@article {pmid42229743,
year = {2026},
author = {Saini, Y and Wani, MY and Hameed, S},
title = {Antifungal Peptides for Biofilm Disruption: Mechanisms, Design Strategies, and Translational Outlook.},
journal = {Microbial pathogenesis},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {108601},
doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2026.108601},
pmid = {42229743},
issn = {1096-1208},
abstract = {Invasive fungal infections in intensive care units are a serious concern, especially when they are associated with biofilm formation. These infections often lead to high mortality because biofilms make the fungi more resistant to antifungal drugs and harder for the immune system to clear. Pathogens such as Candida auris, Candida albicans, and Aspergillus fumigatus are particularly problematic, as they are known to develop multidrug resistance and cause persistent infections in critically ill patients. These biofilms often show a much higher tolerance to standard antifungal drugs and can escape the host body's immune defenses. This makes the infections they cause more persistent and very difficult to treat in clinical practice. Antifungal peptides (AFPs), whether derived from natural host-defense molecules or designed through rational engineering, are emerging as promising options for tackling fungal biofilms. They act through several mechanisms, such as disrupting the fungal cell membrane, blocking early adhesion and morphogenesis, and weakening the extracellular matrix. Importantly, they may also work in synergy with existing antifungal drugs, making treatment more effective. Recent progress in peptide engineering and delivery methods, such as nanocarriers and hydrogel-based systems has enhanced the stability, selectivity, and ability of peptides to target fungal biofilms in experimental models. At the same time, there are important challenges that remain, including their tendency to break down due to proteolytic enzymes, possible cytotoxic effects, difficulties in large scale manufacturing, and regulatory hurdles linked to peptide-based therapies. Overall, AFPs represent a promising and fast developing area of research, but their use in clinical practice is limited. More studies are needed to confirm their safety, effectiveness and practical feasibility for managing biofilm-associated fungal infections.},
}

@article {pmid42229762,
year = {2026},
author = {de Maceda, FG and Lopes-Olhê, FC and Torres-Carrillo, AJS and da Silva Goulart, R and Petean, IBF and de Castro-Vasconcelos, GA and Silva-Sousa, AC and Estrela, C and Mazzi-Chaves, JF and Silva-Sousa, YTC and Pitondo-Silva, A and Sousa-Neto, MD},
title = {Effect of ultrasonic irrigant activation and negative apical pressure in removing mature biofilm from the isthmus of curved root canal: A 3D-printed model study.},
journal = {Journal of microbiological methods},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {107567},
doi = {10.1016/j.mimet.2026.107567},
pmid = {42229762},
issn = {1872-8359},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Although the iVac® system has shown promising cleaning performance, its effectiveness in biofilm removal from anatomically complex areas remains untested in standardized 3D models, highlighting the relevance of the present study to evidence-based irrigation strategies.

METHODS: A standardized 3D mandibular molar model with curvature and an isthmus was created, incorporating dentin blocks and a 21-day E. faecalis biofilm. Samples (n = 48) were randomized into four groups: syringe-needle irrigation, iVac System, ultrasonic irrigant activation (UIA), and control. All groups received NaOCl, EDTA, PBS, and sodium thiosulfate. Biofilm removal was assessed by CFU counting and SEM.

RESULTS: ANOVA of CFUs showed that UIA and iVac significantly reduced bacterial counts compared to the control (p < 0.001), with no difference between them (p = 0.342). Syringe and needle irrigation showed results similar to the control (p = 0.124) and iVac (p = 0.087), but had higher CFUs than UIA (p = 0.017). These reductions corresponded to substantial decreases in bacterial load. SEM revealed that iVac and UIA groups exhibited exposed dentinal tubules with few scattered bacteria, while syringe and needle irrigation showed a dense amorphous matrix with E. faecalis-like cells covering most of the dentin, with limited exposed areas.

CONCLUSIONS: Active irrigant agitation with UIA or iVac was more effective in reducing mature biofilm and promoting its disruption in the isthmus of curved root canals than syringe and needle irrigation.},
}

@article {pmid42230424,
year = {2026},
author = {Passamani, GB and de Oliveira Pereira, L and Ferreira, TA and da Silva, PV and Backes, L and de Freitas Santos, J and Sardi, JO and de Almeida, TDD and Campos, LT and Borba, AM and Romário-Silva, D},
title = {Association of oral and non-oral microorganisms in a multispecies biofilm model formed on orthodontic appliances: an in vitro study.},
journal = {Odontology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42230424},
issn = {1618-1255},
abstract = {Orthodontic devices can promote dental biofilm formation and increase the risk of oral diseases when hygiene is inadequate. Invisible aligners, although removable and easier to clean, are frequently exposed to external environments, which may allow contamination by non-oral microorganisms. This study aimed to evaluate the association and viability of oral and non-oral microorganisms in mono- and multispecies biofilm models formed on orthodontic appliances. Methods: Stimulated human saliva was used to form the acquired pellicle on specimens of invisible aligners, conventional brackets, and self-ligating brackets. The samples were exposed to Streptococcus mutans, Candida albicans, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and incubated for 48 h under mono- and multispecies conditions. After ultrasonic detachment, viable cells were quantified by CFU/mL enumeration, and extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) content was determined. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's post hoc test for monospecies biofilms, and two-way ANOVA followed by Bonferroni's post hoc test for multispecies biofilms (p < 0.05). Higher CFU/mL values were observed for S. aureus and P. aeruginosa compared to C. albicans and S. mutans (p < 0.05). In multispecies biofilms, C. albicans showed higher values than S. mutans (p < 0.05). CFU/mL increased over time, with no differences among orthodontic devices (p > 0.05). EPS content was higher in conventional brackets, intermediate in self-ligating brackets, and lower in aligners (p < 0.05). Oral and non-oral microorganisms remained viable and were recovered from biofilm models formed on orthodontic appliances. These findings suggest that such devices may act as substrates for the persistence of non-oral microorganisms under biofilm-forming conditions, highlighting the importance of appropriate hygiene and storage practices.},
}

@article {pmid42230493,
year = {2026},
author = {Minko, AG and Danilova, TA and Lunin, VG and Gromova, MS and Danilina, GA and Adzhieva, AA and Zhukhovitsky, VG},
title = {The Effect of Streptococcal Pyrogenic Exotoxin Type A (SpeA) on the Formation of Streptococcus pyogenes Biofilm.},
journal = {Bulletin of experimental biology and medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42230493},
issn = {1573-8221},
abstract = {The effect of recombinant streptococcal (Streptococcus pyogenes) exotoxin type A (rSpeA) on biofilm formation by S. pyogenes was studied using a laboratory strain of serotype M30 and five non-typeable clinical strains of S. pyogenes. The inhibition of bacterial growth was observed during both the initial formation stage and within established biofilms. It was shown that under the action of rSpeA on biofilm formation, the growth of strain M30 was inhibited by 1.6 times and the growth of strains 1, 2, and 3 was inhibited by 2.3, 1.3, and 1.4 times, respectively. For strains 4 and 5, the inhibition was practically absent. Application of SpeA to the formed biofilm of streptococcal strains produced a more pronounced inhibitory effect: 2.5-fold for strain M30, and 5.5-, 3.4-, and 4.2-fold for strains No. 2, 3, and 5, respectively. These findings suggest that SpeA being a superantigen can also destroy streptococcal biofilms promoting the spread of bacteria in the body and leading to generalization of the infectious process.},
}

@article {pmid42231706,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, S and Rong, L and Chen, Y and He, W and Wen, X and Deng, Y and Lai, S},
title = {Deciphering Augmented Dual-ROS-Driven Biofilm Eradication by Facilitating Long-Range Spatial Charge Decoupling in Polymer Carbon Dots.},
journal = {Angewandte Chemie (International ed. in English)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e2382848},
doi = {10.1002/anie.2382848},
pmid = {42231706},
issn = {1521-3773},
support = {22305098//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32571536//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32271392//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2026NSFSC0995//Natural Science Foundation of Sichuan/ ; 2026YFHZ0080//Natural Science Foundation of Sichuan/ ; },
abstract = {Developing carbon dots (CDs) with reactive oxygen species (ROS) production capability provides an attractive approach to address the dilemma of biofilm eradication caused by the robust extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) matrix. The challenge for the exploration of highly potent CDs is to circumvent the severe thermodynamic and kinetic paradox to transform surrounding substrates into ultra-reactive ROS. To address this conundrum, we propose a long-pathway electron-accepting strategy promoting the absolute spatial charge decoupling by the elaborate marriage of carbonized core and polynaphthalenediimide (PNDI) network, which significantly boosts the superoxide anion (·O2 [-]) and hydroxyl radical (·OH) dual-ROS generation of the constructed polymer CDs. Systematic mechanism exploration reveals that ultrafast intramolecular charge transfer after photoirradiation enables energetic long-life electrons to migrate along the PNDI highway for abundant ·O2 [-] production. Intriguingly, this profound separation firmly anchors uncompensated highly oxidative holes at the extraordinarily deep highest occupied molecular orbital level of the carbon core, successfully unlocking the thermodynamic threshold for direct ·OH generation. This tailored dual-ROS storm induces catastrophic EPS matrix degradation and massacres the embedded pathogens, achieving near-complete (∼99.9%) eradication of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus biofilms. This work establishes a potent nanoplatform and provides profound mechanistic insights for tackling global biofilm-associated threats.},
}

@article {pmid42232210,
year = {2026},
author = {Udawatte, NS and Liu, C and Staples, R and Han, P and Kumar, PS and Arumugam, TV and Ivanovski, S and Seneviratne, CJ},
title = {Transient restructuring of the active oral resistome during probiotic Streptococcus salivarius K12 colonization in a 3D polymicrobial biofilm model.},
journal = {Journal of oral microbiology},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {2680793},
pmid = {42232210},
issn = {2000-2297},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The oral cavity harbours a complex and transcriptionally active antibiotic resistance gene (ARG) reservoir shaped by polymicrobial biofilm ecology. Whether probiotic-mediated ecological modulation can remodel the active resistome without promoting horizontal gene transfer remains poorly understood.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the impact of Streptococcus salivarius K12 (Ssk12) colonisation on active resistome dynamics within saliva derived polymicrobial biofilms and determine whether probiotic driven ecological restructuring transiently alters resistance-associated transcriptional signatures.

DESIGN: Saliva-derived polymicrobial biofilms were established on three-dimensional melt electrowritten poly(ε-caprolactone) (MEW-mPCL) scaffolds and exposed to Ssk12. Metatranscriptomic profiling was performed across four time points (Baseline, Day 4, Day 7, and Day 10), complemented by quantitative PCR validation and ARG-mobile genetic element (MGE) co-localisation analysis to characterise resistome restructuring during probiotic colonisation and decolonisation.

RESULTS: Baseline biofilms contained 27 ARGs spanning 16 antibiotic classes, predominantly ermB, tet(M), and tet(W). During peak Ssk12 colonisation (Days 4-7), total ARG abundance declined to approximately 17% of baseline levels, with marked reductions in efflux-associated and β-lactam/fluoroquinolone resistance-associated transcripts. Partial resistome recovery occurred by Day 10 (~32% of baseline), indicating reversible ecological modulation rather than permanent dysbiotic restructuring. ARG dynamics were primarily reshaped by ARG-bearing taxa rather than enrichment of high-confidence putatively mobile resistance determinants.

CONCLUSIONS: S. salivarius K12 transiently remodelled the transcriptionally active oral resistome within structured polymicrobial biofilms without evidence of enhanced putative horizontal resistance gene mobilisation. These findings support a proof-of-concept model in which probiotic driven ecological restructuring may create a transient resistome state potentially associated with altered responsiveness to selected antibiotic classes.},
}

@article {pmid42233349,
year = {2026},
author = {Yu, Y and Bauer, RM and Mahdi, R and Piepenbrink, KH},
title = {Insight into the relationship between type IV pilus function and biofilm formation.},
journal = {Biochemical Society transactions},
volume = {54},
number = {6},
pages = {633-650},
doi = {10.1042/BST20250151},
pmid = {42233349},
issn = {1470-8752},
support = {P20-GM113126//HHS | NIH | National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS)/ ; MCB-2310647//National Science Foundation (NSF)/ ; },
abstract = {Type IV pili (T4P) are protein nanofibers that can be extended and retracted from the surfaces of many bacterial taxa. They are involved in many aspects of bacterial physiology that differ between bacterial species, including surface motility, DNA uptake, and host-cell adherence, but genetically and structurally distinct type IV pilus systems from distantly related bacterial species have also been found to promote the formation of bacterial biofilms. The molecular mechanisms underpinning the promotion of biofilm remain an area of active investigation and may be both manifold and variable between type IV pilus systems. Two areas of recent interest are interactions between T4P and extracellular DNA and the relationship between surface-adhered biofilms and suspended aggregates. In the present review, we critically discuss the current state of knowledge of type IV pilus function and how these structures may interact with other biomolecules to influence the formation of multicellular bacterial communities. We examine the evidence for how alterations in DNA-binding, pilus retraction, and pilus composition have downstream effects on the formation of bacterial biofilms.},
}

@article {pmid42233673,
year = {2026},
author = {Fulman-Levy, H and Sinberger, LA and Geva, P and Lellouche, J and Navon-Venezia, S},
title = {Klebsiella pneumoniae biofilm formation predicts its survival in human serum.},
journal = {mBio},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0075226},
doi = {10.1128/mbio.00752-26},
pmid = {42233673},
issn = {2150-7511},
abstract = {Klebsiella pneumoniae is a prominent pathogen causing life-threatening bloodstream infections. Although biofilm formation and resistance to human serum are well-recognized virulence traits, their interrelatedness during K. pneumoniae bloodstream infections remains unclear. Here, we hypothesize that biofilm production is related to K. pneumoniae's ability to thrive in human serum and, therefore, may predict the strains' ability for serum survival. We analyzed 57 clinical, genetically diverse classical K. pneumoniae strains and characterized their survival and biofilm-producing ability in human serum. Serum survival patterns revealed three serum resistance categories-Low, Mid, and High. In addition, the biofilm biomass produced by the strains correlated with their serum resistance level (P < 0.001), and 3D biofilm visualization using confocal microscopy further confirmed that biofilm extracellular polysaccharide substances and biomass patterns were consistent with the serum resistance categories. Moreover, we revealed a direct correlation between the level of biofilm formation and the strain's serum survival level (R[2] = 0.696), a prerequisite for systemic K. pneumoniae dissemination. As biofilm formation in serum reflects both survival and biofilm-forming ability, we assessed biofilm formation in defined modified basal medium (BM2), to rule out serum-mediated killing, and discovered a strong and significant association between the serum resistance category and BM2 biofilm biomass (P < 0.0001). By applying regression models, we discovered that biofilm formation serves as a significant predictor for bacterial survival in serum. Overall, our findings establish biofilm production in K. pneumoniae as a biomarker of serum survival and may open a new avenue for predicting bloodstream infection risk in clinical settings.IMPORTANCEBloodstream infections caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae are devastating life-threatening infections worldwide. Understanding the survival strategies of K. pneumoniae in the bloodstream is critical for elucidating key aspects of bacterial pathogenicity and developing new diagnostic and therapeutic modalities. Although serum survival is a recognized virulence trait necessary to thrive in the bloodstream, the relationship between serum resistance and biofilm formation, a multicellular organization that may protect bacteria from bloodstream stressors, remains poorly understood. In this article, we demonstrate biofilm production in human serum by clinical classical K. pneumoniae strains for the first time and discovered a direct correlation between the level of biofilm biomass formation and the degree of serum survival in human serum and in defined modified basal medium. These findings offer insights into the importance of biofilm production in K. pneumoniae serum resistance and may be used to develop future therapeutic strategies targeting bloodstream infections.},
}

@article {pmid42234182,
year = {2026},
author = {Pabousi Sadatmahale, A and Nouhi Kararoudi, A and Zahmatkesh, H and Haghdoust Kooyshahi, H and Nezamivand Chegini, S and Garakoui, SR and Shahriarinour, M and Nikpassand, M and Ranji, N},
title = {Anti-biofilm and Efflux Pump Inhibitory Function of Fe3O4@SBA-3@Curcumin Nanoparticles on drug resistant isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Molecular Docking Analysis.},
journal = {Current microbiology},
volume = {83},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {42234182},
issn = {1432-0991},
abstract = {Increased biofilm formation and efflux pumps activity are two major contributors to the antimicrobial resistance in clinical isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa). In the present study, curcumin-functionalized Fe3O4 nanoparticles were synthesized and evaluated for their anti-biofilm and efflux pump inhibitory effects against P. aeruginosa. The nanoparticles, designated Fe3O4@SBA-3@Curcumin, were prepared via co-precipitation method followed by surface functionalization. Comprehensive physicochemical characterization was performed using thermal analysis and multiple spectroscopic techniques. The antimicrobial efficacy of Fe3O4@SBA-3@Curcumin alone and in combination with ciprofloxacin was assessed using fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC) analysis, biofilm formation assays, and pyocyanin production measurements. FT-IR spectroscopy confirmed successful curcumin functionalization without structural degradation. FE-SEM and TEM images demonstrated nanoparticle size of 52.12 nm and 32.20 nm, respectively. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) analysis revealed a mean particle diameter of 101.8 nm and excellent colloidal stability, as indicated by a zeta potential of -86.8 mV. Combination therapy exhibited a synergistic effect and significantly reduced biofilm formation and pyocyanin production. Furthermore, combined treatment with Fe3O4@SBA-3@Curcumin and ciprofloxacin resulted in downregulation of efflux pump genes (mexA, mexB, and oprM) and biofilm-associated genes (algD and pelA). Molecular docking analyses predicted favorable binding interactions between curcumin and key biofilm-related proteins involved in exopolysaccharide synthesis (algD and pelD), as well as efflux pump components associated with antibiotic resistance (mexB, mexA, and oprM) in P. aeruginosa. Collectively, these findings support the potential role of curcumin functionalization in attenuating biofilm formation and efflux pump activity. Overall, Fe3O4@SBA-3 nanoparticle may serve as an effective nanocarrier for targeted drug delivery into bacterial cells.},
}

@article {pmid42234242,
year = {2026},
author = {Temel, A and Ateş, A and Aksoyalp, ZŞ},
title = {Effects of empagliflozin and metformin on biofilm formation and pathogenicity factors of urinary Escherichia coli isolates.},
journal = {Folia microbiologica},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42234242},
issn = {1874-9356},
abstract = {Escherichia coli, a major cause of urinary tract infections (UTIs), forms biofilms that contribute to antimicrobial resistance. Antidiabetic medications have gained attention for their potential antimicrobial effects, though data remain limited. This study investigated the inhibitory effects of empagliflozin and metformin against urinary E. coli isolates. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) were determined via broth microdilution, and synergistic interactions were assessed using the checkerboard method. Biofilm inhibition at sub-inhibitory drug concentrations was evaluated spectrophotometrically, and gene expression of fimH and luxS, were analyzed using RT-qPCR. Empagliflozin and metformin inhibited bacterial growth, with MICs ranging from 3.12-6.25 mg/mL and 25-50 mg/mL, respectively. A synergistic effect was observed in two isolates. Both drugs significantly reduced biofilm formation (51.8-72.9%) and downregulated fimH and luxS gene expression (p < 0.01). This study showed that empagliflozin and metformin could have inhibitory effects against urinary E. coli isolates, supporting their potential in drug repurposing strategies. Empagliflozin and metformin demonstrated significant dose-dependent in vitro antivirulence and antibiofilm activities, further supported by the downregulation of key virulence-associated genes (fimH and luxS). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report investigating the in vitro effects of empagliflozin against urinary E. coli isolates, and further investigation is required to determine the impact of antidiabetic medications on E. coli.},
}

@article {pmid42224208,
year = {2026},
author = {Corkery-Hayward, N and Karunakaran, E and Gul, M},
title = {Real-Time Visualization of Nutrient Media Impact on Pseudomonas aeruginosa Biofilm Development Using a Microfluidic System.},
journal = {Journal of visualized experiments : JoVE},
volume = {},
number = {231},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3791/69997},
pmid = {42224208},
issn = {1940-087X},
mesh = {*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/physiology/growth & development ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; *Microfluidic Analytical Techniques/methods/instrumentation ; *Culture Media/chemistry ; Bacteriological Techniques/methods/instrumentation ; },
abstract = {The pathogenic bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a major cause of numerous nosocomial infections, and its growing antimicrobial resistance has led to it posing a significant public health threat. This article presents a comprehensive protocol detailing the use of a microfluidic system for the real-time visualization and quantification of biofilm development in two key P. aeruginosa strains, PAO1 and PA14. The method employs optically transparent, multichannel microchannel plates to subject bacterial cultures to a continuous, steady flow of media, including tryptic soy broth (TSB) or modified minimal fastidious anaerobic broth (FAB) with varying carbon source concentrations, thereby mimicking conditions found in the clinical environments. Over a 24-h period, automated real-time imaging captures the growth and maturation of biofilms in the form of biofilm surface area coverage, thickness, and surface roughness in a highly reproducible manner. The experimental objective is to use the results to demonstrate that biofilm formation for both strains is significantly impacted by changes in nutrient media composition. The goal of this visualized protocol is to provide a method for researchers to study biofilm dynamics under steady laminar flow conditions, and the insights gained could be leveraged to develop alternative, non-antimicrobial strategies for eradicating early-stage P. aeruginosa biofilms in nosocomial settings.},
}

*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/physiology/growth & development
*Biofilms/growth & development
*Microfluidic Analytical Techniques/methods/instrumentation
*Culture Media/chemistry
Bacteriological Techniques/methods/instrumentation

@article {pmid42225152,
year = {2026},
author = {Fang, Y and Wu, X and Lin, C and Yang, G and Jiang, Y and Zhuang, Z and Zhuang, L},
title = {Prophage-dependent membrane vesicles in Geobacter soli: Implications for biofilm formation and extracellular electron transfer.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {135053},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.135053},
pmid = {42225152},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Geobacter species are among the most efficient biocatalysts in bioelectrochemical systems (BES), with their performance dependent on effective extracellular electron transfer (EET) between electroactive bacteria and electrodes. Although membrane vesicles (MVs) are known to participate in EET, the formation of prophage-dependent MVs (PMVs) in Geobacter species and their specific contribution to EET have remained unclear. This study demonstrated that Geobacter soli produced PMVs via prophage-mediated explosive cell lysis, as evidenced by their characteristic morphological and compositional features. Compared with MVs from prophage-deficient Δpro2 mutant, wild-type MVs (WT-MVs) exhibited a higher proportion of bilayer-membrane vesicles (10.1% vs. 4.2%), 2.6-fold increase in DNA content, and significant enrichment in cytoplasmic and inner membrane proteins. Compared with the wild-type-inoculated BES, the Δpro2-inoculated BES showed a 24.4%-29.5% reduction in current generation over three operational cycles, and a decrease in biofilm thickness from 40 μm to 35 μm. Notably, supplementation with WT-MVs restored the electrochemical performance of Δpro2-biofilm, increasing current output by 50.9-86.3%. Comparative proteomic and biochemical analyses revealed that WT-MVs were enriched in c-type cytochromes as well as biofilm-promoting proteins, including adhesins, polysaccharide-associated proteins and stress response factors, relative to Δpro2-MVs, indicating that PMVs actively facilitated both biofilm formation and EET. This work provided the first direct evidence of PMV production in Geobacter and established their association with enhanced EET and biofilm formation. These findings advance our understanding of vesicle-mediated electron transfer mechanism in electroactive bacteria and highlight prophage elements as promising targets for engineering high-performance BES for energy recovery and environmental applications.},
}

@article {pmid42225156,
year = {2026},
author = {Feng, S and Bao, Y and Zhu, X and Wu, J and Chen, W and Huang, D and Zhou, T and Meng, L and Lee, CH and Li, D and Huang, M},
title = {Biodegradable versus persistent nanoplastics reshape nitrogen metabolism and biofilm architecture in denitrifying biofilters.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {135048},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.135048},
pmid = {42225156},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {The presence of nanoplastics (NPs) in biological wastewater treatment systems is an emerging concern. Nevertheless, their differential influence on critical biofilm-mediated processes has yet to be fully elucidated. In this study, denitrifying biofilters were exposed to biodegradable polylactic acid nanoplastics (PLA-NPs) and non-biodegradable polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) to simulate both typical and cumulative high-exposure scenarios. Results showed that long-term NP stress significantly reduced the denitrification performance, with a maximum inhibition of 35% in total nitrogen (TN) removal. Mechanistically, PLA and PS induced distinct biofilm remodeling strategies. PLA exposure enhanced nitrate assimilation pathways, promoting nitrogen sequestration into microbial biomass. In contrast, PS-NPs elicited concentration-dependent stress responses. Low PS exposure was associated with reduced extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) and enhanced carbohydrate degradation potential, whereas high PS concentrations were linked to altered EPS composition, decreased microbial diversity, and directional succession toward stress-tolerant genera. Metagenomic analysis revealed shifts in central carbon metabolic strategies, including enhanced gluconeogenesis and EPS precursor synthesis under NP exposure. Differences in substrate bioavailability between PLA and PS treatments further contributed to distinct carbon utilization patterns within the biofilms. Overall, this study demonstrates that NP biodegradability governs biofilm functional stability, nitrogen transformation, and denitrification performance, providing mechanistic insight into NP-biofilm interactions in engineered systems.},
}

@article {pmid42225211,
year = {2026},
author = {Rath, S and Fatma, S and Nayak, AK and Das, S},
title = {Involvement of extracellular DNA (eDNA) in biofilm architecture and extracellular polymeric matrix stabilization in Pseudomonas putida KT2440.},
journal = {Biochimie},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.biochi.2026.05.012},
pmid = {42225211},
issn = {1638-6183},
abstract = {Bacterial biofilms are structured communities encased in extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), with extracellular DNA (eDNA) as a key structural and regulatory component. This study investigates the role of eDNA in biofilm architecture and EPS stabilization in Pseudomonas putida KT2440. Spectrophotometric and gel-based analyses confirmed eDNA release through controlled cell lysis, and supplementation with exogenous eDNA (1 μg/ml) accelerated biofilm maturation. Biofilm biomass increased from 8.89 ± 1.26 μm[3]/μm[2] at 36 h in the control to 12.89 ± 9.42 μm[3]/μm[2] at 24 h under eDNA supplementation. Cell size analysis confirmed eDNA supplementation produced dense biofilms with smaller cells (0.98-1.95 μm), whereas DNase treatment resulted in elongated (1.49-2.43 μm) chain-like cells. Gene expression revealed downregulation of ftsZ (∼0.15 fold at 24 h; ∼0.31 fold at 36 h) and mreB (∼0.22 fold at 24 h; ∼0.39 fold at 36 h), indicating reduced cell division and elongation. Increased cellular density led to highest EPS yield (505.3 ± 12.9 mg/l) under eDNA supplementation. Protein levels (146.2 ± 8.7 mg/g) were highest under DNase treatment, suggesting compensatory matrix remodeling. Amide I analysis revealed decreased β-sheet (52.8% to 38.4%) and increased β-turn (18.1% to 22.6%) upon eDNA supplementation, partially corroborated with CD spectroscopy. [1]H NMR analysis indicated interactions of eDNA with polysaccharides, with weaker association with lipids. These findings demonstrated crucial involvement of eDNA in regulating biofilm formation, matrix composition, cell size, and cytoskeletal gene expression in P. putida KT2440, providing insight into eDNA-mediated biofilm regulation with implications for targeted modulation of biofilms in medical and biotechnological applications.},
}

@article {pmid42229662,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, Q and Zhang, J and Fang, Z and Hajizadeh, S and Zhang, J and Yang, Q and Ye, L and Zhang, M},
title = {Multifunctional chitosan cryogel bandages via column-flow synthesis for simultaneous hemostasis and anti-biofilm therapy.},
journal = {International journal of biological macromolecules},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {152852},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2026.152852},
pmid = {42229662},
issn = {1879-0003},
abstract = {Bacterial infection and hemorrhage remain significant clinical challenges for chronic wounds, despite advancements in antimicrobial strategies and materials. Herein, 980 nm-laser-responsive photothermal conjugated polymers (CPs) are combined with chitosan-based cryogels (CP@Gel) to achieve rapid hemostasis and efficient anti-infectious performance. CP nanoparticles (CP NPs) were prepared by nanoprecipitation and immobilized into cryogels via a novel column-flow-through method, resulting in high nanoparticle loading capacity and enhanced photothermal effects. The chitosan-based cryogels demonstrated quick blood absorption and rapid hemostatic abilities. Under near-infrared (NIR) exposure, the photothermal effect of CP@Gel induced bacterial membrane disruption and cytoplasmic leakage, nearly eliminating Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) within 5 min. Moreover, CP@Gel under NIR laser irradiation effectively destroyed mature MRSA biofilms and affected related biofilm-formation genes. Meanwhile, CP@Gel/NIR promoted MRSA-induced wound healing by controlling inflammatory responses, angiogenesis, collagen deposition, and affecting the expression of genes associated with inflammation and immune response. This work provides a promising approach for chronic wound healing by addressing both hemorrhage and MRSA contamination.},
}

@article {pmid42215881,
year = {2026},
author = {Yao, L and Liu, R and Hu, Q and Li, Y and Xu, B and Zhang, X and Cao, L and Mu, W},
title = {Effect of tranexamic acid on planktonic and biofilm susceptibility of Candida albicans.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12866-026-05235-w},
pmid = {42215881},
issn = {1471-2180},
support = {2023TSYCQNTJ0003//the Second Batch of the Tianshan Talent Cultivation Program for Young Promising Talents/ ; 82260435//the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2022A03011//Major Special Projects of the Science and Technology Plan of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region/ ; 2023TSYCTD0014//the Science and Technology Innovation Team Project of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Science and Technology Department/ ; NUS2026013//Shanghai Key Laboratory of Neuro-Ultrasound for Diagnosis and Treatment and Shanghai Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine./ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Fungal periprosthetic joint infection remains a challenging complication in revision arthroplasty. Candida albicans (C. albicans) is among the most frequently reported fungal pathogens, and biofilm formation further limits antifungal efficacy. Tranexamic acid (TXA) is routinely used to reduce perioperative blood loss in arthroplasty and may come into direct contact with antifungal agents within the joint environment. However, whether TXA modifies antifungal activity against C. albicans remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of TXA on the in vitro activity of representative antifungal agents against C. albicans under planktonic and established biofilm conditions.

RESULTS: Baseline planktonic MICs for FLC, VRC, CAS, and AMB were 0.75, 0.5, 1, and 0.75 µg/mL, respectively. In the presence of TXA, susceptibility shifts were class-dependent: MICs for VRC and CAS decreased four-fold and two-fold, respectively, while AMB exhibited a two-fold increase and FLC remained unchanged. Established biofilms showed markedly reduced antifungal susceptibility, and TXA further altered the XTT-derived biofilm metabolic inhibition profiles. For FLC, TXA increased peak metabolic inhibition from approximately 50-55% in saline to 85-90%, with an XTT-derived MBEC₉₀ of 192 µg/mL. In contrast, TXA attenuated VRC-mediated biofilm metabolic inhibition, producing a right-shifted dose-response profile relative to saline conditions. For CAS, TXA lowered the XTT-derived activity threshold from 256 to 128 µg/mL, although the response curves converged at higher concentrations. For AMB, TXA reduced apparent biofilm activity, increasing the XTT-derived minimum biofilm eradication concentrations (MBECs) threshold from 1.5 to 12 µg/mL.

CONCLUSIONS: TXA differentially modulated the apparent in vitro activity of representative antifungal agents against C. albicans in an antifungal class- and growth-state-dependent manner. The discordance between planktonic and antibiofilm responses under TXA co-exposure supports further mechanistic and translational validation in clinically relevant Candida biofilm models.},
}

@article {pmid42217811,
year = {2026},
author = {Hou, J and Huang, Z and Jia, X and Wang, J and Xu, K and Fang, X and Zheng, Y and Qiao, M and Yuan, H and Meng, T},
title = {Enzyme-powered PLGA micromotors for biofilm eradication and long-term regrowth inhibition.},
journal = {International journal of pharmaceutics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {127034},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijpharm.2026.127034},
pmid = {42217811},
issn = {1873-3476},
abstract = {Bacterial biofilms are dense structures composed of microbial communities and their extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), posing severe challenges in the field of biomedical engineering. These EPS matrices form a "mucus protective barrier", endowing biofilms with robust resistance to antibiotics, biocides and immune responses. Conventional eradication strategies such as disinfectants and enzymatic cleaners have inherent limitations including easy induction of microbial drug resistance, failure to penetrate the EPS barrier, and inability to prevent the rapid regeneration of biofilms. In this study, a fully biodegradable enzyme-driven PLGA micromotors (PLGA MMs) system was developed via a hydroxyapatite (HAP)-stabilized oil-in-water Pickering emulsion templating method, with azithromycin (AZM) and catalase (CAT) encapsulated within the PLGA matrix. The micromotors achieve deep biofilm penetration by virtue of catalase-driven propulsive force, while the biodegradable PLGA matrix enables the sustained release of AZM for several weeks, effectively eliminating residual bacteria and inhibiting biofilm regeneration. Experimental results demonstrated that the PLGA MMs could efficiently eradicate Staphylococcus aureus biofilms (with only 3.2% residual biofilm biomass remaining), kill residual bacteria within the biofilms (with a bacterial survival rate of merely 2.3%), and completely inhibit biofilm regrowth for up to 14 days. Furthermore, the PLGA MMs exhibited favorable biocompatibility (with a CAT activity retention rate of > 88.98% and a hemolysis rate of < 5%). This synergistic "disruption-sustained inhibition" strategy provides a novel and translationally promising platform for combating recalcitrant biofilm infections.},
}

@article {pmid42217958,
year = {2026},
author = {Salas, B and Díaz, M and Vera, M},
title = {Understanding biofilm formation in acidophilic bioleaching microorganisms: Advances and challenges.},
journal = {Advances in applied microbiology},
volume = {133},
number = {},
pages = {1-35},
doi = {10.1016/bs.aambs.2026.04.003},
pmid = {42217958},
issn = {0065-2164},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; Quorum Sensing ; *Bacteria/metabolism/growth & development ; *Sulfides/metabolism ; Extracellular Polymeric Substance Matrix/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Bioleaching of metal sulfides (MS) is driven by acidophilic chemolithotrophic microorganisms that oxidize ferrous ions and reduced inorganic sulfur compounds under extremely acidic conditions. These microorganisms form biofilms on mineral surfaces, influencing their metabolism and bioleaching activity. Studying biofilms in bioleaching acidophiles presents unique challenges, such as the dual role of MS surfaces as electron donors that generate reactive oxygen species, provide selective colonization sites, biofilm mineralization, and limited knowledge of inter- and intra-species interactions. This chapter reviews recent advances in bioleaching biofilm research, focusing on cell-to-cell communication through Quorum Sensing (QS), extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) studies using non-invasive cell labeling, as well as high-throughput image analysis for biofilm quantification. We discuss the effects of acyl homoserine lactone (AHLs)-based and diffusible signal factor (DSF)-based QS systems on the metabolic activity and biofilm formation of bioleaching bacteria. Additionally, we examine evidence suggesting that QS influences biofilm formation and MS bioleaching in mixed acidophilic cultures. We also review recent progress in visualizing acidophilic leaching biofilms by fluorescence microscopy techniques (Epifluorescence and Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy) to study their establishment on mineral surfaces, EPS production, and interspecies interactions. Finally, we present an improved approach using Open-Source Software to overcome limitations in biofilm quantitative analysis, addressing biases caused by the low number of images frequently analyzed and the absence of robust statistical frameworks for cell and microcolony quantification.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
Quorum Sensing
*Bacteria/metabolism/growth & development
*Sulfides/metabolism
Extracellular Polymeric Substance Matrix/metabolism

@article {pmid42219444,
year = {2026},
author = {Alqahtani, LS},
title = {Dual-functional Green Tea Polyphenol loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles for Eradication of Uropathogenic Biofilm and Induction of Apoptotic Pathways in Prostate Cancer Cells.},
journal = {Applied biochemistry and biotechnology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42219444},
issn = {1559-0291},
abstract = {In this work, chitosan nanoparticles (CsNPs) loaded with crude green tea extract (CGTE) at three concentrations (1.5, 3, and 6%) are designed to eradicate harmful microbes and eliminate prostate cancer cells successfully. The extraction of bioactive compounds in CGTE was conducted. A phytochemical identification confirmed that CGTE was rich in polyphenols and flavonoids, predominantly quercetin derivatives. Furthermore, the characterization of the prepared materials indicated that CGTE was successfully loaded onto CsNPs. The TEM results showed that CsNPs and the loaded CsNPs with CGTE were spherical, with their size increasing from around 297 nm to 353 nm after loading the CGTE. Among the studied formulations, results indicated that 6CGTE loaded CsNPs showed the strongest antimicrobial, antibiofilm, and anticancer activities. Likewise, the formulation induced significant cytotoxicity and apoptosis in PC-3 prostate cancer cells, as evidenced by morphological shrinkage, Annexin V-positive populations, and cell-cycle arrest. The cancer therapy of PC-3 prostate increased Bax levels and decreased Bcl-2 levels. ELISA and qRT-PCR tests revealed the significant downregulation of inflammatory mediators (IL-6 and TNF-α). In addition, western blot analysis confirmed the highest p53 levels and activated cleaved caspase-3. Consequently, the the prepared CGTE loaded CsNPs is a promising and beneficial approach for treating prostate cancer and preventing the bioburden of uropathogenic microbes. The results concluded that the prepared nanoplatform has great potential for biomedical and pharmaceutical applications as a localized nano-delivery system for integrated antimicrobial and anticancer therapy.},
}

@article {pmid42219623,
year = {2026},
author = {S, S and R, S},
title = {AI-assisted predictive monitoring of process control parameters in a novel sequencing batch biofilm reactor for high-strength sewage treatment.},
journal = {Journal of environmental science and health. Part A, Toxic/hazardous substances & environmental engineering},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-10},
doi = {10.1080/10934529.2026.2682091},
pmid = {42219623},
issn = {1532-4117},
abstract = {This study presents a novel three-zone fibers-based sequencing batch biofilm reactor designed to achieve simultaneous nitrification, denitrification, and phosphorus removal for the treatment of high-strength sewage. Online process control sensors continuously monitored ORP, pH, and DO to provide real-time insight into biological phase transitions within the reactor. A sliding window-based linear regression model was developed and applied as an AI-assisted predictive monitoring framework, enabling accurate forecasting of process control parameters. The SBBR consistently achieved high removal efficiencies for organics and nutrients, producing effluent quality of BOD <3 mg/L, COD <35 mg/L, TN <5 mg/L, and TP ≈1 mg/L, meeting stringent regulatory standards. The AI predictive model demonstrated strong agreement with measured data for all three parameters (pH: R[2] = 0.982, RMSE = 0.042; ORP: R[2] = 0.996, RMSE = 7.951; DO: R[2] = 0.918, RMSE = 0.173), confirming its reliability as a process monitoring tool for identifying biological phase endpoints in real-time. These findings establish the integration of AI-based predictive monitoring with advanced biofilm reactor technology as a practically viable and scientifically sound for high-strength sewage treatment.},
}

@article {pmid42220873,
year = {2026},
author = {Vijaykumar, V and Mora, SRR and Kumari, S and Arumugam, T and DMello, K and N, MR},
title = {A Pilot Study on the Evaluation of Hetafu Mouthwash in Oral Biofilm of Orthodontic Patients: A Clinical Trial.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {18},
number = {4},
pages = {e107880},
pmid = {42220873},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Introduction Orthodontic patients are at a high risk of plaque buildup and alterations in oral microbiota due to appliance‑related retention sites. Antimicrobial mouth rinses containing bioactive components have been proposed as adjuncts to support oral microbial balance during treatment. This pilot study evaluated the effect of Hetafu mouthwash on selected beneficial and cariogenic bacteria in patients undergoing fixed orthodontic therapy. Methods A prospective clinical trial was conducted on patients undergoing orthodontic treatment at Adhiparasakthi Dental College and Hospital who met the inclusion criteria and provided informed consent. Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Ethical Committee of Adhiparasakthi Dental College and Hospital, Melmaruvathur (ethical approval number: ECR/1742/APDCH/ORTHO/FM 05/TN2025). The study included a total of 20 patients. The participants were instructed to use 10 mL of Hetafu mouthwash, rinsing for 30 seconds, two times daily for 240 days without altering their routine oral hygiene practices. Plaque samples were collected at the start of the study, at 60 days, and at 240 days. The samples were cultured on selective media to quantify four target organisms: Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus oralis (cariogenic bacteria), Lactobacillus sporogenes, and Streptococcus salivarius (beneficial commensals). Colony‑forming units were recorded at each time point, and the data were subjected to statistical analysis. Results Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS software version 26.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY), with changes in bacterial counts over time analyzed through the Friedman test, followed by post hoc pairwise comparisons performed using Dunn's test with Bonferroni modification, and significance set at p < 0.05. A significant and progressive reduction was observed in Streptococcus mutans counts across all three time points (p = 0.001), with each interval showing a statistically meaningful decline. Streptococcus oralis also demonstrated a marked decrease over time (p = 0.001), with significant differences between all follow‑ups. In contrast, Streptococcus salivarius exhibited a steady and significant increase, with the highest levels recorded at 240 days (p = 0.001). Lactobacillus sporogenes showed a modest rise, reaching statistical significance only between baseline and the final follow‑up (p = 0.001). Conclusion The use of Hetafu mouthwash for 240 days resulted in a significant reduction in Streptococcus mutans and a marked increase in Streptococcus salivarius, reflecting a shift toward a more favorable oral microbial profile in orthodontic patients. These preliminary findings indicate that the Hetafu mouthwash may serve as a simple adjunct to support oral hygiene during fixed appliance therapy. Future studies with larger sample sizes are necessary to confirm these findings.},
}

@article {pmid42221540,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, Y and Hu, L and Liu, B and Qu, Z},
title = {Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of derivatives from p-toluic hydrazide: lead compound C17 exhibits membrane-disrupting and anti-biofilm activities against Staphylococcus aureus and other gram-positive bacteria.},
journal = {Frontiers in chemistry},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1825790},
pmid = {42221540},
issn = {2296-2646},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Bacterial drug resistance and biofilm-associated infections pose major therapeutic challenges. Schiff base derivatives have attracted attention as potential antimicrobial agents. This study aimed to design and synthesize a series of Schiff base derivatives from p-toluic hydrazide and evaluate their antibacterial, anti-biofilm, and anti-inflammatory properties.

METHODS: Eighteen Schiff base derivatives were synthesized from p-toluic hydrazide. Antibacterial activity was screened against a panel of Gram-positive bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 29213, methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) ATCC 43300, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus cereus, Listeria monocytogenes, and Enterococcus faecalis, by determining minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs). The most active compound, C17, was further evaluated for hemolytic activity (against red blood cells), cytotoxicity (VERO cells), and mechanistic effects (membrane depolarization, membrane permeability, reactive oxygen species accumulation, protein leakage). Biofilm inhibition and eradication assays, anti-inflammatory activity (LPS-induced IL-6 and TNF-α production in RAW 264.7 macrophages), and pharmacokinetic properties (plasma protein binding, lipophilicity logD7.4, metabolic stability in liver microsomes) were also assessed.

RESULTS: Compound C17 exhibited potent activity against multiple Gram-positive bacteria with MIC values of 16-32 μg/mL. It showed no hemolysis up to 256 μg/mL and no significant cytotoxicity in VERO cells, indicating good biocompatibility. Mechanistically, C17 induced membrane depolarization, increased membrane permeability, promoted ROS accumulation, and caused protein leakage, confirming membrane disruption as its primary bactericidal action. C17 significantly inhibited S. aureus biofilm formation (92% inhibition at 8× MIC) and eradicated preformed biofilms (69% eradication at 8× MIC). Furthermore, C17 suppressed LPS-induced production of IL-6 and TNF-α in RAW 264.7 macrophages, demonstrating anti-inflammatory activity. Pharmacokinetic profiling revealed high plasma protein binding (89.3%), moderate lipophilicity (logD7.4 = 3.14), and acceptable metabolic stability (T1/2 = 52.98 min in liver microsomes).

DISCUSSION: Collectively, C17 is a promising lead candidate for treating biofilm-associated and drug-resistant Gram-positive bacterial infections. Its multi-faceted action-direct membrane disruption, biofilm inhibition/eradication, and anti-inflammatory effects-combined with favorable biocompatibility and acceptable pharmacokinetics, warrants further development and in-depth investigation.},
}

@article {pmid42223372,
year = {2026},
author = {Wu, W and Hou, S and Su, Y and Ma, X and Chen, T and Gao, C and Wu, A},
title = {Mechanochemical Nanozyme Microbots Overcome Biofilm Barriers for Antibiotic-Free Therapy of Chronic Infections.},
journal = {ACS nano},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acsnano.6c03749},
pmid = {42223372},
issn = {1936-086X},
abstract = {A major challenge in biofilm-associated infection therapy is overcoming biofilm barriers while eradicating embedded bacteria without inducing antibiotic resistance. Here, we report an antibiotic-free microbotic platform that synergistically integrates magnetomechanical biofilm disruption with localized nanozyme-mediated bactericidal activity, enabling efficient and biocompatible biofilm eradication in vivo. Under a rotating magnetic field, nanozyme microbots transition from individual spinning to reconfigurable vortex swarming, generating strong local fluid shear forces that mechanically disrupt the extracellular polymeric substance matrix and drive deep penetration into biofilms. Within the disrupted biofilm, the Fe3O4 nanozyme cores catalyze endogenous H2O2 to produce bactericidal hydroxyl radicals, resulting in effective elimination of both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. In murine biofilm infection models, the nanozyme microbots significantly reduce the bacterial burden, accelerate wound closure, suppress inflammation, and promote angiogenesis. This work establishes a mechanochemical microbotic strategy that combines programmable swarm dynamics with nanozyme catalysis, providing a promising antibiotic-independent approach to treating chronic biofilm-associated infections.},
}

@article {pmid42223902,
year = {2026},
author = {de Sá Barreto Maia Leite, DP and de Oliveira Alves Pinto, G and da Silva, MEUCM and da Silva, VV and Goncalves, LMT and de Albuquerque, MCF and Santos, RS and da Silva, LTR and Valenca, YM and Beraldo, KRF and Juliano, MA and de Oliveira, PRF and da Silva, JG and Mota, RA},
title = {Correction: Antimicrobial Resistance and Biofilm in Bacteria from Rehabilitated Sapajus libidinosus.},
journal = {EcoHealth},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1007/s10393-026-01809-2},
pmid = {42223902},
issn = {1612-9210},
}

@article {pmid42215206,
year = {2026},
author = {Gaillac, A and Misery, B and Rezé, S and Briandet, R and Prévost, H and Jaffrès, E},
title = {Insight into the transcriptome profile of mature biofilm produced by Brochothrix thermosphacta at 25 and 8 °C.},
journal = {Food microbiology},
volume = {139},
number = {},
pages = {105126},
doi = {10.1016/j.fm.2026.105126},
pmid = {42215206},
issn = {1095-9998},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Transcriptome ; Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial ; Gene Expression Profiling ; *Brochothrix/genetics/physiology/metabolism/growth & development ; *Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Cold Temperature ; Temperature ; Iron/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Brochothrix thermosphacta is a psychrotrophic Gram-positive bacterium frequently associated with food spoilage and commonly found in food-processing environments. Its ability to persist at low temperatures (e.g., 8 °C), notably through biofilm formation, raises important questions about its adaptive strategies under cold stress. In this study, we performed a transcriptomic analysis of B. thermosphacta strain CD337(2), comparing gene expression profiles between biofilm and planktonic cells at 25 °C and 8 °C. RNA-Seq analysis revealed 300 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) at 25 °C (236 upregulated and 64 downregulated) and 137 DEGs at 8 °C (27 upregulated and 110 downregulated). At 25 °C, genes involved in sugar metabolism, particularly the iol, lev, and bgl operons, were upregulated in biofilm, whereas these operons were downregulated at 8 °C. In addition, pathways related to iron uptake, amino acid metabolism, and stress responses were differentially expressed between the two conditions. These findings provide new insights into the temperature-dependent regulatory mechanisms underlying biofilm lifestyle of B. thermosphacta, highlighting its transcriptional plasticity and suggesting new perspectives for improving spoilage control strategies in chilled food products.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Transcriptome
Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial
Gene Expression Profiling
*Brochothrix/genetics/physiology/metabolism/growth & development
*Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Cold Temperature
Temperature
Iron/metabolism

@article {pmid42215219,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, Y and Lu, Y and Zhang, Z and Zhang, W and Wang, W and Xu, K and Zhang, X and Zhang, L and Qu, G and Li, J and Chen, Q and Chen, T and Wang, F and Yao, Z and Wang, Y and Shi, J and Kong, X and Ding, T and Deng, Y},
title = {Dehydroacetic acid disrupts cold adaptation and biofilm formation in Pseudomonas lundensis: A targeted strategy for enhancing microbiological safety of refrigerated poultry.},
journal = {Food microbiology},
volume = {139},
number = {},
pages = {105139},
doi = {10.1016/j.fm.2026.105139},
pmid = {42215219},
issn = {1095-9998},
mesh = {Animals ; *Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; Cold Temperature ; *Pseudomonas/drug effects/physiology/genetics/growth & development ; Chickens/microbiology ; Refrigeration ; Adaptation, Physiological/drug effects ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Food Preservation/methods ; *Meat/microbiology ; Food Microbiology ; },
abstract = {Refrigerated roast chicken exhibits limited shelf stability (5-7 d) despite modified atmosphere or vacuum packaging, primarily due to Pseudomonas lundensis, a psychrotrophic specific spoilage organism. This pathogen's persistence depends on cold-shock protein A (CspA)-mediated cryoprotection and AlgK/RpoS-dependent biofilm formation, enabling proteolytic and lipolytic activities even under hurdle technologies. Herein, we report dehydroacetic acid (DHA) as a targeted low-temperature adaptation inhibitor (LATI) against this spoilage mechanism. Virtual screening of traditional Chinese medicine and food-grade compound libraries identified DHA, which at sub-inhibitory concentrations selectively attenuated P. lundensis growth at 4 °C versus 28 °C. Scanning electron microscopy showed that after adding DHA, the extracellular polymers of P. luendsis significantly decreased, and the content of alginate decreased by 23.1% and impaired biofilm architecture with compromised membrane integrity. In refrigerated chicken, DHA retarded pH elevation, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and total volatile basic nitrogen accumulation, while suppressing total viable counts and off-odor development. Multi-omics analyses demonstrated DHA-mediated downregulation of CspA, disruption of ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters, and perturbation of 2-oxocarboxylic acid metabolism-collectively arresting bacterial proliferation under cold stress. RT-qPCR confirmed 9.77-fold transcriptional suppression of cspA. This study establishes DHA as a novel LATI agent that selectively targets psychrotrophic machinery, offering a mechanistically grounded strategy for precision preservation of refrigerated poultry.},
}

Animals
*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
Cold Temperature
*Pseudomonas/drug effects/physiology/genetics/growth & development
Chickens/microbiology
Refrigeration
Adaptation, Physiological/drug effects
Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Food Preservation/methods
*Meat/microbiology
Food Microbiology

@article {pmid42215228,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, Z and Gao, X and Wang, Y and Fan, X and Li, W and Ning, P and Li, X},
title = {Genomic and transcriptomic analysis of biofilm formation in foodborne Listeria monocytogenes isolates under combined environmental stress.},
journal = {Food microbiology},
volume = {139},
number = {},
pages = {105148},
doi = {10.1016/j.fm.2026.105148},
pmid = {42215228},
issn = {1095-9998},
mesh = {*Listeria monocytogenes/genetics/physiology/isolation & purification/classification ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; *Stress, Physiological ; Gene Expression Profiling ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration ; Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial ; Sodium Chloride ; Food Microbiology ; Multilocus Sequence Typing ; China ; Transcriptome ; Genome, Bacterial ; Genomics ; Temperature ; },
abstract = {Listeria monocytogenes is a foodborne pathogen capable of forming biofilms that contribute to persistent contamination. Here, 70 foodborne isolates from China were characterized by whole-genome sequencing and biofilm formation assays under combined environmental stresses including temperature, pH, and NaCl. Multilocus sequence typing (MLST) revealed 85.7% belonged to lineage II predominantly CC8, and 14.3% to lineage I predominantly CC87. Stress adaptation genes including Stress Survival Islet 1, Stress Survival Islet 2, bapL, and inlL showed differential distribution among clone complexes. Biofilm formation was generally enhanced at pH 6 but reduced at pH 5 or under 5% NaCl. Notably, CC8 and CC87 exhibited significant differences in biofilm formation under combined low temperature at 4 °C and low pH at 6 conditions. Two representative strains from CC8 and CC87 respectively were selected for transcriptomic sequencing to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying the differences in biofilm formation. Under combined stress, CC8 and CC87 displayed distinct transcriptional profiles. Upregulated genes in CC8 were significantly enriched in glycolysis/gluconeogenesis and pyrimidine metabolism pathways, while CC87 showed downregulation of two-component system pathways. Collectively, these findings reveal clone complex-dependent variations in biofilm formation, differential distribution of stress adaptation genes, and specific metabolic patterns in L. monocytogenes. These differences provide new insights into the adaptive strategies of L. monocytogenes under environmental stress and highlight the importance of considering clone diversity in food safety risk assessment.},
}

*Listeria monocytogenes/genetics/physiology/isolation & purification/classification
*Biofilms/growth & development
*Stress, Physiological
Gene Expression Profiling
Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial
Sodium Chloride
Food Microbiology
Multilocus Sequence Typing
China
Transcriptome
Genome, Bacterial
Genomics
Temperature

@article {pmid42205156,
year = {2026},
author = {Han, Y and Yang, Y},
title = {Biofilm-Host Immune Crosstalk at the Diabetic Foot Ulcer Interface: Molecular Mechanisms, Immune Evasion, and Next-Generation Anti-Biofilm Strategies.},
journal = {Diabetes, metabolic syndrome and obesity : targets and therapy},
volume = {19},
number = {},
pages = {608789},
pmid = {42205156},
issn = {1178-7007},
abstract = {Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are chronic wounds in which microbial persistence and defective host defense interact to impair healing. This review examines DFU through the biofilm-host immune interface rather than viewing biofilm as a purely microbiological problem. We summarize how the diabetic wound milieu, including hyperglycemia, impaired perfusion, neuropathy, and polymicrobial community structure, favors persistent biofilm infection, and how DFU-relevant biofilms evade clearance through matrix shielding, altered innate recognition, virulence-associated host modulation, and intracellular Staphylococcus aureus persistence. We further highlight two major immune-dysregulation axes: excessive neutrophil extracellular trap formation with NLRP3-centered inflammatory amplification, and perforin-2 suppression linked to AIM2-mediated pyroptotic injury. We also appraise emerging immune-aware antibiofilm strategies, particularly quorum-sensing interference, enzymatic matrix disruption, phage therapy, and selected immune-directed interventions. Overall, current evidence supports a model in which non-healing DFU reflects failed host-pathogen resolution at the biofilm-immune interface, with important implications for mechanism-guided therapeutic development.},
}

@article {pmid42205292,
year = {2026},
author = {Chaitanya, KS and Yu, TT and Chaudhari, H and Orenkonday, N and Kuthe, PV and Kumar, N and Dey, RJ and Murugesan, S and Gowri Chandra Sekhar, KV},
title = {Discovery of triazole-tethered glycinate and propanoate derivatives bearing a thiolactone moiety as quorum sensing inhibitors of Pseudomonas aeruginosa: design, synthesis, biological evaluation, and biofilm inhibition.},
journal = {RSC advances},
volume = {16},
number = {30},
pages = {27977-27993},
pmid = {42205292},
issn = {2046-2069},
abstract = {Quorum sensing is the bacterial communication that regulates biofilm formation, virulence, and drug resistance development. The misuse of antibiotics accelerates the emergence of resistant pathogens, highlighting the urgent need for alternative anti-virulence strategies. In this context, LasR, a key transcriptional regulator in the QS network of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, was targeted to disrupt bacterial communication and biofilm development. In the present study, we designed a library of glycinate and propanoate derivatives (n = 30), and carried out molecular docking, MM-GBSA studies, synthesized and characterized. Their QS inhibitory activity was evaluated against the P. aeruginosa MH602 reporter strain at concentrations ranging from 250 to 8 µM. The compounds exhibited 79-35% inhibition at 250 µM, retaining moderate to low activity (28-7%) at 8 µM. SAR studies indicated that the electron-withdrawing phenyl substituents on the triazole ring enhanced activity, with 11b and 10o (3-nitrophenyl) showing the highest inhibition. In silico ADME, molecular dynamics studies supported favorable LasR binding. The most active compounds were evaluated for cytotoxicity, biofilm inhibition, and suppression of pyocyanin and protease production. 10o emerged as the most promising, demonstrating strong anti-biofilm activity and significant reduction of pyocyanin, suggesting thiolactone-based triazoles as potential QS inhibitors to combat bacterial resistance.},
}

@article {pmid42205946,
year = {2026},
author = {Luan, F and Sun, C and Ning, Y and Hu, B and Chen, Y and Zhang, H},
title = {Fe[3+] promotes biofilm formation and biocontrol efficacy of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens GZY63 via transcriptomic and metabolic reprogramming.},
journal = {Biofilm},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {100367},
pmid = {42205946},
issn = {2590-2075},
abstract = {Camellia oleifera, an important woody oil crop, is highly susceptible to anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum spp. Bacillus amyloliquefaciens GZY63, an endophytic bacterium from fruits of Ca. oleifera, exhibits strong potential as a biocontrol agent. This study investigated the influence of ferric iron (Fe[3+]) on the functional traits of GZY63, including biofilm formation, motility, growth, and antifungal activity. Fe[3+] supplementation significantly drove a concentration-dependent increase in biofilm biomass, reaching a plateau at 100 μM with a four-fold enhancement compared to the control. Transcriptomic profiling revealed extensive Fe[3+]-responsive reprogramming, affecting approximately 58% of expressed genes, with key biofilm matrix genes such as tasA and sipW upregulated by 194- and 88-fold, respectively. Metabolomic analysis further identified 1462 differentially accumulated metabolites, highlighting Fe[3+]-driven shifts in metabolic pathways associated with energy metabolism and the induction of antimicrobial compounds (e.g., resveratrol and posaconazole) that support robust biofilm formation. Consistent with these molecular changes, Fe[3+]-enhanced biofilm formation promoted stable colonization of host tissues and significantly reduced the disease incidence (DI) of anthracnose in greenhouse assays using the susceptible cultivar CL18. Together, our results demonstrate that Fe[3+] acts as a key environmental cue that coordinately regulates transcriptional and metabolic networks underlying biofilm formation in B. amyloliquefaciens, thereby strengthening biofilm-mediated biocontrol activity. This study provides mechanistic insight into iron-dependent biofilm regulation and highlights nutrient modulation as an effective strategy to optimize Bacillus biofilms for plant protection.},
}

@article {pmid42207186,
year = {2026},
author = {Cholula-Calixto, J and Huerta-Miranda, G and Jaramillo-Rodríguez, B and Bustamante, VH and Juárez, K and Hernández-Eligio, A},
title = {FliW regulates biofilm formation in Geobacter sulfurreducens through interaction with CsrA.},
journal = {Applied microbiology and biotechnology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1007/s00253-026-13884-0},
pmid = {42207186},
issn = {1432-0614},
abstract = {CsrA is a post-transcriptional regulator that controls a wide range of bacterial phenotypes, including carbon metabolism, motility, quorum sensing, virulence, and biofilm formation. In Geobacter sulfurreducens, CsrA modulates both biofilm development and extracellular electron transfer in microbial fuel cells. In this study, we further investigated the regulatory mechanism of CsrA and its role in the formation of electroconductive biofilms in G. sulfurreducens. Bioelectrochemical analyses revealed that a ΔcsrA strain produces biofilms with enhanced electroconductivity compared with the wild-type strain. To identify the molecular basis of this regulation, we explore potential CsrA-binding partners, demonstrating that CsrA interacts with the FliW protein, as reported in other bacteria such as Bacillus subtilis. By utilizing site-directed mutagenesis, we identified that this interaction requires a conserved asparagine residue (N55) in CsrA, the disruption of which prevents the CsrA-FliW complex formation. Interestingly, fliW deletion resulted in reduced biofilm biomass and thickness contrasting with the enhanced phenotypes observed in the ΔcsrA strain. Furthermore, the ΔfliW mutant exhibited a differential expression of transcripts associated with the CsrA regulon in a pattern opposite to that of the ΔcsrA strain. These findings indicate that FliW antagonizes CsrA activity, and that the N55-mediated interaction is essential for this regulatory control. Collectively, these results allow us to propose a model in which the CsrA-FliW interaction acts as a molecular switch to control biofilm formation in G. sulfurreducens. Furthermore, this study expands our understanding of post-transcriptional regulation in electroactive bacteria and highlights the link between regulatory protein interactions, biofilm physiology, and extracellular electron transfer. KEY POINTS: • FliW regulates CsrA activity, thereby affecting biofilm formation. • CsrA regulation influences electroconductive biofilm development in G. sulfurreducens. • CsrA-FliW regulation offers targets to optimize bioenergy and bioremediation systems.},
}

@article {pmid42207692,
year = {2026},
author = {Gloag, ES and Marshall, CW and Kubota, N and Deaver, SE and Deshotel, B and Cooper, VS and Wozniak, DJ},
title = {Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm-deficient mutants undergo parallel evolution during chronic infection.},
journal = {Journal of bacteriology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0052025},
doi = {10.1128/jb.00520-25},
pmid = {42207692},
issn = {1098-5530},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Pseudomonas aeruginosa readily adapts to infection by acquiring stable and heritable mutations. Previously, we discovered that the first adaptations in a porcine wound model were rugose small-colony variants (RSCVs) caused by mutations in the wsp operon. These mutants overproduce Pel and Psl biofilm exopolysaccharides that improve defense against host responses. To identify other mechanisms of host adaptation that lead to hyperbiofilm phenotypes, we created a mutant with an activated wsp pathway but unable to produce these exopolysaccharides (PAO1ΔwspFΔpelAΔpslBCD). Porcine wounds were infected with this mutant, and biopsies were sampled at days 7, 14, and 35. Colony variants were isolated from the wound, peaking at approximately 5% of the total P. aeruginosa population, and whole genome sequencing revealed that these variants had acquired mutations in genes in lipopolysaccharide and type IV pili biosynthesis, with wzy and pilU genes being most commonly targeted. PAO1 pilU mutants were associated with a hyperbiofilm phenotype that outcompeted the parental strain, and PAO1 wzy mutants were associated with a hyperbiofilm phenotype and increased tolerance to host antimicrobial products. We further identified that several variants had acquired large genome deletions that spanned up to 320 consecutive genes and other variants with high copy numbers of Pf6 filamentous phage. Together our results suggest that the hyperbiofilm phenotype is adaptive in chronic infections and that P. aeruginosa has redundant and diverse pathways to generate this phenotype.

IMPORTANCE: We demonstrate that in a porcine full-thickness thermal injury wound model, a Pseudomonas aeruginosa mutant deficient in biofilm formation undergoes adaptive evolution by acquiring mutations that alter the outer membrane, either type IV pili (T4P) or lipopolysaccharide (LPS) mutations, that restores the deficient biofilm phenotype. We also observe a striking degree of mutational parallelism, at both the biosynthetic pathway and gene level, indicating the strong selective pressures experienced by these pathways during chronic wound infection.},
}

@article {pmid42208693,
year = {2026},
author = {Karthikeyan, A and Tabassum, N and Javaid, A and Kim, T and Jeong, GJ and Kim, TH and Jung, WK and Khan, F},
title = {Multitarget inhibition of biofilm, virulence, and quorum sensing of Pseudomonas aeruginosa by FDA-approved natural bioactives.},
journal = {Microbial pathogenesis},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {108595},
doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2026.108595},
pmid = {42208693},
issn = {1096-1208},
abstract = {Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen linked to severe infections, food spoilage, and antimicrobial resistance, owing to its robust biofilm-forming ability and the secretion of degradative enzymes. This study evaluated 14 FDA-approved natural bioactives for their antibacterial, antibiofilm, and antivirulence properties. The minimum inhibitory concentration analysis demonstrated that epigallocatechin gallate, hydroquinone, kojic acid, and retinol were effective at 1024 μg/mL. Natural bioactives such as alpha-tocopherol, azelaic acid, hydroquinone, panthenol, and salicylic acid effectively inhibit biofilm formation and other virulence factors. Molecular docking experiments indicated their binding to quorum-sensing regulators, proteases, biofilm-associated proteins, iron acquisition receptors, and adhesion molecules. These findings suggest that FDA-approved natural bioactives are safe, multitarget antivirulence agents that can reduce P. aeruginosa pathogenicity and spoilage-related characteristics.},
}

@article {pmid42212816,
year = {2026},
author = {Lu, H and Jiang, C and Liu, Y and Yang, P and Liu, Y and Ge, J and Dong, Z and Zhao, Y and Geng, C},
title = {Small non-coding RNA fen36: a novel positive regulator of biofilm formation and swarming motility in Bacillus amyloliquefaciens.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0419425},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.04194-25},
pmid = {42212816},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Biofilm formation is a critical developmental process for the survival of Bacillus, its environmental adaptation, and host colonization. This study investigated the regulatory function of the novel small non-coding RNA (sRNA) fen36 in biofilm architecture and swarming motility in Bacillus amyloliquefaciens. A comparative transcriptomic analysis was carried out between the wild-type B. amyloliquefaciens LPB-18 and a fenSr3 deletion mutant (LPB-18N). This analysis, integrated with IntaRNA-based thermodynamic predictions, identified fen36 as a highly upregulated sRNA. Subsequently, functional assays utilizing isogenic fen36-knockout (LPB-18NΔfen36) and overexpression (LPB-18N::fen36) strains established fen36 as a positive regulator of biofilm formation. Specifically, the overexpression of fen36 yielded a 3.59-fold increase in biofilm biomass, induced a hyper-swarming phenotype, and generated highly wrinkled biofilm topologies, as confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Crucially, these phenotypic enhancements occurred without compromising planktonic growth kinetics or the biosynthesis of the antifungal lipopeptide fengycin. In vitro dual-culture assays further demonstrated that the fen36 overexpression strain maintained potent antagonistic efficacy against the phytopathogen Fusarium oxysporum. Mechanistic investigations employing a dual-plasmid reporter system and RT-qPCR revealed that fen36 targets the 5'-untranslated region of tasA, upregulating this core matrix gene. Furthermore, the transcription of fen36 is negatively regulated by the stress-responsive sRNA fenSr3. Collectively, these findings elucidate a novel fenSr3-fen36-tasA regulatory cascade that governs biofilm architecture and motility independent of secondary metabolism, offering a precise genetic target for optimizing Bacillus biocontrol performance.

IMPORTANCE: Bacillus amyloliquefaciens is extensively harnessed in agriculture for its robust rhizosphere colonization and antimicrobial lipopeptide synthesis. Understanding the genetic networks uncoupling physical colonization from secondary metabolism is critical for engineering superior biocontrol agents. This study elucidates a novel post-transcriptional regulatory cascade, fenSr3-fen36-tasA, governing multicellular behavior. The newly identified sRNA fen36 significantly enhances biofilm formation and hyper-swarming motility by upregulating the matrix gene tasA. Crucially, this enhancement occurs without disrupting fengycin biosynthesis, maintaining potent antagonism against phytopathogens such as Fusarium oxysporum. By mapping this dual-sRNA hierarchy, our research provides crucial mechanistic insights into bacterial environmental adaptation, offering refined genetic targets to optimize Bacillus strains for sustainable agricultural applications.},
}

@article {pmid42213357,
year = {2026},
author = {Bora, D and Singh, AK and Jha, AN and Mandal, M},
title = {Isolation, genomic characterization, and biofilm eradication activity of vB_PaP_DMTU_1, a novel lytic bacteriophage against Pseudomonas aeruginosa.},
journal = {Folia microbiologica},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42213357},
issn = {1874-9356},
abstract = {Biofilm-associated Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) infections pose significant therapeutic challenges owing to their intrinsic resistance to conventional antibiotics. With targeted bacterial lysis and biofilm degradation capabilities, bacteriophage therapy (phage therapy) has re-emerged as a promising alternative antimicrobial strategy. In this study, a novel lytic bacteriophage, vB_PaP_DMTU_1, was isolated from sewage wastewater in Nagaon, India, and characterized using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), whole-genome sequencing, and comprehensive biological assays. TEM micrographs revealed the podoviral morphology of the phage. Genomic analysis classified it within the Zobellviridae family and Paundecimvirus genus, containing a linear double-stranded DNA of 49 kbp with a GC content of 44.98%. Genome annotation identified 83 open reading frames (ORFs), with 25 encoding functional proteins related to structure, metabolism, infection, DNA replication, transcription regulation, packaging, and cell lysis, including 58 hypothetical proteins, one tRNA and ten Rho-dependent transcription terminator genes. The genome lacks lysogeny and CRISPR-associated genes. The phage demonstrated pH stability (6-10), UV resistance, thermal tolerance (up to 50℃), and robust lytic activity with a 30 min latent period and a burst size of ~ 100 virions per host cell. It achieved 93.58% eradication of 72 h mature biofilms at MOI = 10. Stability studies over 24 months revealed optimal phage preservation in liquid lysate formulations, followed by lyophilized powders and alginate beads. These findings establish bacteriophage vB_PaP_DMTU_1 as a promising phage therapy candidate against P. aeruginosa biofilms, significantly contributing to the arsenal of phage-based biocontrol strategies.},
}

@article {pmid42214209,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, S and Zhang, Z and Ge, Z and Teng, R and Chen, R and Qin, J and Sun, M and Du, J and Fan, Z},
title = {O2-releasing microneedle platform eradicates drug-resistant bacterial biofilm via metabolic interference and innate immune reactivation.},
journal = {Biomaterials},
volume = {335},
number = {},
pages = {124284},
doi = {10.1016/j.biomaterials.2026.124284},
pmid = {42214209},
issn = {1878-5905},
abstract = {Biofilm-associated infections pose formidable clinical challenges due to their complicated microenvironment characterized by dense extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), hypoxia, and excessive H2O2. While microneedles can mechanically penetrate biofilms, their efficacy is limited by poor diffusion of antibacterial agents through EPS and secondary infection resulting from escaping planktonic bacteria. Herein, we proposed an oxygen-powered microneedle (FeCN@MN) that synergistically eradicates biofilms through a dual mechanism: ferroptosis-like death-mediated bacterial killing and neutrophil reactivation. The microneedle utilizes sodium percarbonate (SPO) particles that react with interstitial fluid to generate O2 bubbles, which propel the loaded FeS2-decorated carbon nanospheres (FeCN) to disperse throughout biofilms. Moreover, the FeCN@MN can reactivate neutrophils to scavenge planktonic bacteria escaping from biofilm disintegration through enhanced chemotaxis and respiratory burst, further inhibiting potential recurrence of infection. In vitro experiment reveals that iron overload disrupts amino acid metabolism and peroxide accumulation, promoting bacterial ferroptosis-like death. Furthermore, neutrophil functional tests show enhanced chemotaxis and killing ability to MRSA bacteria. In MRSA biofilm-infected diabetic wound model, FeCN@MN significantly dismantles biofilms, and effectively eliminates infections. In conclusion, this two-stage therapeutic approach combining bacterial metabolic interference with immune response reactivation provides a promising strategy in eradicating drug-resistant bacterial biofilm-associated infections.},
}

@article {pmid42214370,
year = {2026},
author = {Mandal, DK and Upadhyaya, E and Dahal, P and Adhikari, G and Pandey, R and Miya, AR and Timilsina, S and Sapkota, P and Amagain, S and Pun, D and Khadka, K and Gorathoki, K and Neupane, B and Chaudhary, S and Thapa, S and Khadka, B and Dhungana, GR and Giri, GR and Pradhan, P and Manandhar, KD and Nepal, R and Napit, R and Malla, R},
title = {Harnessing lytic phages for biofilm control in carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae causing urinary tract infection.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0339725},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.03397-25},
pmid = {42214370},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {Klebsiella pneumoniae is an opportunistic pathogen with rising multidrug resistance and biofilm-related infections. Molecular and phage characterization is crucial to understand resistance mechanisms and explore alternative therapies, such as phage therapy. Whole-genome sequencing and antibiotic susceptibility testing were performed on hospital-isolated K. pneumoniae (KP6697), followed by multilocus sequence typing (MLST), plasmid replicon analysis, and antimicrobial resistance gene (AMR) profiling using bioinformatics tools. Phages were isolated and characterized by electron microscopy, with assessments of anti-biofilm activity, lytic efficacy, stability, and host range. Phage genomes were sequenced to identify functional genes. The host K. pneumoniae (KP6697) was multidrug-resistant, exhibiting resistance to 18 of 22 tested antibiotics. Genome analysis identified it as sequence type 16 (ST16) with 8 plasmid replicons and 23 AMR genes, including blaCTX-M-15, blaNDM-5, and blaOXA-181. Functional annotations revealed extensive metabolic versatility and a rich repertoire of genes for biofilm formation, quorum sensing, secretion systems, and stress response. A lytic phage, Phage_KP6697_Omshanti, was isolated and classified as a Caudoviricetes member with a 45.3-kb genome encoding lysis, replication, and structural genes. The phage demonstrated short latency, high burst size, acceptable thermal and pH stability, and moderate host range against multiple CRKP and other bacterial isolates. Importantly, microscopy confirmed its ability to inhibit and degrade biofilms at multiple stages, highlighting its strong therapeutic potential. Lytic Phage_KP6697_Omshanti, with depolymerase and endolysin activity, isolated from carbapenem-resistant KP6697, showed high burst size, biofilm disruption, and had essential genomic traits suggesting its potential use as an anti-CRKP agent.IMPORTANCEKlebsiella pneumoniae is increasing multidrug resistance and robust biofilm formation pose severe clinical challenges, limiting treatment options. Understanding the molecular basis of its resistance and exploiting bacteriophages with strong biofilm-disrupting properties provide promising alternative therapeutic strategies. This study highlights the isolation and genomic characterization of a lytic phage with potent anti-biofilm activity against carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae, underscoring its potential in combating resistant infections.},
}

@article {pmid42214380,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, Y and Zhu, M and Zou, G and Yin, C and Zhan, Y and Lu, W and Lin, M and Ke, X and Yan, Y},
title = {A bacterial ally for nitrogen-fixing biofilm: enhancing the rhizosphere colonization of Stutzerimonas stutzeri A1501 with surfactin-producing Bacillus velezensis BRI3.},
journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0049826},
doi = {10.1128/aem.00498-26},
pmid = {42214380},
issn = {1098-5336},
abstract = {Nitrogen acquisition is pivotal for plant growth. In soil ecosystems, bacterial interactions promote nitrogen assimilation and rhizosphere colonization. However, the mechanisms underlying the interactions between nitrogen-fixing microorganisms and their neighboring organisms in the environment remain unclear. Here, we demonstrate that Bacillus velezensis BRI3, a rhizosphere-derived strain, forms microbial synergy with Stutzerimonas stutzeri A1501, functioning as a facilitator. This microbial synergy greatly increases the nitrogen-fixation by 3.2-fold and rhizosphere colonization capabilities by 2.3-fold of A1501, collectively promoting plant growth in the rhizosphere. In this study, for the first time, we propose that surfactin produced by BRI3 regulates interactions among this bacterial consortium by stimulating A1501 biofilm formation. This discovery enhances the understanding of metabolic interactions between nitrogen-fixing bacteria and their neighboring organisms. Overall, we propose a strain interaction paradigm that offers a novel framework for improving nitrogen utilization and crop yield.IMPORTANCENitrogen is essential for crop productivity because it directly participates in the construction of proteins and nucleic acids. Associative diazotrophs convert N2 into NH4[+], yet require root biofilms and stable colonization. Owing to the complexity of the rhizospheric microbiota, a systematic understanding of microbe-microbe interactions and their impact on nitrogen-fixation capacity is still lacking. This study uncovers a novel intergeneric synergism in which B. velezensis BRI3 secretes surfactin that triggers S. stutzeri A1501 biofilm formation and concurrently elevates nif gene expression, thereby facilitating the integration of microbe-microbe interaction, biofilm development, and nitrogen-fixation efficiency into a single linear pathway. This phenomenon also provides a portable molecular-to-phenotypic blueprint for designing composite inoculants. Second, field trials revealed that coinoculation of these strains boosted maize growth, allowing partial synthetic-N replacement without transgenes or high costs, merely via rational strain formulation. This study highlights a transition from focusing on the ecological features of associative bacteria toward the development of deployable technology, offering a theory and prototype for sustainable agriculture.},
}

@article {pmid42215087,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhou, Y and Zhang, N and Xu, W and Li, X and Zhang, M and Luo, X and Ni, B and Huang, F and Lu, R and Zhang, Y and Han, X},
title = {Corrigendum to "Sodium cyclamate enhances Vibrio parahaemolyticus biofilm formation on seafood-contact surfaces" [Food Res. Int. 235 (2026) 119195].},
journal = {Food research international (Ottawa, Ont.)},
volume = {238},
number = {},
pages = {119416},
doi = {10.1016/j.foodres.2026.119416},
pmid = {42215087},
issn = {1873-7145},
}

@article {pmid42215186,
year = {2026},
author = {Palanisamy, V and Bosilevac, JM and Wang, R and Chitlapilly Dass, S},
title = {Microbial transcriptional dynamics of beef-processing drain biofilm models revealed by enrichment-based metatranscriptomics.},
journal = {Food microbiology},
volume = {139},
number = {},
pages = {105096},
doi = {10.1016/j.fm.2026.105096},
pmid = {42215186},
issn = {1095-9998},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; Cattle ; Animals ; *Bacteria/genetics/isolation & purification/classification ; *Microbiota/genetics ; *Red Meat/microbiology ; Gene Expression Profiling ; Transcriptome ; Food Handling ; Food Microbiology ; },
abstract = {Microbial biofilms in beef-processing facilities represent persistent reservoirs of foodborne pathogens and spoilage organisms, posing significant risks of cross-contamination of meat products. Floor-drains, as nutrient-rich convergence points within processing environments, are particularly conducive to multi-species biofilm formation. While previous studies have characterized the taxonomical composition and functional potential of drain microbial communities, their transcriptional activities remain largely unexplored. To address this gap, we developed a metatranscriptomic approach to study the transcriptional dynamics of drain-associated microbiomes in beef-processing facilities using enrichment-derived drain biofilm models (hereafter referred to as biofilm models). Floor drain swab samples were collected from hotbox and cooler areas of nine beef-processing plants in 2019 and 2021, and subjected to laboratory enrichment under processing-relevant ecological conditions prior to RNA extraction and sequencing. Metatranscriptomic analysis revealed a core set of highly transcriptionally active genera, including Pseudomonas, Carnobacterium, Acinetobacter, and Brochothrix, in the biofilm models. Functional profiling indicated high expression (Σlog10TPM >3.5) of key biofilm-associated functions such as cell adhesion, exopolysaccharide biosynthesis, bacterial chemotaxis, and quorum sensing (QS), suggesting potential biofilm formation, migration and microbial communication. In comparing biofilm models developed from samples collected in 2019 and 2021, a significant upregulation of genes associated with biofilm formation were identified in 2021-derived communities, suggesting differences in transcriptional responses under identical enrichment conditions between microbial communities originating from the two sampling periods. Transcriptional activity of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes was also detected, particularly those associated with tolerance to quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs), the predominant sanitizers used in food-processing environments. The biofilm models employed in this study may introduce selection bias relative to the native drain community. However, by using drain-derived inocula incubated under processing-relevant conditions, this approach captures the transcriptional potential of the drain-associated microbial communities. This framework provides a reproducible and experimentally accessible platform for investigating gene expression dynamics in complex food-environment microbiomes, and establishes a foundation for future in situ and controlled in vitro studies. Collectively, these findings advance our understanding of drain microbiome ecology and may offer insights for designing intervention strategies to improve biofilm control in meat-processing environments.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
Cattle
Animals
*Bacteria/genetics/isolation & purification/classification
*Microbiota/genetics
*Red Meat/microbiology
Gene Expression Profiling
Transcriptome
Food Handling
Food Microbiology

@article {pmid42201393,
year = {2026},
author = {Jeong, SY and Lee, JW and Lee, CW and Kim, TG},
title = {Unraveling the Independent Effects of Species Richness and Composition on Microbial Biofilm Growth.},
journal = {Microbial ecology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1007/s00248-026-02789-0},
pmid = {42201393},
issn = {1432-184X},
support = {RS-2025-25400857//Ministry of Education/ ; },
abstract = {Species richness is often positively linked to ecosystem functioning. However, conventional approaches that manipulate richness frequently confound the richness effect with those of species composition. In this study, we quantitatively disentangled the independent effects of species richness and composition on biofilm productivity as a measure of ecosystem functioning. We constructed 300 independent richness gradients, each comprising 3-20 species, from a pool of 24 bacterial isolates spanning six taxonomic classes (Actinomycetia, Alphaproteobacteria, Bacilli, Betaproteobacteria, Gammaproteobacteria, and Sphingobacteriia). Our results revealed diverse richness-biofilm relationship forms, predominantly positive (68%), but also hump-shaped (16%), U-shaped (6%), null (6%), and negative (4%). When assessed individually, richness accounted for an average of 53.9% of the variation in biofilm growth, surpassing two measures of compositional variation-species-inherent ability (SIA) and species-dependent ability (SDA)-based on species' biofilm-forming potential, which explained 9.6% and 14.4%, respectively. Collectively, richness, SIA, and SDA explained 73.4% of the variation. Notably, biofilm growth exceeded expectations in the mid-richness range (10-15 species). When richness and composition were assessed collectively across entire assemblages, richness explained 24.2% of the variation in biofilm growth, while SIA and SDA explained 12.7% and 28.7%, respectively. In contrast, species combination, assuming equal potential for all species, had only a marginal effect on biofilm growth. Our results demonstrate that species richness is a key, independent driver of biofilm growth, and that its effects are substantially underestimated when not properly separated from composition.},
}

@article {pmid42203007,
year = {2026},
author = {Karthik, K and Mehar, AK and Nath, JK and Talajiya, F and Sandeep, GM and Jakhar, SK and Raghavendra Prasad, HD and Smerat, A and Kamakshi Priya, K},
title = {Green synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles from Cocos nucifera spadix: A sustainable route toward antimicrobial and anti-biofilm applications.},
journal = {Journal of microbiological methods},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {107558},
doi = {10.1016/j.mimet.2026.107558},
pmid = {42203007},
issn = {1872-8359},
abstract = {This study presents a sustainable waste-to-wealth strategy for the green synthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles using matured spadix extract of Cocos nucifera. X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed the formation of highly crystalline hexagonal wurtzite ZnO with characteristic reflections at 2θ ≈ 31.94°, 34.46°, and 36.50°, corresponding to a crystallinity of 73.9% and an average crystallite size of ~20-45 nm. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra revealed Zn-O stretching vibrations below 600 cm[-1] along with phytochemical-associated functional groups, indicating possible surface stabilization during synthesis. Scanning electron microscopy demonstrated agglomerated quasi-spherical nanoparticles with particle sizes ranging from ~20-80 nm and porous morphological features. The synthesized ZnO nanoparticles exhibited dose-dependent antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans and Escherichia coli, with inhibition zones increasing from 34 mm and 29 mm at 50 μg to 41 mm and 42 mm at 100 μg, respectively. Confocal laser scanning microscopy further indicated substantial disruption of biofilm architecture and reduction in viable bacterial distribution after nanoparticle treatment. Therefore, the study demonstrates the potential of matured Cocos nucifera spadix as a sustainable biomass precursor for green ZnO nanoparticle synthesis and preliminary antimicrobial applications.},
}

@article {pmid42203060,
year = {2026},
author = {Zheng, Y and Chai, Z and Song, C and Li, Y and Chen, H and Zheng, M},
title = {Pilot-scale aerated biofilm system for low-temperature treatment of decentralized rural wastewater: Staged configuration and microbial resilience.},
journal = {Environmental research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {124861},
doi = {10.1016/j.envres.2026.124861},
pmid = {42203060},
issn = {1096-0953},
abstract = {The treatment of decentralized rural wastewater under sustained low-temperature conditions remains a significant challenge. This study evaluated a pilot-scale, multistage aerated biofilm (MAB) system equipped with hydrophilic polyurethane foam carriers during operation with influent temperatures dropping to 10.69 ± 0.77 °C. The system achieved robust performance, with NH4[+]-N and COD removal efficiencies reaching 84.15-99.41% and 60.69-90.75%, respectively. A clear functional zonation was established, separating heterotrophic COD degradation from autotrophic nitrification. Activity tests using a double-inhibitor method confirmed substantial nitrification activity in the later stages. Furthermore, the microbial community exhibited distinct low-temperature adaptation strategies, including shifts in extracellular polymeric substance composition and the enrichment of specific functional genes. Quantitative PCR and bioinformatic analyses revealed a synergistic partnership for ammonia oxidation: while Nitrosomonas oligotropha-like AOB were dominant, comammox Nitrospira maintained a stable niche and actively contributed, suggesting a cooperative framework where AOB rapidly reduced bulk ammonium and comammox polished residual, low-concentration ammonia. Comparative genomic analysis further indicated that comammox possesses broader and more diverse low-temperature adaptation strategies compared to AOB. Collectively, these findings validate the MAB system as a practical and resilient technology for decentralized treatment in cold climates and provide novel insights into the future optimization of biofilm-based processes.},
}

@article {pmid42203450,
year = {2026},
author = {Roques, JAC and Fujii, N and Unegbu, E and Marqué, A and Johansson, E and Yamamoto, K and Iida, H and Kindaichi, T},
title = {Performance of Marine Anammox Candidatus Scalindua sp. under High Nitrate Conditions in a Biofilm Reactor.},
journal = {Microbes and environments},
volume = {41},
number = {2},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1264/jsme2.ME25094},
pmid = {42203450},
issn = {1347-4405},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Bioreactors/microbiology ; *Nitrates/metabolism ; Wastewater/microbiology/chemistry ; Nitrites/metabolism ; },
abstract = {To investigate the NO3[-] tolerance of Candidatus Scalindua sp., a continuous reactor was gradually exposed to increasing NO3[-] concentrations up to 3,200 mg N L[-1]. High NH4[+] and NO2[-] removal efficiencies were maintained up to 2,600 mg N L[-1], above which performance declined and Ca. Scalindua relative abundance decreased to 0.8%. After one year of recovery, removal efficiencies exceeded 97%, whereas Ca. Scalindua relative abundance only reached 6.5%. EC50 values for NH4[+] and NO2[-] were both 3,000 mg N L[-1]. We demonstrated that our enriched Ca. Scalindua population tolerated NO3[-] up to 2,600 mg N L[-1], far exceeding the levels typically encountered in most human-derived wastewaters.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Bioreactors/microbiology
*Nitrates/metabolism
Wastewater/microbiology/chemistry
Nitrites/metabolism

@article {pmid42187783,
year = {2026},
author = {Rivera-Yañez, N and Hernández-Sánchez, KM and Hernández-Rosas, NA and Francisco-Cruz, L and Nieto-Yañez, O and Barrera-Ortega, CC and Pozo-Molina, G and Méndez-Catalá, CF and Méndez-Cruz, AR and Ruiz-Hurtado, PA and Rivera-Yañez, CR},
title = {Understanding the Effect of Propolis and Its Derivatives Against Candida Biofilm: New Approaches in the Search for Alternative Therapies.},
journal = {Journal of fungi (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {12},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {42187783},
issn = {2309-608X},
abstract = {Propolis is a bee product with a complex chemical composition that exhibits remarkable antifungal activity against C. albicans and can inhibit resistant biofilms thanks to its content of compounds such as flavonoids and phenolic acids. Its efficacy varies depending on its geographic origin: European propolis inhibits the initial formation of biofilms, while Brazilian propolis is superior at inhibiting mature biofilms. This product also possesses fungicidal and fungistatic properties comparable in efficacy to conventional drugs, such as nystatin, fluconazole, and chlorhexidine. The use of nanotechnology, such as nanoparticles or nanorods, has overcome the low solubility of propolis compounds, improving their bioavailability and reducing cell adhesion and hyphal formation. Moreover, the integration of propolis into dental materials demonstrate its versatility for preventing recurrent infections. The study of isolated compounds such as pinocembrin, galangin, and chrysin has facilitated the identification of specific mechanisms of action, and the application of molecules such as guttiferone E in photodynamic therapies and the discovery of quorum-sensing inhibitors, such as kaempferol, using in silico models have opened new avenues for blocking yeast communication and virulence. These findings position propolis as a multifaceted and promising therapeutic alternative, although there is a need to optimize formulations to ensure clinical safety and biocompatibility. In this review, we analyze research published around the world over the last 15 years on the effects of propolis against C. albicans biofilms.},
}

@article {pmid42190996,
year = {2026},
author = {Rawat, K and Gabrani, R},
title = {Comparative genomic insight into Acinetobacter baumannii and Acinetobacter nosocomialis: uncovers the functional basis of multidrug resistance and biofilm-related virulence.},
journal = {Microbial pathogenesis},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {108588},
doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2026.108588},
pmid = {42190996},
issn = {1096-1208},
abstract = {Acinetobacter species are opportunistic pathogens that possess both intrinsic and acquired drug resistance, as well as the capacity to develop persistent biofilms. Among them, the most important multidrug-resistant species are Acinetobacter baumannii and Acinetobacter nosocomialis. The in silico comparative genomic study has systematically analysed these two species with emphasis on antimicrobial resistance genes and virulence factors that promote biofilm formation. Both species contain several biofilm-associated genes, such as ompA, pilE, csuA/b, pgaA-D, and the AdeFGH efflux system, which are important for persistence, colonization, and drug tolerance, along with those involved in lipopolysaccharide biosynthesis and serum resistance. A. baumannii has the fliP and wbpI genes that are species-specific, while mbtH and hemO genes suggest increased iron uptake capabilities to those of A. nosocomialis. The katA gene identification indicates better adaptation to oxidative stress for A. baumannii, while both species have wbjD/wecB associated with capsule formation. A. baumannii displays greater functional diversity based on the subsystem analysis, and that species appears to have additional iron acquisition mechanisms. Analysis of the integrons showed two integrons in A. baumannii, indicating increased genomic plasticity for the insertion and removal of plasmids. Twenty-six essential and potentially druggable proteins were identified as shared by both species through drug-target analysis. Antimicrobial activity and biofilm assays showed minimal inhibition in A. baumanni and A. nosocomialis, confirming resistance. Overall, this comparative genomic study supports future efforts to develop effective therapeutic interventions and provides valuable insights into the virulence and resistance strategies of these pathogens.},
}

@article {pmid42191415,
year = {2026},
author = {Saucedo-Plascencia, MD and Guevara-Martínez, SJ and Zamudio-Ojeda, A and Castillo-Romero, A},
title = {A novel activity of chitosan nanoparticles as an enhancer of biofilm formation in resistant Diarrheagenic Escherichia coli strains.},
journal = {Carbohydrate research},
volume = {566},
number = {},
pages = {109972},
doi = {10.1016/j.carres.2026.109972},
pmid = {42191415},
issn = {1873-426X},
abstract = {Chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs) are recognized for their antimicrobial potential; however, their effects on bacterial physiology and biofilm dynamics remain largely unclear. This research examines how empty CNPs affect biofilm growth in resistant diarrheagenic Escherichia coli pathotypes: enterotoxigenic, enteropathogenic, and enteroaggregative (EAEC). CNPs were synthesized from extracted chitosan and characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Biofilm formation was quantified using crystal violet assays across a gradient of CNP concentrations. The findings reveal that, unexpectedly, exposure to CNPs paradoxically stimulates, rather than inhibits, biofilm formation across these strains, with a notable increase in EAEC biofilms at 2 mg/mL. These results highlight that sub-lethal CNP exposure may inadvertently fortify bacterial defenses, underscoring the necessity for rigorous safety assessments in nano-bio interactions to prevent the promotion of bacterial persistence.},
}

@article {pmid42191973,
year = {2026},
author = {Charron, R and Lemée, P and Léger, T and Pigeon, L and Boulanger, M and Houée, P and Deschamps, J and Huguet, A and Soumet, C and Briandet, R and Bridier, A},
title = {Biofilm-driven LPS remodeling and colanic acid overproduction mediate biocide adaptation and antibiotic cross-resistance in E. coli.},
journal = {npj antimicrobials and resistance},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s44259-026-00224-5},
pmid = {42191973},
issn = {2731-8745},
support = {ANR-21-CE35-0001//Agence Nationale de la Recherche/ ; },
abstract = {The identification of the determinants driving antimicrobial resistance is a prerequisite for improving the control of resistance emergence and dissemination. Disinfectant biocides, daily used in food-processing industries, have already been associated with the cross-selection of antibiotic-resistant bacterial populations. However, very few studies have addressed this issue using a biofilm model, the predominant bacterial lifestyle in food-processing environments. In this work, we examined the adaptation of Escherichia coli biofilms to four biocidal active substances over one month, and assessed their subsequent effects on antibiotic resistance. Exposure to N-(3-aminopropyl)-N-dodecylpropane-1,3-diamine (TMN) and benzalkonium chloride significantly increased the emergence of rifampicin-resistant (RifR) variants in biofilms. Genomic analyses revealed that the RifR variants selected upon TMN exposure recurrently harboured mutations in genes related to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) biosynthesis that conferred low-level rifampicin resistance in biofilm. These variants displayed altered LPS profiles, a more negative surface charge, and reduced membrane permeability. Proteomic and phenotypic analyses supported a metabolic reorientation of envelope sugar precursors, with decreased modulation of LPS synthesis and a marked induction of the colanic acid biosynthetic pathway in TMN-selected variants. This shift resulted in increased matrix production and reinforced biofilm-associated tolerance. Together, these data identify outer membrane reprogramming, linking LPS modulation with colanic acid overproduction, as a previously unknown mechanism of TMN adaptation that simultaneously promotes antibiotic cross-resistance in E. coli biofilms.},
}

@article {pmid42192711,
year = {2026},
author = {Ören Bozyer, İ and Matin, K and Pamir, T and Belli, S and Shimada, Y},
title = {Effects of Different Zinc Modulations in Glass Ionomer Cements on Multi-Species Biofilm Formation and Human Tooth Demineralization: An In Vitro Study.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics15050489},
pmid = {42192711},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {1059B142301004//Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey/ ; 32107//Ege University/ ; 25K13328//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; },
abstract = {Background: Biofilm formation and associated tooth demineralization are key factors influencing the clinical performance of dental materials. Methods: This study compared the antibiofilm and demineralization preventive effects of two zinc-modified glass ionomer cements (Zn-GICs) with a conventional GIC. Disk-shaped specimens of Caredyne Restore (CR), ChemFil Rock (CFR), and Ketac Molar (KM) (n = 6) were evaluated in a multi-species biofilm model using an oral biofilm reactor. Early biofilm formation was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (after 2 h and 4 h), bacterial accumulation and water-insoluble glucan (WIG) production were quantified (after 12 h). For demineralization assessment, restored human enamel and dentin specimens (n = 6) including an additional resin-based control group (Dura Seal, DS) were subjected to a 14-day biofilm challenge and lesion depth was measured using swept-source optical coherence tomography and confocal microscopy. Results: CR showed significantly lower bacterial accumulation and WIG production than the other materials (p < 0.05). CFR demonstrated lower bacterial levels than KM (p < 0.05), whereas no significant differences were observed between CFR and KM in WIG production (p > 0.05). CR produced the shallowest enamel and dentin lesions, whereas DS exhibited the deepest (p < 0.05); however, no statistically significant differences were observed between CFR and KM in lesion depth (p > 0.05). Conclusions: CR demonstrated superior biofilm suppression and reduced demineralization, whereas CFR showed limited differences compared with the conventional GIC.},
}

@article {pmid42192716,
year = {2026},
author = {Yang, B and Yang, W and Hu, B and Zhao, J and Deng, H and Yi, L and Jian, P and Hong, Z and Yu, D},
title = {Matrine Restores Porcine-Origin β-Lactam-Resistant Escherichia coli to Cefepime and Cefquinome: Association with Impaired Biofilm Formation and β-Lactamase Production.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics15050494},
pmid = {42192716},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {32172906//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Background: The in vivo efficacy and mechanisms of matrine (MT) in reversing β-lactam resistance in E. coli remain unclear. Methods: β-lactam-resistant E. coli strains were treated with MT both in vitro and in a murine intestinal colonization model. Phenotypic changes (MIC, morphology, growth, biofilm, β-lactamase) were evaluated, and transcriptomic profiles were analyzed. Results: MT at sub-inhibitory concentrations significantly and concentration-dependently reduced the MICs of β-lactam-resistant E. coli strains by 2- to 32-fold in vitro. This reduction was also confirmed in vivo, and its magnitude became more pronounced as the number of doses increased. MT treatment dispersed bacterial aggregates and dissipated extracellular matrix, but did not alter the morphology of individual bacteria. At concentrations above 1024 μg/mL, MT significantly inhibited bacterial growth; lower concentrations (≤512 μg/mL) had no effect. Notably, MT inhibited biofilm formation and β-lactamase production both in vitro and in vivo. Conclusions: MT restored the susceptibility of β-lactam-resistant E. coli to cefepime and cefquinome. This effect was associated with suppression of biofilm formation and β-lactamase production, which correlated with the downregulation of key genes (ycgR, pgaB, pgaD, blaTEM and blaCTX-M).},
}

@article {pmid42192729,
year = {2026},
author = {Sadanandan, B and Sunder, S and Vijayalakshmi, V and Ashrit, P and Yogendraiah, KM and Shetty, K},
title = {Design of a Wireless Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation System and Validation of Germicidal Potential Against Biofilm-Forming Bacteria and Fungi.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics15050507},
pmid = {42192729},
issn = {2079-6382},
abstract = {Background: A compact, in-house-developed ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) system using eight 36 W Philips low-pressure mercury UV-C lamps with a peak emission at 253.7 nm was developed for effective sterilization of bacteria and fungi using a wireless mode of operation. Methods: Under controlled laboratory conditions, the system was tested against representative biofilm-forming microorganisms, including Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli K12, and a multidrug-resistant Candida albicans M-207 isolate. Microbial viability was assessed using colony-forming unit (CFU) enumeration and 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, with structural changes analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Cultures were exposed to 253.7 nm UV-C radiation at distances of 1-5 m for 15-90 min. Results: UV-C exposure resulted in time- and distance-dependent reductions in viable counts for all tested organisms, as determined by CFU analysis. At 1 m and 15 min exposure, viable counts for all tested organisms were reduced below the limit of detection (LOD) of the CFU assay, indicating substantial microbial inactivation under the tested conditions. Reduced efficacy was observed at increased distances (3 m and 5 m), with log10 reductions varying depending on organism and exposure conditions. Residual metabolic activity detected by the MTT assay suggests the presence of non-proliferating or damaged cells, consistent with the different endpoints measured by the two assays. The SEM analysis further revealed disruption of biofilm architecture and reduction in cell density with increasing UV dose. Conclusions: The UVGI system demonstrated dose-dependent inactivation of biofilm-forming microorganisms under controlled conditions, supporting its proof-of-concept efficacy. Further studies are required to evaluate performance under real-world conditions.},
}

@article {pmid42196084,
year = {2026},
author = {Mihai, GM and Martin, L and Radu, L and Aldea, M and Dinescu, SN and Gresita, A and Ruscu, M and Vasile, RC and Rotaru-Zavaleanu, AD},
title = {Hydrogel-Based Platforms for Wound Care: Integrated Strategies for Antimicrobial Delivery and Biofilm Management.},
journal = {Gels (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {12},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/gels12050398},
pmid = {42196084},
issn = {2310-2861},
abstract = {Chronic wounds, diabetic foot ulcers, venous leg ulcers, and pressure injuries affect millions of patients worldwide and cost healthcare systems in the order of $150 billion annually, yet treatment options have changed less than the scale of the problem would suggest. Biofilm formation, documented in up to 78% of chronic wounds, is a central cause: bacteria embedded in extracellular polymeric matrices tolerate antimicrobial concentrations up to 1000-fold higher than planktonic cells and sustain a chronic inflammatory state that actively prevents tissue repair. Hydrogels, crosslinked polymer networks with high water content and tunable physicochemical properties, have been widely studied as platforms for addressing these challenges, though the distance between laboratory results and clinical practice remains considerable. While recent reviews have summarized hydrogel materials or antimicrobial strategies in isolation, this review takes a different approach: we treat infection, biofilm persistence, and impaired regeneration as interconnected processes that must be addressed simultaneously, and we examine biofilm management as a distinct therapeutic target rather than merely a subset of antimicrobial delivery. We analyze hydrogel-based wound care across three integrated domains: design principles (natural, synthetic, and hybrid polymer systems; crosslinking strategies; and stimuli-responsive architectures), antimicrobial delivery (silver, antibiotics, antimicrobial peptides, natural agents, and controlled-release systems), and biofilm management (nanoparticle-mediated disruption, enzymatic EPS degradation, photodynamic approaches, quorum-sensing inhibition, and anti-adhesive surface engineering). For each area, we critically evaluate what the preclinical evidence supports, where it falls short, and what would be needed to bridge the gap to clinical application. Translation remains uneven. Among the many FDA- and EMA-cleared hydrogel dressings currently in clinical use, most are simple moisture-retaining or silver-containing formulations, while the multifunctional systems that dominate the research literature are at earlier stages of development. We discuss the main translational priorities, including more predictive preclinical models, long-term nanomaterial safety, harmonized outcome reporting, manufacturing scalability, and health economic evidence, as areas where further work can meaningfully accelerate clinical adoption.},
}

@article {pmid42196144,
year = {2026},
author = {Qian, YX and Yu, M and Chen, ZK and Shen, Y and Tang, L and Zeng, KW and Tu, PF},
title = {Fabrication of Size-Controlled Carbon Dots with Biofilm-Disrupting Activity for Antibacterial Applications.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {10},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27104159},
pmid = {42196144},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {L246029//Beijing Municipal Natural Science Foundation-Key Research Project of the Daxing/ ; 2024M750142//China Postdoctoral Science Foundation/ ; ZK [2022] General 617//Guizhou Science and Technology Cooperation Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {*Carbon Quantum Dots/chemistry ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Biofilms/drug effects ; Particle Size ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Carbon/chemistry ; Escherichia coli/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Carbon dots (CDs) have demonstrated broad-spectrum biological activity, with particle size considered a key determinant of their biological efficacy. However, the interrelationships among size, structure, and function remain unclear. To address this, we synthesized CDs under identical hydrothermal protocols and separated them into four size fractions (NPDCDs1-NPDCDs4), to directly investigate how particle size influences physicochemical and antibacterial properties. The four fractions exhibited distinct optical and structural properties: NPDCDs1 (3.2 nm) emitted at 510 nm with the highest C-O content; NPDCDs2 (2.2 nm) emitted at 510 nm with high C-C/C=C content; NPDCDs3 (2.1 nm) showed red-shifted emission at 570 nm and the highest C=C ratio; NPDCDs4 (1.9 nm) displayed the most red-shifted emission at 580 nm (λex = 380 nm) with the highest C=O content. Notably, NPDCDs1 demonstrated excellent biocompatibility and potent antibacterial activity, primarily through efficient disruption of bacterial biofilms, possibly due to its high C-O content and appropriate particle size. Thus, particle size modulated biological function via corresponding changes in structural and surface chemical properties. These findings clarify that particle size critically influences both the physicochemical properties and antibacterial activity of CDs, providing an empirical foundation for the rational design of highly efficient and low-toxicity carbon-based antimicrobial materials.},
}

*Carbon Quantum Dots/chemistry
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
*Biofilms/drug effects
Particle Size
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Carbon/chemistry
Escherichia coli/drug effects

@article {pmid42196221,
year = {2026},
author = {Bahamondez-Canas, TF and García-Collao, I and Perez-Basaez, P and Delgado-Gazzoni, CV and Garrido-Vera, HE and Ceriani, R and Weinstein-Oppenheimer, CR and Moraga-Espinoza, DF},
title = {Optimization of Buddleja globosa-Loaded Polymeric Scaffolds for the Treatment of Biofilm-Infected Wounds.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {10},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27104240},
pmid = {42196221},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {FONDECYT 11190348//Agencia Nacional de Investigación y Desarrollo/ ; FONDECYT 1251144//Agencia Nacional de Investigación y Desarrollo/ ; FONDECYT 3220470//Agencia Nacional de Investigación y Desarrollo/ ; SIA 85220025//Agencia Nacional de Investigación y Desarrollo/ ; PAI 77190010//Agencia Nacional de Investigación y Desarrollo/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; Animals ; Wound Healing/drug effects ; Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology ; Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology ; Mice ; *Buddleja/chemistry ; *Plant Extracts/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Tissue Scaffolds/chemistry ; *Polymers/chemistry ; *Wound Infection/drug therapy/microbiology ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Humans ; },
abstract = {Chronic wounds are frequently complicated by biofilm-associated infections that impair healing and limit treatment efficacy. Buddleja globosa (BG) exhibits antimicrobial and regenerative properties, making it a promising candidate for advanced wound care. This study aimed to optimize the concentration of a standardized BG extract incorporated into polymeric scaffolds for the treatment of wounds infected with the dual-species biofilm (DSB) of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. Scaffolds containing increasing BG concentrations (BG1 to BG4) were fabricated by lyophilization and characterized in terms of physicochemical properties, antimicrobial activity, and cytocompatibility. Their therapeutic efficacy was further evaluated using an in vitro artificial wound model and a murine model of a DSB-infected wound. BG incorporation significantly influenced the scaffold properties. While BG1-BG3 maintained a comparable structure and mechanical integrity, BG4 exhibited a reduced pore size, swelling capacity, and mechanical resistance. All BG-loaded scaffolds reduced bacterial viability in vitro, with BG4 showing the strongest antimicrobial effect. In vivo, BG2 showed the most consistent overall performance, combining improved wound closure at day 6 with complete re-epithelialization at the endpoint. BG3 improved wound closure at day 6 but did not outperform it in re-epithelialization. In contrast, BG4 did not enhance healing despite its higher antimicrobial activity in vitro. These findings demonstrate that scaffold performance is governed by the interplay between extract loading and physicochemical properties, and that intermediate BG concentrations provide more favorable conditions for tissue repair than higher loadings. This work supports the potential of BG-loaded scaffolds as a therapeutic strategy for biofilm-infected chronic wounds.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
Animals
Wound Healing/drug effects
Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology
Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology
Mice
*Buddleja/chemistry
*Plant Extracts/pharmacology/chemistry
*Tissue Scaffolds/chemistry
*Polymers/chemistry
*Wound Infection/drug therapy/microbiology
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Humans

@article {pmid42196465,
year = {2026},
author = {Ma, YQ and Lin, L},
title = {Roles of Indole and Its Derivative in Modulating E. coli-Candida albicans Biofilm Formation.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {10},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27104478},
pmid = {42196465},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {42176211//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Candida albicans/physiology/drug effects ; *Indoles/metabolism/pharmacology ; *Escherichia coli/physiology/drug effects/genetics/metabolism ; Antifungal Agents/pharmacology ; Indoleacetic Acids/pharmacology/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Candida albicans is the causal agent of invasive candidiasis, which might be lethal in immunocompromised patients. Biofilm formation is considered a key virulence factor of C. albicans and is associated with its elevated resistance to antifungals. C. albicans and bacteria like E. coli are frequently found to form mixed biofilms on biotic or abiotic surfaces, rendering them more refractory to existing antifungals. To investigate how E. coli endogenous indole interplaying with exogenous IAA exerts modulatory effects on dual-species biofilm with C. albicans, an E. coli strain deficient in the indole biosynthetic gene tnaA was constructed, and the enzyme TnaA inhibitor was administered to block the indole production in E. coli monoculture and/or E. coli-C. albicans dual culture. Phenotypic assay revealed that indole deficiency attenuated E. coli mono-species biofilm by 12% (tnaA∆ versus WT E. coli), and the lack of indole in the E. coli cell-free culture filtrate abolished the ability to promote C. albicans biofilms, evidenced by the fact that the treatment with WT E. coli culture supernatants exhibited a 1.7-fold promotive effect, while treatment with tnaA∆ displayed no significant difference from the broth control towards C. albicans biofilms. Furthermore, impaired E. coli indole production might disrupt E. coli-C. albicans biofilm, as examined by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Moreover, indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) was found to exhibit more potent biofilm-modulatory activity than indole by CLSM imaging with dual biofilms of WT E. coli-C. albicans, in contrast to those of E. coli tnaA∆-C. albicans post-supplemented with exogenous IAA. This study provides evidence for indole as a signaling molecule mediating bacterial-fungal communication during mixed-biofilm formation. Indole and its derivatives, particularly in combination with existing antifungals, have potential in the development of anti-biofilm strategies to eradicate refractory fungal infections.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Candida albicans/physiology/drug effects
*Indoles/metabolism/pharmacology
*Escherichia coli/physiology/drug effects/genetics/metabolism
Antifungal Agents/pharmacology
Indoleacetic Acids/pharmacology/metabolism

@article {pmid42197345,
year = {2026},
author = {Conti, A and Casagrande Pierantoni, D and Strinati, B and Favaro, L and Corte, L and Cardinali, G},
title = {Biofilm Formation and Plastic Degradation in Bacteria from Different Environments: Evidence for Phenotypic Acclimation and Metabolic Exaptation.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14050959},
pmid = {42197345},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {ECS00000041 - VITALITY - CUP J97G22000170005//European Union/ ; },
abstract = {Microbial communities inhabiting natural and anthropogenically impacted environments are exposed to diverse abiotic stressors that can influence the distribution of functional traits. However, distinguishing the processes underlying phenotypic patterns remains challenging in microbial systems, where ecological and evolutionary dynamics often overlap. In this study, we experimentally assessed the distribution of biofilm formation and plastic degradation capacity in bacterial isolates across environments characterized by different stress regimes, to evaluate whether these traits are primarily associated with environmental context rather than phylogenetic relatedness, and may therefore reflect environment-dependent phenotypic modulation on a lineage-specific functional background. Taxonomic affiliation was assessed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing, while expressed biochemical profiles were characterized by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Multivariate ordination and Partial Least Squares analyses were used to explore relationships among taxonomy, biochemical profiles, functional phenotypes, and environment of isolation. Phylogenetic signal analysis confirmed that neither trait was strongly constrained by vertical inheritance, with Blomberg's K ≈ 0 and Fritz & Purvis' D = 0.51, consistent with environment-driven rather than phylogenetically conserved trait distributions. Both biofilm production and plastic degradation capacity showed significant environment-dependent differences in their relative frequencies (Fisher's exact test, biofilm: p = 5.5 × 10[-5]; PCL degradation: p = 2.5 × 10[-4]) and were not directly associated with each other (Wilcoxon rank-sum test, p = 0.45; linear model, p = 0.68). Overall, these results indicate that microbial functional traits are unevenly distributed across environments and weakly constrained by taxonomy, consistent with the contribution of multiple, non-mutually exclusive processes that remain difficult to disentangle empirically.},
}

@article {pmid42197354,
year = {2026},
author = {Yang, S and Mu, Y and Wang, L and Zeng, H},
title = {Synergistic Inhibition of Acinetobacter baumannii Biofilm Formation and Reduction of Lung Inflammation In Vivo by Combination of α-Pinene and Meropenem.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14050968},
pmid = {42197354},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {32560051//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; XJRC-2025-BTKJ-YJ-CXPT-228//Xinjiang Leading Talent Introduction Program Science and Technology Key Innovation Platform (Base) Talent Recruitment Project/ ; TDZKBS202637//Tarim University/ ; },
abstract = {Acinetobacter baumannii, a prominent opportunistic pathogen in healthcare settings, causes severe infections and poses significant challenges for clinical treatment. This study investigates the synergistic effects of α-pinene combined with meropenem (MEM) on A. baumannii biofilm formation and lung injury in mice, aiming to develop new strategies to combat persistent infections and antibiotic resistance. α-pinene combined with MEM exhibited strong synergistic antibacterial activity against carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii (CRAB 5E9). The combination significantly inhibited biofilm formation, extracellular polymer production, surface motility, and quorum sensing. The expression of key genes such as ompA, bfmR, bap, csuAB, abaI, and abaR was reduced by up to 61%. In vivo, the treatment alleviated weight loss, decreased the bacterial load in lung tissue, and reduced lung inflammation. Furthermore, it significantly suppressed proteins involved in the inflammatory response and the MAPK pathway, including TLR4, NF-κB, NLRP3, TRAF6, ERK2, p38 MAPK, JNK, and TNF-α. The combination of α-pinene and MEM synergistically inhibits A. baumannii biofilm formation and alleviates the inflammatory response in a mouse model, offering a potential therapeutic approach for combating A. baumannii infections.},
}

@article {pmid42197413,
year = {2026},
author = {Franco, D and Papasergi, S and Mediati, F and Guglielmino, SPP and De Plano, LM},
title = {Engineered Phage Modulates Quorum Sensing and Biofilm Formation in Pseudomonas aeruginosa.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14051028},
pmid = {42197413},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {ECS00000022//Ministry of Universities and Research/ ; },
abstract = {Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic Gram-negative pathogen frequently associated with chronic and biofilm-related infections, largely driven by quorum sensing (QS)-related genes/phenotypes. In this study, we investigated the antivirulence activity of an engineered M13-derived phage-display particle (P9b), selected for specific binding to P. aeruginosa, which acts as a non-lytic modulator of QS through specific binding to a bacterial surface target. P9b induced a transient delay in early planktonic growth, without affecting long-term proliferation. In contrast, P9b significantly reduced biofilm-associated metabolic activity and pyocyanin production, consistent with an effect on QS-regulated pathways. Transcriptional analysis revealed significant downregulation of key QS regulators (lasI, lasR, rhlI, and rhlR) and modulation of phenazine biosynthesis genes (phzM downregulation and phzS upregulation), suggesting interference with QS-dependent regulatory circuits. Notably, P9b retained binding capacity and antibiofilm activity across clinically relevant P. aeruginosa isolates. Overall, these findings indicate that P9b acts as a selective, non-lytic modulator of virulence-associated traits, attenuating QS-regulated phenotypes without bactericidal effects. This study supports the potential of engineered filamentous phages as targeted antivirulence platforms for the development of innovative strategies against persistent and biofilm-associated infections.},
}

@article {pmid42197436,
year = {2026},
author = {Shakoor, L and Naz, S and Rashid, A and Idrees, M},
title = {Persistence and Risk Assessment of Biofilm-Forming MDR and XDR Bacteria on Non-Poultry Meat Contact Surfaces in Wah Cantt, Pakistan.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14051051},
pmid = {42197436},
issn = {2076-2607},
abstract = {Biofilms on meat-contact surfaces pose critical food safety risks. This study investigates the interplay between biofilm architecture, metabolic vigor, and antimicrobial resistance on retail surfaces in Pakistan. Screening 300 isolates from 120 surfaces identified 42 high-risk biofilm formers. Comprehensive phenotypic screening revealed that standard visual assays severely underestimate the viability of environmental strains. Biofilm biomass and metabolic activity correlated positively (Spearman's ρ = 0.656, p < 0.001). Crucially, Ordinary Least Squares regression established that metabolic vigor, rather than physical biomass, independently predicts resistance severity. Phenotypic profiling revealed a high-risk landscape with 81.8% multidrug-resistant and 18.2% extensively drug-resistant isolates, including resistance to colistin and Linezolid. Alarmingly, 79.5% of critical resistance phenotypes compromised WHO Reserve category antibiotics, escalating to 100% on mincer machines. Ecological analysis demonstrated surface-driven partitioning; porous wood boards fostered diverse Enterobacteriaceae, while mincers selected for uniformly resistant clades. These findings highlight processing machinery as resilient reservoirs for untreatable pathogens, necessitating targeted anti-biofilm measures, such as matrix-degrading enzymes. Bridging a critical knowledge gap, this study is among the earliest integrated ecological analyses combining phylogenetic, metabolic, and resistance profiling in Pakistan's non-poultry meat sector.},
}

@article {pmid42197443,
year = {2026},
author = {Castellanos-Huerta, I and Lum, J and Romero, G and Forga, A and Hargis, BM and Graham, D},
title = {Differential Responses of Salmonella enterica Typhimurium, S. enteritidis, and S. infantis to Chlorine Dioxide In Vitro: Impacts on Growth and Biofilm Development.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14051058},
pmid = {42197443},
issn = {2076-2607},
abstract = {Salmonella enterica is a significant Gram-negative bacterium possessing over 2500 serovars capable of affecting both animals and humans and disseminating widely due to its adaptability, genetic diversity, and ability to form biofilms. Different serovars, such as S. enterica Typhimurium (ST), Enteritidis (SE), and Infantis (SI), display varying traits and survival strategies in harsh environments. Biofilms, composed of proteins, lipids, and DNA, enable bacteria to survive stresses such as pH changes, nutrient shortages, temperature fluctuations, and disinfectants. Evaluating disinfectants on inert surfaces is crucial for understanding their effectiveness and impact on poultry. This study assessed the efficacy of chlorine dioxide (ClO2) disinfectant against ST, SE, and SI growth, biofilm formation, and biofilm removal at varying concentrations in vitro. Results showed serotype-dependent and condition-specific responses, with SE and SI being more affected than ST, which may be associated with differences in oxidative stress response mechanisms, highlighting the need for tailored disinfection protocols.},
}

@article {pmid42197484,
year = {2026},
author = {Yan, Z and Fan, S and Yan, W and Ma, H and Zhao, T},
title = {Effect of Aeration Rate Redistribution on Nitrogen Removal Performance of a Novel Multi-Compartment Fixed-Biofilm Cyclic Activated Sludge System.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14051099},
pmid = {42197484},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {51568034//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {To address the problems of short-circuit flow and dead zones, complicated operation and control caused by intermittent influent, and the mismatch between aeration rate and oxygen demand in the Cyclic Activated Sludge System (CASS), a novel Multi-Compartment Fixed-Biofilm Cyclic Activated Sludge System (MCFCASS) was developed. This system operated in continuous-flow mode, and the aeration rate of each compartment was redistributed using a mathematical model. The results show that the plug flow ratio of the MCFCASS reactor increased from 18.75% to 31.25% compared with the CASS reactor. After aeration rate redistribution, the average total nitrogen (TN) removal efficiency of the MCFCASS reactor rose from 83.34% to 86.80%, and the effluent TN concentration consistently met the Grade I-A limit (15 mg/L) specified in the Discharge Standard of Pollutants for Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plant (GB 18918-2002). The average removal efficiencies of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and ammonium nitrogen (NH4[+]-N) increased from 91.58% and 93.39% to 92.98% and 94.57%, respectively. Microbial community analysis revealed that after aeration rate redistribution, the relative abundances of Pseudomonadota, Bacteroidota, and Bacillota in the pre-reaction zone of MCFCASS were 39.17%, 17.78%, and 10.33%, respectively. In addition, the abundances of some functional bacterial groups in the first and fourth compartments of the main reaction zone shifted adaptively in response to the aeration rate redistribution, consistent with the trends in pollutant removal contributions in these compartments. Hierarchical clustering and principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) further indicated that aeration rate redistribution influenced the microbial community structure. The above laboratory-scale optimization results may provide a preliminary reference for aeration control and improvement of denitrification performance in similar processes.},
}

@article {pmid42197502,
year = {2026},
author = {Musuroi, SI and Voinescu, A and Musuroi, C and Muntean, D and Horhat, FG and Baditoiu, LM and Izmendi, O and Cosnita, A and Ordodi, V and Crainiceanu, Z and Seclaman, E and Licker, M},
title = {Epidemiological Study of the Relationship Between Antimicrobial Resistance Genes and Biofilm-Forming Capacity in Pathogens Causing Chronic Wound Infections.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14051117},
pmid = {42197502},
issn = {2076-2607},
abstract = {Chronic wounds represent a major complication of underlying conditions such as diabetes mellitus, arterial ischemia, surgical wound and burns. This study aimed at the phenotypic and molecular characterization of antimicrobial resistance for a selection of bacterial isolates, originating from wounds harvested from patients hospitalized in the Vascular Surgery and Plastic Surgery wards. The microbiological diagnosis of wound infections was established according to the laboratory's working protocol. PCR screening of antibiotic resistance genes was performed using a real-time PCR, while the microtiter plate assay was used to determine the biofilm-forming capacity. Testing of biofilm susceptibility to meropenem and amikacin was performed on Calgary biofilm device. Of the 88 bacterial isolates studied, 78.40% were Gram-negative bacilli (GNB)-Klebsiella pneumoniae (K.P), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P.A), Proteus mirabilis (P.M), Acinetobacter baumannii (A.B), while the remaining 21.60% were Gram-positive cocci (GPC)-Staphylococcus aureus (S.A). All A.B isolates and 92.59% of K.P were carriers of β-lactamase- and carbapenemase-encoding genes, while 57.89% of S. aureus isolates were carriers of mecA (methicillin-resistant). Strong biofilm-forming isolates (B+++) were more frequent in P.A than in K.P (p = 0.002) and P.M (p = 0.02), with a frequency comparable to that of A.B strains (p = 0.212). When analyzing the biofilm reaction to meropenem, a significantly lower susceptibility was detected in the biofilm for K.P isolates, compared to the planktonic ones. Most GNB have been extensively multidrug-resistant, particularly K.P and A.B. Isolates from chronic wounds are major biofilm-formers. A strong and statistically significant association has been identified in the case of K.P and P.M between the presence of resistance genes and the biofilm-forming capacity. These findings highlight the need for a customized therapeutic approach for each chronic wound, considering the mechanisms underlying treatment resistance. These include bacterial virulence factors and the wound microenvironment colonized by the biofilm and the relative contribution of each to the overall resistance profile.},
}

@article {pmid42198277,
year = {2026},
author = {García-Porcel, E and Gómez-Casanova, N and Pérez-Serrano, J and Copa-Patiño, JL and Heredero-Bermejo, I},
title = {Effect of the BD132 Dendron Against Candida tropicalis: Inhibition of Biofilm Formation and Enzymatic and Structural Alterations.},
journal = {Pharmaceutics},
volume = {18},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/pharmaceutics18050583},
pmid = {42198277},
issn = {1999-4923},
support = {PID2020-113274RA-I00//Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades/ ; PID2023-151252OB-I00//Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades/ ; },
abstract = {Background: Candida tropicalis is a pathogenic yeast species responsible for infections within the Candida genus and is identified as the most virulent species after C. albicans, partly due to its ability to form biofilms. Objective: This study analyzes the antifungal efficacy of a newly synthesized dendron, BD132 dendron, against C. tropicalis. Results: The compound showed a strong antifungal activity with promising minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum biofilm inhibitory concentration (MBIC) values. Combination therapy with AgNO3 and amphotericin B showed additive and synergistic effects, respectively, enhancing antifungal efficacy and potentially reducing cytotoxicity. The dendron did not alter key enzyme activities, and scanning electron microscopy revealed significant morphological alterations, including increased cell size and surface damage, indicating membrane disruption. In addition, the BD132 dendron did not induce resistance, and stability studies indicated a slight MIC decrease at 4 °C and -20 °C after 15 days, with stable minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC), suggesting potential for long-term use. Conclusions: These findings highlight the potential of this dendron in combination therapies to treat C. tropicalis infections.},
}

@article {pmid42198619,
year = {2026},
author = {Sole, E and Motta, G and Marcoli, F and Midiri, A and Sindona, C and Imbesi, L and Mancuso, G and Zemzem, M and Biondo, C},
title = {Tackling Biofilm-Forming Pathogens: A Challenge to Overcome in the Fight Against Infectious Diseases.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/pathogens15050493},
pmid = {42198619},
issn = {2076-0817},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; Humans ; Quorum Sensing ; Drug Resistance, Bacterial ; *Bacteria/drug effects/pathogenicity ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; *Communicable Diseases/microbiology/drug therapy ; Bacterial Infections/microbiology/drug therapy ; },
abstract = {Microorganisms can aggregate and organise into structured communities embedded within an exopolysaccharide-based matrsix, which serves as a protective barrier and a functional environment around microbial cells. The formation of biofilms is widely recognised as a pivotal factor in bacterial virulence, impeding the efficacy of antimicrobial agents and hindering immune responses, whilst concomitantly contributing to the development of antimicrobial resistance and the onset of persistent infections. Biofilm formation is a tightly regulated and dynamic process, controlled by quorum-sensing mechanisms and profoundly influenced by environmental factors and nutrient availability. The objective of this review is to elucidate the significance of biofilms in clinical settings, with a particular focus on their role in the pathogenesis of infectious diseases. Particular attention is devoted to biofilm-associated infections and infections related to invasive medical devices, with a particular emphasis on the most prevalent microbial pathogens, which include S. aureus, S. epidermidis, P. aeruginosa, E. coli, K. pneumoniae, A. baumannii and various species of Candida. Furthermore, the present review encompasses biofilm-associated chronic infections, conditions manifesting in predisposed patients, including individuals affected by cystic fibrosis. This review further examines the most recent strategies for combating antibiotic resistance in bacterial biofilms. This review focuses on recent biofilm pathogenesis advancements, with a focus on diagnosis challenges and the need for new ways to disrupt biofilm integrity.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
Humans
Quorum Sensing
Drug Resistance, Bacterial
*Bacteria/drug effects/pathogenicity
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use
*Communicable Diseases/microbiology/drug therapy
Bacterial Infections/microbiology/drug therapy

@article {pmid42200104,
year = {2026},
author = {van Wijngaarden, EW and Brunette, MP and Goetsch, AG and Brito, IL and Hershey, DM and Silberstein, MN},
title = {Rheinheimera sp. T2C2 Bacterial Biofilm for Bioremediation of Cobalt(II).},
journal = {ACS applied polymer materials},
volume = {8},
number = {10},
pages = {7168-7180},
pmid = {42200104},
issn = {2637-6105},
abstract = {Toxic metals, including cobalt, are often the cause of the contamination of rivers and lakes in mining regions. Heavy metal water pollution has been linked to numerous human health problems, prompting the need for environmental remediation. Existing techniques for removing heavy metals from water, such as chemical precipitation and filtration, produce toxic waste, are costly, or require high power consumption for pumping. Biosorption is a potential alternative strategy that is cost-effective and uses readily available and naturally produced biomass and living material to absorb pollutants. Engineering living materials, such as biofilms, which consist of living cells and a secreted polymer matrix, offer the potential to integrate toxin sensing, sequestration, and metabolism capabilities of cells to improve pollution remediation strategies. Alternative biofilm producing candidates need to be explored to implement these material capabilities. Previous biosorption studies have primarily used bacterial biofilms from known pathogens and/or generated toxic waste in the form of the absorbent material combined with the heavy metal. Here, we describe a recently isolated bacterium called Rheinheimera sp. T2C2 that forms biofilms with promising biosorption characteristics. T2C2 is an aquatic bacterium with low nutrient requirements and high biofilm production that is not known to be pathogenic. We demonstrate (1) the efficacy of Rheinheimera sp. T2C2 as a biosorbent for cobalt bioremediation; (2) how biosorption is altered by water conditions to establish the efficacy of this strategy in different environments; and (3) how the metal can be released from the biofilm for metal recycling. Our findings will provide a living materials strategy that overcomes the existing barriers for bioremediation and improves the health of ecosystems and humans through heavy metal removal and recycling.},
}

@article {pmid42200379,
year = {2026},
author = {Tuan, DA and Giang, PTH},
title = {Toward precision anti-biofilm therapy for Candida: a translational perspective.},
journal = {Future microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-8},
doi = {10.1080/17460913.2026.2678109},
pmid = {42200379},
issn = {1746-0921},
abstract = {Candida biofilm-associated infections remain difficult to eradicate, particularly on indwelling devices and in other high-risk settings where persistence, relapse, and antifungal failure are common. Natural compounds and nano-enabled delivery have shown promising antibiofilm effects in preclinical studies, but the evidence base remains fragmented and largely nonclinical. This Perspective proposes Precision Anti-Biofilm Therapy (PABT) as a staged translational framework that separates what is clinically actionable now from what remains investigational. Tier 1 centers on current bedside practice-rapid species identification, susceptibility testing or local resistance patterns, source control, and routine clinical parameters-without delaying sepsis care. Tiers 2-3 reserve biofilm phenotyping, candidate biomarker panels, constrained synergy testing, and nano-enabled delivery for translational research and selected refractory niches. We do not present new experimental data or claim clinical readiness. Instead, we use the existing mechanistic and preclinical literature to define a feasibility agenda: standardized assays, pharmacologic justification at the infection site, analytical validation of candidate biomarkers, early-phase feasibility studies, and pragmatic trials in high-burden scenarios such as recurrent catheter-associated candidemia, prosthetic-device infection, and multidrug-resistant C. auris settings. By reframing PABT as a research-prioritization framework rather than a ready-to-implement protocol, this Perspective aims to make the translational pathway more explicit and testable.},
}

@article {pmid42201018,
year = {2026},
author = {Berle, L and Sodhi, Y and Mathur, P and Nebeluk, N and Doub, JB},
title = {Repurposing Non-Infectious Therapeutic Agents to Aid in the Treatment of Chronic Biofilm Infections.},
journal = {Medical sciences (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {2},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/medsci14020226},
pmid = {42201018},
issn = {2076-3271},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; Humans ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; *Drug Repositioning ; Chronic Disease ; Animals ; Anti-Infective Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Edetic Acid/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {Antibiotics primarily exert their effect on planktonic microbial states, limiting their ability to eradicate biofilms commonly seen in chronic infections. This is because the minimal inhibitory concentration of antibiotics needed to kill microbes in biofilms can be up to 1000 times greater than when microbes are in their planktonic state. Yet up to 70% of all chronic infections are associated with a biofilm component. Consequently, novel therapeutics are needed to aid in the treatment of chronic biofilm infections. One such approach is to repurpose drugs that have demonstrated safety for non-infectious clinical indications. The main advantage of this approach is that the agents have already been shown to be safe for human administration, which can expedite clinical trial development of agents for biofilm infections. Unfortunately, most clinicians are unaware of the antimicrobial properties of some commonly used drugs. Thus, the aim of this Perspective was to discuss the potential of four drugs that have theoretical promise as adjuvants in the treatment of chronic biofilm infections. This was accomplished by providing detailed discussion of each agent with respect to current clinical use, potential mechanisms of antimicrobial activity, and present data to support use as adjuvant biofilm agents.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
Humans
Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology
*Drug Repositioning
Chronic Disease
Animals
Anti-Infective Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use
Edetic Acid/pharmacology/therapeutic use

@article {pmid42184863,
year = {2026},
author = {Macior-Łannik, A and Migut, D and Ruchała, J},
title = {Lignocellulosic and cellulose-derived carriers in biofilm-based food fermentations: Food-contact design, hydrodynamics and validation.},
journal = {Biotechnology advances},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {108928},
doi = {10.1016/j.biotechadv.2026.108928},
pmid = {42184863},
issn = {1873-1899},
abstract = {Biofilm-based food fermentations require carriers that retain viable production microorganisms while remaining compatible with sensory quality, cleanability, regeneration and food-contact safety. This review analyses lignocellulosic and cellulose-derived carrier classes as engineered food-contact interfaces rather than as a single undifferentiated group of "wood-derived" materials. Native wood and plant scaffolds, purified or modified plant-cellulose matrices, bacterial cellulose, materials derived from microcellulose and nanocellulose, lignin-containing matrices, and hemicellulose-containing and xylo-oligosaccharide-containing systems are therefore treated as distinct carrier classes with different structural scales, process functions and validation needs. The review integrates carrier microstructure and surface chemistry with microbial biofilm physiology, reactor hydrodynamics and process diagnostics. Particular attention is given to acetic acid bacteria, lactic acid bacteria, yeasts, mixed communities and undesirable filamentous fungi, because these groups differ in adhesion mode, production of extracellular polymeric substances, oxygen demand, shear sensitivity and hygiene implications. To distinguish this review from previous broad reviews on lignocellulosic immobilisation, biofilm reactors and wood-contact microbiology, we provide configuration-specific design criteria, evidence-status tables, failure-mode diagnostics and minimum food-contact validation requirements. Non-food examples are treated only as transferable mechanistic evidence rather than as direct food-contact validation. The resulting framework identifies what should be reported and validated before carrier optimisation: migration and release of leachable compounds, sensory impact, cleaning efficacy, regeneration stability, microbial safety after cleaning, hydrodynamic operating windows and reactor-specific failure signals.},
}

@article {pmid42185192,
year = {2026},
author = {Tatta, ER and Kumavath, R},
title = {Corrigendum to "Rhodethrin and Rubrivivaxin as potential source of anti-biofilm agents against vancomycin resistant Enterococcus faecalis (ATCC 19443)" [Microbial Pathogenesis 148 (2020)].},
journal = {Microbial pathogenesis},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {108576},
doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2026.108576},
pmid = {42185192},
issn = {1096-1208},
}

@article {pmid42185319,
year = {2026},
author = {Lima, RD and Bauer, OR and Pauer, H and Hajiarbabi, K and Moreira, DA and Parente, TE and Ferreira, RBR},
title = {Cutibacterium acnes inhibits Staphylococcus lugdunensis biofilm formation through inhibition of autolysis and purine biosynthesis.},
journal = {NPJ biofilms and microbiomes},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41522-026-01014-7},
pmid = {42185319},
issn = {2055-5008},
abstract = {Cutibacterium acnes is a key member of the human skin microbiome that contributes to host homeostasis. Staphylococcus lugdunensis, while also a resident of the skin microbiota, is an opportunistic pathogen capable of causing severe infections, associated with its ability to form biofilms. We previously showed that C. acnes secretes molecules that inhibit S. lugdunensis biofilm formation without affecting planktonic growth. Here, we demonstrate that C. acnes-derived molecules also significantly reduced S. lugdunensis adherence to and invasion of human epithelial cells, as well as adhesion to keratinocytes. Transcriptomic analysis revealed repression of genes involved in S. lugdunensis purine biosynthesis and induction of the autolysis negative regulators, lrgA and lrgB. Functional assays confirmed that exposure to C. acnes molecules inhibits autolysis and extracellular DNA (eDNA) release and decreases intracellular guanine levels in S. lugdunensis. Crucially, the addition of exogenous guanine suppressed the effect of C. acnes molecules on both biofilm formation and lrgA gene expression. Collectively, our data indicate that C. acnes molecules inhibit S. lugdunensis biofilm formation by depleting the intracellular guanine pool, leading to repression of autolysis, and reduced eDNA release, a key component of biofilm structural integrity. These findings underscore the importance of interspecies microbiome interactions in pathogen exclusion.},
}

@article {pmid42185771,
year = {2026},
author = {Mousavi, Z and Alizadeh Behbahani, B and Jooyandeh, H and Taki, M and Vasiee, A},
title = {Probiotic characterization of Lactobacillus helveticus BGTRM7-58 from Khiki cheese: safety, antimicrobial activity, antioxidant capacity, and anti-biofilm effects against Staphylococcus aureus.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12866-026-05153-x},
pmid = {42185771},
issn = {1471-2180},
abstract = {Traditional Iranian cheeses, especially "Khiki cheese," represent valuable sources of indigenous lactic acid bacteria with potential probiotic properties. This study evaluated the probiotic attributes, safety profile, antimicrobial efficacy, antioxidant capacity, and anti-biofilm activity of Lactobacillus helveticus BGTRM7-58, a strain isolated from Khiki cheese. The strain demonstrated considerable anti-adhesion capability against Staphylococcus aureus. The cell-free supernatant (CFS) exhibited potent antimicrobial activity, displaying a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 15.625 mg/mL against S. aureus. Furthermore, the CFS inhibited biofilm formation by 87% at 4× MIC and disrupted pre-established mature biofilms by 89% at the same concentration. In vitro cytotoxicity assessment revealed dose-dependent antiproliferative effects against cancer cell lines. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis indicated significant downregulation of key staphylococcal virulence genes, most notably a 47% reduction in agr expression. The strain also exhibited substantial antioxidant activity, scavenging 68.67%, 71.75% of DPPH and ABTS radicals, respectively. Comprehensive safety evaluation confirmed the absence of hemolytic and DNase activities, no production of biogenic amines, and susceptibility to clinically relevant antibiotics. Taken together, these findings indicate that L. helveticus BGTRM7-58 fulfills the fundamental criteria for a safe and functional probiotic strain, highlighting its potential for application in functional food formulations and strategies aimed at controlling biofilm-associated infections.},
}

@article {pmid42187640,
year = {2026},
author = {Moreno-Prieto, V and Guillén-Galarza, CE and Gómez-Carrión, CE and Schwan-Silva, I},
title = {Influence of Denture Base Fabrication on Candida albicans Adhesion and Early Biofilm: An In Vitro Comparison of Five Techniques.},
journal = {Dentistry journal},
volume = {14},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/dj14050262},
pmid = {42187640},
issn = {2304-6767},
support = {6800.28//Universidad Norbert Wiener/ ; },
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Denture stomatitis is closely associated with Candida albicans colonization of denture-base surfaces. This in vitro study compared early adhesion (1 h) and initial biofilm formation (24 h) of C. albicans across five denture-base-related material groups using adhered cell counts and adhered/inoculum proportions. Methods: A 5 × 2 factorial design (five material groups; 1 and 24 h) evaluated a comparator pattern resin, heat-polymerized acrylic resin, autopolymerizing acrylic resin, milled CAD/CAM PMMA, and microwave-polymerized acrylic resin. All specimens underwent standardized finishing and mechanical polishing before microbiological testing. Data were log10-transformed and analyzed by two-way ANOVA (material group, time) with Tukey's post hoc test. An external SEM-based qualitative laboratory report was used as complementary documentation of C. albicans presence after 1 h and 24 h; representative micrographs and quantitative SEM image outputs were unavailable. Results: Material group, time, and their interaction significantly affected adhered C. albicans counts (p < 0.05). At 1 h, the comparator pattern resin showed the highest adhesion, whereas at 24 h, milled CAD/CAM PMMA showed the highest adhered load. For the adhered/inoculum fraction, both material group and time were significant; at 24 h, the heat-polymerized acrylic resin showed the lowest adhered fraction. Conclusions: Under the standardized finishing and mechanical polishing conditions of this in vitro model, the tested material groups showed different C. albicans adhesion/biofilm patterns over time; clinical extrapolation should be made with caution.},
}

@article {pmid42173447,
year = {2026},
author = {Harvey, HJ and Corrigan, S and Baiocco, D and Zhang, Z and Iqbal, TH and Teughels, W and Chapple, I and Horniblow, RD},
title = {Promicrobial mucoadhesive micro-composites enable delivery of beneficial oral bacteria to restore and modulate oral biofilm communities.},
journal = {Journal of controlled release : official journal of the Controlled Release Society},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {115044},
doi = {10.1016/j.jconrel.2026.115044},
pmid = {42173447},
issn = {1873-4995},
abstract = {Imbalances within the oral microbiome, composed of over 700 phylotypes, drive both local diseases, including periodontitis, and systemic conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis and cardiovascular disease. Given the overuse of conventional antimicrobial agents to manage oral diseases and the relapsing nature associated with current intervention strategies, innovative promicrobial approaches to oral biofilm community restoration are needed. Importantly, there is a critical unmet clinical need for active restoration and sustained delivery of beneficial oral commensals rather than continued disruption of already-imbalanced communities. We have developed a promicrobial formulation encapsulating live, health-associated, oral bacteria within mucoadhesive micro-composites to promote the establishment of beneficial biofilms under simulated oral flow conditions. We encapsulated and characterised a five-species bioactive consortia of oral bacteria in alginate micro-composites, surface modified with poly-l-lysine to enhance their adhesion to artificial saliva-coated surfaces in vitro. Dissemination of the encapsulated bacteria from the micro-composites led to the formation of stable oral biofilms. Notably, biofilm composition could be modulated by altering the encapsulated bioactive composition, enabling a tailored and targeted pathway to biofilm restoration. Under representative saliva flow, delivery of bioactives following their bioencapsulation resulted in strong biofilm-forming capacity, even in the presence of pre-existing oral bacterial communities containing pathobionts, highlighting their potential clinical applications in dental biofilm bioengineering. In experiments designed to simulate periodontal pocket debridement, we observed immunomodulation following treatment with bioactive formulations and pathobiont reduction when Limosilactobacillus reuteri was also incorporated into the consortia. These findings establish a framework for using sustained-release encapsulated probiotics to modulate the oral microbiome, offering a paradigm shift towards biofilm-promoting therapies for oral healthcare and paving the way for oral microbiome transplantation.},
}

@article {pmid42173454,
year = {2026},
author = {Abdulaziz, SM and Haji, SH and Ganjo, AR and Aka, STH and Bhardwaj, N and Bhardwaj, I and Ghosh, S},
title = {Silver nanoparticles biosynthesized by Citrobacter farmeri effectively inhibit growth and biofilm formation in Acinetobacter baumannii.},
journal = {Microbial pathogenesis},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {108580},
doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2026.108580},
pmid = {42173454},
issn = {1096-1208},
abstract = {The emergence of carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) has severely limited available therapeutic options, posing a significant clinical challenge. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial and antibiofilm efficacy of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) against clinical multi drug resistant (MDR) A. baumannii isolates. Silver nanoparticles were biosynthesized using Citrobacter farmeri (C. farmeri) (A121) and subsequently characterized for their physicochemical properties. Antibacterial activity against A. baumannii was assessed using the disc diffusion assay, while biofilm-forming ability and antibiofilm efficacy were evaluated using the microtiter plate method. Molecular analysis revealed a high prevalence of resistance-associated genes, with blaOXA-48 (70%), blaCTX-M (43%), and blaDHA (13.3%) being the most frequently detected ESBL-, AmpC-, and carbapenemase-encoding genes, respectively. Notably, 65.3% of the isolates exhibited strong biofilm-forming capacity. The biosynthesized AgNPs ranged in size from 20 to 60 nm and demonstrated a pronounced, concentration-dependent antibacterial effect at 1.25, 2.5, and 5 mg/mL. Moreover, AgNP treatment resulted in a substantial inhibition of biofilm formation, achieving up to 95% reduction. Overall, these findings highlight the potent antibacterial and antibiofilm activities of biosynthesized AgNPs against MDR A. baumannii, highlighting their potential as a promising alternative or adjunctive strategy for combating infections caused by highly drug-resistant pathogens.},
}

@article {pmid42174767,
year = {2026},
author = {Singh, S and Yadav, VB and Singh, AK and Nath, G and Chand, S and Mishra, NS and Nayak, JK},
title = {Species-Specific Optimisation and Environmental Regulation of Biofilm Formation in Enterobacter cloacae: Inhibitory Role of Glucose in Biofilm Development.},
journal = {Environmental microbiology reports},
volume = {18},
number = {3},
pages = {e70347},
doi = {10.1111/1758-2229.70347},
pmid = {42174767},
issn = {1758-2229},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; *Enterobacter cloacae/physiology/growth & development/drug effects ; *Glucose/metabolism/pharmacology ; Species Specificity ; Culture Media/chemistry ; },
abstract = {Bacterial biofilms are prevalent in clinical environments, contributing to persistent infections associated with medical devices. Enterobacter cloacae forms biofilms on nonliving surfaces, leading to drug-resistant, recurrent infections that are difficult to treat. Biofilm development in Enterobacter species, including E. cloacae, occurs through five stages: reversible attachment, irreversible attachment, microcolony formation, maturation and dispersal. Initial attachment is mediated by adhesins, including fimbriae and lipopolysaccharides, which interact with surfaces. This is followed by secretion of an extracellular polymeric substance matrix composed of polysaccharides, extracellular DNA and proteins, providing stability and protection. This study aimed to establish a standardised in vitro 0.5% crystal violet staining method to quantify biofilm production in E. cloacae isolates and classify isolates by biofilm-forming capacity. Biofilm was quantified by optical density at 570-600 nm. A 96-well microtiter plate assay quantified biofilm formation in 40 E. cloacae strains collected between July 2021 and April 2023. Growth conditions were optimised, including culture media, fixation techniques and additive concentrations of glucose and sodium chloride. Brain heart infusion broth was optimal, and heat fixation was superior; glucose had no effect, whereas 1%-2% sodium chloride enhanced biofilm production. These findings improve understanding of environmental regulation of biofilm formation and microbial persistence across habitats.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
*Enterobacter cloacae/physiology/growth & development/drug effects
*Glucose/metabolism/pharmacology
Species Specificity
Culture Media/chemistry

@article {pmid42176840,
year = {2026},
author = {Akter, T and Hoque, MM and Urgeya, KD and Stapleton, F and Rice, SA and Willcox, M},
title = {A pilot study on the effect of the exoU gene on biofilm formation by a strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from microbial keratitis.},
journal = {Experimental eye research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {111082},
doi = {10.1016/j.exer.2026.111082},
pmid = {42176840},
issn = {1096-0007},
abstract = {PURPOSE: To investigate the role of the exoU gene in biofilm formation by comparing wild-type and an exoU knockout mutant of Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from microbial keratitis (MK).

METHODS: Biofilm formation by nine exoU-positive P. aeruginosa strains from MK was assessed using the crystal violet assay. The strain exhibiting the highest biofilm production was selected for exoU deletion via homologous recombination using the recombineering plasmid pCasPA. Successful deletion was confirmed using exoU-up-F and exoU-down-R primers and exoU gene specific primers. Cytotoxicity of the wild-type and mutant strains was compared in human corneal epithelial cells using MTT assay. Changes in biofilm between wild-type and mutant strains were assessed using crystal violet assays and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Biofilm-associated antibiotic tolerance was assessed by treating pre-formed biofilms of the wild-type and exoU mutant strains with ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin, followed by quantification of surviving bacteria.

RESULTS: PA169 P. aeruginosa produced the highest biofilm amount (OD570/OD660 nm = 2.2 ± 0.15) among the tested strains, and the exoU gene was subsequently deleted from this strain. Biofilm formation was significantly reduced in the mutant (OD570/OD660 nm = 1.4±0.08) compared to its wild-type counterpart (OD570/OD660 nm = 2.2 ± 0.15, p<0.01). Confocal laser scanning microscopy confirmed a decrease in biofilm thickness in the mutant strain relative to the parent strain (8.33 ± 0.58 μm vs 11.67 ± 0.58 μm, respectively, p<0.01). Biofilm-associated antibiotic tolerance was also reduced in the exoU mutant, which showed significantly lower survival than the wild-type strain after exposure to ciprofloxacin at 1× MIC (66.87 ± 4.46% vs 88.38 ± 10.09%) and 10× MIC (49.47 ± 6.36% vs 73.74 ± 7.63%), and levofloxacin at 4× MIC (55.29 ± 14.14% vs 79.80 ± 12.25%) and 20× MIC (12.63 ± 1.59% vs 38.13 ± 3.06%) (all p ≤ 0.03). Additionally, the mutant produced lower cytotoxicity than the wild-type (OD570 8.2±0.23 vs 2.1±0.25, p <0.01).

CONCLUSION: This pilot study suggests that the exoU gene may be associated with biofilm formation and biofilm-associated antibiotic tolerance in the PA169 strain. However, these findings are based on a single clinical strain, and no complementation assay was performed to rule out polar effects of the gene knockout. Further experimental work, including knockout of additional strains, complementation, and strand-specific transcriptomic analysis, is needed to determine whether the observed phenotypic changes are directly caused by deletion of the exoU gene.},
}

@article {pmid42179543,
year = {2026},
author = {de Figueiredo, VSA and Canto Bueno, P and Ponce Fuentes, EA and Dini, C and Alves de Brito Júnior, A and Busato de Feiria, SN and Mattos-Graner, RO and Ricomini Filho, AP and Klein, MI},
title = {Putative Prebiotics Can Disrupt 3D Architecture and Modulate the Microbial Population to Prevent Cariogenic Biofilm Build-Up In Vitro.},
journal = {ACS omega},
volume = {11},
number = {19},
pages = {27942-27957},
pmid = {42179543},
issn = {2470-1343},
abstract = {Background/Objective(s)/Introduction: Prebiotics are substances that metabolically favor certain microorganisms of a microbiome, promoting homeostasis. Dental biofilm microorganisms are enmeshed in a matrix of extracellular polymeric substances that they produce. A diet rich in sucrose can lead to a dysbiotic biofilm associated with microbial acid production and a change in the matrix's composition (mostly water-insoluble glucans), which allows acids to accumulate within biofilms and contribute to teeth demineralization. Thus, the effects of putative prebiotics were evaluated to verify their impact on exopolysaccharides, the microbial population, and biofilm formation. Materials and methods: Five potential prebiotics (N-acetyl-d-glucosamine, arginine, proline, sodium nitrate, and urea) were evaluated compared with a substance-free control. A Streptococcus mutans biofilm model on polystyrene plates was used to determine the concentrations of substances that would inhibit sucrose-derived biofilm formation. Selected concentrations were then used to verify the production of insoluble glucans by glucosyltransferase B. Afterward, S. mutans and mixed-species (S. mutans, Actinomyces naeslundii, and Streptococcus gordonii) biofilms were grown on saliva-coated hydroxyapatite discs with sucrose to evaluate the microbial population and 3D biofilm structure (exopolysaccharides and bacterial biovolume). Lastly, a microcosm biofilm formed on polystyrene plates was used to assess the effects of the substances on biomass and the proportion of distinct viable microbial populations. Results: Only arginine inhibited insoluble glucan production and S. mutans biofilm accretion (≅ 90%). Arginine and proline inhibited a biofilm build-up in mixed-species and microcosm models and modulated microbial counts of species associated with cariogenic biofilms. In the microcosm biofilm, urea hindered biomass accretion in initial biofilms and the counts of aciduric microbiota and fungi, but N-acetyl-d-glucosamine stimulated microbial growth. Sodium nitrate affected the size and shape of microcolonies in S. mutans and mixed-species biofilms. Conclusion(s): Among the substances tested, arginine and proline modulated the microbial population and hindered biofilm accretion, especially arginine, which hampered glucan production. However, urea is the only substance able to impede fungal growth.},
}

@article {pmid42180269,
year = {2026},
author = {Savidge, SG and Yu, B and Abbaspour, E and Badali, A and Zakavi, SS and Field, D and Habibollahi, P and Ibrahim, MM and Nezami, N},
title = {Biofilm Formation in Indwelling Percutaneous Nephrostomy Catheters: Luminal Loss and Bacterial Colonization.},
journal = {Interventional radiology (Higashimatsuyama-shi (Japan)},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {e20250107},
pmid = {42180269},
issn = {2432-0935},
abstract = {PURPOSE: Biofilm formation on the surface of percutaneous nephrostomy and percutaneous nephroureteral catheters is presumed to result in luminal narrowing and predispose to infection. This presumption drives clinical practice in varying ways. However, no study thus far has quantifiably characterized biofilm development in percutaneous nephrostomy/percutaneous nephroureteral catheters.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: In this prospective study, removed percutaneous nephrostomy and percutaneous nephroureteral catheters were collected from patients undergoing catheter exchange. Catheters were stained with crystal violet and analyzed to assess biofilm deposition on the internal and external catheter surfaces and to quantify internal biofilm thickness. Pre- and post-exchange urine samples were collected from the catheters and analyzed for bacteria and leukocytes per high-power field.

RESULTS: A total of 38 catheters were collected (28 percutaneous nephrostomy, 10 percutaneous nephroureteral). Biofilm was present in all catheters and significantly increased with time. Luminal diameter loss due to biofilm (mean ± standard deviation) was 67 ± 17 μm at 0-2 weeks (n = 3), 104 ± 12 μm at 2-4 weeks (n = 4), 149 ± 32 μm at 1-2 months (n = 10), 236 ± 73 μm at 2-3 months (n = 11), 249 ± 39 μm at 3-4 months (n = 7), and 349 ± 8 μm at >6 months (n = 3). Catheter exchange resulted in a reduction in mean urine leukocytes (p = 0.0004) and bacteria per high-power field (p = 0.0061), but not complete elimination.

CONCLUSIONS: Biofilm forms on percutaneous nephrostomy/percutaneous nephroureteral catheters within a few days after placement and gradually progresses, occupying more than 200 μm of the luminal diameter by 2 months. Catheter exchange results in an immediate reduction in urine leukocytes and bacteriuria.},
}

@article {pmid42182865,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, Z and Zhu, F and Zhang, J and Feng, K and Abudourexiti, W and Li, S and Guo, Y and Chen, M and Yu, Z and Zhao, L and Guo, Z and Ding, C and Gong, J},
title = {Toward clinical translation: montmorillonite-enhanced Lactobacillus biofilm alleviates colitis by modulating the gut microbiota-bile acid axis.},
journal = {Materials today. Bio},
volume = {38},
number = {},
pages = {103211},
pmid = {42182865},
issn = {2590-0064},
abstract = {Oral probiotics hold therapeutic potential for ulcerative colitis (UC), but their low bioavailability greatly limits clinical efficacy. Here, we designed a montmorillonite-Lactobacillus acidophilus biofilm (MLB) delivery strategy to enhance probiotic stability, intestinal adhesion, and therapeutic efficiency. MLB was prepared by inducing the clinically common strain Lactobacillus acidophilus to form biofilms on montmorillonite, an antidiarrheal agent widely used in clinics. The in vitro assays demonstrated that montmorillonite significantly promoted biofilm formation, thereby improving bacterial survival in gastrointestinal conditions and enhancing mucosal adhesion. In vivo, MLB showed superior efficacy in alleviating DSS-induced colitis compared with free bacteria or non-biofilm mixtures. Mechanistically, MLB remodeled gut microbiota composition and restored microbial bile acid metabolism through elevated bile salt hydrolase activity. This led to increased production of secondary bile acids, which in turn promoted anti-inflammatory macrophage polarization and facilitated inflammation resolution. Together, these findings demonstrate that MLB enhances the efficacy of oral probiotics by targeting the microbiota-bile acid-immune axis, representing a safe and practical approach for UC treatment.},
}

@article {pmid42169339,
year = {2026},
author = {Ashrafudoulla, M and Yun, H and Rahman, MA and Jung, SJ and Ha, AJ and Chowdhury, MAH and Shaila, S and Akter, S and Park, SH and Ha, SD},
title = {Corrigendum to "Prophylactic efficacy of baicalin and carvacrol against Salmonella Typhimurium biofilm on food and food contact surfaces" [Food Res. Int. 187 (2024) 114458].},
journal = {Food research international (Ottawa, Ont.)},
volume = {237},
number = {},
pages = {119379},
doi = {10.1016/j.foodres.2026.119379},
pmid = {42169339},
issn = {1873-7145},
}

@article {pmid42171829,
year = {2026},
author = {Parra Rodríguez, V and Gómez, V and Pabón, LC and Hernández-Rodríguez, P},
title = {Effects of quercetin, baicalein, azithromycin, and their combination on biofilm formation, virulence factors and gene expression associated with Pseudomonas aeruginosa quorum sensing.},
journal = {Molecular biology reports},
volume = {53},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42171829},
issn = {1573-4978},
mesh = {*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/genetics/pathogenicity ; *Quorum Sensing/drug effects/genetics ; *Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; Virulence Factors/genetics/metabolism ; *Flavanones/pharmacology ; *Quercetin/pharmacology ; *Azithromycin/pharmacology ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial/drug effects ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Pyocyanine ; Trans-Activators/genetics ; Glycolipids ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a Gram-negative opportunistic pathogen commonly associated with acute and chronic hospital-acquired infections. Its ability to form biofilms, regulated in part by quorum sensing, contributes to its persistence and resistance. Classified as a critical priority pathogen by the World Health Organization, there is an urgent need for new therapeutic strategies. In this study, we evaluated the effects of quercetin, baicalein and azithromycin, alone and in combination, on biofilm formation, virulence factor production, and quorum sensing gene expression in P. aeruginosa PAO1.

METHODS AND RESULTS: The minimum inhibitory concentration of each compound was measured. The effect of each compound and their combinations on biofilm formation, elastases, pyocyanin and rhamnolipids were evaluated by spectrophotometric assays, and on lasR and mvfR gene expression by RT-qPCR. The minimum inhibitory concentrations of quercetin, baicalein and azithromycin were > 250, 62, and 16 µg/mL, respectively. The individual compound with the lowest percentage of biofilm formation was quercetin, followed by azithromycin and baicalein with 33%, 48%, and 51%, and the best combination was azithromycin-baicalein with 35%. Azithromycin and the mentioned combination showed the lowest production of elastases, pyocyanin and rhamnolipids (39% and 34%; 8% and 13%; 19% and 16%, respectively) and resulted in lasR and mvfR gene expression levels of 32% and 34%.

CONCLUSIONS: The combination of azithromycin-baicalein showed inhibitory effects on biofilm formation, virulence factors and gene expression of lasR and mvfR. These findings highlight the potential of combining natural products with antibiotics as a promising strategy to attenuate virulence and disrupt quorum sensing-regulated behaviors in P. aeruginosa.},
}

*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/genetics/pathogenicity
*Quorum Sensing/drug effects/genetics
*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
Virulence Factors/genetics/metabolism
*Flavanones/pharmacology
*Quercetin/pharmacology
*Azithromycin/pharmacology
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial/drug effects
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Pyocyanine
Trans-Activators/genetics
Glycolipids

@article {pmid42172460,
year = {2026},
author = {Gürpınar Tosun, Ö and Kart, D and Özsezen, B and Yalçın, EE and Emiralioğlu, N and Doğru Ersöz, D and Özçelik, U and Köseoğlu Eser, Ö},
title = {Comprehensive phenotypic characterization of Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates from cystic fibrosis patients: antimicrobial susceptibility, tolerance, hypermutation, biofilm formation, and antibiofilm activity.},
journal = {The Turkish journal of pediatrics},
volume = {68},
number = {2},
pages = {247-260},
doi = {10.24953/turkjpediatr.2026.6794},
pmid = {42172460},
issn = {2791-6421},
mesh = {Humans ; *Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/isolation & purification/genetics/physiology ; *Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Cystic Fibrosis/microbiology/complications ; Female ; Male ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Child ; *Pseudomonas Infections/microbiology/drug therapy ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Adolescent ; Phenotype ; Drug Resistance, Bacterial ; Child, Preschool ; Young Adult ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen that plays a critical role in chronic lung infections in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF), primarily due to its ability to form biofilms and develop antibiotic resistance. This study aimed to evaluate the biofilm-forming ability and antibiotic resistance profiles of P. aeruginosa isolates obtained from patients with CF, and to investigate the relationship between biofilm production and antimicrobial resistance.

METHODS: 151 P. aeruginosa isolates were collected from patients with CF attending a university hospital. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed using both broth microdilution and gradient diffusion methods. Phenotypic determination of virulence factors was performed using standard plate assays. Biofilm production was quantified using the crystal violet microtiter plate assay and Minimum Biofilm Eradication Concentration (MBEC) assay. Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate the association between biofilm formation and antibiotic resistance.

RESULTS: The median age of patients with CF was 11.5 years, with 51.7% being female. Although resistance to certain antibiotics was observed, overall resistance rates remained relatively low, with the highest rate being 11%. A total of 30 (19.9%) P. aeruginosa isolates, showing intra-zone growth, were positive for antibiotic tolerance, while 10 (6.6%) of the 151 isolates exhibited hypermutator phenotypes based on the phenotypic hypermutation test. Biofilm evaluation showed that 14% of isolates were strong biofilm producers, 35.8% moderate, and 21.9% weak. 75 P. aeruginosa isolates were assessed for antibiofilm activity using the MBEC assay. Diallyl disulfide alone showed no significant effect. Combined with ciprofloxacin, it reduced minimum biofilm inhibitory concentration (MBIC) in 16% of isolates, while 28% showed increased MBIC, suggesting antagonism. With tobramycin, 22.3% of isolates showed enhanced antibiofilm activity, indicated by a decrease in MBIC.

CONCLUSION: In our study, while a high level of biofilm production was observed among P. aeruginosa isolates from patients with CF, antibiotic resistance rates were found to be low. These results highlight the need for therapeutic strategies targeting biofilms to improve treatment outcomes in CF-related P. aeruginosa infections. Additionally, our data indicate that low ceftazidime resistance in this cohort supports the use of beta-lactam-based empirical strategies and carbapenem-sparing approaches, while recognizing that these findings may not be directly generalizable beyond the local context.},
}

Humans
*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/isolation & purification/genetics/physiology
*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Cystic Fibrosis/microbiology/complications
Female
Male
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Child
*Pseudomonas Infections/microbiology/drug therapy
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Adolescent
Phenotype
Drug Resistance, Bacterial
Child, Preschool
Young Adult

@article {pmid42172940,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, X and Fu, S and Guo, H and Wang, J and Shi, X and Yin, K and Li, J and Wang, Y and Tu, J and He, F and Xia, X},
title = {Echinatin from licorice exhibits antibacterial and anti-biofilm effects against Bacillus cereus: Mechanism and application in milk preservation.},
journal = {International journal of food microbiology},
volume = {458},
number = {},
pages = {111857},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2026.111857},
pmid = {42172940},
issn = {1879-3460},
abstract = {Bacillus cereus represents an increasing challenge to the dairy industry due to its biofilm-forming ability and multidrug resistance. In this study, echinatin, a flavonoid derived from licorice (Glycyrrhiza spp.), was identified as a potent antimicrobial agent. Echinatin exhibited significant inhibitory activity against both antibiotics sensitive (MIC, 50 μg/mL) and resistance B. cereus strains. Morphological observation, live/dead cell staining, and analyses of DNA and protein contents confirmed the antibacterial against B. cereus of echinatin. Furthermore, echinatin effectively dismantled biofilms based on the crystal violet and fluorescence staining, and extracellular polysaccharides, proteins and eDNA contents. Transcriptomic and RT-qPCR profiling showed that it combats B. cereus by disrupting ABC transporters and essential metabolic pathways (pyrimidine and amino acid). Furthermore, it notably inhibits toxin production, thereby reducing virulence alongside its direct antimicrobial effects. Additionally, echinatin exhibited excellent thermal stability (25-100 °C) and significantly suppressed B. cereus proliferation in a whole milk model. To the best of our knowledge, this study provides the first comprehensive evaluation integrating antibacterial, antibiofilm, transcriptomic, and food model validation of echinatin against both antibiotic-sensitive and multidrug-resistant B. cereus strains.},
}

@article {pmid42167474,
year = {2026},
author = {Tang, W and Zhang, Y and Zhang, J and Kong, D and Wang, D},
title = {Overcoming Biofilm Barriers in Periodontitis: A Lectin-Targeted Conjugate for Enhanced Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy.},
journal = {Journal of dentistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {106778},
doi = {10.1016/j.jdent.2026.106778},
pmid = {42167474},
issn = {1879-176X},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To address the limited efficacy of conventional antimicrobials against periodontal biofilms by developing a targeted antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) platform and evaluating its activity against key periodontal pathogens.

METHODS: The photosensitizer Rose Bengal was conjugated to the lectin Concanavalin A (ConA-RB). Its synthesis was spectroscopically confirmed. Antibacterial and antibiofilm activity against Porphyromonas gingivalis, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Fusobacterium nucleatum, and Prevotella intermedia was assessed following clinically relevant blue light irradiation, including bacterial uptake, viability, and membrane damage. Biocompatibility with human gingival fibroblasts was also evaluated following both short-term and prolonged exposure.

RESULTS: ConA-RB exhibited significantly superior antibacterial and antibiofilm activity compared to free Rose Bengal. This was attributed to an approximate 4-fold increase in bacterial uptake, mediated by specific lectin-carbohydrate recognition, leading to enhanced localized reactive oxygen species generation and profound membrane damage. ConA-RB effectively inhibited biofilm formation and significantly disrupted mature in vitro biofilms while maintaining favorable biocompatibility in tested cell models.

CONCLUSIONS: The ConA-RB bioconjugate is a potent, targeted, and biocompatible aPDT platform that substantially overcomes biofilm barriers. It represents a promising translational strategy for improving the clinical management of periodontitis.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: By leveraging targeted photodynamic therapy, this ConA-RB platform offers a precise method to eradicate deep-seated periodontal pathogens and disrupt biofilms without inducing acute cytotoxicity in gingival tissues. This approach holds significant potential to enhance clinical outcomes in periodontitis treatment, particularly in cases resistant to conventional therapy.},
}

@article {pmid42167755,
year = {2026},
author = {Goerlich, K and Solis, NV and Filler, SG and Mitchell, AP},
title = {Shared anti-biofilm targets of biofilm regulators Wor3 and Bcr1 in Candida albicans.},
journal = {Genetics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/genetics/iyag129},
pmid = {42167755},
issn = {1943-2631},
abstract = {Candida albicans is an opportunistic fungal pathogen and a component of the human microbiome. C. albicans virulence traits include biofilm production, which is governed by a large transcriptional network. Mutations of some biofilm regulators cause the same severe biofilm-defective phenotype in multiple clinical isolates. Mutations of others, such as Wor3, Bcr1, Ndt80, and Ume6, have mild or variable phenotypes among clinical isolates. We hypothesized that Wor3 may share functions with another variable-phenotype biofilm regulator. This hypothesis predicts that a double mutant lacking Wor3 and the shared-function regulator will have a severe biofilm defect in all clinical isolates. We observed that a wor3Δ/Δ bcr1Δ/Δ double mutant has a severe biofilm defect in vitro in 5 strain backgrounds tested. It also has a severe oral biofilm defect in a mouse oropharyngeal candidiasis model in the SC5314 strain background. RNA-seq data indicate that 5 genes encoding cell surface/secreted proteins are upregulated in wor3Δ/Δ, bcr1Δ/Δ, and wor3Δ/Δ bcr1Δ/Δ strains: CWH8, DAG7, JEN2, PGA6, and YWP1. Deletion mutations of CWH8, DAG7, PGA6, or YWP1 enable biofilm formation in vitro in an SC5314-derived wor3Δ/Δ bcr1Δ/Δ strain, and deletion of YWP1 enables biofilm formation in vitro in wor3Δ/Δ bcr1Δ/Δ strains from 4 other genetic backgrounds. YWP1 has been shown to have anti-biofilm activity previously, but CWH8, DAG7, and PGA6 are newly described anti-biofilm genes. Our study illustrates the value of strain variation considerations for gene function analysis and the importance of repression targets of biofilm regulators. In addition, our results expand the number of anti-biofilm genes.},
}

@article {pmid42168489,
year = {2026},
author = {Rimon, A and Braunstein, R and Yerushalmy, O and Katz, N and Yosef, L and Gvili, Y and Coppenhagen-Glazer, S and Hazan, R},
title = {CApEsid biOfilm: a suggested pipeline for clinical phage microbiology for biofilm infections based on comparative method study.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41598-026-52935-4},
pmid = {42168489},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {3015005777//Milgrom Family Support Program/ ; 2017123//United States-Israel Binational Science Foundation/ ; ISF1349/20//Israel Science Foundation IPMP Grant/ ; A2232//Rosetrees Trust/ ; },
abstract = {The rise of antibiotic-resistant infections, particularly those involving biofilms, presents a significant global health threat. Phage therapy, the use of bacteriophages as antimicrobial agents, offers promising solutions to this crisis. A critical component of phage therapy is the assessment of phage efficacy, in both the presence and absence of antibiotics, prior to clinical application. While considerable progress has been made using planktonic bacterial cultures, there remains an urgent need for standardized methods to evaluate phage efficacy against biofilms. In this study, we address this gap by systematically comparing ten different methods for quantifying phage activity in biofilm settings. Each method was evaluated using a panel of five anti-Pseudomonas aeruginosa phages, which were tested against both planktonic and biofilm cultures. Based on these comparisons, we propose a robust pipeline for detecting phage activity in biofilms. This pipeline, termed CApEsid biOfilm, integrates modified colony-forming unit (CFU) assays using stainless steel washers, crystal violet staining, extracellular DNA quantification using a dye, and extracellular ATP measurements. The pipeline was further validated with additional bacterial species and their respective phages. We also demonstrate its utility in detecting interactions between phages and antibiotics. Overall, this work presents a foundational pipeline that may enhance the clinical matching of phages for treating biofilm-associated infections, thereby improving the outcomes of phage therapy.},
}

@article {pmid42169092,
year = {2026},
author = {Kaczorek-Łukowska, E and Foksiński, P and Szyryńska, N and Maszewska, A and Krzyżaniak, M},
title = {In vitro concentration-dependent inhibition of early biofilm formation by Staphylococcus aureus isolated from dairy cattle using a bacteriophage cocktail.},
journal = {BMC veterinary research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12917-026-05565-x},
pmid = {42169092},
issn = {1746-6148},
abstract = {Bovine mastitis remains one of the most economically important diseases in dairy cattle, with Staphylococcus aureus being a major etiological agent, particularly in chronic and subclinical infections. The ability of S. aureus to form biofilms significantly contributes to antimicrobial tolerance and treatment failure, highlighting the need for alternative or adjunctive therapeutic approaches. Bacteriophage therapy has re-emerged as a promising strategy; however, data on its anti-biofilm efficacy against mastitis-associated S. aureus isolates are limited. In this study, we evaluated the anti-biofilm activity of a newly developed anti-Staphylococcus aureus bacteriophage cocktail against clinical isolates obtained from subclinical bovine mastitis. Twenty-eight non-duplicate field isolates of Staphylococcus aureus obtained from dairy cattle with subclinical mastitis on different farms in north-eastern Poland were examined using a MIC-like assay, followed by biofilm inhibition experiments conducted under high bacterial inoculum conditions. Biofilm formation was assessed after 24 and 48 h using crystal violet staining and confocal laser scanning microscopy with LIVE/DEAD™ fluorescence staining. Ultrastructural changes were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. MIC-like values did not correspond to concentrations effective against biofilm formation. Biofilm biomass and viability were reduced in a concentration- and time-dependent manner, with the most pronounced effects observed at higher bacteriophage concentrations. Microscopic analyses confirmed biofilm disruption and bacteriophage-induced cellular damage. These findings demonstrate the potential of bacteriophage cocktails as anti-biofilm agents and support further investigation of bacteriophage-based strategies targeting early biofilm development in veterinary staphylococcal infections. This in vitro study was designed to evaluate the concentration-dependent effects of bacteriophages on early biofilm development rather than clinical treatment efficacy.},
}

@article {pmid42169230,
year = {2026},
author = {Karadal, F and Ertas Onmaz, N and Bagci, C and Ucar, Y and Hizlisoy, H and Gonulalan, Z and Al, S},
title = {Co-Occurrence of Biofilm Formation and Disinfectant-Antimicrobial Resistance in Staphylococcus spp. Along the Dairy Production Chain.},
journal = {Journal of food science},
volume = {91},
number = {5},
pages = {e71131},
doi = {10.1111/1750-3841.71131},
pmid = {42169230},
issn = {1750-3841},
support = {SSB 2017/04-BAGEP//Nigde Omer Halisdemir University Scientific Research Council/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Disinfectants/pharmacology ; *Staphylococcus/drug effects/physiology/isolation & purification/genetics ; *Dairy Products/microbiology ; *Drug Resistance, Bacterial ; Animals ; Milk/microbiology ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Dairying ; Food Microbiology ; },
abstract = {This study aims to investigate the co-occurrence of biofilm formation and resistance to disinfectants and antimicrobial agents in Staphylococcus spp. isolated from different stages of the dairy production chain, and to assess the contribution of these traits to persistence in dairy processing environments. A total of 51 Staphylococcus isolates, including coagulase-positive and coagulase-negative species, were recovered from raw milk, dairy products, and food-contact surfaces after disinfection. Biofilm and slime formation were assessed phenotypically, while biofilm-associated (icaA, icaD, bap) and disinfectant resistance-associated genes [qac (A, B, C, G, H, J), mdeA, lmrS, and norA] were detected by PCR. Antimicrobial susceptibility was determined by disk diffusion, and disinfectant resistance by broth microdilution. Biofilm and/or slime formation was detected in 52.9% of isolates, including 89% of Staphylococcus aureus and 45.2% of coagulase-negative staphylococci. Resistance to oxacillin was highly prevalent (94.1%), followed by tetracycline (29.4%) and erythromycin (17.6%). Reduced susceptibility was most frequently observed for quaternary ammonium compound-based disinfectants (62.7%), whereas resistance to phosphate-acid-, chlorine-, and peracetic acid-based disinfectants ranged from 17.7% to 35.3%. According to the study results, Staphylococcus species combine biofilm-forming capacity with decreased susceptibility to commonly used disinfectants and high levels of antimicrobial resistance, with oxacillin and QACs resistance being particularly prevalent. Overall, the findings highlight the presence of resistant staphylococci in the dairy production chain and underscore the need for optimized hygiene and control strategies.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Disinfectants/pharmacology
*Staphylococcus/drug effects/physiology/isolation & purification/genetics
*Dairy Products/microbiology
*Drug Resistance, Bacterial
Animals
Milk/microbiology
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Dairying
Food Microbiology

@article {pmid42157443,
year = {2026},
author = {Dias, AS and de Oliveira, SD and Medina-Silva, R},
title = {High Resistance and Biofilm Tolerance to Antimicrobials of Marine Bacteria From Brazilian Deep-Sea Sediment.},
journal = {Environmental microbiology reports},
volume = {18},
number = {3},
pages = {e70364},
doi = {10.1111/1758-2229.70364},
pmid = {42157443},
issn = {1758-2229},
support = {0050.0096017.15.9//Petrobras/ ; 001//Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior/ ; Research Productivity Scholarships for SDO and RMS//Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Geologic Sediments/microbiology ; Brazil ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; *Bacteria/drug effects/isolation & purification/genetics/classification ; *Drug Resistance, Bacterial ; *Seawater/microbiology ; Pseudomonas/drug effects/isolation & purification ; },
abstract = {Antimicrobial resistance studies have focused on clinical bacteria, neglecting the role of resistant isolates in natural environments. However, oceans are daily contaminated with high loads of antimicrobials and resistant bacteria from agro-industrial and urban activities. Deep-sea sediment is a challenging environment that may select microbial strains with resistance to chemicals and ability to form biofilms, becoming a potential reservoir of resistance genes. We evaluated the susceptibility to antimicrobials of six Pseudomonas sp., five Bacillus sp., two Brevibacillus sp. and two Paenibacillus sp. from deep-sea sediments of the Pelotas Basin (Brazil) by the disk diffusion and microdilution tests. Pseudomonas and Bacillales were tested against 11 and 7 antimicrobials, respectively. Biofilms of susceptible isolates were exposed to antimicrobials to determine the minimum biofilm inhibitory concentration (MBIC) and the minimum biofilm eradication concentration (MBEC). All Pseudomonas were resistant to aztreonam at very high concentrations (up to 2048 μg/mL). MBIC values were significantly higher than respective MICs, and only one third of biofilms were eradicated. These results underscore the importance of the study, as one of the first reporting antimicrobial tolerance of biofilms of cultivable bacteria from deep-sea sediments, contributing to the knowledge of bacterial resistance in these environments, concerning One Health issues.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Geologic Sediments/microbiology
Brazil
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
*Bacteria/drug effects/isolation & purification/genetics/classification
*Drug Resistance, Bacterial
*Seawater/microbiology
Pseudomonas/drug effects/isolation & purification

@article {pmid42159611,
year = {2026},
author = {El-Liethy, MA and Hemdan, BA and El-Taweel, GE},
title = {Nanotechnology for water disinfection and biofilm control: mechanisms, applications, and future outlook.},
journal = {Discover nano},
volume = {21},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42159611},
issn = {2731-9229},
support = {51029//Science and Technology Development Fund/ ; },
abstract = {Nanotechnology has emerged as an advanced, sustainable approach to controlling the spread of waterborne pathogens in aquatic environments, addressing a critical global health challenge that causes millions of deaths each year. Increasing pressures from rapid population growth, industrial expansion, and climate change have heightened the need for innovative, efficient water treatment technologies. Although conventional disinfection methods, such as chlorination and ozonation, remain widely used, their use is often associated with the formation of harmful disinfection by-products (DBPs). These limitations have stimulated interest in nanomaterials as alternative antimicrobial agents. Nanoparticles exhibit strong antimicrobial activity, broad-spectrum effectiveness against viruses, bacteria, and protozoa, and a lower potential for by-product formation than traditional disinfectants. This review comprehensively evaluates nanoparticle classifications, synthesis strategies, and their functional advantages in water and wastewater treatment systems. It further explores the mechanisms underlying nanoparticle-mediated pathogen inactivation and biofilm disruption, while discussing current technological advancements and practical challenges. The limitations of conventional treatment approaches are also addressed in the context of emerging global water stressors. Overall, this review provides an integrated, up-to-date perspective on nanomaterial-based water disinfection and biofilm control, emphasizing the relationship between nanomaterial physicochemical properties and their antimicrobial performance.},
}

@article {pmid42159707,
year = {2026},
author = {Temel, A and Ateş, A},
title = {Empagliflozin modulates biofilm formation and virulence-associated gene expression in multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Acinetobacter baumannii.},
journal = {Archives of microbiology},
volume = {208},
number = {8},
pages = {},
pmid = {42159707},
issn = {1432-072X},
mesh = {*Glucosides/pharmacology ; *Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Acinetobacter baumannii/drug effects/genetics/pathogenicity/physiology ; *Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/genetics/pathogenicity/physiology ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Benzhydryl Compounds/pharmacology ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Humans ; Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/drug effects ; Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial/drug effects ; Virulence/genetics/drug effects ; *Sodium-Glucose Transporter 2 Inhibitors/pharmacology ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics ; Virulence Factors/genetics ; Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens represent a major global health threat, necessitating the development of alternative therapeutic strategies. Drug repurposing has emerged as a promising approach to identify non-antibiotic agents with antimicrobial and antivirulence potential. Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors, widely used as antidiabetic agents, have recently attracted attention due to their potential antimicrobial properties. However, evidence regarding the antimicrobial activity of SGLT-2 inhibitors, particularly empagliflozin (EMP), remains limited. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro antimicrobial and antibiofilm effects of EMP against clinical methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Acinetobacter baumannii isolates. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of empagliflozin were determined using the broth microdilution method. The antibiofilm activity of EMP was assessed spectrophotometrically, while its effect on bacterial cell viability was evaluated using a fluorometric resazurin assay. Additionally, changes in the expression of biofilm-related genes (icaA, icaD, bap, and adeG) were analyzed by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Empagliflozin demonstrated antimicrobial activity against tested clinical isolates MRSA (n = 3) and A. baumannii isolates (n = 3), with MIC values ranging from 3125 to 6250 µg/mL. EMP significantly inhibited biofilm formation in MRSA and A. baumannii strains by 79% and 85%, respectively. Gene expression analysis revealed downregulation of icaA and icaD in MRSA isolates, while bap and adeG expression levels were reduced by 85% and 64%, respectively, in A. baumannii strains. These preliminary and in vitro findings showed that empagliflozin could be a potential candidate for combating MDR pathogens. Further studies will be required to clarify its antimicrobial potential and underlying mechanisms of action.},
}

*Glucosides/pharmacology
*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Acinetobacter baumannii/drug effects/genetics/pathogenicity/physiology
*Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/genetics/pathogenicity/physiology
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Benzhydryl Compounds/pharmacology
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Humans
Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/drug effects
Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial/drug effects
Virulence/genetics/drug effects
*Sodium-Glucose Transporter 2 Inhibitors/pharmacology
Bacterial Proteins/genetics
Virulence Factors/genetics
Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology

@article {pmid42162010,
year = {2026},
author = {Yunda, E and Hagberg, A and Duteil, T and Francius, G and Gorzsás, A and Quilès, F and Ramstedt, M},
title = {Probing biofilm development, stress response and heterogeneity-spectroscopic characterization of single and multi-species consortia.},
journal = {NPJ biofilms and microbiomes},
volume = {12},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42162010},
issn = {2055-5008},
support = {2017-00403//Svenska Forskningsrådet Formas/ ; 2017-00403//Svenska Forskningsrådet Formas/ ; 2017-00403//Svenska Forskningsrådet Formas/ ; JCSMK23-0060//Kempestiftelserna/ ; JCSMK23-0060//Kempestiftelserna/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; Trimethoprim/pharmacology ; *Microbial Consortia ; *Stress, Physiological ; *Bacteria/drug effects/growth & development/isolation & purification/classification ; Sphingomonas/physiology/drug effects ; Spectrum Analysis, Raman ; Sweden ; Pseudomonas/drug effects/physiology/isolation & purification ; },
abstract = {Environmental bacterial biofilms play many roles in the ecosystem including cycling of nutrients and serving as food for grazing organisms. Their function is linked to their microbial and chemical composition that may be altered by several parameters including environmental stressors. This manuscript presents a well-characterized model system of four bacterial isolates from a small Swedish river: Pseudomonas sp., Sphingomonas sp., Rhizobium sp. and Pararhizobium sp. Microbiological and chemical phenotypes were investigated including cell and biofilm morphology, as well as biochemical composition in absence and presence of the drug trimethoprim. Vibrational spectroscopy, cryo-X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and confocal optical microscopy were applied to investigate and characterize monocultures and cocultures. The chemical characterization showed variation of the energy storage substance polyhydroxyalkanoates as well as polysaccharides between isolates and drug exposures. Spatial heterogeneities were observed using Raman microspectroscopy where Sphingomonas sp. cells, formed small clusters, inside the four species consortium, an organization that appeared to protect this isolate during exposure to trimethoprim.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
Trimethoprim/pharmacology
*Microbial Consortia
*Stress, Physiological
*Bacteria/drug effects/growth & development/isolation & purification/classification
Sphingomonas/physiology/drug effects
Spectrum Analysis, Raman
Sweden
Pseudomonas/drug effects/physiology/isolation & purification

@article {pmid42162164,
year = {2026},
author = {Enan, G and El-Wafa, NA and El-Saber, MM and Osman, A and Abdel-Shafi, S and Sitohy, M},
title = {Correction: "Salvia officinalis extract-conjugated magnetite and selenium nanocomposites showed enhanced antibacterial and anti-biofilm activity against multidrug-resistant pathogens".},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41598-026-53471-x},
pmid = {42162164},
issn = {2045-2322},
}

@article {pmid42162726,
year = {2026},
author = {Mihiretie, GD and Masoudi, S and Willcox, MDP},
title = {Formidable anti-biofilm and anti-adhesion effects of human lactoferrin against Pseudomonas aeruginosa.},
journal = {Experimental eye research},
volume = {269},
number = {},
pages = {111076},
doi = {10.1016/j.exer.2026.111076},
pmid = {42162726},
issn = {1096-0007},
abstract = {Lactoferrin, a natural iron-binding protein found in tears, possesses antimicrobial properties that may help combat colonisation of the ocular surface by pathogens such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This study examined how human lactoferrin affects P. aeruginosa adhesion, biofilm formation, and entry into corneal cells. Human lactoferrin antimicrobial, anti-biofilm, and anti-invasion effects against six P. aeruginosa strains were measured using minimum inhibitory concentration microdilution assays, crystal violet biofilm inhibition and degradation assays, and viable colony counts. Its ability to protect human corneal epithelial cells from bacterial invasion was tested using a gentamicin protection assay, while effects on bacterial motility were measured with a twitching assay. Data were analysed using unpaired t-tests with significance set at p ≤ 0.05. Lactoferrin showed strong inhibition and dispersal activity against six strong biofilm-forming P. aeruginosa strains (PA008, PA016, PA216, PA225, PA232, and ATCC19660). On average, lactoferrin inhibited biofilm formation by ≥ 75%, with 2 mg/mL causing the greatest reduction in biofilm biomass and viable cells. Lactoferrin degraded ≥60% of biofilm formed by P. aeruginosa. Lactoferrin also significantly reduced bacterial attachment and invasion (reduced by ≥ 80%; p = 0.01) into human corneal epithelial cells. Overall, these findings demonstrate that human lactoferrin inhibits P. aeruginosa biofilm development, disrupts established biofilms, and limits bacterial adhesion and invasion of corneal epithelial cells. This underscores its action as a natural antimicrobial and may be one reason why the ocular surface is paucimicrobial.},
}

@article {pmid42163912,
year = {2026},
author = {Ben Abdallah, F and Lagha, R and Boufahja, F and Mansour, W},
title = {Epidemiological analysis of biofilm-forming methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus clinical isolates.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1783787},
pmid = {42163912},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {*Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/isolation & purification/genetics/physiology ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; Humans ; *Staphylococcal Infections/epidemiology/microbiology ; Saudi Arabia/epidemiology ; Molecular Epidemiology ; Cross Infection/epidemiology/microbiology ; Genetic Variation ; Male ; Female ; Community-Acquired Infections/epidemiology/microbiology ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) remains a significant global concern in healthcare and community environments, posing serious risks to patients due to its ability to form biofilm. Monitoring and spread control of epidemic MRSA clones require robust epidemiological typing methods.

METHODS: In this study, 30 MRSA isolates associated with significant morbidity were recovered from King Abdulaziz Specialist Hospital, Taif, Saudi Arabia. The strains were identified using the Vitek 2 automated system. The ability of MRSA to form biofilm on a polystyrene surface was evaluated by the crystal violet method. Genetic diversity of the strains was assessed using three methods: repetitive PCR based on (GTG)5, BOXA1R sequences, and multiplex PCR of the staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec (SCCmec).

RESULTS: Out of the 30 MRSA isolates, 29 strains were both highly positive (40%) and low-grade positive (56.66%) biofilm producers. Molecular epidemiology based on multiplex PCR of SCCmec showed that 10% of the isolates harbor each of SCCmec IVa and V. While 13.33% of the strains harbor the SCCmec II. In addition, 20% of the isolates were commonly associated with community-acquired, in contrast to 13.33% that were commonly associated with hospital-acquired infections. However, the remaining 66.66% of isolates were not classified into the tested SCCmec types. PCR genomic fingerprinting revealed high genetic variability of MRSA. (GTG)5 and BOXA1R-PCR generated 26 and 28 clusters with a discriminatory index of 0.99 at 90% similarity.

CONCLUSION: MRSA isolates exhibited a high ability to produce biofilm, which can pose a serious public health problem. The quantification of biofilm in different clonal lineages is of great importance to develop effective antimicrobial policy and enhance biofilm management during infection. MRSA strains demonstrated significant genetic variability, indicating substantial genetic diversity. (GTG)5 and BOXA1R-PCR molecular typing methods are reliable for the epidemiological tracking of highly biofilm-forming MRSA strains in hospital environments and can provide essential insights into controlling the spread of MRSA infections.},
}

*Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/isolation & purification/genetics/physiology
*Biofilms/growth & development
Humans
*Staphylococcal Infections/epidemiology/microbiology
Saudi Arabia/epidemiology
Molecular Epidemiology
Cross Infection/epidemiology/microbiology
Genetic Variation
Male
Female
Community-Acquired Infections/epidemiology/microbiology

@article {pmid42164746,
year = {2026},
author = {Shakhatreh, MAK and Atawneh, FH and Swedan, SF and Khabour, OF and Alzoubi, KH},
title = {Vaginal Colonization by Streptococcus agalactiae Among Pregnant Women in Jordan: Antimicrobial Resistance, Virulence Genes, and Biofilm Formation.},
journal = {Infection and drug resistance},
volume = {19},
number = {},
pages = {590493},
pmid = {42164746},
issn = {1178-6973},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Streptococcus agalactiae is a major cause of neonatal sepsis. This research aims to determine the prevalence of vaginal colonization by Streptococcus agalactiae among pregnant women attending antenatal care at a tertiary hospital in Irbid, Jordan, and to characterize the antimicrobial resistance patterns, biofilm-forming capacity, and virulence and resistance gene profiles of the isolates.

METHODS: A total of 346 pregnant women were included in the study. The antibiotic susceptibility of the isolates was determined using the Kirby-Bauer method. The ability to produce biofilms was evaluated qualitatively using the Congo red agar method and quantitatively using the tissue culture plate biofilm formation assay. PCR was used to screen the isolates for specific virulence (scpB, lmb) and antimicrobial resistance genes (ermB, ermTR, mefA, mefE, and linB).

RESULTS: Thirty-nine pregnant women (11.3%) tested positive for S. agalactiae. The highest rate of antibiotic resistance was against tetracycline (87.2%), followed by erythromycin (33.3%), and then ofloxacin and levofloxacin (12.8% each). All isolates were susceptible (100%) to ampicillin, meropenem, vancomycin, cefotaxime, rifampin, and cefepime. All isolates demonstrated biofilm production. ScpB and lmb were present in 92.3% and 97.4% of the isolates, respectively. ScpB was significantly associated with lmb. Resistance genes were identified at the following rates: ermB, ermTR, and mefE at 15.4% each, mefA at 10.3%, and linB at 5.1%. The linB and the mefE genes were significantly associated with nonsusceptibility to erythromycin, whereas the mefA gene was significantly associated with susceptibility to tetracycline (P<0.01).

CONCLUSION: The prevalence of S. agalactiae among pregnant women was relatively low. However, the ScpB and lmb virulence genes were frequently present among the isolates. In addition, all S. agalactiae were biofilm formers. Therefore, the implementation of rigorous, standardized, and timely intervention to manage S. agalactiae in women who test positive is vital to reduce vertical transmission of this pathogen to newborns.},
}

@article {pmid42164970,
year = {2026},
author = {Waheed, A and Khan, TA and Ahmad, S and Ahmed, F and Khan, Z},
title = {Convergence of multidrug resistance with biofilm formation and hypermucoviscosity in Klebsiella pneumoniae from tertiary-care hospitals in Northwestern Pakistan.},
journal = {Antimicrobial stewardship & healthcare epidemiology : ASHE},
volume = {6},
number = {1},
pages = {e143},
pmid = {42164970},
issn = {2732-494X},
abstract = {This multicenter study describes the convergence of multidrug resistance, biofilm formation, and hypermucoviscosity in Klebsiella pneumoniae clinical isolates from tertiary-care hospitals in Pakistan. The high prevalence of these phenotypes highlights significant therapeutic challenges and underscores the need for strengthened surveillance, infection control, and antimicrobial stewardship.},
}

@article {pmid42165693,
year = {2026},
author = {Feng, J and Luo, H and Zhang, Z and Wang, Z and Wang, M},
title = {Molecular mechanisms and applications of antimicrobial secondary metabolites of Bacillus subtilis based on biofilm and quorum sensing.},
journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0024126},
doi = {10.1128/aem.00241-26},
pmid = {42165693},
issn = {1098-5336},
abstract = {Antimicrobial resistance remains a significant global threat to human health, but microorganisms have long been a crucial source of novel antibiotics. The widely distributed gram-positive bacterium Bacillus subtilis produces an abundance of secondary metabolites, and their antibacterial activities could have significant applications in food, agriculture, and aquaculture areas. These secondary metabolites exert antibacterial effects through mechanisms such as microbial cell membrane structure disruption, cell wall synthesis interference, and cellular metabolic activity inhibition. In contrast to microorganisms such as Streptomyces, B. subtilis forms characteristic biofilms and exhibits quorum sensing, which play important roles in the production of secondary metabolites and their antimicrobial effects. However, limited attention has been focused on the unique molecular mechanisms associated with biofilms and quorum sensing. In this review, we first summarize the typical secondary metabolites produced by B. subtilis. We then mainly focus on the molecular mechanisms associated with the regulation of biofilms and quorum sensing by antimicrobial secondary metabolites, and the effects of biofilms and quorum sensing on the biosynthesis of antimicrobial secondary metabolites. The applications of antimicrobial secondary metabolites in the fields of food, agriculture, and fisheries, based on the regulation of biofilm and quorum sensing, are also summarized. Finally, we highlight the need for further research into the regulatory networks related to biofilms, quorum sensing, and metabolites to facilitate a deeper understanding of the antimicrobial properties of B. subtilis, which may provide theoretical support for the development of novel antimicrobial food technologies.},
}

@article {pmid42167087,
year = {2026},
author = {Qiu, C and Zheng, L and Wang, H and Chu, Y and Wang, Q and Chen, Y and Song, Y and Fang, C},
title = {Effects of polymer type and aging on enrichment of antibiotic resistance genes and pathogens in biofilm on microplastics in biological wastewater treatment.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {409},
number = {},
pages = {129931},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2026.129931},
pmid = {42167087},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {Microplastics (MPs) in biological wastewater treatment provide a unique niche for the enrichment of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and pathogenic bacteria, yet the comparative roles of biodegradability and aging are not well-defined. This study investigated the biofilm properties, microbial community structure, and enrichment of ARGs and pathogens on pristine and UV-aged biodegradable (polylactic acid, PLA) and non-biodegradable (polystyrene, PS; polyethylene terephthalate, PET) microplastics. Pristine and UV-aged MPs were incubated in a sequencing batch reactor for 30 days to facilitate biofilm development. Microbial community assembly was analyzed via high-throughput sequencing, while targeted ARGs and integrase genes were quantified through real-time PCR. The surface biofilm biomass was ranked as PLA > PET > PS and increased by UV-aging treatment. PLA enriched more qnrA and drfA1 genes than PS and PET, whereas PS favored tetC, aac(6')-Ib-cr and ermB genes, and UV-aging promoted selective enrichment of ARGs and integrase genes on UV-aged MPs, particularly on UV aged PLA. Stochastic processes were found to dominate community assembly, and aging was observed to increase the number of bacterial genera positively correlated with ARGs. Both polymer type and aging status are critical keys of the plastisphere's biological risks in wastewater systems. These findings offer new insights into the health risks of ARGs and pathogenic bacteria enriched on different types of MPs.},
}

@article {pmid42155826,
year = {2026},
author = {Pumpuang, L and Kingcha, Y and Chaipreecha, W and Petchkongkaew, A and Woraprayote, W},
title = {Anti-biofilm properties of a plantaricin J-containing culture supernatant from Lactiplantibacillus plantarum AV3: potential for inhibiting and reducing bacterial biofilms on food-contact surfaces.},
journal = {Journal of food protection},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {100815},
doi = {10.1016/j.jfp.2026.100815},
pmid = {42155826},
issn = {1944-9097},
abstract = {Biofilm-forming foodborne pathogens are persistent contaminants on food-contact surfaces, and natural antimicrobials may provide adjunctive control strategies. This study characterized an antimicrobial peptide produced by Lactiplantibacillus plantarum AV3, isolated from Thai fermented fruit, and evaluated the antibiofilm activity of the neutralized plantaricin J-containing cell-free supernatant. The principal antimicrobial compound was purified by chromatography and identified by LC-MS/MS as plantaricin J. Purified AV3-derived plantaricin J displayed rapid and potent bactericidal activity against key Gram-positive foodborne pathogens, particularly Listeria monocytogenes (MIC = 0.003 mg/mL), and also inhibited the Gram-negative pathogen Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium (MIC = 0.012 mg/mL). Its stability under heat, broad pH range, and tolerance to organic solvents further support its applicability across diverse food systems. While a gradual decline in activity occurred during extended cold storage, effective inhibition persisted for up to two months, depending on the target organism. Importantly, the neutralized plantaricin J-containing supernatant (1 mg protein/mL; approximately 0.625 μg/mL purified plantaricin J activity-equivalents) exhibited dual anti-biofilm activities, both preventing biofilm formation and reducing the viable cells in pre-formed biofilms on stainless steel, silicone tubing, and rubber by approximately 3.0 log CFU/8 cm[2] for L. monocytogenes and 1.0 log CFU/8 cm[2] for S. Typhimurium. These findings identify AV3-derived plantaricin J as a stable bactericidal peptide and its culture supernatant as a promising biofilm-reducing preparation, particularly against L. monocytogenes. Further validation using commercial sanitizer controls, mixed-species biofilms, and industrially relevant conditions is warranted.},
}