeted therapeutic strategies.},
}

@article {pmid41753559,
year = {2026},
author = {Cano-Pérez, M and Caballero Pérez, JD and Gómez García de la Pedrosa, E and Gómez-López, A},
title = {Biofilm Formation in Aspergillus fumigatus: A Comparative Study of Strains from Different Origins.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41753559},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {AESi PI21CIII/00012//National Institute of Health Carlos III/ ; },
abstract = {One of the most notable aspects of Aspergillus fumigatus, and related to its dynamic adaptation, is its ability to form biofilm and produce a wide variety of secondary metabolites. The aim of this study is to advance the characterization of biofilms generated by different A. fumigatus strains across their developmental stages and analytically evaluate their structure and composition and their relationship with secondary metabolism activation. An in vitro biofilm model was standardized to investigate structural and analytical differences among strains isolated from distinct clinical settings and associated with different pathologies. We found that all tested strains could form biofilms; however, the characteristics of these structures-including total biomass, cellular viability and overall structure-varied markedly among strains under the evaluated conditions. Strains isolated from cystic fibrosis patients exhibited distinct behaviors in most conducted assays compared to other strains. These findings provide new insights into the variability of biofilm composition and may contribute to a better understanding of the role of biofilms in fungal pathogenesis, persistence and treatment resistance.},
}

@article {pmid41750524,
year = {2026},
author = {He, Y and Kuang, N and Chang, Z and Feng, C and Cheng, L and Liu, J and Li, P and Shi, Y and Wang, F and Zhang, Y and Zhong, C},
title = {Biofilm Formation in Chicken-Derived Extraintestinal Pathogenic Escherichia coli Alters the Expression of Biofilm- and Virulence-Associated Genes.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41750524},
issn = {2079-6382},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Extraintestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli (ExPEC) poses significant health risks to poultry and humans, with biofilm formation often complicating treatment by enhancing bacterial persistence and resistance. Understanding the genetic mechanisms underlying this lifestyle transition is crucial for controlling infections. This study aimed to investigate the effect of biofilm formation on the transcriptional expression of specific biofilm- and virulence-associated genes in chicken-derived ExPEC strains.

METHODS: Biofilm formation conditions for three strong biofilm-producing chicken-derived ExPEC strains were optimized using an orthogonal experimental design (L9(3[3])), evaluating culture medium, incubation time, and initial inoculum concentration. Biofilm biomass was quantified via crystal violet staining. Subsequently, the transcription levels of 10 biofilm-associated genes and 17 virulence-associated genes were compared between planktonic and biofilm states using Reverse Transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR).

RESULTS: Optimal culture conditions varied among strains, though nutrient-rich media consistently promoted rapid biofilm formation. Transcriptional analysis revealed significant reprogramming in the biofilm state. Among biofilm-associated genes, flhC, tolA, qseC, mhpB, and bdcR were consistently and significantly upregulated across all strains (p < 0.05). Regarding virulence determinants, the expression of eaeA, LT, fimH, ompF, and iss was significantly upregulated (p < 0.05), whereas Sta levels were significantly reduced (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS: Biofilm formation induces a distinct transcriptional shift in chicken-derived ExPEC, simultaneously enhancing the expression of key genes involved in biofilm maintenance and pathogenicity. The conserved upregulation of flhC, tolA, qseC, mhpB, and bdcR suggests these genes are critical drivers of biofilm development. Consequently, they represent potential targets for novel therapeutic strategies aimed at preventing E. coli infections and eradicating biofilms in clinical and agricultural settings.},
}

@article {pmid41750453,
year = {2026},
author = {Chopjitt, P and Kanha, W and Sachit, A and Thongkam, J and Kanthain, P and Pradabsri, P and Paiboon, S and Thananchai, S and Khankhum, S and Kerdsin, A and Sunthamala, N},
title = {Bacteriophage-Based Control of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus: Anti-Biofilm Activity, Surface-Active Formulation Compatibility, and Genomic Context.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41750453},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {6801034//Mahasarakham University/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) continues to pose a significant challenge for infection prevention, particularly because of its ability to persist on surfaces and form resilient biofilms. Although bacteriophages have attracted renewed interest as alternatives or complements to chemical disinfectants, their applied use requires careful assessment of antimicrobial performance, formulation tolerance, and genomic context.

METHODS: Staphylococcus-infecting bacteriophages were isolated from environmental sources and examined against reference Staphylococcus isolates. Two phage isolates, designated MRSA-W3 and SA-W2, displayed lytic activity against a broad subset of clinical MRSA strains. Using a time-resolved agar-based infection assay, phage exposure resulted in a multiplicity-of-infection-dependent decline in viable MRSA populations.

RESULTS: Time-resolved infection assays revealed a multiplicity-of-infection-dependent reduction in viable MRSA, with a pronounced decrease observed approximately 40 min post-infection. At this time point, phage-treated cultures showed a reduction of 1.2-1.8 log10 CFU/mL relative to untreated controls (mean Δlog10 = 1.5; 95% CI, 1.1-1.9), while control cultures remained stable. Quantitative biofilm assays demonstrated that both phages reduced biofilm biomass compared with untreated conditions, with inhibition values ranging from 20% to 45% across isolates (p ≤ 0.05), reflecting strain-dependent but reproducible effects. Assessment of formulation compatibility indicated that both phages retained infectivity following exposure to sodium dodecyl sulfate, Triton X-100, and Tween 80, whereas ethanol (≥10%) and higher concentrations of dimethyl sulfoxide were associated with rapid loss of activity. In surface disinfection models, selected phage-surfactant formulations achieved a maximum reduction of 2.18 log10 CFU/cm[2] compared with untreated controls (p ≤ 0.05). Infection-coupled whole-genome sequencing of MRSA-infecting phage MRSA-W3 produced a high-quality assembly (99.99% completeness; 0.13% contamination) and revealed a mosaic genome containing incomplete prophage-like regions, which were interpreted conservatively as evidence of shared phage ancestry rather than active temperate behavior.

CONCLUSIONS: Therefore, these findings suggest that bacteriophage-based approaches may be feasible for MRSA surface decontamination, while clearly emphasizing the need for context-specific validation before practical implementation.},
}

@article {pmid41750448,
year = {2026},
author = {Lin, YN},
title = {Real-World Experience in the Treatment of Biofilm-Associated Wounds Using Medical-Grade Honey: A Retrospective Case Series.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41750448},
issn = {2079-6382},
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Wounds complicated by biofilm formation remain a major challenge in wound management. Medical-grade honey (MGH) possesses potent antimicrobial and biofilm-disrupting properties. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of MGH in the treatment of biofilm-associated wounds. Methods: A retrospective case series was conducted involving ten patients with biofilm-suspected wounds treated at Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital and Wesing Hospital. All wounds exhibited positive bacterial cultures and clinical signs of biofilm formation. MGH was applied topically, and wound progression was monitored throughout the treatment period. Results: Eight out of ten wounds achieved complete healing, with a median healing time of 16 weeks (range: 4-46 weeks). Most wounds demonstrated reduced exudate and inflammation, along with progressive granulation and epithelialization. Two wounds did not fully heal within the follow-up period. Conclusions: MGH appears to be a promising adjunctive therapy for wounds associated with biofilm formation, particularly in cases refractory to conventional antibiotic therapy. Further large-scale, controlled studies are warranted to confirm these preliminary findings.},
}

@article {pmid41750425,
year = {2026},
author = {Zalaru, C and Dumitrascu, F and Draghici, C and Ferbinteanu, M and Tarcomnicu, I and Marinescu, M and Moldovan, Z and Nitulescu, GM and Tatia, R and Popa, M},
title = {Design, Synthesis, Spectral, Structural Analysis, and Biological Evaluation of Novel Pyrazole Derivatives as Anti-Tumor, Antimicrobial, and Anti-Biofilm Agents.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41750425},
issn = {2079-6382},
abstract = {Objective: Based on our previous findings, we designed new molecules by extending functionalized pyrazole derivatives containing iodine atoms, which are linked via an amino bond to halogen-substituted phenyl groups. In addition, these newly developed pyrazole compounds exhibit anti-tumor, antibacterial, and anti-biofilm activities. Methods: Three new series of pyrazole compounds were designed. Fifteen novel pyrazole derivatives, distributed across three series (4a-d, 5a-d, and 6a-g), were synthesized and structurally characterized by [1]H-NMR, [13]C-NMR, FTIR, UV-Vis spectroscopy, and elemental analysis. Results: Among them, compound 4c, which exhibited notable anti-tumor activity, crystallized in a monoclinic system and was further analyzed via single-crystal X-ray diffraction. All synthesized compounds were evaluated in vitro on NCTC normal fibroblast cells and HEp-2 tumor epithelial cells. Compound 4c demonstrated significant anti-tumor activity while displaying no cytotoxic effects on normal cells. The antibacterial and anti-biofilm activities of the compounds were also assessed against four bacterial strains. Compounds 5a and 5c exhibited the highest antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, both with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 0.023 μg/mL. Additionally, compounds 4a, 5a, 6a, 6e, and 6f showed the strongest anti-biofilm effects, each presenting a minimum biofilm inhibition concentration (MBIC) of 0.023 μg/mL. ADME and ADMET in silico predictions indicated that all compounds exhibit generally favorable, drug-like physicochemical properties. Conclusions: The study reinforces the applicability of these compounds as promising anticancer, antibacterial, and anti-biofilm drugs.},
}

@article {pmid41750267,
year = {2026},
author = {Rosignoli, S and Lustrino, E and Shevchuk, O and Rinaldo, S and Rubini, E and Paiardini, A and Carev, I},
title = {Bioinformatics-Driven, Plant-Based Antibiotic Research Against Quorum Sensing and Biofilm Formation in Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli Multiresistant Microbes.},
journal = {Biomolecules},
volume = {16},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41750267},
issn = {2218-273X},
support = {2022N3JXLA//Ministero dell'Istruzione e del Merito/ ; HOLO-GT 101019289/ERC_/European Research Council/International ; },
abstract = {Quorum-sensing (QS) systems play a crucial role in regulating virulence, biofilm formation, and antibiotic resistance in clinically relevant microbes. This review explores the potential of QS systems as targets for developing novel plant-based therapeutic strategies using bioinformatics, aimed at combating highly pathogenic bacteria: uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. We examine the key components and molecular pathways of QS systems in these microbes, including autoinducer synthases, receptors, and regulatory proteins. In UPEC, we discuss the LuxS-dependent autoinducer (AI)-2 system, while for P. aeruginosa, we analyze the more complex interconnected Las, Rhl, and PQS circuits. We highlight how these systems control the expression of virulence factors and contribute to biofilm formation, emphasizing their importance in pathogenesis. Furthermore, we explore bioinformatics approaches for identifying and characterizing QS components, i.e., by predicting protein structures and interactions. The potential of in silico screening for QS inhibitors is also discussed, along with challenges and opportunities in targeting QS systems for therapeutic interventions. By integrating microbiological, molecular, and computational perspectives, this review aims to provide insights into the application of bioinformatics in understanding and targeting QS systems in these clinically significant pathogens. The goal is to facilitate the development of novel anti-virulence approaches in search of novel antibiotics that could complement or replace traditional antibiotic treatments, addressing the growing concern of antimicrobial resistance in these clinically relevant microbes.},
}

@article {pmid41749319,
year = {2026},
author = {Yadav, V and Pal, D and Poonia, AK},
title = {Penetration and disruption of Salmonella typhimurium biofilm using synthesized citric acid doped zein nanocomposites.},
journal = {BMC pharmacology & toxicology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s40360-026-01107-1},
pmid = {41749319},
issn = {2050-6511},
}

@article {pmid41747854,
year = {2026},
author = {Nava, V and Attermeyer, K and Schelker, J and Kalem, J and Dory, F and Gandolfi, I and Ambrosini, R and Kruszelnicki, A and Gwinnett, C and Leoni, B},
title = {Temporal succession outweighs substrate characteristics in shaping riverine plastisphere biofilm on textiles.},
journal = {Environmental pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {127881},
doi = {10.1016/j.envpol.2026.127881},
pmid = {41747854},
issn = {1873-6424},
abstract = {Biofilms developing on plastic surfaces (the plastisphere) are increasingly recognized for their ecological significance, yet the drivers of community biomass and biodiversity remain poorly understood. Moreover, plastisphere research has focused on a narrow range of polymers, leaving widely distributed substrates such as textiles understudied. Here, we assessed the relative importance of temporal succession and substrate properties (polymeric composition and color) in shaping microalgal and bacterial community composition and photosynthetic abundances, and evaluated whether substrate-specific selection results in long-term community divergence or is restricted to early colonization. We conducted a mesocosm experiment simulating a lotic system to examine biofilm development on polyester textiles and non-synthetic analogue (cotton), each in two colors (black, white). Prokaryotic and microalgal eukaryotic community composition (16S, 18S rRNA), together with pico-photosynthetic abundances assessed by flow cytometry, were monitored over five time points spanning 7 to 35 days. Microbial diversity, community composition, and inferred prokaryotic functions did not differ significantly among polymer types or colors, indicating that substrate characteristics played a limited role in overall community assembly and the predominance of opportunistic colonization, despite the presence of indicator species. In contrast, microalgal abundances differed among substrates, with higher abundances observed on cotton, suggesting that substrate properties may still influence specific aspects of biofilm development. Temporal succession emerged as the primary driver of community change, with significant effects observed for prokaryotic communities even over short timescales. These findings emphasize that temporal dynamics must be explicitly considered in plastisphere studies, as minor differences in colonization time may confound interpretations of substrate effects.},
}

@article {pmid41747678,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, S and Zhang, X and Zheng, Y and Song, Y and Wang, C},
title = {Biodegradability of microplastics reshapes surface biofilm microbial community structure and nitrogen cycling functions in aquatic environments.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {402},
number = {},
pages = {129109},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2026.129109},
pmid = {41747678},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {Environmental impacts of microplastics (MPs) in aquatic ecosystems have been extensively studied, limited attention has been given to how their material types affect surface biofilm development and related nutrient cycling. This experimental study involving three types of MPs biodegradable polylactic acid (PLA), non-biodegradable polyethylene (PE), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) revealed that the PLA surface bioflims had a higher content of chlorophyll a (Chl a), and there are significant differences in the microbial community structure among the three groups of MPs. The PLA group enriched Niveispirillum and Flavobacterium, which are involved in the nitrogen cycle, and were positively associated with increased microbial diversity and community structural shifts at day 55. In contrast, the PE and PVC groups enriched Sediminibacterium, a genus with pollutant-degradation capabilities. Analysis of nitrogen cycling genes revealed that the PLA group had consistently high levels of the nitrite reductase gene (nirS) while the PVC group showed a significant increase in the copper-containing nitrite reductase gene (nirK) during the mid-stage of the experiment. Functional prediction analysis also revealed that PLA group showed enrichment in energy metabolism pathways such as glycolysis, indicating that surface microbes preferentially utilize sugars as carbon and energy sources. In contrast, the PVC group showed higher reliance on amino acid metabolism, with enriched biosynthesis pathways of L-tryptophan and L-ornithine. The PE group had strong organic pollutant degradation, as surface microbes adapt to hydrophobic conditions by decomposing complex organics. Our results reveal that biodegradable PLA and non-biodegradable PE/PVC exert divergent effects on the development and ecological functions of surface biofilms, highlighting the key role of MP biodegradability in mediating these outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid41746561,
year = {2026},
author = {Kim, T and Tabassum, N and Javaid, A and Hassan, MI and Khan, F},
title = {Marine-derived Peptides As Anti-biofilm and Anti-virulence Agents: Mechanistic Insights and Applications Against Microbial Pathogens.},
journal = {Probiotics and antimicrobial proteins},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41746561},
issn = {1867-1314},
support = {202506400001//This work was supported by the 2025 Global Joint Research Program funded by the Pukyong National University, Republic of Korea/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41746453,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, X and Liu, J and Li, H and Zhang, W and Wei, H and Song, S and Chen, X},
title = {Isolation and characterization of a novel phage AbT1 and evaluating its anti-biofilm activity and antibiotic synergy.},
journal = {Molecular biology reports},
volume = {53},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41746453},
issn = {1573-4978},
support = {32300033//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; (325RC647)//Hainan Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; KYQD(ZR)-23141//the Scientific Research Foundation of Hainan University/ ; KYQD (ZR)-23006//the Scientific Research Foundation of Hainan University/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Acinetobacter baumannii is a formidable multidrug-resistant pathogen prevalent in healthcare settings. Amid the escalating challenge of antimicrobial resistance, phage therapy has regained significant attention. This approach harnesses the natural predatory ability of bacteriophages to combat bacterial infections.

METHODS AND RESULTS: A novel phage, AbT1, specific for A. baumannii, was isolated and comprehensively characterized. Under testing conditions, the phage AbT1 demonstrated notable stability across a broad spectrum of temperatures and pH conditions, and suggested potent lytic activity against A. baumannii isolates. Phage AbT1 belongs to the class Caudoviricetes. It appears phylogenetically closest to members of the genus Vieuvirus and likely represents a novel species. It possesses a double-stranded DNA genome of 53,410 bp containing 78 open reading frames (ORFs), among which 29 are predicted to encode structural or functional proteins. Furthermore, treatment with phage AbT1 mitigated A. baumannii-induced cytotoxicity in host cells and disrupted biofilm formation. Notably, the combination of phage AbT1 with antibiotics (GM/Kan) significantly enhanced bactericidal efficacy and improved the survival rate of Galleria mellonella larvae, compared to either monotherapy alone.

CONCLUSION: This study highlights the substantial therapeutic potential of phage AbT1, whether used alone or in combination with antibiotics, providing valuable insights for the development of phage-based approaches to combat multidrug-resistant A. baumannii infections.},
}

@article {pmid41745232,
year = {2026},
author = {Mello, TP and Barcellos, IC and Oliveira, SSC and Giovanini, L and Lackner, M and Branquinha, MH and Santos, ALS},
title = {Role of Iron Availability in Modulating Pseudomonas aeruginosa's Antifungal Effects on Planktonic and Biofilm Growth of Scedosporium/Lomentospora Under Cystic Fibrosis-Mimicking Conditions.},
journal = {Journal of fungi (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {12},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41745232},
issn = {2309-608X},
support = {001//National Council for Scientific and Technological Development/ ; 001//Coordenação de Aperfeicoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior/ ; 001//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Rio de Janeiro/ ; 200.096/2025//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Rio de Janeiro/ ; 200.095/2025//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Rio de Janeiro/ ; },
abstract = {Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Scedosporium/Lomentospora often coexist in the lungs of cystic fibrosis patients, where their interaction can affect disease outcomes. Our group has recently demonstrated that P. aeruginosa suppresses the growth of Scedosporium/Lomentospora species partly through mechanisms involving iron sequestration. In this study, we have investigated how molecules secreted by P. aeruginosa under high (36 µM) and low (3.6 µM) iron conditions affect the planktonic growth and biofilm formation by S. apiospermum, S. minutisporum, S. aurantiacum and L. prolificans. Although P. aeruginosa exhibited enhanced proliferation under high-iron conditions, spectrophotometric analyses revealed a marked increase in phenazine and pyoverdine production under low-iron conditions, with siderophore activity confirmed by Chrome Azurol S assays. Supporting these findings, supernatants from P. aeruginosa cells grown under iron limitation markedly inhibited fungal growth (≈30%) and biofilm formation (≈70%), whereas those from high-iron cultures were less effective. Notably, low-iron bacterial-free supernatants exhibited pronounced cytotoxic effects on mammalian cells, reducing metabolic activity by an average of 20% in A549 lung epithelial cells and 40% in THP-1 macrophages, and significantly compromising survival in the Tenebrio molitor infection model, resulting in 100% larval mortality within 7 days. Collectively, these results indicate that the antifungal activity of P. aeruginosa is closely coupled with increased host toxicity. Moreover, the results demonstrate that environmental iron availability plays a critical role in modulating both antifungal activity and toxicity, thereby shaping P. aeruginosa interactions with Scedosporium/Lomentospora species. Such iron-dependent dynamics may influence the progression and severity of respiratory co-infections, with important implications for patient management and therapeutic interventions.},
}

@article {pmid41744904,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, F and Luo, J and Wang, Y and Tian, S and Kang, X and Zhang, N and Zheng, W and Li, W and Xia, Q and Kuang, D},
title = {The IrlS2-IrlR2 two-component system is a global regulator of biofilm formation, stress adaptation, and virulence in Burkholderia pseudomallei.},
journal = {mSphere},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0074425},
doi = {10.1128/msphere.00744-25},
pmid = {41744904},
issn = {2379-5042},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Burkholderia pseudomallei, which causes melioidosis, is an adaptable pathogen that survives in diverse environments. Two-component systems (TCSs) play pivotal roles in bacterial signal transduction and adaptation, yet the functions of most TCSs in B. pseudomallei remain poorly characterized. Here, we identified and functionally characterized a previously unstudied TCS, IrlS2-IrlR2, which shares partial homology with the IrlS-IrlR system but exhibits distinct regulatory roles. Knockout of irlR2 (ΔirlR2) did not affect growth in nutrient-rich medium but led to enhanced biofilm formation, reduced motility, decreased siderophore production, and increased sensitivity to oxidative stress, all of which were restored in the complemented strain. The mutant also exhibited growth retardation under subinhibitory cobalt concentrations, despite unchanged MICs. In infection assays, ΔirlR2 displayed impaired adhesion and cytotoxicity toward A549 cells and attenuated virulence in Galleria mellonella, with a higher median lethal dose than the wild type. Transcriptomic analysis revealed hcp2 within the type VI secretion system 2 (T6SS-2) cluster, and multiple T3SS-3 genes were strongly downregulated, consistent with reduced intracellular survival, whereas T3SS-1 and T3SS-2 were upregulated, suggesting a dysregulated secretion system balance. Adhesion-related (fimA) and iron transport (fhuBCDF) genes were repressed, while oxidative stress-associated (cydABX) and nitrate reductase (narIJHGK-nasA) operons were induced, indicating altered regulation of iron homeostasis, redox balance, and nitrogen metabolism, which may reflect adaptive responses to environmental stress. Collectively, these results demonstrate that the IrlS2-IrlR2 system functions as a global regulator, integrating biofilm formation, stress adaptation, and virulence regulation, highlighting its role in the environmental resilience and pathogenic potential of B. pseudomallei.

IMPORTANCE: Burkholderia pseudomallei, which causes melioidosis, poses a serious threat to human and animal health in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. Classified as a tier 1 biothreat agent by the U.S. CDC and a category II pathogen in China, B. pseudomallei causes severe pneumonia and septicemia with case-fatality rates approaching 50%. Despite its medical and epidemiological significance, the regulatory mechanisms controlling its virulence and environmental persistence remain poorly understood. This study identifies IrlS2-IrlR2 as a previously uncharacterized two-component system (TCS) that acts as a global regulator integrating biofilm formation, stress adaptation, and virulence. Functional and transcriptomic analyses reveal that IrlS2-IrlR2 modulates secretion systems, iron homeostasis, and redox balance. These findings deepen our understanding of B. pseudomallei pathogenesis and highlight the role of TCS-mediated regulatory networks.},
}

@article {pmid41743510,
year = {2025},
author = {Bseikri, H and Michniewski, S and Goicoechea Serrano, E and Jameson, E},
title = {Simple Catheter Biofilm Flow Model: Klebsiella Phages Disrupt E. coli Biofilms on Urinary Catheters Under Static and Dynamic Flow Conditions.},
journal = {PHAGE (New Rochelle, N.Y.)},
volume = {6},
number = {4},
pages = {242-249},
pmid = {41743510},
issn = {2641-6549},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Biofilms pose a significant challenge in medical settings, leading to persistent infections. Phage therapy shows promise in biofilm eradication, but its effectiveness under dynamic flow conditions remains unclear.

METHODS: We used two novel phages isolated on Klebsiella, Llofrudd and Samara, and characterized their genomes, host range, virulence, and impact on biofilms. In this study, we built a simple catheterized bladder model with flow to investigate the impact of phage treatment on biofilm viability in a flow-based catheter model.

RESULTS: Our analyses demonstrate that phages Llofrudd and Samara are the same species and infect a limited number of strains (3/221), but crucially across three species: Klebsiella aerogenes, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and E. coli.

CONCLUSIONS: Phage treatment significantly reduced E. coli biofilm viability in catheters both in static conditions and under flow and liberated bacteria from the biofilms, highlighting the potential of phage therapy as an intervention strategy for catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI).},
}

@article {pmid41741969,
year = {2026},
author = {Pulat, G and Bilgiç, E and Sezer, B},
title = {Plasma-Assisted KR-12 Conjugated PLGA Nanofibers With Dual Osteogenic and Biofilm-Inhibitory Activity.},
journal = {Journal of biomedical materials research. Part A},
volume = {114},
number = {3},
pages = {e70059},
doi = {10.1002/jbm.a.70059},
pmid = {41741969},
issn = {1552-4965},
support = {323S035//Türkiye Bilimsel ve Teknolojik Araştırma Kurumu/ ; },
abstract = {Multidrug-resistant bacterial infections pose a significant challenge in bone tissue engineering, primarily due to the formation of biofilms on implant surfaces, which can impede osteointegration. KR-12, a cationic antimicrobial peptide (AMP) with dual osteoinductive and biofilm-inhibitory properties, represents a promising strategy to address this issue. Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) electrospun nanofiber (NF) scaffolds offer biocompatibility, tunable morphology, and support for cell adhesion and proliferation, making them ideal for bone regeneration. While cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) treatment has been explored to enhance peptide functionalization, covalent conjugation of KR-12 to PLGA electrospun NFs has not yet been reported. In this study, KR-12 was incorporated into electrospun PLGA NFs to create a dual-functional scaffold that promotes osteogenic differentiation while inhibiting biofilm formation. Scaffold surface properties were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and contact angle measurements, and peptide incorporation was confirmed via fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) labeling and FTIR spectroscopy. Human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells cultured on KR-12-functionalized NFs exhibited enhanced alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, calcium and collagen deposition, and upregulated expression of collagen type I (COL1), osteopontin (OPN), and osteocalcin (OCN), as well as positive immunofluorescence staining. Antibacterial and biofilm formation inhibition activities were evaluated against multidrug-resistant MRSA and P. aeruginosa, as well as non-MDR E. coli and S. aureus, demonstrating potent inhibition of biofilm formation. KR-12-functionalized PLGA NFs thus provide a dual-functional platform for infection-resistant bone tissue regeneration, combining osteogenic support with potent inhibition of biofilm formation.},
}

@article {pmid41740934,
year = {2026},
author = {Sun, W and Zhu, S and Dong, Q and Tang, S and Liu, Q and Sha, Y and Chen, T and Wang, R and Chen, Y and Ying, H},
title = {Engineering Escherichia coli cell Factories for continuous 5'-cytidine monophosphate production via biofilm-anchored dual-enzyme cascade catalysis.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {134267},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.134267},
pmid = {41740934},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {5'-cytidine monophosphate (5'-CMP) serves as a crucial intermediate for diverse nucleotide derivatives and finds extensive applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries. However, existing enzymatic production processes suffer from low catalytic efficiency and poor economic feasibility. In this study, we developed a continuous 5'-CMP production system based on a cell-enzyme co-immobilized biocatalytic platform. First, the pgaABCD gene cluster was integrated into ClearColi BL21(DE3) using CRISPR-Cas9, enhancing its biofilm-forming capacity by 168.93% and enabling robust cell immobilization on the carrier. Second, a dual-anchoring strategy utilizing ice-nucleation protein (INP) and autotransporter (AIDA-I) enabled surface display of uridine kinase (UDK) and acetate kinase (AckA) on the cell surface. This approach successfully addressed the instability and recovery issues of free enzymes by using biofilm engineering to co-immobilize cells and enzymes. The modified strain achieved a 5'-CMP productivity of 1.77 mmol/L/h, 5.98-fold higher than free intracellular enzyme catalysis, and was reused for ten consecutive cycles under the tested conditions while maintaining a cytidine conversion rate above 73.79%, and a 5'-CMP yield above 59.26%. This work demonstrates the first successful realization of continuous 5'-CMP biosynthesis and establishes an efficient route for its industrial production.},
}

@article {pmid41738758,
year = {2026},
author = {Ji, Y and Yang, Y and Zhang, T and Zeng, X and Bao, W and Pan, D and Zhao, L and Li, H and Wu, Z},
title = {Sortase A regulates cell wall integrity, quorum sensing, and biofilm formation to modulate adhesion properties in Lactiplantibacillus plantarum C8.},
journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0002926},
doi = {10.1128/aem.00029-26},
pmid = {41738758},
issn = {1098-5336},
abstract = {Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, a ubiquitous probiotic in fermented foods and the human gut, relies on gastrointestinal tract colonization for its health-promoting functions. Central to this colonization is Sortase A (SrtA), a transpeptidase that anchors LPXTG motif-containing proteins to the cell wall peptidoglycan layer. This study investigates the srtA-mediated regulatory axis linking cell wall integrity, biofilm formation, and quorum sensing (QS) to adhesion properties in L. plantarum C8 (CGMCC No. 30504). Gene Ontology (GO)-KEGG enrichment analysis reveals that srtA deletion disrupts pathways critical for environmental adaptation, including two-component signal transduction and AI-2-dependent QS. Furthermore, the results of differential gene expression analysis indicate that srtA deletion is associated with the downregulation of genes involved in pyruvate metabolism, amino sugar/nucleotide sugar metabolism (essential for exopolysaccharide biosynthesis), and cell wall-associated signaling cascades, processes linked to adhesion and colonization. The molecular-level alterations were consistent with the observed phenotypic changes, including impaired cell wall integrity, reduced adhesion, and diminished biofilm-forming capacity. These results establish a mechanistic connection between srtA-directed cell wall anchoring, QS-regulated biofilm dynamics, and probiotic adhesion efficacy in L. plantarum.IMPORTANCEGastrointestinal tract colonization is the foundation of probiotic efficacy, enabling Lactiplantibacillus plantarum to modulate the gut microbiota, reinforce intestinal barriers, and confer health benefits. Sortase A (SrtA) is central to this process, covalently anchoring LPXTG-containing surface proteins that mediate adhesion, biofilm formation, and immune modulation. While srtA's role in pathogenic Gram-positive bacteria is well documented, its regulatory functions in non-pathogenic probiotic strains remain largely unexplored-especially regarding its integration with quorum sensing (QS) and environmental adaptation pathways. This study dissects the srtA-mediated molecular network in L. plantarum C8, revealing srtA as a master regulator integrating cell wall integrity, QS-regulated biofilm dynamics, and surface protein function via pathways including pyruvate and amino sugar/nucleotide sugar metabolism. These insights provide a mechanistic foundation for engineering probiotic strains with enhanced adhesion, colonization, and persistence and offer a scientific basis for developing precision-targeted functional foods and therapeutics.},
}

@article {pmid41738449,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, X and Su, Y and Shen, H and Lian, Z and Cao, J and Wu, B and Zhang, Q and Shi, B and Lu, Z and Li, G},
title = {Small-Portion Replacement with MnOx Media Promotes Biofilm Development, Leading to Rapid Biological Maturation and Sustained Mn(II) Removal in Sand Filtration.},
journal = {Environmental science & technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acs.est.5c13201},
pmid = {41738449},
issn = {1520-5851},
abstract = {Stringent control of Mn is critical for drinking water safety. However, conventional rapid sand filters exhibit slow biological maturation for Mn(II) removal, limiting their performance in engineered Mn(II) removal. This study examined the effectiveness of partially replacing sand with natural manganese ore (NMO) to enhance Mn(II) removal and elucidated the underlying mechanisms. The results showed that replacing only 1/8 of sand with NMO enabled consistently effective Mn(II) removal (residual <5 μg/L) from start-up through long-term operation, even under stressful conditions; its performance was comparable to columns packed with 100% NMO. In 1/8 NMO columns, early Mn(II) removal driven by MnOx-mediated chemical processes rapidly diminished, after which MnOx-enhanced biological processes promptly took over. Compared with sand columns, 1/8 NMO columns biologically matured nearly 100 days earlier, and biomass on the rough, porous MnOx surface was 1-2 orders of magnitude higher than that on sand. Although NMO partly altered microbial communities, the relative abundance of Mn(II)-oxidizing bacteria did not increase; the larger absolute biofilm biomass primarily drove sustained efficient Mn(II) removal. These findings highlighted the important but previously overlooked role of MnOx in promoting biofilm accumulation and accelerating the maturation of biological Mn(II) removal systems and provided a practical and cost-effective upgrade for conventional sand filtration.},
}

@article {pmid41738310,
year = {2026},
author = {Gao, H and Guo, BW and Chen, Y and Chen, H and Yang, Z and Wu, MY and Jiang, Y},
title = {Combating Multiple-Drug Resistance Polymicrobial Biofilm Infections with an Amphiphilic Cationic Photosensitizer.},
journal = {ACS applied materials & interfaces},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acsami.5c24458},
pmid = {41738310},
issn = {1944-8252},
abstract = {Polymicrobial infections, particularly those involving both Gram-positive (G+) and Gram-negative (G-) bacteria, present a severe public health threat due to the lack of effective treatments. The formation of polymicrobial biofilms further complicate this challenge, underscoring the urgent need for innovative therapeutic strategies. To address this issue, we designed a series of amphiphilic cationic photosensitizers (PSs) featuring distinct hydrophilic cationic side chains (pyridinium, imidazolium, alkyl quaternary ammonium, and quaternary phosphonium) and systematically investigated their structure-activity relationships. Among them, the pyridinium-modified PS, TBTCP-PY, demonstrated a superior performance. It efficiently generates hydroxyl radicals (•OH) and singlet oxygen ([1]O2) upon light irradiation, enabling it to target and disrupt the membranes of both G+ and G- bacteria. Furthermore, TBTCP-PY exhibits a strong capacity to penetrate extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), leading to the effective eradication of polymicrobial biofilms formed by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MDR-PA). In a murine model, TBTCP-PY successfully eliminated MRSA-MDR-PA polymicrobial biofilms from implanted medical catheters, reduced subsequent inflammation, and promoted wound healing. This work not only presents a promising candidate for treating complex polymicrobial biofilm infections but also provides valuable theoretical insights into developing novel antibiofilm materials.},
}

@article {pmid41737991,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, K and Lu, M and Fu, S and Jiang, C and Dong, X and Liu, T and Chen, Y and Li, X and Xu, S and Su, H and Jia, S and Zhang, J and Gu, L},
title = {The proteinaceous biofilm of Gardnerella vaginalis enables a novel enzymatic therapy for bacterial vaginosis.},
journal = {Biofilm},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {100346},
pmid = {41737991},
issn = {2590-2075},
abstract = {Since it was first reported in the 1950s, bacterial vaginosis (BV) has become a globally vital concern among women of childbearing age. Gardnerella vaginalis is widely recognized as the primary causative agent responsible for BV development. G. vaginalis has a strong tendency to form biofilms which have been linked to widespread antimicrobial tolerance and recurrent or persistent BV episodes. Our study demonstrated that proteins constitute more than 50% of the G. vaginalis biofilm matrix, which significantly protects the bacterium from degradation by lysozyme, and that LasA, an elastase derived from Pseudomonas aeruginosa, effectively disrupts G. vaginalis biofilms and subsequently lyses the bacterial cell wall, leading to cell death. Four candidate biofilm-associated proteins of G. vaginalis were identified using cross-linking mass spectrometry (XL-MS) and subsequently confirmed as LasA substrates through purification and LasA digestion. Peptidoglycan debris was observed after treating the G. vaginalis cell wall extract with LasA. We also found that LasA showed a minimal adverse effect on lactobacilli strains when used in vitro. In vivo studies utilizing murine models artificially infected with G. vaginalis further demonstrated that a single dose of LasA effectively reduces G. vaginalis colonization while exerting a negligible adverse effect on lactobacilli populations. The safety of LasA was further supported by the fact that no negative effects were observed on the treated mice's vaginal tissue sections during the post-treatment administration period.},
}

@article {pmid41737880,
year = {2026},
author = {Nir, I and Sharaby, A and Barak, H and Pavan, MJ and Friedlander, LR and Multanen, V and Kushmaro, A},
title = {Correction: Extensive biofilm covering on sgraffito wall art: a call for proactive monitoring.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1795378},
doi = {10.3389/fmicb.2026.1795378},
pmid = {41737880},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2025.1664404.].},
}

@article {pmid41737868,
year = {2026},
author = {Mukashema, H and Yadufashije, C and Tuyishimire, A and Imurinde, Y and Rugira Niyonkuru, B and Muhimpundu, L and Nshimiyimana, A and Musabyumuremyi, C and Muhizi, E and Muhire, P and Habyarimana, T},
title = {Profile of Biofilm Formation and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Patterns of Escherichia coli Isolated from Adult Patients Presenting with Urinary Tract Infections at Ruhengeri Level Two Teaching Hospital, Rwanda.},
journal = {Infection and drug resistance},
volume = {19},
number = {},
pages = {559490},
pmid = {41737868},
issn = {1178-6973},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a public health concern worldwide, with Escherichia coli (E. coli) being the primary cause. Biofilm-forming E. coli increases bacterial resistance to antibiotics, leading to significant morbidity and mortality among patients with UTIs. This study was conducted to determine biofilm formation potential and assess antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of E. coli isolated from adults with suspected UTIs attending Ruhengeri Level Two Teaching Hospital (RLTTH), Rwanda.

METHODS: A cross-sectional laboratory-based study was conducted between April and June 2025 on 151 adults with suspected UTIs. A questionnaire was used to record sociodemographic characteristics and risk factors contributing to UTIs among the participants. Midstream urine samples were collected, cultured, and biochemically analyzed to identify E. coli in urine samples. Antimicrobial susceptibility profiles were determined using the disc diffusion method. Biofilm production in E. coli isolates was detected using Congo Red Agar (CRA) method.

RESULTS: Of 151 adults, 64.2% were female and 35.8% male, and the majority of participants were in the age group of 29-39 years (34.4%). E. coli accounted for 37/151 (24.5%) isolates, of which 16 (43.2%) were confirmed biofilm producers. High resistance was observed for amoxicillin (100%), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (93.8%), nitrofurantoin (87.5%), ampicillin (87.5%), cefixime (56.2%), gentamycin (50%), and ceftazidime (37.5%). Ciprofloxacin and meropenem were effective. Age was the only risk factor associated with biofilm production by E. coli in the study population (p = 0.000).

CONCLUSION: This study highlights the critical role of E. coli in biofilm production in adults with UTI at RLTTH. A high prevalence of drug resistance was observed among biofilm-producing strains. Intervention strategies, such as frequent biofilm screening, continuous surveillance, and enhanced antimicrobial stewardship programs, are needed.},
}

@article {pmid41737838,
year = {2026},
author = {Kothari, PP and Banerjee, T and Ghosh, B and Biswas, S},
title = {Bimetallic Nanozymes/Polypyrrole/Methylene Blue Platform for Photothermal and Catalytic Biofilm Disruption and Angiogenesis Enhancement in Diabetic Wound Healing.},
journal = {Small science},
volume = {6},
number = {2},
pages = {e202500445},
pmid = {41737838},
issn = {2688-4046},
abstract = {Diabetic wounds pose a significant challenge due to impaired tissue regeneration, prolonged inflammation, poor oxygen supply, and microbial infections. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections delay healing by prolonging inflammation and increasing antimicrobial resistance. To develop an effective antibiotic alternative, multifunctional nanocomposites, ceria-zinc nanoflowers (CeZn@PPY@MB NFs) bearing a polypyrrole (PPY) coating loaded with methylene blue (MB) are developed, to address the multifaceted requirements for healing diabetic wounds. Due to the synergistic effects of photothermal, catalysis, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation,CeZn@PPY@MB NFs exhibit robust antibacterial activity with high collagen deposition and angiogenesis. The nanoflowers, with a high surface area of water lily-like morphology, are confirmed through scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction analysis. PPY/MB-mediated synergistic photothermal effect, ROS generation, and catalytic activities lead to robust MRSA killing and biofilm disruption. Nanoflowers demonstrate rapid wound healing due to reduced inflammation, tissue regeneration, and angiogenesis in the diabetes-induced wound model by modulating tumor necrosis factor-α, CD-44, Ki-67, collagen deposition, ROS, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-8, and IL-6 expression. Therefore, the developed multifunctional hybrid-metallic nanoflowers provide an advanced nanotherapeutic platform to eradicate MRSA effectively, offering a promising alternative to antibiotic therapy for managing resistant bacteria-infected diabetic foot ulcers.},
}

@article {pmid41735832,
year = {2026},
author = {Ahmed, AB and Rezgui, M and Dauelbait, M and El-Shaboury, GA and Salamatullah, AM and Algopishi, UB and Ruzieva, M and Mahmoudi, F and Jaouani, A and Cheffei-Haouari, C and Ammar, WB},
title = {Impact of biofilm support media on microbial dynamics, rocket (Eruca vesicaria subsp. sativa) growth, and antioxidative content in aquaponics.},
journal = {BMC plant biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12870-025-07953-1},
pmid = {41735832},
issn = {1471-2229},
support = {RGP2/134/46//King Khalid University/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41735619,
year = {2026},
author = {Hirabayashi, A and Kurakado, S and Wakaura, F and Sasaki, H and Sugita, T and Koyama, K and Kinoshita, K},
title = {Meroterpenoids from the fruiting body of Albatrellus dispansus with inhibitory activities against Candida albicans budded-to-hyphal-form transition and biofilm formation.},
journal = {Journal of natural medicines},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41735619},
issn = {1861-0293},
abstract = {Six novel meroterpenoids, dispanoic acids A-C (1-3), 2'-hydroxydaurichromanic acid (4), albatrellutin A (5), and dispanolactone (6), along with four known meroterpenoids, grifolin (7), grifolic acid (8), grifolin methyl ether (9), and grifolic acid methyl ether (10), were obtained by bioactivity-guided isolation from the n-hexane, CHCl3 and MeOH extracts of the fruiting body of Albatrellus dispansus. The structures of 1-6 were elucidated from NMR and MS spectroscopic data. Although 5 was determined to have the same structure as albatrellutin, its [1]H and [13]C NMR data were inconsistent with published data. Therefore, we synthesized albatrellutin (reported original structure) and a positional isomer of albatrellutin (revised structure). The published NMR data for albatrellutin and the synthesized positional isomer of albatrellutin were in good agreement. Thus, we corrected the structure of albatrellutin to the positional isomer and renamed it albatrellutin A. Compound 5, which has the structure originally reported as albatrelutin, was named neoalbatrellutin. Isolated compounds (1-10) were evaluated for their inhibitory activity against Candida albicans budded-to-hyphal-form transition (BHT). A new compound 3 showed potent inhibitory activity against BHT and biofilm formation by C. albicans and also downregulated expression of the hyphal wall protein 1 (HWP1).},
}

@article {pmid41733756,
year = {2026},
author = {Azeez, DA and Al-Zayadi, FQJ and Shakir, AS},
title = {The synergistic antibacterial and anti-biofilm effects of fluoxetine and quercetin against carbapenemase producing Stenotrophomonas maltophilia clinical isolates.},
journal = {Molecular biology reports},
volume = {53},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41733756},
issn = {1573-4978},
}

@article {pmid41732928,
year = {2026},
author = {Urbančič, I and Lunder, M and Fink, R},
title = {Targeting resistant Staphylococcus aureus biofilm with organic acids: uncovering the biofilm disinfection mechanism.},
journal = {Biofouling},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-13},
doi = {10.1080/08927014.2026.2634396},
pmid = {41732928},
issn = {1029-2454},
abstract = {This study examines the effects of ascorbic, acetic, citric, and lactic acids on resistant S. aureus, assessing planktonic growth using minimal inhibitory (MIC) and bactericidal concentrations, and evaluating mature biofilms for viability, biomass, enzyme activity, membrane integrity and stress. We found the lowest antimicrobial potential for acetic acid, followed by ascorbic acid, citric acid and lactic acid. Treatment of mature biofilms showed a reduction of up to 3 log CFU mL[-1] for lactic acid, while other organic acids were less effective. Lactic acid was also the most effective in reducing biofilm biomass by up to 33%, indicating potential for combination with other antibacterial compounds. The crystal violet staining confirmed a reduction in biomass regarding the non-treated samples. Iodonitrotetrazolium chloride assay showed a decrease in metabolic activity, with the highest formazan reduction (88%) observed with acetic acid. Live/dead staining indicated increased cell death at higher concentrations (9 MIC), with lactic acid causing the most severe membrane damage. In addition, intracellular stress increased with acid concentration. These findings reveal not only differential biofilm-targeting effects among common organic acids but also highlight the translational potential of lactic and acetic acids as cost-effective strategies to control resistant S. aureus in clinical and industrial settings, providing a foundation for future therapeutic and preventive applications.},
}

@article {pmid41730354,
year = {2026},
author = {Jiang, Y and Li, Z and Wang, H and Li, X and Zhang, Q and Zhang, L and Peng, Y},
title = {Synergistic integration of denitrifying phosphorus removal with partial denitrification/anammox in biofilm-floc system for advanced nutrient removal from mixed municipal and pickling wastewater.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {447},
number = {},
pages = {134260},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.134260},
pmid = {41730354},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Achieving simultaneous nitrogen and phosphorus removal from low carbon-to-nitrogen (C/N) ratio municipal wastewater co-treated with high-nitrate industrial wastewater remains challenging for sustainable water treatment. This study developed a biofilm-floc dual-sludge system integrating partial denitrification/anammox (PD/A) with denitrifying phosphorus removal (DPR) for treating mixed municipal and pickling wastewater. Through systematic regulation of carbon source composition, dissolved oxygen (DO), and external carbon-to-nitrate ratio (C/NO3[-]-N), the system achieved 97.6 ± 1.2% phosphorus and 99.4 ± 0.4% total inorganic nitrogen removal. A dual-source nitrite (NO2[-]-N) supply mechanism via biofilm-mediated PD and floc-based DPR sustained 82.4 ± 3.2% anammox-dominated nitrogen removal. Cultivation with municipal wastewater shifted the competitive balance between denitrifying phosphorus-accumulating organisms (DPAOs) and glycogen-accumulating organisms (GAOs), increasing the proportion of DPAOs for carbon storage (PPAO) to 74.5 ± 3.8%. Spatial niche differentiation enabled stable anaerobic ammonium-oxidizing bacteria (AnAOB)-DPAOs coexistence, with AnAOB (Candidatus_Brocadia: 3.05%, Candidatus_Jettenia: 1.23%) colonizing biofilm while DPAOs (Dechloromonas: 2.59%) dominating flocs. This configuration resolved the inherent sludge retention time (SRT) conflict between AnAOB and DPAOs, providing a robust and energy-efficient strategy for mixed wastewater treatment under carbon-limited conditions.},
}

@article {pmid41728988,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, Y and Zhang, L and Li, Y and Cao, L and Zhang, J and Tong, Y and Li, M},
title = {Characterization and complete genomic sequence of a novel phage BUCT805 infecting Serratia marcescens and its anti-biofilm activities.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0311925},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.03119-25},
pmid = {41728988},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Serratia marcescens (S. marcescens) is an opportunistic pathogen commonly found in the environment and is capable of causing nosocomial and various severe infections. Bacteriophages (phages), as safe and eco-friendly natural antibacterial agents, hold promise for eradicating S. marcescens and its biofilms in hospital settings. In this study, we report a novel phage, BUCT805, isolated from wastewater, which effectively lysed S. marcescens, and we provide a detailed analysis of its physiological properties and genomic characteristics. BUCT805 was classified within the kingdom Heunggongvirae and the phylum Uroviricota. It formed clear plaques with a diameter of approximately 3.36 ± 0.63 mm, featuring a transparent center surrounded by a halo. The optimal multiplicity of infection for BUCT805 was 0.1, with a burst size of 338 ± 17 PFU per infected cell (n = 3), and the phage exhibited robust stability across a wide range of temperatures and pH levels. The genome of phage BUCT805 was composed of double-stranded DNA with a total length of 42,067 bp and a G+C content of 47%, exhibiting the highest sequence similarity to Serratia phage vB_SmaS_Serratianator with a query coverage of 88%. Importantly, no known antibiotic resistance or virulence genes were identified in the genome, and 40.32% of its open reading frames were annotated as functional proteins. Although the efficiency of biofilm removal by BUCT805 varied among different bacterial strains, it demonstrated significant biofilm eradication effects at high titers (10[9] PFU/mL) against all tested strains. Overall, our findings supported the potential of phage BUCT805 as a promising candidate for the removal of S. marcescens biofilms from environmental settings.

IMPORTANCE: Hospital surfaces could harbor Serratia marcescens, a resilient bacterium that forms protective biofilms and causes hospital-acquired infections (HAIs). We isolated and fully characterized BUCT805, a novel phage that specifically targeted S. marcescens and effectively removed its biofilms on plastic surfaces. BUCT805 was highly stable across a broad range of temperatures and pH, exhibited a high burst size, and carried no known antibiotic-resistance or toxin genes, supporting its safety for environmental applications. Phage BUCT805 had the potential to remove biofilms in the environment, thereby reducing the risk of HAI and providing an additional option for controlling S. marcescens and its biofilms in clinical settings.},
}

@article {pmid41728109,
year = {2026},
author = {Eom, JH and Cho, MY and Kim, JW and Kim, Y and Yang, SJ and Hwang, J and Lee, D and Kim, HS and Baek, H and Kim, YY},
title = {Peri-implantitis biofilm from explanted implants in Korean patients: microbial and functional profiling.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1768841},
pmid = {41728109},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; Humans ; *Peri-Implantitis/microbiology ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Phylogeny ; Middle Aged ; *Dental Implants/microbiology ; Male ; *Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification ; Female ; Republic of Korea ; Microbiota ; Aged ; Adult ; DNA, Bacterial/genetics ; Dental Plaque/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Peri-implantitis is an inflammatory disease affecting tissues surrounding dental implants, with microbial biofilms recognized as the primary etiological factor. However, most previous studies analyzed samples from peri-implant pockets, and research on biofilms directly attached to explanted implant surfaces remains limited. This study compared the microbial composition and functional characteristics of biofilms from explanted implant surfaces in peri-implantitis cases with subgingival plaque from healthy controls. A total of 41 samples (peri-implantitis n=19, healthy controls n=22) were obtained from the Apple Tree Oral Biobank. The V3-V4 region of 16S rRNA gene was sequenced using Illumina MiSeq, ASVs were generated using DADA2, and taxonomic assignment was performed using SILVA database (v138.1). Alpha and beta diversity analyses were conducted, and functional potential was predicted using PICRUSt2. The peri-implantitis group showed significantly higher Simpson index (p=0.0086) and phylogenetic diversity (p<0.0001), with distinct clustering separation between groups. Beyond well-known periodontal pathogens (Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, Treponema denticola, Filifactor alocis), the peri-implantitis group exhibited significant increases in sulfate-reducing bacteria (Desulfobulbus, Desulfovibrio) and emerging pathogens ([Eubacterium] nodatum group, [Eubacterium] saphenum group, Phocaeicola abscessus, Pseudoramibacter alactolyticus, Pyramidobacter). Health-associated bacteria (Corynebacterium, Neisseria, Capnocytophaga, Lautropia) were decreased. Functional analysis revealed enrichment in LPS biosynthesis, sulfur metabolism, iron acquisition, and amino acid degradation pathways, while carbohydrate metabolism was decreased. This study demonstrates that diverse emerging pathogens, including sulfate-reducing bacteria, are associated with peri-implantitis biofilms in explanted implant surface biofilms, contributing to expanded understanding of peri-implantitis etiology and development of candidate biomarkers.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
Humans
*Peri-Implantitis/microbiology
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
Phylogeny
Middle Aged
*Dental Implants/microbiology
Male
*Bacteria/classification/genetics/isolation & purification
Female
Republic of Korea
Microbiota
Aged
Adult
DNA, Bacterial/genetics
Dental Plaque/microbiology

@article {pmid41727627,
year = {2026},
author = {Rajashekara, AM and Reed, T and Torres-Huerta, A and Gomulinski, M and Boger-May, A and Hiller, M and Cronberger, E and Kane, G and Fowler, A and Jessel, K and Chapman, M and Boone, D},
title = {A host anti-amyloidogenic stomach-specific protein inhibits colonization and biofilm formation by adherent invasive Escherichia coli in the colon.},
journal = {Research square},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.21203/rs.3.rs-8663439/v1},
pmid = {41727627},
issn = {2693-5015},
abstract = {Gastrokine-1 (Gkn1) is an anti-amyloidogenic host protein secreted into the gut lumen by the stomach. Gut bacteria make functional amyloids to facilitate biofilm formation and biofilms in the gastrointestinal tract are associated with a variety of disorders, including inflammatory bowel disease. Adherent invasive Escherichia coli (AIEC) is a pathobiont that produces amyloids, forms biofilms, and is associated with inflammatory bowel disease. We therefore investigated whether Gkn1 is required to clear AIEC from the gastrointestinal tract by comparing the course of infection in wild-type and Gkn1-deficient (Gkn1 [-/-]) mice. Our findings reveal that Gkn1 does not impact initial colonization by AIEC, but is required for effective clearance of AIEC from the distal GI tract. We also find that Gkn1 inhibits biofilm formation by AIEC and that Gkn1 inhibits the formation of amyloid fibers by the functional E. coli amyloid curli. Furthermore, biofilms of AIEC were evident in the distal gut of Gkn1 [-/-] mice. Together these results indicate that Gkn1 inhibits bacterial amyloid fiber formation, bacterial biofilms, and facilitates clearance of a biofilm forming, IBD-associated, pathobiont from the distal gut. In addition, as the stomach is the sole source of Gkn1, these results implicate the stomach as a source of protection from intestinal biofilms.},
}

@article {pmid41727250,
year = {2026},
author = {Majlesi, S and Divsar, F and Moshiri Langroudi, M and Izee, N and Amin Malek, M and Yousefipour, S and Zendehrokh, SJ and Mirdamadi, A and Jafari, Z and Zahmatkesh, H and Nikpassand, M and Shahriarinour, M and Ranji, N},
title = {Synthesis of stable micelle/liposome nanocarriers to deliver silibinin into ciprofloxacin resistant isolates of Escherichia coli with effects on biofilm formation and efflux pumps.},
journal = {3 Biotech},
volume = {16},
number = {3},
pages = {107},
pmid = {41727250},
issn = {2190-572X},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Silibinin-loaded micelle/liposome nanocarriers (SMLNs) were successfully synthesized and characterized using FT-IR, SEM, TEM, XRD and TGA analyses. The nanocarriers exhibited an average particle size of 16.33 nm as determined by TEM imaging and less than 60 nm by FE-SEM analysis. They displayed an amorphous structure, and high thermal stability, maintaining integrity at temperatures exceeding 650 °C. The silibinin loading content and entrapment efficiency were 3.2% and 83.3%, respectively. In vitro release studies demonstrated a rapid, pH-dependent release, achieving complete drug release within 60 min at pH 5.0 and 65 min at pH 7.4. The combination of SMLNs with ciprofloxacin produced strong synergistic antibacterial effects, reducing the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of ciprofloxacin by 2- to 128-fold against resistant E. coli isolates. Biofilm formation decreased significantly under combination therapy compared with ciprofloxacin alone. Quantitative RT-PCR revealed that co-treatment downregulated efflux pump (acrA, acrB and tolC) and virulence (fimH and sfa) genes, while upregulating the repressor gene acrR. Molecular docking confirmed strong binding of silibinin to AcrAB-TolC, acrR, and fimH with binding affinities ranging from - 6.0 to - 8.9 kcal/mol.These findings demonstrate that SMLNs enhance the antibacterial efficacy of ciprofloxacin by inhibiting efflux pumps and biofilm formation, highlighting their potential as a multifunctional nanoplatform to combat antibiotic-resistant E. coli.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13205-025-04604-y.},
}

@article {pmid41722708,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, W and Shi, Z and Hong, J and Zhu, M},
title = {Biological ponds enhanced with autotrophic moving bed biofilm reactor for upgrading rural wastewater treatment plant effluent: performance and microbial mechanisms.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {447},
number = {},
pages = {134238},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.134238},
pmid = {41722708},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Rural small-scale wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) typically discharge nutrient-rich effluent characterized by low carbon-to-nitrogen (C/N) ratio and high dissolved oxygen (DO), posing a significant challenge to conventional heterotrophic denitrification. To address this, we retrofitted effluent-receiving ponds into enhanced biological ponds using two novel autotrophic moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) carriers: iron-based (MBBR + VIA) and sulfur-iron-based (MBBR + SIA). During the 19-day experiment, both enhanced systems achieved superior removal rates for nitrate nitrogen (NO3-N: 97.4%/100.0%), total nitrogen (TN: 92.7%/94.2%), and total phosphorus (TP: 35.1%/76.5%), far exceeding those of conventional MBBR and blank controls (-69.5% to 15.1%). Microbial analysis revealed that both carriers enhanced microbial richness (Ace index: 315.13 - 482.96 vs. 98.29 for conventional MBBR) and established distinct denitrification pathways: Hydrogenophaga-driven hydrogenotrophic denitrification dominated in MBBR + VIA, whereas Pseudomonas-mediated sulfur-iron autotrophic denitrification prevailed in MBBR + SIA. These established autotrophic pathways are proposed as the key mechanism underlying the superior performance of the two enhanced systems.},
}

@article {pmid41722165,
year = {2026},
author = {Auzoux-Bordenave, S and Kavousi, J and Nedelec, K and Martin, S and Badou, A and Dubois, P and M'Zoudi, S and Hubas, C and Huchette, S and Roussel, S},
title = {Interactive effects of ocean acidification and settlement biofilm on the early development of the European abalone Haliotis tuberculata.},
journal = {Marine pollution bulletin},
volume = {227},
number = {},
pages = {119412},
doi = {10.1016/j.marpolbul.2026.119412},
pmid = {41722165},
issn = {1879-3363},
abstract = {Ocean acidification (OA) and associated shifts in carbonate chemistry represent major threats to marine organisms, particularly calcifiers. OA effects can be influenced by other environmental variables, including the biotic environment. This study investigated the effects of OA and algal density, acting through an Ulvella-conditioned settlement biofilm, on post-larval and juvenile abalone (Haliotis tuberculata). In a three-month full factorial experiment, abalone were exposed from metamorphosis onward to two pH conditions (ambient 8.0 and reduced 7.7) and two initial densities of the green alga Ulvella lens on settlement plates. Biofilm biomass and composition were characterised using spectral reflectance and HPLC pigment analysis. Biological (density, length), physiological (respiration rate), behavioural (hiding response) and shell parameters (colour, surface corrosion, strength) of abalone were measured. Biofilm biomass and composition assessed with pigment proxies remained relatively stable under both pH conditions, though greater variability in algal biomass occurred at low initial Ulvella density. Post-larval density and total length decreased significantly under low pH, while high Ulvella density reduced juvenile length at 80 days, likely due to competition between algal groups. A pH × Ulvella interaction affected shell fracture resistance and colouration, but not metabolism or behaviour, indicating that juvenile abalone maintained vital functions. Overall, the results confirm the sensitivity of early H. tuberculata stages to moderate OA (-0.3 pH unit) and highlight indirect macroalgal effects through changes in diatom cover. In natural environment, the capacity of abalone to cope with future OA will depend on complex trade-offs between direct acidification effects and food-related biotic interactions.},
}

@article {pmid41721742,
year = {2026},
author = {Raghubansi, A and Greene, CM},
title = {MicroRNA-Enriched EVs from mesenchymal stromal cells: a novel approach to suppress biofilm and inflammation in CF airway epithelium.},
journal = {American journal of physiology. Lung cellular and molecular physiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1152/ajplung.00353.2025},
pmid = {41721742},
issn = {1522-1504},
}

@article {pmid41721221,
year = {2026},
author = {Jahangiri, N and Abedinnezhad Naeini, MM and Jafarpoor Kami, A and Mohammadi Gozarji, M and Masuomi, MH and Zamani, A and Mahdevar, M},
title = {ZnO@Carvacrol nanoparticles effectively suppress biofilm and quorum-sensing mechanisms in MDR Acinetobacter baumannii.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12866-025-04688-9},
pmid = {41721221},
issn = {1471-2180},
}

@article {pmid41720203,
year = {2026},
author = {Shukla, A and Seyyadali, A and Rastogi, S and Rani, S and Nath, G},
title = {Synergistic Potential of Bacteriophage and Blue Light Therapy Against Biofilm-Associated Klebsiella pneumoniae in Postoperative Gynaecological Infections.},
journal = {Photodiagnosis and photodynamic therapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {105399},
doi = {10.1016/j.pdpdt.2026.105399},
pmid = {41720203},
issn = {1873-1597},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Klebsiella pneumoniae, a prominent member of the ESKAPE pathogen group (Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter species), represents a serious concern in postoperative gynaecological infections due to its multidrug resistance (MDR) and strong biofilm-forming ability. The limited efficacy of conventional antibiotics against such infections underscores the need for innovative combinatorial strategies, such as bacteriophage therapy and phototherapy.

AIMS: This study aimed to evaluate the synergistic antibacterial potential of bacteriophage therapy and blue light (450 nm) phototherapy against biofilm-associated MDR K. pneumoniae isolated from a post- cesarean wound infection.

METHODS: A clinically isolated MDR K. pneumoniae strain was characterised, and biofilms were treated with phage, blue light, or sequential phage-light combinations. Crystal violet assays and microscopy quantified biofilm biomass reduction, while synergy was analysed using the Bliss independence model. Phage stability under blue light and cytocompatibility with HiFi™ human PBMCs were also assessed, along with cytokine profiling.

RESULTS: The combined phage-blue light treatment achieved an 82.3% reduction in biofilm biomass, significantly surpassing either monotherapy (p < 0.0001). Sequence-dependent synergy was observed, with Phage→Light treatments showing stronger early effects (6 h). Phage viability remained unaffected by blue light, and PBMC assays confirmed high cytocompatibility with no detectable cytokine induction. Mechanistically, blue light-induced ROS disrupted the biofilm matrix, facilitating enhanced phage penetration and infection.

CONCLUSIONS: Bacteriophage-blue light combination therapy represents a safe, synergistic, and resistance-mitigating approach for managing MDR K. pneumoniae biofilm infections, offering promising translational potential in postoperative gynaecological wound care.},
}

@article {pmid41719909,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, Y and Xue, R and Zhang, S and Ye, M and Zhao, J},
title = {Biofilm surface proximity-induced branched hybridization chain reaction strategy based on microchip electrophoresis for distinguishing exosomes from different cancer cells.},
journal = {Talanta},
volume = {304},
number = {},
pages = {129563},
doi = {10.1016/j.talanta.2026.129563},
pmid = {41719909},
issn = {1873-3573},
abstract = {The exosome surface contains various cancer markers that can be suitable candidates for early cancer diagnosis and therapeutic efficacy evaluation. However, due to the very small size of exosomes, major challenges remain to detect tumor markers on their surface. To circumvent these challenges, a signal amplification strategy based on microchip electrophoresis-assisted biofilm surface proximity-induced branched hybridization chain reaction (bHCR) is proposed to distinguish exosomes from different cancer types. It uses an aptamer to identify the epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) protein on the exosome surface by adjacent hybridization reaction on the biofilm surface. The multistage bHCR is designed for signal amplification, inducing a detection limit of 250 exosomes/μL in MCF-7 cells. When applied to distinguish exosomes from different cancer cell types, the results show that exosomes from MCF-7 cells contain a large number of EpCAM protein molecules on their membrane surface, while exosomes from A549 and HeLa cells contain relatively few EpCAM protein molecules. This finding indicates that EpCAM protein is highly expressed on the surface of exosomes secreted from breast cancer cells, and the expression of EpCAM protein from different types of cancer cells are also varies. The developed method has important application potential in terms of exosome analysis, and is expected to provide a new technical platform for breast cancer screening and prognosis assessment.},
}

@article {pmid41719764,
year = {2026},
author = {Kaushik, A and Singh, A and Taneja, NK and Taneja, P},
title = {Ultrasound-assisted quercetin treatment for mono- and dual-species biofilm eradication in milk: Modeling and optimization using GA-ANN approach.},
journal = {Ultrasonics sonochemistry},
volume = {127},
number = {},
pages = {107785},
pmid = {41719764},
issn = {1873-2828},
abstract = {The presence of mono- and dual-species biofilms in food industry poses a critical threat with respect to food security and safety at a global scale. This study explored a novel synergistic eradication strategy using ultrasonication and quercetin, for the eradication of mono and dual-species biofilms of Escherichia coli and Salmonella Typhimurium in milk. The eradication of biofilms was simulated via Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and a Genetic Algorithm-Artificial Neural Network (GA-ANN), taking treatment parameters like ultrasonic amplitude, time and bioactive concentration as inputs variable. Quercetin alone exhibited a significant dose- and time-dependent biofilm inactivation, with the maximum reduction of 2.49 ± 0.08 log for S. Typhimurium and 2.14 ± 0.14 log for E. coli mono-species biofilms, at 4 mg/mL after 4 h of exposure. However, this efficacy decreased in dual-species biofilms, confirming their enhanced structural integrity and resilience. The GA-ANN models showed a better predictive accuracy (R[2] > 0.98; IoA > 0.99) compared to RSM, successfully accounting synergistic interactions among all input variables. The optimized parameter obtained from GA-ANN model demonstrated the highest biofilm inactivation (7.19 log reduction) at 70% US amplitude, for 20 min of US-time, and bioactive concentration of 4 mg/ml. These results demonstrated the GA-ANN model's resilience as a predictive and optimization tool for complex biological systems like multispecies biofilms in milk. This synergistic combination of ultrasonication and quercetin as a novel hurdle approach can be utilized for enhancing microbial safety on food processing surfaces as well as in food matrices.},
}

@article {pmid41717737,
year = {2026},
author = {Chaitanya, KS and Yu, TT and Chaudhari, H and Orekonday, N and Kumar, N and Dey, RJ and Murugesan, S and Sekhar, KVGC},
title = {Design, Synthesis and Evaluation of Indole-Based 1,2,3-Triazoles as Potential Quorum Sensing and Biofilm Inhibitors Against Pseudomonas aeruginosa.},
journal = {Archiv der Pharmazie},
volume = {359},
number = {2},
pages = {e70209},
doi = {10.1002/ardp.70209},
pmid = {41717737},
issn = {1521-4184},
support = {F. No. CRG/2022/001889//Department of Science and Technology, New Delhi/ ; F. No. 02(392)/21/EMR-II//Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, India/ ; F. No. EMMDRIG/13/2023-0557//Indian Council of Medical Research/ ; SR/FST/CS-I/2020/158//DST-fist/ ; },
mesh = {*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology ; *Biofilms/drug effects ; *Quorum Sensing/drug effects ; Structure-Activity Relationship ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemical synthesis/chemistry ; *Drug Design ; *Triazoles/pharmacology/chemical synthesis/chemistry ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Indoles/chemistry/pharmacology/chemical synthesis ; Molecular Structure ; Molecular Docking Simulation ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Humans ; Molecular Dynamics Simulation ; },
abstract = {Targeting quorum-sensing inhibitors (QSIs) is a promising strategy to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria by disrupting biofilm formation without imposing direct lethal pressure. In this study, we designed and synthesized a library of 30 2-phenylindole-based 1,2,3-triazole derivatives (11a-g, 12a-i, 13a-h, and 14a-f), which were structurally characterized using HRMS, IR, and [1]H and [13]C NMR spectroscopy. These compounds were evaluated for their in vitro QS inhibitory activity against the Pseudomonas aeruginosa MH602 reporter strain at concentrations ranging from 250 to 8 μM. All compounds demonstrated good to excellent QS inhibition (> 60%) at 250 μM and moderate inhibition (> 30%) at 8 μM. Structure-activity relationship (SAR) analysis indicated that halogen substitution had a positive influence on QS inhibitory potency. Among the series, compound 12a showed the most potent activity, with 82.6% and 38.9% inhibition at 250 and 8 μM, respectively. Further studies, including in silico ADME prediction, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations, and binding free energy analysis, were performed for 12a. The most active compounds from each series were also assessed for cytotoxicity against the HEK 293 T cell line, showing IC50 values in the range of 83.7-168.7 μM. Antimicrobial evaluation revealed that the top seven compounds exhibited minimal or no antibacterial activity at 125 μM; however, compounds 12h, 13a, and 14c showed significant biofilm inhibition addition to pyocyanin and QS suppression, highlighting their potential as promising leads to combat antimicrobial resistance.},
}

*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology
*Biofilms/drug effects
*Quorum Sensing/drug effects
Structure-Activity Relationship
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemical synthesis/chemistry
*Drug Design
*Triazoles/pharmacology/chemical synthesis/chemistry
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Indoles/chemistry/pharmacology/chemical synthesis
Molecular Structure
Molecular Docking Simulation
Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
Humans
Molecular Dynamics Simulation

@article {pmid41716908,
year = {2026},
author = {Singh, D and Brink, J and Hiebner, DW and Casey, E},
title = {Fragmented but functional: Post-dispersion dynamics and phenotypic variation in dispersed biofilm-associated cells.},
journal = {Biofilm},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {100353},
pmid = {41716908},
issn = {2590-2075},
abstract = {Schematic overview of primary biofilm formation, dispersion of primary biofilm-associated cells (PBACs), and development of secondary biofilms.Image 1.},
}

@article {pmid41716907,
year = {2026},
author = {Nahum, Y and Gross, N and Muhvich, J and Zaman, MH},
title = {Microplastics as active modulators of Escherichia coli biofilm characteristics and their implications on the development of antimicrobial resistance.},
journal = {Biofilm},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {100355},
pmid = {41716907},
issn = {2590-2075},
abstract = {Microplastics are increasingly recognized as substrates that facilitate microbial colonization and may contribute to antimicrobial resistance, yet their role in shaping biofilm physiology remains poorly understood. Here, we investigated the antibiotic susceptibility, structural features, mechanical properties, and composition of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) of Escherichia coli (E. coli) biofilms grown under flow and under identical conditions with three different materials: control (C), glass microbeads (G), and microplastic 10-μm beads (MP). We performed 24h antibiotic susceptibility tests using ciprofloxacin and found significantly enhanced tolerance in MP-biofilms, with approximately 60% of cells remaining viable after exposure to 350 μg/mL, compared to 24% in G-biofilms and minimal survival in controls at lower concentrations of ciprofloxacin (P < 0.0001). Reducing microplastic concentrations ten-fold did not enhance susceptibility, whereas lighter, hollow glass beads generated significantly more susceptible biofilms. MP-biofilms were shown to be nearly seven times thicker than control biofilms and exhibited localized zones of high cell density surrounding the microbeads. We further observed lower creep compliance in MP- and G-biofilms relative to controls, indicating increased stiffness. Finally, we analyzed EPS matrix composition and found that only MP-biofilms displayed substantial enrichment across all EPS components, especially proteins (>2.5-fold increase, P < 0.0001). Together, these results indicate that microplastics can not only serve as favorable surfaces for bacterial attachment and colonization but also actively promote biofilm architectures and biochemical features that confer elevated antibiotic tolerance. Our findings highlight microplastics as contributors to drug-tolerant biofilm microbial communities and reinforce their role as emerging environmental drivers of antimicrobial resistance.},
}

@article {pmid41716906,
year = {2026},
author = {Mohammadi, S and Maranesi, A and de Bruijn, ACJM and Castañon, I and Gierlich, P and Falciani, C and Pini, A and van Beusekom, HMM and Ferrari, A and Unger, WWJ},
title = {SET-M33 loaded biosynthesized cellulose as effective protection against S. aureus biofilm formation.},
journal = {Biofilm},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {100351},
pmid = {41716906},
issn = {2590-2075},
abstract = {Staphylococcus aureus is the most common pathogen responsible for postoperative infections associated with cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs), primarily due to its biofilm-forming capability on implant substrates. Protective envelopes, which sustain the local elution of antibiotics, significantly reduce the risk of CIED infection and biofilm formation. However, they are not equipped to counteract emerging bacterial resistance to antibiotics. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) can effectively erase contaminating bacteria, without eliciting resistance. Here, we explored the antimicrobial efficacy of biosynthesized cellulose (BC), a natural biopolymer used in protective envelopes, in combination with two synthetic AMPs: SET-M33D and Mastoparan X (MPX). The BC/AMPs combination inhibited bacterial attachment and subsequent biofilm formation significantly better than native BC or AMP coated titanium substrates, as revealed by full factorial design (FFD) experiments. The outcomes of FFD were used to develop a regression model that estimates the interaction between influential parameters and their impacts on response value. Furthermore, SEM imaging confirmed the superior antibiofilm activity of BC/SET-M33D compared to BC/MPX. We demonstrated that the protective function against S. aureus ATCC29213 may be linked to the downregulation of the biofilm associated gene icaA. The results reported demonstrate the feasibility of exploiting BC as AMP carrier for inhibiting biofilm formation in conditions relevant to deployment of CIEDs. While further in vivo evaluation is needed, this approach may offer a promising path to address antimicrobial resistance in the management of post-operative infections associated with CIED implant.},
}

@article {pmid41716695,
year = {2026},
author = {Thomas, JM and Mosharaf Ghahfarokhy, P and Rivera, SGP and Nobile, CJ and Rawat, M},
title = {The glutathione pathway is required for biofilm formation in Acinetobacter baumannii.},
journal = {Current research in microbial sciences},
volume = {10},
number = {},
pages = {100562},
pmid = {41716695},
issn = {2666-5174},
abstract = {Acinetobacter baumannii is a Gram-negative nosocomial bacterium that is a member of the ESKAPE group of pathogens, notable for its virulence and intrinsic antibiotic resistance. It causes diverse infections, including respiratory and soft tissue disease, that are increasingly difficult to treat. Glutathione (GSH), the major intracellular redox buffer, is known in other bacteria to protect against stress and influence physiological processes such as biofilm formation. To investigate the roles of GSH in A. baumannii, we analyzed transposon mutant strains lacking gshA and gshB genes, which encode the enzymes that catalyze the two steps of GSH biosynthesis. Both mutant strains failed to produce GSH, exhibited impaired growth, and were hypersensitive to oxidative stress, nitrosative stress, toxins, and ferric chloride, compared to the wildtype strain. They also showed pronounced defects in biofilm formation and motility. Transcriptomic analysis of the gshA mutant strain relative to the wildtype strain revealed upregulation of genes involved in phenylacetate degradation and fimbrial biogenesis, while genes involved in iron and sulfur uptake and metabolism were downregulated. Moreover, mutant strains lacking GSH-dependent S-nitrosoglutathione reductases (GSNORs) displayed similar biofilm and nitrosative stress defects. Together, these findings demonstrate that GSH and GSNORs play central roles in stress resistance, biofilm development, and metabolic regulation in A. baumannii, highlighting their importance in the physiology and pathogenesis of this clinically relevant pathogen.},
}

@article {pmid41715978,
year = {2026},
author = {Macedo, M and Albernaz Neves, J and Pérez, AR and Proença, L and Bessa, LJ},
title = {Enhanced Efficacy of Laser-Activated Irrigation (Er,Cr:YSGG) in Eradicating Enterococcus faecalis Biofilm in 3D-Printed Molar Replicas: A Pilot Study.},
journal = {Clinical and experimental dental research},
volume = {12},
number = {2},
pages = {e70279},
pmid = {41715978},
issn = {2057-4347},
support = {UID/4585/2025//FCT-Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia/ ; },
mesh = {*Enterococcus faecalis/radiation effects/drug effects/physiology ; *Biofilms/drug effects/radiation effects ; Pilot Projects ; *Printing, Three-Dimensional ; *Molar/microbiology ; *Lasers, Solid-State/therapeutic use ; Humans ; Dental Pulp Cavity/microbiology ; *Therapeutic Irrigation/methods ; *Root Canal Irrigants/pharmacology ; Bacterial Load ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This study compared the efficacy of Sonic (EDDY) and Er,Cr:YSGG (2780 nm) laser activation in eradicating Enterococcus faecalis biofilm formed in 3D-printed molar replicas with two mesial canals and one distal canal.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: An in vitro design was implemented using 20 3D-printed mandibular molar replicas mimicking the natural canal morphology. Root canals were inoculated with E. faecalis and incubated for 21 days to allow the development of a mature biofilm. Three irrigation protocols were tested: Conventional needle irrigation (CNI), EDDY sonic activation (SA), and Er,Cr:YSGG (2780 nm) laser activation (LA). The control group was irrigated with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) without activation. Residual bacterial load was quantified through colony-forming unit (CFU) counts and quantitative PCR (qPCR). Bacterial viability in the apical isthmus was assessed using fluorescence microscopy. A Student's t-test was performed to identify significant differences between CFU/mL values in groups, with significance set at 5% (p < 0.05).

RESULTS: CFU counts of E. faecalis were significantly lower in the CNI, SA, and LA groups compared to the control (p < 0.05). In the SA and LA groups, bacterial counts were reduced to the lower detection limit (< log10 CFU/mL of 1.00), suggesting near-total bacterial elimination. qPCR and fluorescence microscopy corroborated these results, providing greater differentiation between the outcomes of sonic and laser activations.

CONCLUSIONS: Er,Cr:YSGG (2780 nm) laser activation showed superior efficacy in endodontic disinfection by effectively eradicating E. faecalis biofilm, including in the challenging isthmus region, representing a promising method for complex root canal anatomies.},
}

*Enterococcus faecalis/radiation effects/drug effects/physiology
*Biofilms/drug effects/radiation effects
Pilot Projects
*Printing, Three-Dimensional
*Molar/microbiology
*Lasers, Solid-State/therapeutic use
Humans
Dental Pulp Cavity/microbiology
*Therapeutic Irrigation/methods
*Root Canal Irrigants/pharmacology
Bacterial Load

@article {pmid41715721,
year = {2026},
author = {Hu, B and Aliee, M and Hosseinirad, S and Boomer, A and Baek, I and Kim, MS and Vasefi, F and Patel, J and Zadeh, HK},
title = {Multispectral fluorescence imaging to detect and ultraviolet C to disinfect single and dual-species bacterial biofilm on abiotic surfaces.},
journal = {Optics express},
volume = {34},
number = {2},
pages = {3244-3257},
doi = {10.1364/OE.581002},
pmid = {41715721},
issn = {1094-4087},
mesh = {*Biofilms/radiation effects/growth & development ; *Ultraviolet Rays ; *Disinfection/methods ; Stainless Steel ; Polyvinyl Chloride ; Pseudomonas aeruginosa/physiology/radiation effects ; *Optical Imaging/methods ; },
abstract = {Biofilms, because of their persistence on various surfaces such as medical devices or industrial piping, are associated with approximately 65% of all microbial infections. Thus, their detection and inactivation are of great importance to public health. Many detection methods, such as swabbing, require sampling by rubbing, which can be expensive, time-consuming, and require highly trained personnel. This study proposes the use of previously developed, handheld multispectral fluorescence imaging systems to detect and disinfect biofilm in situ and in real-time. We utilized the contamination and sanitization inspection (CSI) and disinfection (CSI-D+), both of which feature various cameras and UV-emitting LEDs to image and disinfect contamination. Biofilms were grown on polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and stainless steel (SS) coupons using an industrial bioreactor, including dual-species biofilms of Listeria monocytogenes/Pseudomonas aeruginosa or Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC)/Pseudomonas aeruginosa, as well as single-species biofilms of Listeria monocytogenes and STEC. Using 275, 365, or 405 nm illumination with combinations of cameras detected biofilm formation visually. Color data image analysis comparing sterile broth and different types of biofilm yielded accuracies of 91% on SS and 89% on PVC coupons. The UVC light significantly reduced these pathogens in single- and dual-species biofilms from surface coupons.},
}

*Biofilms/radiation effects/growth & development
*Ultraviolet Rays
*Disinfection/methods
Stainless Steel
Polyvinyl Chloride
Pseudomonas aeruginosa/physiology/radiation effects
*Optical Imaging/methods

@article {pmid41714774,
year = {2026},
author = {Doughan, GE and Walthart, BK and Petersen, MB and Schau, CE and Skoland, KJ and Macedo, NR and Brown, JT and Bonnema, JL and Zhang, D and Karriker, LA},
title = {Water line biofilm regrowth dynamics in six wean-to-finish farms post peracetic acid water line cleaning and disinfection.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41598-026-40725-x},
pmid = {41714774},
issn = {2045-2322},
}

@article {pmid41712590,
year = {2026},
author = {Nazari, M and Taheri, M and Nouri, F and Bahmanzadeh, M and Alikhani, MY},
title = {Synergistic effects of antibiotics and fucoidan on dual-species Staphylococcus aureus and Acinetobacter baumannii biofilm in diabetic rat wound models.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {21},
number = {2},
pages = {e0342905},
pmid = {41712590},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {Animals ; *Biofilms/drug effects ; *Acinetobacter baumannii/drug effects/physiology ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Rats ; Male ; *Polysaccharides/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Rats, Wistar ; *Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/complications/microbiology ; Drug Synergism ; Wound Healing/drug effects ; Imipenem/pharmacology ; *Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology ; Gentamicins/pharmacology ; Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology ; Disease Models, Animal ; Staphylococcal Infections/drug therapy/microbiology ; Wound Infection/drug therapy/microbiology ; Acinetobacter Infections/drug therapy/microbiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Chronic diabetic wounds are often complicated by biofilm-forming, antibiotic-resistant pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus and Acinetobacter baumannii, which delay healing. This study evaluated the synergistic effects of gentamicin and imipenem in combination with fucoidan, a sulfated polysaccharide from brown seaweed, against dual-species biofilms in a diabetic rat wound model.

METHODS: Methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) strain 6 and A. baumannii strain 1, isolated from diabetic foot ulcers, were used to establish dual-species biofilms in vitro and in vivo. Excisional wounds were created in male Wistar rats with streptozocin-induced type II diabetes and infected with the biofilms. Rats received daily treatments of gentamicin, imipenem, their combination, or the triple combination with fucoidan. Outcomes assessed included bacterial load (CFU/g), biofilm formation, expression of biofilm-related genes (icaA and bap by real-time PCR), wound size, and histological healing parameters.

RESULTS: The triple therapy demonstrated the strongest antibacterial effect, reducing bacterial load by more than 4 log₁₀ CFU/g compared to controls (p < 0.005). Real-time PCR revealed significant downregulation of icaA in S. aureus (threefold decrease) and bap in A. baumannii (fourfold decrease) relative to antibiotic-only groups (p < 0.005). Histology showed accelerated wound contraction and complete re-epithelialization by day 14 with the triple combination, whereas monotherapy or dual antibiotics led to delayed healing and persistent inflammation.

CONCLUSIONS: Fucoidan enhances the efficacy of gentamicin and imipenem against biofilm-associated infections and promotes diabetic wound healing. This combinatorial approach offers a promising strategy for managing chronic, biofilm-infected wounds and combating antibiotic resistance.},
}

Animals
*Biofilms/drug effects
*Acinetobacter baumannii/drug effects/physiology
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use
Rats
Male
*Polysaccharides/pharmacology/therapeutic use
Rats, Wistar
*Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/complications/microbiology
Drug Synergism
Wound Healing/drug effects
Imipenem/pharmacology
*Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology
Gentamicins/pharmacology
Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology
Disease Models, Animal
Staphylococcal Infections/drug therapy/microbiology
Wound Infection/drug therapy/microbiology
Acinetobacter Infections/drug therapy/microbiology

@article {pmid41712064,
year = {2026},
author = {Ruffier d'Epenoux, L and Rwayane, K and Paquin, A and Persyn, E and Fayoux, E and Hervochon, C and Corvec, S},
title = {Correction to: In vitro emergence of amoxicillin-resistance and impact of amoxicillin on biofilm production across Cutibacterium acnes phylotypes?.},
journal = {European journal of clinical microbiology & infectious diseases : official publication of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1007/s10096-026-05442-3},
pmid = {41712064},
issn = {1435-4373},
}

@article {pmid41711436,
year = {2026},
author = {Simões, LC and Simões, MS and Esteves, M and Simões, M},
title = {A simple alginate bead biofilm model for undergraduate teaching of antimicrobial tolerance.},
journal = {Journal of microbiology & biology education},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0031025},
doi = {10.1128/jmbe.00310-25},
pmid = {41711436},
issn = {1935-7877},
abstract = {Biofilms play a crucial role in medical, industrial, and environmental microbiology, yet their structural complexity often makes them challenging to study in undergraduate teaching laboratories. We present a simple, fast, and effective method for exploring bacterial behavior within an artificial biofilm model. Through a hands-on activity, bacteria are entrapped in calcium alginate beads to simulate biofilm conditions and then exposed to an antimicrobial. Their viability is compared to that of the same bacteria in the planktonic state. This classroom approach introduces students to the impact of living in a sessile state on bacterial tolerance to antimicrobials, offering valuable insights into how the biofilm structure contributes to antimicrobial tolerance.},
}

@article {pmid41710233,
year = {2026},
author = {Jafar, T and Saha, SR and Alam, S and Saha, O and Sultana, KF},
title = {A Review on Survival Strategies and Social Dynamics of Microbial Communities in Biofilm.},
journal = {Indian journal of microbiology},
volume = {66},
number = {1},
pages = {95-107},
pmid = {41710233},
issn = {0046-8991},
abstract = {Single-celled organisms colonize biotic and abiotic surfaces via intrinsic mechanisms that differentiate them from free-floating bacteria. The vital role of these mechanisms is in communication and survival in challenging environments. Particularly concerning are the biofilms formed by bacteria, which pose substantial challenges in diverse settings, ranging from medical implants to industrial pipelines. Therefore, understanding the underlying mechanisms driving biofilm formation is essential as a foundational step in devising strategies to curb or prevent their growth. The rationale behind conducting this review study is to comprehensively address the intricate issue of bacterial biofilm formation and its far-reaching implications across various domains of human life and healthcare. Bacteria within biofilms exhibit complex multicellular behaviors, orchestrated through quorum sensing, which finely regulates gene expressions. This collective behavior fundamentally transforms the traditional perception of microbes, as they navigate three-dimensional colonization, evolve, allocate responsibilities within the biofilm consortium, and adapt to varying environmental conditions. Furthermore, the escalating crisis of antibiotic resistance in bacteria presents formidable challenges in treating biofilm-associated infections such as urinary tract infections, bacterial prostatitis, chronic otitis media, lung infections, etc. Conventional antibiotics, historically effective against bacterial infections, now falter in the face of biofilm-related ailments. Hence, the pressing need to deepen our comprehension of bacterial biofilms becomes evident. Considering all this, this review will provide insight into the biofilm formation, and intercellular communication within biofilm communities, as well as their survival and socializing strategies. We also address the pressing challenge of antibiotic resistance which has emerged as a major obstacle in healthcare. Therefore, it is critical and urgent for clinicians to effectively treat biofilm-mediated infections with antibiotics that are now accessible. To achieve this, a collaborative approach involving microbiologists, chemists, and clinicians is essential to develop novel nanoparticle-based therapeutics and preventive strategies to effectively target and eradicate biofilms. In Short, our goal is to improve patient management and address the root cause of several chronic diseases that are often exacerbated by biofilm infections.},
}

@article {pmid41709580,
year = {2026},
author = {Jaiswal, SR and Shinde, PS and Tale, VS},
title = {Biofilm Formation and Antibiotic Susceptibility Patterns in Contact Lens-Associated Bacteria.},
journal = {Korean journal of ophthalmology : KJO},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3341/kjo.2025.0178},
pmid = {41709580},
issn = {2092-9382},
abstract = {PURPOSE: To characterize biofilm-forming capacity, extracellular polymeric substance (EPS), and antibiotic susceptibility (AST) of bacteria isolated from contact lenses (CL) and their accessories.

METHODS: Bacterial isolates from 20 CLs and their cases from asymptomatic participants were assessed for biofilm formation using crystal violet (CV) staining in tubes and tissue culture plates (TCP). AST was performed by the Kirby-Bauer method. EPS production was detected using Congo red agar (CRA) and broth (CRB), with the contents of carbohydrate, protein, and eDNA assessed. Biofilm structures were visualized, and the effect of different physiological conditions on biofilm was studied.

RESULTS: The bacterial isolates included A. xylosoxidans, K. pneumoniae, S. aureus, S. cohnii, S. epidermidis, and S. saprophyticus, identified and confirmed by MALDI TOF MS. Out of 110 isolates, biofilm production by CV staining showed 28.5% strongly positive, 38.09% moderately positive, and 23.33% weakly positive by the tube method, and 32.07%, 18.57%, and 29.04% respectively by TCP method; 14.28% were non-biofilm producers. The selected isolates were susceptible to the tested antibiotics, but resistance was noted in A. xylosoxidans. The EPS production was confirmed by black coloration in CRA plates, and CRB tubes with carbohydrate content was found to increase, whereas protein content was slightly reduced, and the presence of eDNA was detected after 48 hrs. By Maneval's stain, a pink bacterial cell embedded in blue-colored extracellular matrix (ECM) is observed. The SEM images depicted the presence of branched and sheet-like ECM structures. Physiological conditions like acidic pH and the presence of ribose sugar showed reduced biofilm formation; conversely, incubation at 28°C enhanced bacterial attachment. In Staphylococcus species, increased salt concentration supported biofilm formation.

CONCLUSION: This study shows that bacteria present on contact lenses of asymptomatic users possess significant biofilm-forming capacity. We conclude that A. xylosoxidans and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus were predominant and capable biofilm formers. CRB was found to be a convenient qualitative method for detecting EPS production in this study. The bacterial attachment on CL may vary with physiological conditions. These findings reflect presence of bacteria rather than active infection and highlight the importance of hygiene and preventive strategies during contact lens use.},
}

@article {pmid41708876,
year = {2026},
author = {Feng, M and Wu, X and Hu, X and Wu, Y and Gou, S and Ran, Q and Yuan, Y and Huang, T and Dan, L and Chu, Y and Zhou, X and Zhao, K and Du, L},
title = {Repurposing Tirazone as an effective quorum-sensing inhibitor against Pseudomonas aeruginosa virulence and biofilm formation.},
journal = {The Journal of antibiotics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41708876},
issn = {1881-1469},
abstract = {Antibiotic resistance has emerged as a critical global public health challenge. Quorum sensing (QS), a density-dependent regulatory mechanism, plays a pivotal role in bacterial pathogenesis by coordinating virulence factor expression, making it a critical target for antivirulence therapy. Leveraging a drug repositioning strategy, this study investigated the antivirulence potential of drugs in the database of DrugBank on the common opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa by virtual screening. Molecular docking analysis predicted that the antitumor drug, Tirazone, could bind to the core QS regulatory proteins, LasR, RhlR, and PqsR of P. aeruginosa with abundant active sites, whereas the binding free energies were higher than those of the native QS signals. In vitro experiments demonstrated that Tirazone significantly suppressed virulence factor secretion, cell motilities, and biofilm formation in the model P. aeruginosa strain PAO1, and downregulated the expression of a series of QS-related genes with low effective concentration (≤ 8 μM). A competitive binding model of QS signal molecules further elucidated that Tirazone interfered with QS signaling by competitively inhibiting the function of LasR, RhlR, and PqsR. Additionally, Tirazone treatment significantly protected Caenorhabditis elegans and mouse models from P. aeruginosa infection, and reduced the bacterial loads and pathological lesions in mouse lungs. Moreover, Tirazone demonstrated synergistic effects with polymyxin B, levofloxacin, and amikacin, significantly enhancing their bactericidal efficacy in treating P. aeruginosa. This study reveals the molecular mechanism underlying Tirazone's multi-target intervention in the QS system, and provides an experimental foundation for developing combination therapies based on antivirulence strategies.},
}

@article {pmid41708362,
year = {2026},
author = {Akshaya, BS and Premraj, K and Iswarya, C and Muthusamy, S and Mohamed Ibrahim, HI and Khalil, HE and Ashokkumar, V and Vickram, S and Kumar, VS and Palanisamy, S and Thirugnanasambantham, K},
title = {Corrigendum to "Cinnamaldehyde inhibits Enterococcus faecalis biofilm formation and promotes clearance of its colonization by modulation of phagocytes in vitro" [Microb. Pathog. (2023) 181 106157].},
journal = {Microbial pathogenesis},
volume = {213},
number = {},
pages = {108382},
doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2026.108382},
pmid = {41708362},
issn = {1096-1208},
}

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

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

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

@article {pmid41704958,
year = {2026},
author = {Wu, Y and Kang, M and Wang, Z and Zhang, Y and Chen, K and Liang, Q and Lu, X},
title = {Biofilm-related characteristics of Candida parapsilosis in postoperative ocular infections.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1753328},
pmid = {41704958},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {Adult ; Aged ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Antifungal Agents/therapeutic use ; *Biofilms ; *Candida/classification/physiology ; Candida parapsilosis/genetics ; Caspofungin/therapeutic use ; Cataract Extraction/adverse effects ; Corneal Transplantation/adverse effects ; Genotype ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Postoperative Complications/drug therapy/microbiology ; *Eye Infections, Fungal/drug therapy/microbiology ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The research aims to elucidate the pathogenic mechanisms of Candida parapsilosis infection after keratoplasty and provide evidence-based guidance for the clinical management of Candida infections in ophthalmic practice.

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

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

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

Adult
Aged
Female
Humans
Male
Middle Aged
*Antifungal Agents/therapeutic use
*Biofilms
*Candida/classification/physiology
Candida parapsilosis/genetics
Caspofungin/therapeutic use
Cataract Extraction/adverse effects
Corneal Transplantation/adverse effects
Genotype
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Postoperative Complications/drug therapy/microbiology
*Eye Infections, Fungal/drug therapy/microbiology

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid41702520,
year = {2026},
author = {Tonanzi, B and Massimi, A and Braguglia, CM and Di Pippo, F and Gallipoli, A and Gianico, A and Rossetti, S and Crognale, S},
title = {Fixed-bed biofilm reactor for single-stage bioconversion of organic waste to medium-chain carboxylic acids.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {447},
number = {},
pages = {134228},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.134228},
pmid = {41702520},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Biofilm-based systems can enhance medium-chain carboxylic acids (MCCAs) production by retaining slow-growing microorganisms and increasing biomass density. This study investigated a novel single-stage fixed-bed biofilm system for the co-fermentation of food waste and sewage sludge. Significant enhancements in stability and metabolic efficiency were achieved without external pH control or the addition of external electron donors, as the process relied on the endogenous in-situ production of lactate and ethanol. Using a 1:1 support-to-inoculum ratio with porous sintered glass as solid support, the system reached a caproic acid yield of 62 ± 5 gC6/kgVSfed, significantly higher than the control (43.4 ± 2.1 gC6/kgVSfed) over the entire seventy-day continuous trial. Analytical profiling and sequencing confirmed the selective enrichment of specialized chain elongators, primarily Caproiciproducens and Pseudoramibacter, within the biofilm. This study establishes the single-stage fixed-bed biofilm reactor as a robust and efficient strategy for valorising complex organic waste into high-value chemicals.},
}

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Fermentation
Biological Oxygen Demand Analysis
Glucose/metabolism
Geobacter/metabolism/physiology
*Bioreactors/microbiology
*Organic Chemicals/analysis
Electrodes
*Biosensing Techniques/methods
Wastewater/microbiology