@article {pmid42057785,
year = {2026},
author = {Yang, B and Wu, Z and Cui, X and Yi, Y and Chen, F and Wu, G},
title = {Polymethyl methacrylate microplastics affect oral microbiota diversity and Streptococcus mutans biofilm formation.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1811667},
pmid = {42057785},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)-a widely applied dental resin-based material-contributes to oral PMMA microplastics (PMMA-MPs) exposure through masticating. PMMA-MPs may facilitate pathogen adhesion, posing substantial risks to oral health. Dental caries represents the most prevalent chronic infectious oral disease, characterized by progressive lesions that may induce pain, tooth structure loss, and compromised masticatory efficiency. Streptococcus mutans have been widely identified as the primary etiological agents responsible for caries pathogenesis. This study aimed to investigate the effects of PMMA-MPs on oral microbiota closely associated with dental caries.

METHODS: The impacts of PMMA-MPs were assessed using a standardized murine oral exposure model, followed by the quantification of PMMA-MPs-associated shifts in oral microbiota using high-throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Compared with the control group, PMMA-MPs significantly altered the diversity of oral microbial communities in mice, with a notable increase in the relative abundance of Streptococcus. Based on the 16S sequencing results, S. mutans was selected for subsequent in vitro experiments.

RESULTS: PMMA-MPs markedly enhanced the growth, biofilm formation, and virulence factor synthesis of S. mutans. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that PMMA-MPs may promote biofilm formation through pathways including ABC transporters, quorum sensing, and purine metabolism. Additionally, PMMA-MPs exposure enhanced bacterial antibiotic tolerance.

DISCUSSION: Overall, our results revealed that PMMA-MPs can alter the composition of the oral microbial community, while enhancing both the virulence factors and antibiotic tolerance of S. mutans biofilms.},
}

@article {pmid42058172,
year = {2026},
author = {Cavallo, I and Sivori, F and Truglio, M and Francalancia, M and Abril, E and Fabrizio, G and Petrolo, S and Maione, F and Prignano, G and Mastrofrancesco, A and Pimpinelli, F and Di Domenico, EG},
title = {Clonal lineage and biofilm growth shape cefiderocol activity in Acinetobacter baumannii from oncology patients.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1788718},
pmid = {42058172},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; Humans ; *Acinetobacter baumannii/drug effects/genetics/isolation & purification/classification/physiology ; *Cephalosporins/pharmacology ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Cefiderocol/pharmacology ; beta-Lactamases/genetics ; Whole Genome Sequencing ; *Acinetobacter Infections/microbiology/drug therapy ; Multilocus Sequence Typing ; *Neoplasms/complications ; Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Acinetobacter baumannii is a leading cause of healthcare-associated infections in immunocompromised patients and frequently exhibits multidrug resistance. Cefiderocol, a siderophore cephalosporin, is among the few remaining therapeutic options for infections caused by carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii (CRAB); however, its activity may differ by clonal lineage and can be further compromised in the biofilm state. This study investigates genomic features and cefiderocol efficacy against planktonic and biofilm-associated forms of oncology-derived A. baumannii isolates.

METHODS: Twenty-five non-duplicate, consecutive clinical isolates of A. baumannii from oncology patients underwent whole-genome sequencing and multilocus sequence typing. Cefiderocol activity was quantified in planktonic and biofilm-associated states using minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) and minimum biofilm eradication concentration (MBEC) assays.

RESULTS: Ten sequence types were identified, with the high-risk sequence type 2 (ST2) clone accounting for 56% (14/25) of isolates. ST2 strains showed significantly higher resistance to aminoglycosides, carbapenems, and fluoroquinolones than non-ST2 (NST) strains. The carbapenemase gene bla OXA-23 was detected exclusively in ST2. Colistin and cefiderocol were the most active agents overall. ST2 strains showed higher cefiderocol MBC values than NST strains. However, avibactam significantly reduced cefiderocol MBC in ST2, consistent with class D β-lactamases activity. ST2 and NST isolates exhibited comparable distributions of iron acquisition genes and similar CAS-detected siderophore activity under the assay conditions tested. Cefiderocol activity was significantly reduced in biofilms relative to planktonic cells (median MBEC 2 µg/ml versus median MBC 0.5 µg/ml). NST exhibited higher MBEC/MBC ratios than ST2 isolates, indicating greater biofilm-associated tolerance to cefiderocol.

DISCUSSION: Collectively, these data associate the predominance of oncology-derived ST2 with bla OXA-23 carriage and higher cefiderocol bactericidal thresholds and show that cefiderocol activity is consistently reduced in the biofilm state. Future studies integrating functional measures of iron acquisition and β-lactamase activity will be needed to define the determinants of cefiderocol efficacy across lineages and growth states.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
Humans
*Acinetobacter baumannii/drug effects/genetics/isolation & purification/classification/physiology
*Cephalosporins/pharmacology
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Cefiderocol/pharmacology
beta-Lactamases/genetics
Whole Genome Sequencing
*Acinetobacter Infections/microbiology/drug therapy
Multilocus Sequence Typing
*Neoplasms/complications
Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial
Bacterial Proteins/genetics

@article {pmid42058173,
year = {2026},
author = {Rademacher, A and Ekat, K and Skusa, R and Scharnagl, L and Knipp, F and Warnke, C and Marcinek, J and Tobien, S and Frank, M and Khaimov, V and Rohde, H and Kreikemeyer, B and Oehmcke-Hecht, S},
title = {Bacterial factors required for biofilm formation in Staphylococcus epidermidis are linked to contact activation.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1802218},
pmid = {42058173},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Staphylococcus epidermidis/genetics/physiology/growth & development/metabolism ; Humans ; Polysaccharides, Bacterial/genetics/metabolism ; Blood Coagulation ; Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics ; Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology ; N-Acetylmuramoyl-L-alanine Amidase/genetics/metabolism ; Factor XII/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Staphylococcus epidermidis is a leading cause of device-associated bloodstream infections, where biofilm formation contributes to persistence in direct contact with host plasma. While extracellular matrix components are central to biofilm development, their functional consequences at the host-pathogen interface remain incompletely understood. Here, we investigated whether bacterial factors required for biofilm formation are associated with activation of the intrinsic coagulation pathway in human plasma. Clinical isolates of S. epidermidis that accelerated clotting time in plasma also showed stronger biofilm formation. S. epidermidis mutants, deficient in polysaccharide intercellular adhesin (PIA) or the autolysin AtlE were impaired in biofilm formation and had prolonged clotting times compared to their wild type. The wild-type strain induced activation of factor XII and plasma kallikrein, accelerated intrinsic coagulation, and degraded high-molecular-weight kininogen, effects absent in the AtlE and PIA mutants. Notably, DNase I treatment of the wild-type strain prolonged intrinsic coagulation time and prevented high-molecular-weight kininogen degradation, identifying bacterial extracellular DNA as a possible central driver of contact activation. The D5-derived peptide HKH20, previously shown to inhibit contact activation, also reduced S. epidermidis-induced activation of contact factors. In plasma, HKH20 decreased the formation and size of bacterial aggregates and altered biofilm architecture by modulating fibrin network formation. Together, these findings identify extracellular DNA and PIA as biofilm-relevant bacterial factors that are linked to contact system activation and intrinsic coagulation in plasma, highlighting an unexpected functional interface between biofilm matrix components and host plasma defense mechanisms.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Staphylococcus epidermidis/genetics/physiology/growth & development/metabolism
Humans
Polysaccharides, Bacterial/genetics/metabolism
Blood Coagulation
Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics
Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology
N-Acetylmuramoyl-L-alanine Amidase/genetics/metabolism
Factor XII/metabolism

@article {pmid42058217,
year = {2026},
author = {Tan, S and Lai, J and Yu, S},
title = {Biofilm adaptation and mucosal immune dysregulation in recalcitrant chronic rhinosinusitis: from pathogenesis to a therapeutic roadmap.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1797096},
pmid = {42058217},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; *Sinusitis/immunology/therapy/microbiology ; Chronic Disease ; *Rhinitis/immunology/therapy/microbiology ; *Immunity, Mucosal ; *Nasal Mucosa/immunology/microbiology ; Animals ; Dysbiosis ; Rhinosinusitis ; },
abstract = {The management of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is frequently complicated by treatment recalcitrance, a phenomenon primarily driven by the persistence of microbial biofilms. Beyond their traditional role as a physical barrier against antibiotics, recent evidence positions biofilms as sophisticated immune modulators that actively perpetuate mucosal dysbiosis. This review synthesizes the pathological continuum of biofilm-associated CRS, elucidating how biofilm derived pathogen associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) trigger the release of epithelial alarmins (TSLP, IL-33, IL-25), thereby fueling a maladaptive Type 2 inflammatory loop. We further examine bacterial survival strategies, such as the formation of small colony variants (SCVs) and intracellular "Trojan Horse" reservoirs, which render conventional functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) and antimicrobial monotherapies insufficient for complete eradication. Crucially, we discuss the current diagnostic disconnect where standard cultures fail to detect biofilm burdens. Finally, we propose a therapeutic paradigm shift from a purely bactericidal approach to one of ecological restoration. By integrating cutting-edge strategies, including matrix-degrading enzymes, bacteriophage cocktails, and Nasal Microbiota Transplantation (NMT), we construct a multi-dimensional framework aiming to restore sinonasal homeostasis. Together, these emerging strategies support a shift from pathogen suppression alone toward ecological and immunologic rebalancing of the sinonasal mucosa, offering a more durable conceptual framework for overcoming treatment recalcitrance.},
}

Humans
*Biofilms/growth & development
*Sinusitis/immunology/therapy/microbiology
Chronic Disease
*Rhinitis/immunology/therapy/microbiology
*Immunity, Mucosal
*Nasal Mucosa/immunology/microbiology
Animals
Dysbiosis
Rhinosinusitis

@article {pmid42060102,
year = {2025},
author = {Baek, J and Lee, J and Jeong, YJ and Oh, SY and Kang, SS},
title = {Inhibition of Salmonella Typhimurium Biofilm Formation, Adhesion, and Invasion by Whey Beverage Supplemented with Triticum dicoccum (Farro) Enzyme.},
journal = {Food science of animal resources},
volume = {45},
number = {2},
pages = {648-661},
doi = {10.5851/kosfa.2025.e5},
pmid = {42060102},
issn = {2636-0780},
abstract = {Triticum dicoccum (Farro) an ancient wheat species has recently gained attention for its exceptional health benefits. However, research on its antibacterial and anti-biofilm properties remains limited. Additionally, a growing trend has been observed in releasing enriched or fortified whey beverages to enhance their functionality. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the inhibitory effects of whey beverages supplemented with enzyme-rich fermented farro (WF) on Salmonella Typhimurium biofilm formation and explore the underlying mechanisms. Treatment with WF significantly reduced biofilm formation and viability of S. Typhimurium. Moreover, WF decreased the bacterial adhesion to and invasion of human intestinal epithelial cells. WF also inhibited gene expression associated with motility and initial adhesion in S. Typhimurium, as well as genes involved in quorum sensing (QS), in a concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, WF suppressed the production of the QS signaling molecule autoinducer-2 in a similar concentration-dependent manner. Consequently, our findings indicate that the addition of enzyme-rich fermented farro to whey beverage enhances anti-biofilm activity, which is probably attributed to its antimicrobial effects, inhibition of initial adhesion, and QS reduction. These findings offer a promising basis for developing fortified dairy beverages that can enhance food safety and promote human health.},
}

@article {pmid42060315,
year = {2026},
author = {Gómez, RA and Silvero C, MJ and Becerra, MC and Vitorino, GP},
title = {Synergistic antibacterial activity of norfloxacin and sulfadiazine against planktonic and biofilm-forming multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli strain.},
journal = {FEMS microbiology letters},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/femsle/fnag054},
pmid = {42060315},
issn = {1574-6968},
abstract = {Antimicrobial resistance represents a major global health concern, particularly in countries where multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens are widespread. Biofilm formation further complicates therapeutic strategies. This study investigated the synergistic effects of combining norfloxacin (NOR) and sulfadiazine (SDZ) against three Escherichia coli strains: a reference, a quinolone-resistant clinical isolate, and a highly resistant extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing strain. Checkerboard assays and isobolograms revealed synergistic or partially synergistic effects across all strains, with Fractional Inhibitory Concentration Index (FICI) values ranging from 0.37 to 1.0. Notably, the ESBL strain displayed enhanced synergy (FICI = 0.75) under white LED light irradiation. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) analysis showed that SDZ generated higher levels than NOR, particularly in the quinolone-resistant clinical isolate, while the NOR-SDZ combination yielded lower levels. Scanning electron microscopy of biofilms confirmed that the drug combination caused greater structural disruption than either monotherapy, especially at NOR (FIC × 100) and SDZ (FIC × 10). Subinhibitory monotherapies modulated the biofilm phenotype, underscoring the benefits of combined treatments. Overall, these findings highlight the NOR-SDZ combination as a promising therapeutic approach against MDR E. coli, where drug synergy and biofilm disruption emerge as key strategies to combat antimicrobial resistance.},
}

@article {pmid42060701,
year = {2026},
author = {Da Costa, RM and Rooke, JL and Morris, FC and Yang, Z and Lian, ZJ and Rossiter, AE and Cole, JA and Forde, B and Cunningham, AF and Henderson, IR},
title = {SeaB is a conserved Salmonella enterica extracellular matrix binding protein involved in biofilm formation and infection.},
journal = {Infection and immunity},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0075425},
doi = {10.1128/iai.00754-25},
pmid = {42060701},
issn = {1098-5522},
abstract = {Salmonella enterica is a leading cause of gastroenteritis worldwide. Exacerbating this issue is the emergence of multi-drug-resistant strains, posing a major threat to human health. Type 5 secretion system proteins play a major role in virulence and are viable vaccine targets. However, only a limited number of these proteins have been functionally characterized to date. In this study, we characterized SeaB, which belongs to the Type 5a secretion system. We demonstrated that SeaB is localized to the cell surface and involved in binding to the extracellular matrix. Our results indicate that SeaB is involved in aggregation and biofilm formation and contributes to virulence. Furthermore, immunization with SeaB elicits antibodies and provides protection against Salmonella challenge in a mouse model of infection.},
}

@article {pmid42061103,
year = {2026},
author = {Aliniay-Sharafshadehi, S and Sheykhhasan, M and Sharifi, K and Ansari-Mohseni, A and Yousefi, MH and Afkhami, H and Mehdipour, A and Aghaali, M},
title = {Dental Pulp Stem Cells for the Management of Plaque Biofilm-Associated Infections : A Review.},
journal = {International dental journal},
volume = {76},
number = {4},
pages = {109559},
doi = {10.1016/j.identj.2026.109559},
pmid = {42061103},
issn = {1875-595X},
abstract = {This structured narrative review synthesises current evidence (2000-2025) on the antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and regenerative properties of dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) in the context of plaque-induced gingivitis and oral biofilm infections. We systematically reviewed peer-reviewed literature from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science via keywords related to DPSCs, oral biofilms, antimicrobial peptides (eg, β-defensins, LL-37), and immunomodulation. Unlike conventional antimicrobial therapies that solely target pathogen eradication, DPSCs offer a dual-function strategy: (1) direct microbial control through the secretion of antimicrobial peptides that disrupt Porphyromonas gingivalis and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans and (2) resolution of inflammation via macrophage M2 polarisation, suppression of IL-1β/TNF-α (Interleukin-1β and Tumor Necrosis Factor-α), and microbiome rebalancing. Additionally, DPSCs support periodontal tissue regeneration through trophic signalling and differentiation into periodontal lineage cells. Critically, no clinical trials to date have evaluated DPSCs for the management of gingivitis. This review highlights DPSCs as promising, antibiotic-sparing therapeutic candidate and outlines key knowledge gaps for future translational research.},
}

@article {pmid42061232,
year = {2026},
author = {Kong, L and Li, W and Shinoda, N and Sagita, ND and Li, W and Li, W and Li, F},
title = {Silver-loaded granular activated carbon for fixed-bed drinking water treatment: antibacterial effect in both water and biofilm phases and impact on organic matter removal.},
journal = {Chemosphere},
volume = {404},
number = {},
pages = {144934},
doi = {10.1016/j.chemosphere.2026.144934},
pmid = {42061232},
issn = {1879-1298},
abstract = {Silver-loaded activated carbon (Ag/AC) was synthesized via an impregnation method and evaluated in a 180-day continuous-flow column system treating natural river water to investigate its long-term antibacterial performance and likely impact on organic matter removal. Compared with activated carbon before silver loading (AC), Ag/AC suppressed bacterial proliferation and biofilm development during operation, as indicated by lower bacterial counts and reduced 16S rDNA copy numbers in both effluent and attached biofilm. During the operation, bacterial accumulation and biofilm growth increased, and an elevation in effluent 16S rDNA was observed prior to hydraulic cleaning at day 140. After cleaning, antibacterial performance improved. Silver loading slightly reduced the removal efficiency of dissolved organic matter (DOM) including humic-like, fulvic-like, and protein-like components, as well as p-nitrophenol (PNP), a representative low-molecular-weight organic compound. Longer empty bed contact time (EBCT) enhanced both antibacterial performance and organic matter removal. Overall, Ag/AC exhibited sustained antibacterial activity throughout the 180-day operation, while showing slightly lower organic matter removal compared with AC. These findings could contribute to better understanding of the long-term operational behaviour of Ag-modified activated carbon in drinking water treatment.},
}

@article {pmid42051042,
year = {2026},
author = {Teklay, YT},
title = {Synergies of Quorum Sensing and Biofilm Dynamics in the Bioremediation of Emerging Medical Organic Pollutants.},
journal = {TheScientificWorldJournal},
volume = {2026},
number = {1},
pages = {e5568616},
doi = {10.1155/tswj/5568616},
pmid = {42051042},
issn = {1537-744X},
mesh = {*Quorum Sensing/physiology ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; *Biodegradation, Environmental ; Bioreactors/microbiology ; Pseudomonas aeruginosa ; },
abstract = {Emerging organic pollutants in medical waste present significant environmental challenges. Bioremediation is an eco-friendly and cost-effective solution, leveraging natural processes to effectively mitigate these risks. So, this review aims to discuss the role of microbial biofilm and quorum sensing in the bioremediation of these pollutants, with a special focus on their mechanism of action, application, and potential. The review begins with an overview of emerging organic pollutants, the importance of bioremediation, the basics of quorum sensing, and its significance in a microbial consortium. Key findings indicate that technological applications such as engineered biofilm bioreactors, electroactive biofilms in microbial fuel cells, co-culture systems, and genetic engineering of QS pathways significantly accelerate pollutant mitigation compared to traditional methods. For instance, specific case studies (e.g., Pseudomonas aeruginosa in pharmaceutical degradation) demonstrate the efficacy of QS-mediated metabolic control. A key conclusion is that leveraging these integrated QS-biofilm systems can surpass conventional waste degradation approaches. However, limitations include the difficulty of scaling up laboratory nanobioremediation systems and the complexity of interspecies signaling in real-world applications. Future research bottlenecks must prioritize investigating the stability of QS signals within complex wastewater matrices impacted by variables like pH and indigenous quorum-quenching microorganisms and developing precise biofilm control strategies through QS manipulation to optimize architecture for targeted degradation. Bridging these gaps through real-scale validation is essential to transition these promising laboratory-scale technologies into practical environmental applications. This review serves as a benchmark for developing immediate, bio-based solutions to mitigate the risks posed by EMOPs.},
}

*Quorum Sensing/physiology
*Biofilms/growth & development
*Biodegradation, Environmental
Bioreactors/microbiology
Pseudomonas aeruginosa

@article {pmid42052175,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, X and Liu, Y and Geng, Z and Guo, Y},
title = {Synthesis and antibacterial activity study of anti-biofilm agents based on American oyster defensin analog A4.},
journal = {RSC advances},
volume = {16},
number = {24},
pages = {21655-21666},
pmid = {42052175},
issn = {2046-2069},
abstract = {Chronic infections caused by bacterial biofilms represent a challenging clinical issue. The formation of biofilms markedly complicates the treatment of bacterial infections and frequently contributes to the development of drug-resistant strains. Anti-biofilm agents, encompassing a class of chemically or biologically active substances, are capable of inhibiting the formation of microbial biofilms or disrupting pre-existing biofilm structures. Antimicrobial peptides, as anti-biofilm agents, effectively interfere with the formation and stability of biofilms. As an analog of American oyster defensin (AOD), A4 displays superior antibacterial activity, diverse modes of action (including DNA interaction and inhibition of DNA amplification), and low toxicity. The purpose of this study is to develop new anti-biofilm agents with higher activity and better stability based on A4. By tuning amino acid configuration and substituting disulfide bonds, four analogs (D-A4, A4-T1, A4-T2, and A4-T3) were designed and synthesized. Results of antibacterial assays indicated that all analogs maintained broad-spectrum antibacterial activity, with D-A4 exhibiting enhanced antibacterial efficacy. Crystal violet staining assays demonstrated that D-A4 effectively inhibited biofilm formation at concentrations as low as 1/2 × MIC. Stability assays revealed that D-A4 exhibited high stability in both proteolytic and serum environments. With potent activity, excellent stability, and low toxicity, D-A4 holds great promise as an anti-biofilm agent against multidrug-resistant bacterial infections.},
}

@article {pmid42052294,
year = {2026},
author = {Brümmer, N and Behrens, K and Doll-Nikutta, K and Pott, PC and Stiesch, M},
title = {Synergistic potential of antibiotics against an in vitro multispecies biofilm model for peri-implantitis.},
journal = {Frontiers in bioengineering and biotechnology},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1800253},
pmid = {42052294},
issn = {2296-4185},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Despite their widespread success, dental implants remain vulnerable to biofilm-associated infections such as peri-implantitis. Local antibiotic (AB) application may enhance treatment outcomes; however, its use remains controversial due to limited evidence and the lack of standardized recommendations regarding active agents and effective concentrations. This study aimed to identify potent antibiotic combinations and concentrations against a peri-implantitis-associated multispecies biofilm (MB) in vitro and to assess the influence of implant material on their efficacy.

METHOD: An oral multispecies biofilm model (MSBM) was cultivated in the presence of the antibiotics amoxicillin (Amox), doxycycline (Doxy), minocycline (Mino), and metronidazole (Metro), both as single agents and in combination with Metro at varying concentrations. Synergistic effects were assessed by turbidity measurement, Bactiter Glo™ assay and Resazurin assay. The most effective concentrations were further examined using confocal laser scanning microscopy. Additionally, they were tested on three potential implant materials: titanium grade 4, titanium grade 5, and an experimental ultrafine-grained niobium alloy and on a mature biofilm.

RESULTS: Amox, Doxy and Mino demonstrated strong efficacy against the MB, whereas Metro alone showed little to no effect. Synergistic interactions were mainly observed when comparing to Metro's limited activity. A tendency toward enhanced efficacy of Amox and Doxy in combination with Metro was noted, although not statistically significant. The antibacterial performance of all agents was independent of the implant material and reduced when applied on mature biofilm.

CONCLUSION: These findings highlight the potential of locally applied Amox and Doxy, alone or in combination with Metro, as a targeted approach for peri-implantitis management and indicate that their effectiveness is largely independent of implant materials. Further studies using in vivo biofilms are warranted to optimize antibiotic combinations and concentrations for clinical application.},
}

@article {pmid42052518,
year = {2026},
author = {Amatya, NM and Shrestha, S and Tamang, NS and Bista, M and Gautam, S and Shrestha, J and Karki, S},
title = {Unraveling Biofilm-Forming Uropathogens: Isolation and Antimicrobial Resistance Patterns at Nepal Police Hospital, Kathmandu.},
journal = {The Canadian journal of infectious diseases & medical microbiology = Journal canadien des maladies infectieuses et de la microbiologie medicale},
volume = {2026},
number = {},
pages = {6625304},
pmid = {42052518},
issn = {1712-9532},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are common bacterial infections with growing treatment challenges due to the rise of antimicrobial resistance. Additionally, the characteristics of the pathogens responsible for UTIs are changing, primarily due to the emergence of biofilms. Biofilms, which are structured microbial communities, pose a significant public health threat because of their inherent resistance to antimicrobial treatments. Hence, this cross-sectional study aimed to isolate and characterize uropathogenic bacteria capable of forming biofilm and exhibiting antimicrobial resistance among patients seeking microbiology laboratory services at the Nepal Police Hospital.

METHODS: Uropathogens were isolated from midstream urine samples using CLED, Blood, and MacConkey agar. Standard microbiological techniques were employed for identification of pathogen. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was conducted using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method, and biofilm formation was assessed using the microtiter plate method.

RESULTS: Of the 2081 samples analyzed, significant bacterial growth was observed in 184 (8.84%) of the samples. The predominant pathogens were Escherichia coli (39.7%), followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae (26.6%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (7.8%). Amikacin, levofloxacin, and tigecycline were the most effective antibiotics. Among the isolates, 32 (17.39%) were confirmed as MDR. Biofilm production was confirmed in six isolates (3.26%), with two Enterococcus faecalis and one Klebsiella oxytoca identified as strong biofilm producers, while two Klebsiella pneumoniae and one Acinetobacter spp. exhibited weak biofilm production. Statistical analysis showed no significant correlation between antibiotic resistance and biofilm production (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION: Biofilm-forming uropathogens present substantial challenges in UTI treatment. Importantly, our study did not find a correlation between antibiotic resistance and biofilm production, suggesting that these traits may be independent or influenced by different pathogenic mechanisms.},
}

@article {pmid42053316,
year = {2026},
author = {Vo, HH and Le, TT and Nguyen, TV and Scott, J and Gutierrez, T and Kaiser, MJ and Ngo, HTT},
title = {Developing an optimized method for biofilm extraction from microplastic surfaces for high-efficiency analysis of adherent bacterial communities.},
journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0041626},
doi = {10.1128/aem.00416-26},
pmid = {42053316},
issn = {1098-5336},
abstract = {Microplastics (MiPs, ×5 mm in size) harbor complex biofilms that facilitate pathogen dissemination, yet standardized extraction protocols are lacking. Here, we developed and optimized a method for biofilm extraction from environmentally weathered MiPs. To reflect real-world conditions, the protocol was applied directly to bulk, heterogeneous, field-collected MiP mixtures (size range: 80 µm-5 mm) without prior sorting by polymer type or morphology. By optimizing extraction buffers, mechanical disruption, and MiP quantities (100-150 particles), we established an optimal protocol combining phosphate-buffered saline with 0.1% Tween 80, ultrasonication (40 kHz, 10 min), vortexing with glass beads, and a two-cycle extraction-disaggregation workflow. This approach involves an initial extraction followed by a repeated, exhaustive extraction step designed to maximize the recovery of recalcitrant biofilm residues. This protocol markedly enhanced recovery of viable, culturable cells, delivering a 2,950-fold enhancement in the recovery of viable, culturable cells (evaluated via CFU counts; 28,020 ± 11,034 CFU MiP[-1]) vs. conventional PBS extraction (9.5 ± 3 CFU MiP[-1]) and 102-fold vs. passive extraction (274 ± 59 CFU MiP[-1]). The 10-min sonication empirically maximized viable cell recovery within the tested duration range. The two-step protocol with Tween 80-mediated disaggregation proved critical, increasing recovery 208-fold by disaggregating biofilm fragments. While DNA yields (26.5 ± 3.93 ng µL[-1]) were sufficient for targeted PCR-based pathogen detection (Aeromonas spp., Salmonella enterica), the co-extraction of complex environmental matrices (A260/A280 ratio: 0.17-0.19) strictly requires an additional purification step prior to next-generation sequencing. Validation across contrasting aquatic environments confirmed the method's robustness. Comparative analysis demonstrates that conventional single-step approaches fail to recover the majority of viable cells trapped within weathered MiP biofilms. This optimized and validated protocol provides a critical methodological foundation for investigating plastisphere microbial ecology and pathogen transport dynamics, supporting evidence-based risk assessment of MiP contamination, especially public health risks associated with microplastic pollution.IMPORTANCEMicroplastic-associated biofilms (the "plastisphere") serve as vectors for waterborne pathogens and antibiotic resistance genes; however, the persistent use of inadequate extraction methods has systematically underestimated microbial abundance, presenting a critical barrier to global environmental risk assessment. By overcoming the limitations of conventional extractions-which fail to penetrate recalcitrant extracellular polymeric matrices on environmentally weathered microplastics-our standardized methodology liberates previously undetectable bacterial populations. The ability to accurately quantify these hidden communities, including key pathogens like Aeromonas spp. and Salmonella enterica, fundamentally transforms our understanding of microplastics as hidden biological reservoirs. Ultimately, this methodological advancement bridges a critical gap in microbial ecology, delivering the reliable, quantitative data strictly required by policymakers, environmental agencies, and public health officials to establish evidence-based guidelines mitigating the impacts of microplastic pollution on global water systems.},
}

@article {pmid42054926,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhu, Y and Cui, X and Huang, Y and Zhou, Y},
title = {Effects of oxygen supply mode on linear alkylbenzene sulfonate removal during greywater treatment by oxygen-based membrane biofilm reactor.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {406},
number = {},
pages = {129804},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2026.129804},
pmid = {42054926},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {The oxygen-based membrane biofilm reactor (O2-MBfR) has garnered increasing attention for its ability to remove linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS), a widely used surfactant, from greywater for reuse while avoiding foam-related issues. However, the influence of the O2 supply mode on aerobic LAS removal remains unclear. Advancements in this area could improve O2 utilization efficiency, thereby reducing additional costs from increased aeration or advanced membrane materials. In this study, parallel and tandem O2 supply modes were compared by evaluating LAS mineralization and metabolisms in the O2-MBfR. The results demonstrated that the tandem mode achieved more efficient O2 utilization for pollutant removal. During the first 45 days, average removal ratios for chemical oxygen demand, total nitrogen and LAS were 85.8% vs. 89.2%, 68.8% vs. 83.0% and 92.9% vs. 95.3% between tandem and parallel modes, respectively. In addition, the effluent under the tandem mode exhibited improved biological stability. Mechanistic study revealed that the tandem mode increased protein and α-polysaccharide proportions in biofilms, resulting in thinner yet more compact structures with stronger resistance to hydraulic shocks. The tandem mode also promoted the growth of LAS-degrading bacteria. For instance, the abundance of the Pseudomonas genus participating in the initial steps of LAS biodegradation was 1.25-4.76 times as much as that under the parallel mode. Furthermore, statistically more LAS-degrading enzymes (e.g., acyl-CoA dehydrogenase) were enriched under the tandem mode. These findings highlight a great potential of implementing the tandem O2 supply mode in push-flow O2-MBfRs to achieve high-efficiency LAS removal while reducing costs.},
}

@article {pmid42055259,
year = {2026},
author = {Eltawab, R and Abdelfattah, A and Hu, ZT and Cheng, L},
title = {Development of a conductive gas-permeable membrane for electro-stimulated biofilm engineering and rapid startup in membrane aerated biofilm reactors.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {134733},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.134733},
pmid = {42055259},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Membrane aerated biofilm reactors offer high oxygen transfer efficiency and compact nitrogen removal; however, their practical application is strongly limited by slow and unstable startup associated with delayed biofilm establishment. In this study, a conductive gas-permeable membrane was developed by immobilizing a carbon nanotubes / reduced graphene oxide-silane nanolayer onto a Polyvinylidene fluoride substrate to enable localized electro-stimulation directly at the membrane-biofilm interface. The modified membrane preserved hydrophobicity, pore structure, and oxygen permeability while exhibiting stable electroactive behaviour. When applied in a laboratory-scale membrane aerated biofilm reactor (MABR) under low-intensity electrical stimulation, biofilm formation was significantly accelerated, achieving near-complete surface coverage and functional maturity-defined by the establishment of a stable and well-developed biofilm together with sustained ammonium removal exceeding 90%-within 7-10 days, representing a reduction of more than two weeks compared to conventional MABR startup. The biofilm growth rate increased from 7.9 ± 0.9 to 19.8 ± 1.3 µm day[-1] (approximately 2.5-fold) compared to the non-stimulated control, resulting in markedly earlier chemical oxygen demand removal and complete nitrification. Response surface analysis revealed that electro-stimulation guided biofilm development toward an optimal structural configuration, characterized by near-complete surface coverage and a balanced intermediate biofilm thickness (∼120-200 µm) associated with peak treatment performance. These findings demonstrate that conductive gas-permeable membranes provide a scalable and mechanistically robust approach to overcome startup limitations in MABR systems.},
}

@article {pmid42056812,
year = {2026},
author = {Fu, Y and Zhuang, H and Shi, J},
title = {Reshaping of the electron transport chain and carbon metabolism by low-loading Fe3O4@PU for enhanced phenolic compounds degradation in an algal-bacterial biofilm system.},
journal = {Journal of hazardous materials},
volume = {511},
number = {},
pages = {142207},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.142207},
pmid = {42056812},
issn = {1873-3336},
abstract = {While previous algal-bacterial biofilm systems without magnetite have shown limited resilience to high concentration phenolic compounds, this study demonstrates that introducing low loading (5%) nano-Fe3O4 substantially enhances degradation stability by optimizing electron transfer pathways. Four algal-bacterial reactors with varying Fe3O4 loadings (5-50%) were constructed using polyurethane carriers to treat phenolic wastewater under increasing total phenol (TPh) concentrations (50-300 mg/L). The 5% loading reactor (R1) demonstrated outstanding performance, achieving > 80% TPh removal and approximately 76% COD removal even at the highest loading. Compared to without magnetite systems, R1 achieved 13-15% higher TPh degradation at 300 mg/L. R1 also exhibited the highest electron transfer system activity (0.487 μg O2·gVSS[-1]·h[-1]) and cytochrome c content (72.12 mg/g VSS), indicating that Fe3O4 serves as an electron shuttle, compensating for endogenous electron carrier limitations. Metagenomic analysis revealed that the enhanced performance stemmed from robust carbohydrate metabolism, particularly the upregulation of key glycolytic enzymes (pfkA) and glycogen degrading enzymes (GH13), ensuring efficient NADH/ATP production. This metabolic advantage supplied reducing power to the Fe3O4 optimized electron transport chain, synchronizing electron generation with respiratory utilization. These findings demonstrate that low-dose Fe3O4 optimizes natural electron transfer pathways by coupling metabolic flux with respiratory chain activity, offering a cost effective strategy for treating high strength industrial wastewater.},
}

@article {pmid42047000,
year = {2026},
author = {Mallick, U and Sahu, BK and Patra, SK and Sahu, MC and Panda, SK},
title = {Breaking the Barrier: Cutting-Edge Microbial Strategies Against Candida Biofilm Infections.},
journal = {APMIS : acta pathologica, microbiologica, et immunologica Scandinavica},
volume = {134},
number = {5},
pages = {e70214},
doi = {10.1111/apm.70214},
pmid = {42047000},
issn = {1600-0463},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; Humans ; *Antifungal Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; *Candidiasis/microbiology/drug therapy ; *Candida/drug effects/physiology ; Drug Resistance, Fungal ; Animals ; Quorum Sensing/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Candida species, particularly Candida albicans and nonalbicans, can form strong biofilms on biotic and abiotic surfaces, leading to chronic and recurring infections. These biofilms are influenced by regulatory circuits, transcription factors, and morphogenetic changes that promote biofilm development and drug resistance. The biofilm matrix, including β-glucans and extracellular DNA, hinders antifungal penetration. Next-generation approaches to controlling Candida biofilms include small-molecule inhibitors, quorum-sensing inhibitors, enzyme-based ECM inhibitors, and nanoparticle-mediated drug delivery platforms. Marine-derived metabolites, antimicrobial peptides, and monoclonal antibodies are also discussed for their antibiofilm activity. Innovative in vitro and in vivo models are presented for assessing biofilm behavior and treatment response. Polymicrobial biofilms, including Candida and bacteria, are also discussed. Obstacles to controlling Candida biofilms include antifungal resistance, therapeutic agent toxicity, and regulatory hurdles. Future directions include CRISPR-based gene editing, antifungal vaccines, and omics-based target identification. This review emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary, biofilm-centric therapeutic strategies in reducing the global health impact of Candida biofilm-related infections and advancing innovative antifungal therapies.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
Humans
*Antifungal Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use
*Candidiasis/microbiology/drug therapy
*Candida/drug effects/physiology
Drug Resistance, Fungal
Animals
Quorum Sensing/drug effects

@article {pmid42047985,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, J and Yang, B and Xing, G and Zhao, Y and Wu, Z and Li, J and Qi, M and Wu, J},
title = {D-amino acids inhibit biofilm formation in Escherichia coli and increase antibiotic susceptibility in multidrug-resistant bacteria.},
journal = {Folia microbiologica},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42047985},
issn = {1874-9356},
support = {ELDC202002//Engineering Laboratory of Tarim Animal Disease Diagnosis and Control, Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps/ ; },
}

@article {pmid42048763,
year = {2026},
author = {Lu, Z and Li, J and Zeng, X and Qiu, Y and Lu, H and Gao, H and Zhu, J},
title = {Critical role of Psl polysaccharide modulated by AmrZ for biofilm formation and cold adaptation in the spoilage bacterium Pseudomonas fluorescens.},
journal = {International journal of food microbiology},
volume = {456},
number = {},
pages = {111806},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2026.111806},
pmid = {42048763},
issn = {1879-3460},
abstract = {Pseudomonas fluorescens is a major psychrotrophic spoilage bacterium in refrigerated foods, where its persistence is closely associated with biofilm formation under low-temperature conditions. To elucidate the mechanisms underlying cold-induced biofilm adaptation, the biofilm characteristics and transcriptomic profiles of Pseudomonas fluorescens PF07 at 10 °C and 30 °C were compared. Based on these analyses, key biofilm matrix components and regulatory factors were identified, and the resistance of the corresponding mutants under cold conditions was further evaluated. Transcriptomic analyses revealed that genes involved in Psl polysaccharide biosynthesis and c-di-GMP-associated diguanylate cyclases were markedly upregulated, whereas the transcriptional regulator AmrZ was significantly downregulated at 10 °C. Deletion of amrZ resulted in a pronounced shift in biofilm architecture, characterized by reduced surface-attached biofilms but enhanced pellicle formation accompanied by elevated exopolysaccharide production. Proteomic and genetic analyses demonstrated that AmrZ negatively regulates Psl polysaccharide synthesis and intracellular c-di-GMP levels, thereby modulating the transition between distinct biofilm states. Disruption of pslB abolished pellicle formation and significantly weakened biofilm structural integrity, even in the ΔamrZ background, highlighting the essential role of Psl polysaccharide as a key matrix component. Importantly, the ΔamrZ mutant exhibited increased resistance to sodium hypochlorite and heat treatments at low temperature, which was associated with enhanced biofilm formation and Psl overproduction. In contrast, deletion of pslB markedly increased biofilm removability, indicating that Psl was a vital protective matrix component. Collectively, these findings demonstrated that low temperature promotes the formation of highly stable and stress-resistant biofilms in P. fluorescens PF07 through AmrZ-mediated regulation of Psl polysaccharide and c-di-GMP signaling. This study provided mechanistic insights into biofilm persistence under cold-chain conditions and identified potential molecular targets for improving sanitation strategies in refrigerated food systems.},
}

@article {pmid42049403,
year = {2026},
author = {Lin, YK and Lee, KH and Chen, CM and Tsai, SW and Chen, CF and Wu, PK and Chen, WM},
title = {Freezing Nitrogen-Ethanol Composite Effectively Eradicates Staphylococcus aureus Biofilm on Prosthetic Surfaces.},
journal = {In vivo (Athens, Greece)},
volume = {40},
number = {3},
pages = {1408-1417},
doi = {10.21873/invivo.14292},
pmid = {42049403},
issn = {1791-7549},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology ; *Ethanol/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Nitrogen/pharmacology/chemistry ; Humans ; Freezing ; Microbial Viability/drug effects ; Prosthesis-Related Infections/microbiology/prevention & control ; Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND/AIM: Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) remains one of the most challenging complications after arthroplasty, largely due to biofilm formation on prosthetic surfaces, which protects bacteria from antibiotics and host defenses. This study investigated whether a freezing nitrogen-ethanol composite (FNEC), a semisolid cryogenic material combining liquid nitrogen and ethanol, can effectively eradicate Staphylococcus aureus biofilms on prosthetic components.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Biofilms of S. aureus were established on plastic spacers and metallic knee prostheses. Specimens were treated for 15 min with 75% ethanol, liquid nitrogen (LN), or FNEC. Bacterial viability was assessed using LIVE/DEAD fluorescence staining, while eradication efficacy was confirmed through broth inoculation and optical-density (OD600) measurements. Additional indirect-exposure experiments evaluated the contribution of FNEC's freezing effect, and time-dependent testing determined the minimal effective exposure duration.

RESULTS: FNEC achieved the most complete biofilm eradication across both plastic and metallic surfaces. LIVE/DEAD staining demonstrated widespread cell death with minimal residual viability. Broth cultures from FNEC-treated samples remained clear, with OD600 values indistinguishable from sterile controls, whereas LN and untreated samples showed significant bacterial growth. Indirect experiments confirmed that FNEC's cryogenic effect alone substantially contributed to bacterial death. Time-course analysis revealed that a 5-min FNEC exposure was sufficient for complete sterilization.

CONCLUSION: FNEC exhibited potent bactericidal and biofilm-removal capability, outperforming ethanol and LN alone. Its combined chemical and cryogenic effects enabled rapid and complete eradication of S. aureus biofilms within 5 min. These findings support FNEC as a promising adjunctive strategy for intraoperative biofilm management and may facilitate single-stage revision surgery for PJI.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology
*Ethanol/pharmacology/chemistry
*Nitrogen/pharmacology/chemistry
Humans
Freezing
Microbial Viability/drug effects
Prosthesis-Related Infections/microbiology/prevention & control
Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology

@article {pmid42049747,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, D and Dong, H and Zhang, G and Li, Y and Liu, X and Chen, Y and Xiao, L and Wang, X and Li, D and Song, H and Zhong, C and Cao, Q and Dai, B and Liu, C},
title = {Ultrastructural and atomic characterization of biofilm-associated extracellular filaments in Shewanella oneidensis MR-1.},
journal = {Nature communications},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41467-026-72442-4},
pmid = {42049747},
issn = {2041-1723},
support = {22425704//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; 32494764//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; 32271276//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; 22577070//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; 2025M782827//China Postdoctoral Science Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {Biofilms formed by Shewanella oneidensis MR-1 are crucial for metal reduction, underpinning bioremediation and bioenergy applications, yet detailed structural insights into biofilm components remain limited. Here we show that MR-1 biofilms contain abundant filamentous networks, membrane vesicles, and distinct square-shaped aggregates, as revealed by cryo-electron tomography and cryo-electron microscopy. We further determine near-atomic resolution structures of three filament types: bacterial flagella and two distinct pili, PilA and MshA. We present high-resolution structures of an MshA pilus and a PilA pilus from Shewanella. Structural analyses show that MshA pili exhibit a balanced surface charge distribution and extensive solvent-accessible surface area, facilitating essential interactions within the biofilm matrix. Additionally, oxygen limitation markedly increases the abundance of extracellular filaments and protein aggregates, indicating adaptive responses to environmental stress. Our findings elucidate the fundamental architecture and roles of biofilm extracellular components and provide a structural foundation for engineering enhanced Shewanella strains.},
}

@article {pmid42049983,
year = {2026},
author = {Telles, PYV and Oliveira, VC and Geng Vivanco, R and de Arruda, CNF and Panzeri, FC},
title = {A chlorine releasing solution as an alternative for dental biofilm control.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41598-026-49642-5},
pmid = {42049983},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {2023/14376-4//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo/ ; },
abstract = {To evaluate the antibiofilm activity of a chlorine-releasing solution (CRS) and its in vitro effects on enamel color stability, surface roughness, and microhardness. A mixed biofilm composed of Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, and Streptococcus mutans was formed on standardized bovine enamel specimens (6 × 6 × 2 mm). After 48 h of maturation, the specimens were immersed for 5 min in CRS (Granudacyn, Mölnlycke Health Care), 0.12% chlorhexidine (CHX, positive control), or phosphate-buffered saline (PBS, negative control). Antibiofilm activity was determined by colony-forming unit counts (CFU/mL). For enamel property evaluation, new specimens were treated once daily for 30 s using immersion or spray protocols. Color changes (ΔE00), roughness (ΔRa), and microhardness (ΔKHN) were assessed at 1, 7, 15, and 30 days. CRS significantly reduced microbial counts compared with PBS and showed activity comparable to CHX. Surface roughness remained stable across treatments, except for CHX spray at 30 days (p < 0.05). CRS immersion resulted in lower microhardness values than PBS but did not differ from CHX. At 30 days, CHX spray produced the highest microhardness reduction (p < 0.05). No significant differences in color were observed among treatments. CRS demonstrated antimicrobial activity comparable to CHX without greater alterations in enamel surface properties under the tested conditions.},
}

@article {pmid42036795,
year = {2026},
author = {Park, JW and Baek, S-W and Kim, HS and Yerke, AM and Jaiswal, YS and Williams, LL and Jung, H and Yang, J-Y and Kang, HY and Hwang, S and Moon, KH},
title = {Alteration of fimbria-mediated biofilm formation and virulence in the zoonotic pathogen Edwardsiella piscicida by sub-inhibitory concentrations of erythromycin exposures.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0036626},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.00366-26},
pmid = {42036795},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: With a global rise in industrialization and chemical processing units, the introduction of anthropogenic pollutants into the environment has been on a rise. Aquatic pollutants, unlike terrestrial pollutants, are easily diluted in water environments and exist at a sub-inhibitory concentration (sub-IC). At sub-IC, they do not directly inhibit bacterial growth but can modulate gene expression profiles. Aquaculture industry relies heavily on the use of antibiotics for control of fish pathogens, and the indiscriminate use of antibiotic agents increases antibiotic resistance in the aquatic environment. Previous studies have reported that sub-IC of antibiotics are able to regulate biofilm formation in a variety of pathogenic bacteria. To understand the environmental signals in the biofilm formation of E. piscicida, we hypothesized that the biofilm of E. piscicida can be regulated by sub-IC of erythromycin, which is widely used antibiotic in aquaculture. Our results indicate that at sub-IC of erythromycin, biofilm formation was induced due to increased type 1 fimbrial expression. This caused an increased colonization of the host and hyper-virulence in E. piscicida. Our study reveals a new aspect of antibiotic functioning as a signaling molecule that modulates biofilm-related-gene expression and virulence in fish pathogen. This study demonstrates the comprehensive molecular response of the fish pathogen to environmentally discharged erythromycin. Additionally, the study provides scientific evidence for the hypertoxicity of pathogens through the indiscriminate use of antibiotics-ultimately leading to detrimental effects to the fishery industry.

IMPORTANCE: Antibiotics released into aquatic environments often persist at sub-inhibitory concentrations, where they no longer suppress bacterial growth but instead act as signaling molecules. Here, we show that sub-inhibitory erythromycin enhances biofilm formation and virulence in the fish pathogen Edwardsiella piscicida by upregulating type 1 fimbriae. This response promotes host colonization and hypervirulence, demonstrating that environmentally relevant antibiotic exposure can unintentionally increase pathogenic potential. Our findings provide in vivo evidence that sub-therapeutic antibiotics reshape bacterial behavior and host-pathogen interactions. This study highlights an underappreciated ecological and economic risk of indiscriminate antibiotic use in aquaculture, with direct implications for fish health, disease management, and environmental safety.},
}

@article {pmid42038981,
year = {2026},
author = {Wu, L and Tu, Y and Xiao, S and Zeng, J and Sun, G and Li, Y},
title = {Recent perspectives on precision-targeting therapy against oral biofilm.},
journal = {Journal of oral microbiology},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {2662093},
pmid = {42038981},
issn = {2000-2297},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Oral biofilm-derived diseases pose a significant clinical challenge due to their persistent nature and increasing drug resistance, contributing to a substantial global economic burden. Conventional treatments-such as mechanical debridement, antiseptic agents, and laser therapy-though partially effective, often lack specificity, resulting in non-targeted microbial killing and disruption of the ecological balance.

OBJECTIVE: This review provides an updated overview of the application of precision antimicrobial therapies against oral biofilms, with a particular focus on pH-responsive materials and bacteriophage-based strategies.

DESIGN: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed and Google Scholar databases from January 2016 to January 2026. A total of 84 full-text articles were included for qualitative synthesis.

RESULTS: The collective findings demonstrate that multiple precision-targeting strategies-spanning from bacteriophage therapy to pH-responsive antimicrobial materials-exhibit distinct advantages in combating oral biofilms.

CONCLUSION: The common core principle underpinning these approaches lies in their 'precision-targeting' capability: the ability to identify and interfere with specific targets or biological processes. This attribute not only significantly enhances therapeutic efficacy but also paves the way for developing personalized, microbiome-preserving strategies for the prevention and management of oral diseases.},
}

@article {pmid42039755,
year = {2026},
author = {Mazzantini, D and Amato, B and Zineddu, S and de Azevedo-França, JA and Maisetta, G and Ghelardi, E and Esin, S and Messori, L and Batoni, G},
title = {Anti-staphylococcal activity of the auranofin-analogous PEt3AuCl: antibacterial, anti-biofilm and anti-virulence effect on clinically relevant staphylococci.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1794590},
pmid = {42039755},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Humans ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Auranofin/pharmacology/analogs & derivatives ; *Staphylococcus/drug effects/pathogenicity ; Virulence/drug effects ; Cell Survival/drug effects ; Cell Line ; *Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects ; Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology/drug therapy ; Hemolysis/drug effects ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Gold(I) complexes, such as the drug Auranofin (AF) which is approved for treating rheumatoid arthritis, have attracted significant interest as a potential treatment for bacterial infections due to their promising, broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. In this study, we investigated the anti-staphylococcal activity of three AF analogues [PEt3AuCl (AF-Cl), PEt3AuI (AF-I) and PPh3AuCl (TPP-AuCl)] with the aim of discovering new weapons in the fight against antibiotic resistance.

METHODS: The antimicrobial activity and cytotoxicity of the gold compounds were evaluated by broth microdilution and the WST-1 assay, respectively. Time-kill assays were used to investigate killing kinetics, and the crystal violet (CV) assay was used to evaluate biofilm formation. Eradication of mature biofilms was assessed using the crystal violet assay, a plate count of biofilm-associated cells and scanning electron microscopy. The anti-virulence effect was tested by the hemolysis and agar diffusion assays.

RESULTS: All of the AF analogues were active against staphylococci, including antibiotic-resistant strains, with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) ranging from 0.063 to 4 µg/mL. Additionally, they exhibited lower toxicity towards the A549 lung cell line and the spontaneously immortalized human keratinocyte line HaCaT than AF. AF-Cl was identified as the most promising compound and was selected for further biological investigations. Time-kill experiments revealed that AF-Cl was rapidly bactericidal against clinical staphylococci, causing at least a 3-log reduction in the number of viable cells within six hours. At sub-inhibitory concentrations, the compound inhibited biofilm formation and reduced the secretion of hemolysins and phospholipases, representing key virulence factors in S. aureus infections. Furthermore, AF-Cl was able to eradicate mature S. aureus biofilms at non-cytotoxic concentrations.

CONCLUSION: Overall, our findings highlight the potential of AF-Cl as a promising candidate for treating staphylococcal infections, including those caused by antibiotic-resistant strains. In addition, the compound exhibited anti-biofilm and anti-virulence properties, which could be advantageous in treating toxin-mediated and biofilm-associated staphylococcal diseases.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Humans
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Auranofin/pharmacology/analogs & derivatives
*Staphylococcus/drug effects/pathogenicity
Virulence/drug effects
Cell Survival/drug effects
Cell Line
*Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects
Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology/drug therapy
Hemolysis/drug effects

@article {pmid42039800,
year = {2026},
author = {Al-Shaeri, MA and Oves, M},
title = {Single-walled carbon nanotubes as a nano-weapons against biofilm of Pseudomonas aeruginosa.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1791060},
pmid = {42039800},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND/INTRODUCTION: The emergence of antimicrobial resistance in bacterial biofilms represents a growing global healthcare burden, necessitating the development of novel agents with alternative mechanisms of action.

METHODS: In the present study, we evaluated the antibacterial and antibiofilm potential of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a clinically significant opportunistic pathogen notorious for its robust biofilm-forming capacity and intrinsic resistance profile. Antimicrobial activity was assessed using disc diffusion and broth microdilution assays, while biofilm inhibition was quantified by crystal violet microplate assays. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses were performed to elucidate the underlying antibacterial mechanism.

RESULTS: SWCNTs exhibited potent concentration-dependent bacteriostatic and bactericidal effects, with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of 62.5 and 125 μg/mL, respectively. Zones of inhibition ranged from 14.5 ± 0.30 mm to 22.0 ± 0.57 mm across concentrations of 4-16 mg/mL (p ≤ 0.05). In biofilm inhibition assays, planktonic growth (OD470) was markedly reduced from ≈0.32 ± 0.01 in untreated controls to ≈0.05 ± 0.01 at 200 μg/mL, corresponding to a maximum biofilm inhibition rate of 85.5%. SEM imaging revealed pronounced morphological disruption of P. aeruginosa cell walls, including membrane deformation, surface roughening, and loss of cellular integrity upon SWCNT treatment, indicative of direct physical interaction between the nanotubes and bacterial membranes. FTIR analysis further corroborated these findings, demonstrating characteristic spectral shifts in functional groups associated with bacterial membrane lipids, proteins, and polysaccharides.

DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: These spectral changes suggest physicochemical interactions that compromised membrane stability and disrupted biofilm matrix integrity. Collectively, these findings support a proposed mechanism whereby SWCNTs exert their antibacterial effect through direct membrane perturbation, interference with biofilm extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), and inhibition of early-stage biofilm adhesion and maturation.},
}

@article {pmid42039831,
year = {2026},
author = {Wickham, J and More, KR and Hendricks, AL and Bakaletz, LO and Goodman, SD},
title = {Rapid means of biofilm disruption induce the newly released (NRel) phenotype of enhanced antibiotic sensitivity.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1734540},
pmid = {42039831},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Biofilms are communities of microorganisms encased in a self-produced matrix, a structure that makes resident bacteria up to 1,000 times more resistant to antibiotics than their free-living, or planktonic, counterparts. Intriguingly, new methods that use reagents to release the biofilm-resident bacteria result in a transitory yet highly antibiotic sensitive phenotype. These newly released (NRel) bacteria are at least, if not more, sensitive to antibiotics than those in their planktonic form. Here, we sought to determine if the production of the NRel phenotype is reagent- dependent or can be accomplished by alternative means.

METHODS: Across four pathogenic bacteria: non-typeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHI), methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Streptococcus pneumoniae, we investigated whether rapid mechanical disruption of biofilms, or the use of a novel cationic depletion method in NTHI, could similarly induce this NRel phenotype. The presence of NRel was assessed by comparing the antibiotic sensitivity of the released bacteria to that of their planktonic counterparts. For NTHI specifically, we further characterized the phenotype by measuring the kinetics of antibiotic sensitivity via comparative plate counts over time. We also analyzed the relative expression levels of known NRel-associated genes using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR).

RESULTS: We show that using either intense mechanical disruption or a cationic depletion method not only facilitate rapid biofilm disruption but produce the NRel phenotype. In each case, both NRel signature gene expression and the transient antibiotic sensitivity phenotypes were observed compared to planktonic cells.

DISCUSSION: Similar to methods using reagents, we found that mechanical or cationic depletion disruption of pathogenic bacterial biofilms were sufficient to trigger the NRel phenotype. These results are consistent with the NRel state potentially being a rate-dependent physiological response rather than being induced by specific chemical or biological agents. We discuss the changes in gene expression permissive to NRel and the possibility that rapid and premature release of bacteria from a biofilm fails to allow the resident bacteria to be sufficiently prepared for their biofilm free state. This new insight both expands our understanding of the NRel phenotype and provides further validation for our rapid-release therapeutic strategy.},
}

@article {pmid42040505,
year = {2026},
author = {Collado, C and Romero-Tena, P and Wegener, G and Elvert, M and Menapace, W and Laso-Pérez, R},
title = {Anaerobic oxidation of methane supports a minimal microbial community in a subsurface biofilm at Ginsburg mud volcano.},
journal = {ISME communications},
volume = {6},
number = {1},
pages = {ycag072},
pmid = {42040505},
issn = {2730-6151},
abstract = {Deep marine sediments generate large amounts of methane, but most of this gas is consumed by the anaerobic oxidation of methane (AOM) mediated by microscopic consortia of anaerobic methane-oxidizing archaea (ANME) and sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB). In this study, we investigated the AOM within a sulfate-methane transition zone (SMTZ) at a depth of ~9.6 m at the rim of the Ginsburg mud volcano in the Gulf of Cádiz. The SMTZ is supplied with sulfate from both overlying seawater and an underlying evaporitic deposit, and it coincides with a fracture zone that hosts a visible biofilm. Here, carbon dioxide shows the strongest [13]C-depletion, indicating intense methane consumption. Metagenomic and lipid biomarker analysis of the biofilm revealed an exceptionally simple microbial community dominated by ANME-1b archaea (63%), which predominantly produce strongly [13]C-depleted glycerol dialkyl glycerol tetraethers and, to a lesser extent, the less common macrocyclic archaeols. The putative partner bacterium Seep-SRB1c (Desulfobacterota) is less abundant (9%). Additionally, the biofilm contained five low-abundance heterotrophs that likely rely on biomass or metabolites released from the ANME-SRB consortium. Our study highlights the presence of active methanotrophic biofilms in subsurface sediments and suggests that these communities may play an overlooked role in mitigating seafloor methane emissions.},
}

@article {pmid42041291,
year = {2026},
author = {Ratchasong, K and Saengsawang, P and Yusakul, G and Kabploy, K and Lakhanapuram, HK and Harudeen, A and Wintachai, P and Thomrongsuwannakij, T and Nwabor, OF and Mitsuwan, W},
title = {Deep Eutectic Solvent-Based Emulsion Containing Piper betle L. Extract and Hydroxychavicol Prevent Biofilm Development and Surface Adhesion of Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli on Stored Chicken Meat.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics15040328},
pmid = {42041291},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {WU-FF68-03//Thailand Science Research and Innovation Fund/ ; WU-COE-65-05//Center of Excellence in Innovation of Essential Oil and Bioactive Compounds/ ; 13/2024//Walailak University Graduate Scholarship/ ; },
abstract = {Background: Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) contributes substantially to colibacillosis outbreaks in chickens. Because APEC cells readily attach to surfaces and develop biofilms, they pose a notable hazard to poultry production and food safety. This study investigated the antibiofilm and anti-adhesion activities of deep eutectic solvent-based emulsion containing Piper betle L. extract (DEPE) and hydroxychavicol, a pure compound isolated from P. betle leaves against APEC. Methods: Antibiofilm and anti-adhesion activities of DEPE and hydroxychavicol against APEC were investigated. Molecular docking and dynamics simulation of DEPE and hydroxychavicol was conducted. In addition, anti-adhesion activity of DEPE on chicken meat during storage was evaluated. Results: DEPE and hydroxychavicol significantly inhibited biofilm formation at sub-MIC, with DEPE achieving up to 80% inhibition and hydroxychavicol up to 69%. At 8 × MIC, DEPE and hydroxychavicol diminished the viability of both early and established biofilms. Furthermore, DEPE and hydroxychavicol reduced APEC adhesion on the surface as observed by SEM. In silico analyses demonstrated the stable binding of hydroxychavicol to adhesion-related proteins, particularly EcpA and FimH, suggesting a possible mechanism for its anti-adhesion activity. At day 5, DEPE at 4 × MIC significantly reduced 63% bacterial adhesion to chicken meat surfaces during storage, while maintaining the meat's color. Conclusions: These findings indicate that DEPE and hydroxychavicol are promising candidates for limiting APEC biofilm formation and surface attachment and may serve as alternative antibacterial agents in poultry-related food safety applications.},
}

@article {pmid42041300,
year = {2026},
author = {Chines, E and Boscarelli, L and Vertillo Aluisio, G and Santagati, M and Mezzatesta, ML and Cafiso, V},
title = {Deciphering the Emergence of Biofilm-Independent Colistin Persistence and Resistance in A. baumannii: Toxin-Antitoxin Omics and Novel T/A mRNA-asRNA Balance Regulatory Models.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics15040337},
pmid = {42041300},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {PIACERI 2024-2026//Linea intervento 1 Progetti di Ricerca Collaborativa PIACERI 2024-2026" from the University of Catania, Italy/ ; },
abstract = {Background: Persistence represents a critical evolutionary reservoir for the development of antimicrobial resistance in Acinetobacter baumannii (Ab). Understanding the basal mechanisms that enable this survival strategy is crucial for elucidating how high-risk clones evolve resistance during therapy. Methods: High-dose colistin time-kill assays were performed in ten ST2 clinical colistin-susceptible (COL-S) Carbapenem-Resistant Ab (CRAB) developing in vivo stable and full-colistin resistance to detect persisters. Genomics and basal transcriptomics of chromosomal/plasmid toxin-antitoxin systems (T/As) were performed, as duplicates for each sample, in two ST2 COL-S CRAB to investigate the genomics and basal T/A transcriptomic backgrounds. Results: Phenotypically, all strains showed a persistent subpopulation (~1% survival at 8 h) under 5× COL MIC exposure. Genomics identified 10 type-II and one type-IV T/A systems. Basal transcriptomics revealed active expression patterns mainly of GNAT superfamily T/A systems, with consistently low toxin mRNA levels associated with toxin- or antitoxin-directed asRNAs in chromosomal modules. This architecture defined new dual-combined regulatory models in which asRNAs acted as primary T/A mRNA balance modulators, putatively impacting on the T/A mRNA ratio. Conversely, the plasmid-encoded BrnT/A module showed a highly balanced expression. Conclusions: Our findings revealed, for the first time, the role of the type-II GNAT T/A superfamily as putative molecular switchers via a fine-tuning transcript balance regulation, impacting the transition from a metabolically active cell state to a dormant one in developing colistin persistence and in vivo resistance CRAB.},
}

@article {pmid42041301,
year = {2026},
author = {Sevastyanova, T and Loy, C and Schneider-Wald, B and Notarbartolo, K and Reisig, G and Gaiser, S and Darwich, A and Bdeir, M and Blümke, A and Gravius, S and Schilder, A},
title = {Biofilm Formation Patterns of S. epidermidis (RP62A) and S. aureus (UAMS-1) Are Defined by Orthopaedic Implant Materials and Surface Wear.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics15040338},
pmid = {42041301},
issn = {2079-6382},
abstract = {Background/Objectives:Staphylococcus epidermidis (RP62A) and Staphylococcus aureus (UAMS-1) are clinically relevant pathogens frequently implicated in implant-associated infections due to their ability to form biofilms. RP62A is typically linked to persistent, chronic, low-grade infections, whereas UAMS-1 is associated with acute, invasive disease. Both strains serve as representative models for chronic and acute periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs). The objective of this study was to examine and compare in vitro biofilm formation by RP62A and UAMS-1 on orthopaedic materials/disc surfaces of defined composition. Methods: In vitro biofilm formation assays were performed using orthopaedic disc surfaces composed of cobalt-chromium alloy (CoCr), titanium alloy (Ti), and polyethylene (PE) after 72 h of incubation. Biofilm biomass was quantified using crystal violet staining, with absorbance measured at OD570. A polystyrene (PS) surface served as a control. Additionally, retrieved orthopaedic explant components were used as substrates for in vitro biofilm assays, in which RP62A was incubated for 72 h on the explanted surfaces. Supporting assays on glass slides were conducted to examine strain-specific biofilm-related architecture. Results: In vitro biofilm mass quantification assays showed strong biofilm formation by RP62A across all tested surfaces, with the highest absorbance on CoCr (OD570 = 5.80 ± 0.19). Notably, biofilm formation on CoCr was 76% higher compared to PS (p < 0.0001). No significant differences were observed among all three surface discs (p > 0.1). Biofilm formation was highest on PE for UAMS-1 (OD570 = 1.29 ± 0.09) and was significantly greater than on Ti (178%, p < 0.001) and CoCr (196%, p < 0.0001). In the in vitro assays performed on retrieved explant components, RP62A showed pronounced biofilm accumulation on polyethylene tibial inserts, particularly in regions of mechanical wear and friction. Supporting assays on glass slides were performed to examine strain-specific surface microstructural, revealing dense network-like structures for RP62A and thinner, discontinuous layers for UAMS-1. Conclusions: RP62A formed dense biofilms in vitro on multiple orthopaedic implant materials and retrieved explant components, consistent with its association with chronic periprosthetic joint infections. Increased biofilm accumulation was observed on mechanically worn polyethylene surfaces. In contrast, UAMS-1 showed lower biofilm formation on metallic disc surfaces, indicating strain- and material-dependent differences. These findings highlight the relevance of implant material selection and surface integrity for strategies targeting biofilm-associated implant infections.},
}

@article {pmid42041333,
year = {2026},
author = {Llamosí, M and Gomes-Ribeiro, BF and Echeverry-Rendón, M and Yuste, J and Sempere, J and Domenech, M},
title = {Inhibition of Biofilm Formation by Respiratory Bacterial Pathogens via Silver Nanoparticles and Functionalized HEPA Filters.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics15040370},
pmid = {42041333},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {PID2024-161570OB-I00//Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities/ ; PI24CIII/00045//Instituto de Salud Carlos III/ ; 2023-T1/TEC-29099//Comunidad de Madrid/ ; },
abstract = {Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate the ability of silver oxide nanoparticle (Ag2ONP)-functionalized high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters and colloidal Ag2ONP suspensions to inhibit biofilm formation by major respiratory pathogens causing infections at operating rooms. Background: Respiratory infections caused by bacterial pathogens such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus species are often associated with the formation of biofilms, which confer increased resistance to antibiotics and host immune responses. Effective strategies to prevent biofilm formation on biological surfaces and in air filtration systems are urgently needed in clinical settings. Methods: The biofilm-forming ability of each bacterial strain was assessed by crystal violet microplate assay, viable count or confocal microscopy after prior incubation of the culture medium with Ag2ONP-coated HEPA filter material or colloidal Ag2ONP suspension. Results: Both silver-functionalized filters and silver nanoparticle suspensions significantly inhibited biofilm formation by S. pneumoniae and P. aeruginosa, with near-complete suppression observed. In the case of S. aureus and S. epidermidis, the silver nanoparticle suspension showed partial inhibition of biofilm development. Conclusions: Ag2ONP-functionalized HEPA filters and colloidal Ag2ONP suspensions effectively prevent biofilm formation by major respiratory pathogens, for both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. These materials show promise for integration with air filtration and surface coating systems to reduce microbial load and transmission in healthcare environments such as operating room facilities.},
}

@article {pmid42041365,
year = {2026},
author = {Promcham, S and Limsivilai, O and Kritsadasima, T and Chermprapai, S and Tansakul, N and Udomkusonsri, P and Yurayart, C},
title = {In Vitro Antifungal Activity of Essential Oils and Nanoemulsions of Zingiber cassumunar and Cymbopogon citratus Against Planktonic and Biofilm Forms of Malassezia pachydermatis.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics15040402},
pmid = {42041365},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {CRP6405031250//Agricultural Research Development Agency/ ; VET 2021-04//Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University/ ; },
abstract = {Malassezia pachydermatis is a yeast pathogen associated with recurrent skin and ear infections in dogs, often complicated by biofilm formation and reduced antifungal susceptibility. We aimed to evaluate the in vitro antifungal activity of essential oils and nanoemulsions of Zingiber cassumunar and Cymbopogon citratus compared with conventional antifungal agents against planktonic and biofilm forms of M. pachydermatis. Preliminary screening of six plant extracts was performed using 12 clinical isolates identified Z. cassumunar and C. citratus for nanoemulsion formulation. Antifungal susceptibility testing of conventional antifungal agents and nanoemulsions was subsequently conducted using 31 clinical isolates, and nanoemulsions were prepared by high-pressure homogenization. Both essential oils exhibited antifungal activity, and nanoemulsion formulations showed enhanced inhibitory effects compared with the crude oils. Biofilm-associated cells demonstrated reduced susceptibility, particularly to conventional antifungal agents. Terbinafine was the most potent agent against planktonic cells but showed reduced efficacy in biofilms. Nanoemulsions of Z. cassumunar and C. citratus exhibited improved activity against both forms. These findings suggest that nanoemulsification may enhance the in vitro antifungal performance of essential oils against M. pachydermatis biofilms. However, further studies, including mechanistic investigations and in vivo evaluations, are required to confirm their therapeutic potential and safety.},
}

@article {pmid42041366,
year = {2026},
author = {Balázs, VL and Filep, R and Ormai, E and Radványi, L and Kocsis, B and Kerekes, E and Kocsis, M},
title = {Antibiotic Adjuvant Potential of Selected Essential Oil Components Against Respiratory Pathogens: From Planktonic Synergy to Early-Stage Biofilm Inhibition.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics15040403},
pmid = {42041366},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {NKFIH PD 147156//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; NKFIH PD 142122//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; 2024-2.1.3-POC-2025-00004//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; 2021-1.2.6-TÉT-IPARI-MA-2022-00015//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; },
abstract = {Background: Respiratory tract infections remain among the most common indications for antibiotic therapy and represent a major driver of antimicrobial resistance. The ability of respiratory pathogens to form biofilms further contributes to treatment failure and recurrence. This study aimed to evaluate the antibiotic adjuvant potential of selected essential oil components against clinically relevant respiratory bacteria and to determine whether planktonic synergistic interactions translate into early-stage antibiofilm efficacy. Thymol, eugenol, trans-cinnamaldehyde, and terpinen-4-ol were tested against Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus pyogenes, Haemophilus influenzae, Haemophilus parainfluenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Methods: Minimum inhibitory concentrations were determined by broth microdilution. Synergistic interactions with clinically relevant antibiotics were assessed using the checkerboard method and fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI) analysis. Selected combinations were further evaluated in a 6 h crystal violet-based early-stage biofilm model. Gram-positive strains generally exhibited higher susceptibility to the tested components than Gram-negative bacteria. Results: Synergistic interactions (FICI ≤ 0.5) were most frequently observed between β-lactam antibiotics and phenolic components, particularly thymol and trans-cinnamaldehyde. Strong synergy was detected for vancomycin-eugenol against MRSA and for amoxicillin/clavulanic acid-cinnamaldehyde against M. catarrhalis. Importantly, synergistic combinations translated into significantly enhanced inhibition of early biofilm formation, increasing inhibition rates by 15-40% compared to antibiotic monotherapy (p < 0.05). Selected essential oil components enhanced the antibacterial activity of clinically relevant antibiotics and effectively potentiated early-stage biofilm inhibition. Conclusions: These findings support further investigation of phytochemical-antibiotic combinations as potential adjunct strategies in respiratory infection management.},
}

@article {pmid42042296,
year = {2026},
author = {Lei, H and Liang, Y and Li, X and Huang, X and Zhang, C and Zou, T},
title = {Design and Development of Teixobactin Analog-Loaded Magnetic Nanocomposites for Biofilm Destruction and Pathogen Elimination.},
journal = {Journal of functional biomaterials},
volume = {17},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/jfb17040189},
pmid = {42042296},
issn = {2079-4983},
abstract = {Although teixobactin, a promising cyclic undecadepsipeptide, exhibits efficacy against Gram-positive bacteria due to its novel mode of action and low potential for resistance, its clinical application is limited by two key shortcomings: ineffectiveness against Gram-negative bacteria and poor penetration of the protective extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) in biofilms. This renders it unsuitable for targeting the polymicrobial biofilms, which are the cause of periodontitis and peri-implantitis. We designed a modified teixobactin analog by integrating rhamnolipid, Ag@Fe3O4 nanoparticles, and L-Chg10-teixobactin to obtain a novel magnetic nanoparticle (MNP). The MNP demonstrates the ability to simultaneously degrade EPS, penetrate biofilm structures, and eliminate both G[+] and G[-] pathogens under a rotating magnetic field (RMF). Rhamnolipid grafting degraded 52.5% of biofilm EPS. MNPs showed broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, with minimal inhibitory concentrations from 100 to 200 µg/mL. Combined with RMF, biofilm eradication rates reached 97.0% (E. faecalis), 97.7% (S. gordonii), 88.4% (P. gingivalis), and 74.2% (F. nucleatum). The biofilm thickness was reduced from 19.4 ± 2.9 µm to 7.4 ± 1.0 µm, and the biofilm biomass was reduced by 68.5%. This combined strategy integrates enzymatic EPS degradation, magneto-mechanical disruption, and dual antimicrobial action, offering a promising topical therapy for periodontitis and peri-implantitis.},
}

@article {pmid42042331,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhu, X and Yin, H and Yang, D and Yang, Y},
title = {Genome and Secondary Metabolites Analysis of Fusarium oxysporum BPF55 Associated with Blaps rynchopetera and Its Anti-MRSA Biofilm Potential.},
journal = {Journal of fungi (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {12},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/jof12040236},
pmid = {42042331},
issn = {2309-608X},
support = {202305AC160035//Reserve Talents Project for Young and Middle-Aged Academic and Technical Leaders of Yunnan Province/ ; 202401AT070086//Yunnan Fundamental Research Projects/ ; },
abstract = {Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) represents a critical global health challenge, with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) posing a significant threat in both hospital-acquired and community-associated infections. Research has demonstrated that biofilm formation is a key factor contributing to drug resistance in MRSA. In this study, we investigated an fungus, Fusarium oxysporum BPF55, isolated from Blaps rynchopetera, which inhibits MRSA biofilm formation. The aim of this research was to identify the fungal strain and comprehensively characterize its genomic features, as well as to evaluate its anti-MRSA biofilm potential. Whole-genome sequencing revealed a genome size of 50,097,681 base pairs, a GC content of 47.36%, and 16,507 predicted coding genes. AntiSMASH analysis identified 56 secondary metabolite biosynthetic gene clusters, including those involved in the synthesis of various natural products such as terpenes, non-ribosomal peptides, and polyketides. Using UPLC-MS/MS, 15 compounds were annotated from the ethyl acetate extract. Molecular docking studies demonstrated that four compounds exhibit varying affinities for SarA and AgrA, two key proteins involved in MRSA biofilm formation. Overall, these findings suggest that the fungus F. oxysporum BPA55 produces a variety of secondary metabolites and contains bioactive compounds with potential anti-MRSA biofilm activity.},
}

@article {pmid42043333,
year = {2026},
author = {Pandey, N and Mondal, K and Sharma, S and Pradhan, D and Kapoor, S},
title = {Synergy of Bacterial Lipid Liposomes and Monoterpene-Mediated Membrane Perturbation for Enhanced Intracellular Mycobacteria Eradication and Biofilm Disruption.},
journal = {ChemMedChem},
volume = {21},
number = {8},
pages = {e202501110},
doi = {10.1002/cmdc.202501110},
pmid = {42043333},
issn = {1860-7187},
support = {IA/I/21/1/505624//The Wellcome Trust DBt India Alliance/ ; },
mesh = {*Liposomes/chemistry ; *Biofilms/drug effects ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Mycobacterium smegmatis/drug effects/chemistry ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Limonene/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Rifampin/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Monoterpenes/chemistry/pharmacology ; Lipids/chemistry ; Molecular Structure ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Structure-Activity Relationship ; },
abstract = {In this work, we created liposomes using lipids from the outer membrane layer of Mycobacterial smegmatis (Msm) and doped them with rifampicin and lipophilic terpene, limonene, resulting in a dual-loaded liposomal formulation. Limonene incorporation resulted in a prolonged release of encapsulated rifampicin over time and reduced minimum inhibitory concentration in comparison to the free drug or limonene-free liposomes loaded solely with the drug. Limonene showed a prolonged release over several days and could potentially find applications in fragrant antibacterial products in the future. The bacterial count evaluated by colony-forming units was found to be reduced with limonene-doped drug-loaded mycobacterial liposomes in comparison to those without limonene. Mechanistically, it was shown that limonene enhances membrane fluidity and influences permeability, interacting with intact bacteria and thereby improving drug delivery, which promotes greater bacterial destruction. Limonene in the antibacterial liposomal formulation was also found to enhance the release of intracellular material because of compromised membranes aiding in bacterial destruction. Finally, mycobacterial liposome formulation loaded with drugs and doped with limonene successfully eliminated Msm biofilms more effectively than either the free drug or liposomes without limonene. This clearly demonstrates the collaboration between limonene and rifampicin in combination antimycobacterial treatment.},
}

*Liposomes/chemistry
*Biofilms/drug effects
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Mycobacterium smegmatis/drug effects/chemistry
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Limonene/pharmacology/chemistry
*Rifampin/pharmacology/chemistry
*Monoterpenes/chemistry/pharmacology
Lipids/chemistry
Molecular Structure
Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
Structure-Activity Relationship

@article {pmid42043445,
year = {2026},
author = {Zheng, K and Yang, Z and Lu, X and Zhang, A and Zhang, T and Guo, Y and Pan, D and Li, H and Wu, Z},
title = {The Role of LPxTG Motif Proteins in Lactic Acid Bacteria: Unveiling Key Domains for Adhesion and Biofilm Formation.},
journal = {Journal of agricultural and food chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acs.jafc.5c17767},
pmid = {42043445},
issn = {1520-5118},
abstract = {Cell surface LPxTG motif protein (LMP) plays a crucial role in adhesion and biofilm formation during lactic acid bacteria (LAB) colonization. LMP anchors to the cell wall via its C-terminal LPxTG motif and contains functional domains that perform specific tasks. By integrating bioinformatics analysis with existing literature, this review systematically evaluates, for the first time at the domain level, the diversity of LMP in LAB and constructs a functional domain framework for understanding their roles in adhesion and biofilm formation. Annotation analysis reveals domain diversity across LAB strains: mucin-binding and extracellular-matrix-binding domains are widespread, while others exhibit strain-specific characteristics. We also speculate that certain LMP domains may form pilus-like adhesion structures via sortase C-mediated polymerization. Overall, this domain-level elucidation of LMP probiotic mechanisms provides a theoretical basis for probiotic strain screening and functional optimization, and offers new insights into structural and functional localization of LMP on the LAB surface.},
}

@article {pmid42045242,
year = {2026},
author = {Ji, J and Zhang, L and Wang, H and Xu, W and Cai, W and Zhang, N and Zhang, M and Luo, X and Li, X and Zhang, Y and Lu, R},
title = {Antimicrobial and anti-biofilm activity of Epigallocatechin gallate against Vibrio parahaemolyticus.},
journal = {NPJ science of food},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41538-026-00864-x},
pmid = {42045242},
issn = {2396-8370},
support = {MS2022112//Special Scientific Research Project of Nantong Health Commission/ ; 2024JY041//Nantong University Special Research Fund for Clinical Medicine/ ; },
abstract = {Vibrio parahaemolyticus enhances its environmental persistence and antimicrobial tolerance by forming biofilms. This study investigated the antimicrobial and anti-biofilm activities of (-)-Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) against the pandemic V. parahaemolyticus RIMD2210633 (O3:K6). EGCG significantly inhibited bacterial growth, motility, and biofilm formation in a concentration-dependent manner. Sub-inhibitory concentrations (4 and 8 µg/mL) effectively reduced biofilm biomass, altered colony morphology, and diminished extracellular polymeric substances, and exerted potent bactericidal activity against preformed biofilms. EGCG also exhibited bactericidal effects in shrimp meat and impeded biofilm formation on seafood-related surfaces. It also significantly attenuated bacterial virulence in both in vitro (HeLa cell) and in vivo (Galleria mellonella larva) infection models. Mechanistically, RNA sequencing revealed that EGCG induced transcriptomic reprogramming, with 500 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) involved in key pathways such as c-di-GMP signaling, flagellar assembly, type III/VI secretion systems, and stress responses; biochemical assays confirmed that EGCG directly reduced intracellular c-di-GMP levels in a dose-dependent manner. Quantitative real-time PCR validated the expression changes in genes related to virulence, motility, biofilm, and regulation. Collectively, these findings highlight the multi-faceted anti-virulence and anti-biofilm activities of EGCG, and support its potential application as a natural antimicrobial agent in the food industry and clinical settings.},
}

@article {pmid42033860,
year = {2026},
author = {ElGamily, LM and Hafez, AM and Eldars, W and El-Gazzar, RI},
title = {The impact of silver versus silver-fluoride nanoparticles coating on biofilm formation, antimicrobial effect and adhesion efficacy of fixed orthodontic retainers: An in vitro study.},
journal = {International orthodontics},
volume = {24},
number = {3S},
pages = {101175},
doi = {10.1016/j.ortho.2026.101175},
pmid = {42033860},
issn = {1879-680X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: This in vitro study evaluated the antimicrobial activity and biofilm formation of silver and silver fluoride nanoparticles coatings on orthodontic fixed retainers as the primary objective over a three-month period, with adhesion efficacy as secondary objective.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: Dead soft stainless-steel 8-strand braided wire specimens (n=222) were classified into three equal groups (n=74 each): group I (uncoated control), group II (AgFNPs-coated), and group III (AgNPs-coated). Coating was performed by chemical reduction method. Primary outcomes were antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans assessed by disc diffusion test and biofilm formation assessed by colony forming unit count (CFU/mL), both evaluated immediately after coating (T1) and after three months of storage in artificial saliva at 37°C (T2). The secondary outcome was adhesion efficacy assessed by pull-out test following thermocycling at 2,500 (S2500) and 5,000 (S5000) cycles. Data were analysed by Kruskal-Wallis test and one-way ANOVA.

RESULTS: Regarding the primary outcomes, the disc diffusion test at T1 demonstrated inhibition zones of 12mm, 4mm, and 0mm for AgFNPs, AgNPs, and control groups, respectively (P<0.001) [95% CI of differences: -13.72 to -2.88]. At T2, zones were reduced but remained statistically significant: 6mm, 2mm, and 0mm, respectively (P<0.001) [95% CI: -7.78 to -0.611]. For biofilm formation, CFU counts at T1 were 390, 11, and 5CFU/mL for control, AgFNPs, and AgNPs groups, respectively (P<0.001) [95% CI: -395.95 to 395.95]; at T2, counts increased to 580, 100, and 59CFU/mL, respectively (P<0.001) [95% CI: -80.48 to 567.55]. Regarding the secondary outcome, the pull-out test at S2500 showed mean values of 91.27±10.24, 84.19±3.86, and 79.47±8.30N for AgFNPs, AgNPs, and control groups, respectively (P=0.039) [95% CI: -20.70 to 15.98]. At S5000, values were 86.16±5.20, 81.18±3.62, and 77.75±9.45N, respectively, without a statistically significant overall difference (P=0.081) [95% CI: -15.78 to 3.94].

CONCLUSION: Silver-based nanoparticle coatings reduced bacterial adhesion and improved bond strength of orthodontic retainers without compromising mechanical stability after thermocycling. AgFNPs showed superior antibacterial and adhesive performance, suggesting a synergistic effect of silver and fluoride.},
}

@article {pmid42033876,
year = {2026},
author = {Seebach, E and Kretzer, JP and Bormann, T and Gibmeier, J and Vaßen, R and Kunisch, E and Renkawitz, T and Westhauser, F},
title = {Plasma-sprayed 45S5-bioactive glass coating provides superior anti-biofilm activity compared to hydroxyapatite coating while maintaining host cell cytocompatibility and antibacterial immune activation.},
journal = {Biomaterials advances},
volume = {185},
number = {},
pages = {214895},
doi = {10.1016/j.bioadv.2026.214895},
pmid = {42033876},
issn = {2772-9508},
abstract = {Periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs) are a major complication in joint arthroplasty, leading to higher mortality, poorer outcomes, and increased failure rates in revision surgeries. Revision challenges include patient risk factors, bacterial resistance, and the need for implants that combine biological integration with antibacterial effects. The 45S5-bioactive glass (BG), with its unique osseointegration and antibacterial properties, shows promise over hydroxyapatite (HA), though its high-temperature crystallization limits the appropriate coating technologies. Using atmospheric plasma spraying (APS) with controlled thermal exposure, we successfully applied coatings of Ti-6Al-4V alloys with either HA or BG, while preserving bioactivity and mechanical properties of the BG coating. This study compared HA and BG coated Ti-6AI-4V discs in terms of cytocompatibility, effect on biofilm formation and macrophage immune response. In doing so, we demonstrated that both coatings showed comparable attachment and viability of human bone marrow stromal cells (BMSC). We found a significant reduction in biofilm formation of Staphylococcus epidermidis (SE) on the BG coatings, while a pro-inflammatory macrophage activation by bacterial colonization and biofilm formation was preserved. Overall, our study shows that BG exhibits the same properties as HA regarding BMSC attachment and survival, whereas it is superior regarding its anti-biofilm characteristics further allowing for macrophage immunocompetence against bacterial colonization. Therefore, incorporating BG coated implants into revision joint arthroplasty has the potential to enhance and advance current coating strategies by providing a multifunctional approach that combines osteoconductive and antibacterial properties.},
}

@article {pmid42034637,
year = {2026},
author = {Nagy, K and Valappil, SK and Phan, TV and Li, S and Der, L and Morris, R and Bos, J and Winslow, S and Galajda, P and Rakhely, G and Austin, RH},
title = {Gradient metapopulation microfluidic ecologies shape genetic and biofilm drivers of T4r phage resistance in E. coli.},
journal = {NPJ biofilms and microbiomes},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41522-026-00959-z},
pmid = {42034637},
issn = {2055-5008},
support = {PHY-169940//National Science Foundation (NSF)/ ; },
abstract = {We use a gradient microfluidic metapopulation ecology which generates non-uniform phage concentration gradients and micro-ecological niches to reveal the importance of time, spatial population structure and collective population dynamics in the de novo evolution of T4r bacteriophage resistant motile E. coli. An insensitive bacterial population against T4r phage occurs within 20 hours in small interconnected population niches created by a gradient of phage virions, driven by evolution in transient biofilm patches. Sequencing of the resistant bacteria reveals mutations at the receptor site of bacteriophage T4r as expected but also in genes associated with biofilm formation and surface adhesion, supporting the hypothesis that evolution within transient biofilms drives de novo phage resistance.},
}

@article {pmid42035474,
year = {2026},
author = {Yu, R and Al-Shamiri, MM and Zhang, S and Li, P and Lei, C and Liu, H and Xue, L and Luo, K and Han, B and Xun, M and Yang, E and Han, L},
title = {Linking oxidative stress defense to biofilm architecture: Ohr mediates strain-dependent persistence in Acinetobacter baumannii.},
journal = {Virulence},
volume = {17},
number = {1},
pages = {2664989},
doi = {10.1080/21505594.2026.2664989},
pmid = {42035474},
issn = {2150-5608},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; *Acinetobacter baumannii/drug effects/genetics/physiology ; *Oxidative Stress ; *Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial ; Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Gene Expression Profiling ; Extracellular Polymeric Substance Matrix/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Biofilm formation is critical for the persistence of Acinetobacter baumannii, yet its directional correlation with antimicrobial resistance remains paradoxical. Here, we confirmed our prior finding that drug-sensitive and multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains employ distinct, temporally regulated biofilm developmental programs: susceptible strains excel at rapid biomass accumulation but undergo early collapse, while MDR strains delay biofilm initiation and optimize for the maintenance and reinforcement of mature biofilms. Transcriptomic profiling identified the organic hydroperoxide resistance protein (Ohr) as a crucial contributor mediating this strain-specific biofilm divergence, with its deletion resulting in severe biofilm defects. Metabolomics analyses further revealed that Ohr maintains biofilm integrity through dual mechanisms: by modulating redox homeostasis and regulating extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) production through control of AdeAB and AdeFG efflux pumps. Moreover, we identified indole-3-lactic acid as a potent biofilm inhibitor. Our findings suggest Ohr as a linchpin in A. baumannii biofilm development, elucidate the basis of temporal phenotypic divergence, and unveil promising therapeutic targets against biofilm-associated infections.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
*Acinetobacter baumannii/drug effects/genetics/physiology
*Oxidative Stress
*Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial
Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Gene Expression Profiling
Extracellular Polymeric Substance Matrix/metabolism

@article {pmid42027296,
year = {2026},
author = {Karaca, AN and Akçelik, N and Akçelik, M},
title = {The pagN gene: a dual genetic determinant for biofilm formation and virulence in Salmonella Typhimurium.},
journal = {FEMS microbes},
volume = {7},
number = {},
pages = {xtag017},
pmid = {42027296},
issn = {2633-6685},
abstract = {Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium persists across environments and causes disease by coordinating biofilm formation and host invasion. Although PagN is a known adhesin and invasin, its role in regulating these processes is unclear. We investigated PagN's contribution to biofilm development and pathogenicity using a chromosomal pagN deletion mutant (ΔpagN) and a complemented strain. Deletion did not affect growth but significantly reduced biofilm formation on polystyrene at 20°C and 28°C. The mutant showed altered morphotypes, reduced cellulose, impaired pellicle formation, delayed autoaggregation, and restricted motility. In Caco-2 cells, pagN loss reduced adhesion by ∼60% and abolished invasion by >90%. Ectopic expression of pagN successfully abrogated phenotypic shifts, confirming gene specificity. Comparative transcriptomics revealed a niche-specific regulatory footprint; the profound hilA (SPI-1) repression in planktonic cultures was not recapitulated in biofilms. Instead, the mutant exhibited targeted csgD-yaiC attenuation during biofilm development, alongside robust fimF induction, indicating a potential compensatory shift in the adhesive landscape. Network analysis suggests PagN is integrated into global circuits, influencing pathways through the regulator of capsule synthesis (Rcs) system. These findings demonstrate PagN is a key determinant linking biofilm development with virulence regulation in Salmonella Typhimurium, coordinating environmental persistence and host-pathogen interaction.},
}

@article {pmid42027444,
year = {2025},
author = {Besharati, S and Rahbar, M and Soleimani, N},
title = {Evaluation of Biofilm Formation, Alginate Production, Pattern of Drug Resistance, and the Presence of Efflux Pump MexAB-OprM, MexXY (-OprA), and AmpC Gene in Clinical Isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa.},
journal = {Tanaffos},
volume = {24},
number = {2},
pages = {163-173},
pmid = {42027444},
issn = {1735-0344},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: One of the most significant factors contributing to multidrug resistance in Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections is the formation of biofilms and the production of alginate. This study aimed to evaluate the overexpression of efflux pumps MexAB-OprM, MexXY (-OprA), and the AmpC gene and investigate biofilm and alginate in P. aeruginosa clinical isolates.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: One-hundred isolates of P. aeruginosa were collected two government-specialized hospitals from February 2024 to June 2024 in Tehran, Iran. The disk diffusion method was used for antimicrobial susceptibility and detecting the pattern of antibiotics. We used a microtiter plate and carbazole assay to investigate biofilm formation and alginate production, respectively. We investigated the efflux pump MexAB-OprM, MexXY (-OprA), and the AmpC gene expression with real-time PCR and its correlation with biofilm, alginate, and antibiotic resistance.

RESULTS: 30 multidrug-resistant (MDR) isolates were detected, and 27 antibiotic patterns were obtained. A significant relationship between biofilm formation and resistance to PRL was observed (P<0.01). All of the samples with more than 250μg/ml level of alginate production were resistant to Piperacillin-Tazobactam (PTZ), which was significant (P<0.05). Also, the relationship between alginate production and strong biofilm formation was significant. The expression of resistance-nodulation-division (RND) efflux pumps MexABOprM, MexXY (-OprA), and AmpC gene in MDR isolates of P. aeruginosa was significantly increased.

CONCLUSION: High prevalence of MDR, along with high expression of efflux pump genes, was concerning. High production of biofilm formation and its relationship with alginate were observed in P. aeruginosa clinical isolates. To prevent the spread of antibiotic resistance, implementing monitoring methods and not overusing and abusing antibiotics is necessary.},
}

@article {pmid42027784,
year = {2026},
author = {Yuming, L and Zhenkun, X and Yixin, S and Xi, C and Jingzhe, D and Yan, P and Wenjun, Y and Hui, C and Wentao, J},
title = {Nanomaterial-based strategies for oral biofilm management: functionalized implants and targeted delivery systems.},
journal = {Frontiers in oral health},
volume = {7},
number = {},
pages = {1789632},
pmid = {42027784},
issn = {2673-4842},
abstract = {Biofilm-associated infections, particularly peri-implantitis, threaten the long-term success of dental implants, and conventional debridement or chemotherapy often fails against mature biofilms. Nanomaterials offer multifunctional strategies to control infection while supporting osseointegration. This mini-review (2015-2025) summarizes nanomaterial-based approaches for managing implant-associated oral biofilms, including passive surface functionalization, active delivery systems, externally triggered therapies, and host-directed osteoimmunomodulation. Their potential should be interpreted in light of evidence maturity, safety-especially for ROS-based modalities-and long-term tribological and manufacturing limitations. We also highlight practical selection by disease stage and host risk, while emphasizing key translational gaps, particularly validation in mixed-species biofilms and long-term biocompatibility.},
}

@article {pmid42029737,
year = {2026},
author = {Lang, Y and Mei, H and Zhang, J and Hu, C and Pang, Z and Chen, Y and Xue, C},
title = {Voltage-tunable plasma-activated water: a strategy for combating peri-implantitis via dual-path biofilm disruption and vascular regeneration.},
journal = {Clinical oral investigations},
volume = {30},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {42029737},
issn = {1436-3771},
support = {BE2020707//the Science and Technology Department of Jiangsu Province/ ; },
}

@article {pmid42030910,
year = {2026},
author = {Pak, BA and Bal, Y and Hatib, BA and Bayrakdar, A and Sahinkaya, E},
title = {Impact of micropollutants and the process configuration on the performance of moving bed membrane biofilm reactor (MBMBR).},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {300},
number = {},
pages = {125944},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2026.125944},
pmid = {42030910},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {This study investigates the removal performance of selected micropollutants (ibuprofen, diclofenac, naproxen, carbamazepine, and triclosan) from domestic wastewater using a moving bed membrane biofilm reactor (MBMBR) process, consisting of two moving bed biofilm reactors (MBBRs) in series followed by a membrane bioreactor (MBR). While the integration of MBBR and MBR processes leverages the advantages of both technologies, systematic studies on determining the optimal configuration, particularly in the presence of micropollutants, remain quite limited in the literature. Within the scope of the research, the effects of sludge recirculation (hybrid growth) from the MBR to different MBBR units on treatment performance were evaluated over 140 days with three different periods. The results showed that the COD removal efficiency, which was initially 98% (permeate COD <10 mg/L), gradually decreased following the introduction of micropollutants. The toxicity of micropollutants led to the accumulation of soluble microbial products (SMPs) and extracellular polymeric substances (EPSs), which increased the average supernatant COD up to 370 mg/L in the MBR unit. The membrane rejected most of the SMPs and EPSs, which improved the permeate quality (with permeate COD averaging <50 mg/L in all configurations) but increased the fouling potential. Nitrification almost entirely ceased (with permeate NH4[+]-N averaging 40 mg/L) during the second period (biofilm-only growth) as the system suffered from both micropollutant toxicity and the lack of microbial seeding by sludge recirculation. Regarding micropollutant removal, high efficiencies of over 75% were achieved for ibuprofen and triclosan, while removal efficiencies for recalcitrant compounds such as carbamazepine, diclofenac, and naproxen generally remained below 30%. This study highlights the impact of micropollutants on ammonia oxidizing bacteria (AOB), which may have a critical role in micropollutant removal, and demonstrates the advantages of the hybrid growth mode in maintaining process stability.},
}

@article {pmid42032345,
year = {2026},
author = {Masoudipour, N and Shivaee, A and Pourmehdiabadi, J and Pourmehdiabadi, A and Hajikhani, B and Bastaminejad, S and Kalani, BS},
title = {MqsR Toxin may be a Potential Anti-biofilm and Anti-persistence Target in Burkholderia cenocenocepacia.},
journal = {Current microbiology},
volume = {83},
number = {6},
pages = {},
pmid = {42032345},
issn = {1432-0991},
}

@article {pmid42032569,
year = {2026},
author = {Yein, N and Martande, S and Shetty, SK and Kulloli, A and Pv, S and Ramamurthy, P and Sharma, D},
title = {Clinical efficacy of Guided Biofilm Therapy in the management of periodontal disease - a systematic review.},
journal = {BMC oral health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12903-026-08418-z},
pmid = {42032569},
issn = {1472-6831},
}

@article {pmid42022114,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhan, X and Huang, G and Su, J and Zhang, J and Huang, Q and Deng, X and Xu, M},
title = {Correction: Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus encodes a functional BolA transcriptional regulator related to motility, biofilm development, and stress response.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1820587},
doi = {10.3389/fmicb.2026.1820587},
pmid = {42022114},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2026.1717228.].},
}

@article {pmid42023935,
year = {2026},
author = {Hsu, K-LC and Furstenau, TN and Shaffer, I and Macek, MD and Ernst, RK and Fofanov, VY},
title = {Ethnicity-specific microbiome in early childhood caries: a functional perspective of oral biofilm.},
journal = {mSystems},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0178725},
doi = {10.1128/msystems.01787-25},
pmid = {42023935},
issn = {2379-5077},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: National surveillance data show persistent racial and ethnic disparities in early childhood caries (ECC), but the underlying causes of these differences have not been determined. This study examined both functional and taxonomic differences in ECC-related microbial activity between two high-risk groups of children: African American (AA) and Latin American Hispanic (LAH). Metatranscriptomic profiling of paired non-caries and caries plaque revealed consistent population-level shifts in gene expression and enabled species-level attribution of metabolically active microbes in caries lesions. A core set of well-established cariogenic organisms was consistently present and highly over-expressed in caries of both groups, including Streptococcus mutans, Veillonella parvula, Propionibacterium acidifaciens, and Lactobacillus rhamnosus. Beyond identifying the core organisms and functions active in lesions, we have also made two significant observations. First, the active communities in the two groups have substantially diverged: 4,900+ genes across 413 Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes Orthology (KO) groups were consistently (25%+ of samples) over-expressed in AA children, and 6,500+ genes across 382 KOs were consistently (57% of samples) over-expressed in LAH children. This reproducibility across multiple samples indicates robust group-level differences rather than random variation or single-sample effects. Second, although AA and LAH children exhibited similar functional responses to caries (sharing 1,392 KOs), these shifts were expressed by different bacterial species, indicating that distinct taxa may occupy similar metabolic niches in different groups. Taken together, these findings suggest that there is no single universal caries-associated microbiome; instead, a shared cariogenic core is necessary, but differences among the non-core taxa and their functional activity may be key to understanding ECC disparities.

IMPORTANCE: The disparity in tooth decay among young children has long been demonstrated in national surveillance data. While various factors including family, culture, access to health insurance, and medical infrastructure have been studied, the global transcriptomic perspective remains underexplored. Employing RNA-Seq technology, we examine functional and taxonomic differences in caries-associated microbial activity between two high-risk populations. Besides a core set of well-established cariogenic organisms, we observed significant and consistent differences in the active microbial communities between these two high-risk populations, African American (AA) and Latin American Hispanic (LAH) children. In AA children, Pseudopropionibacterium propionicum and Cardiobacterium hominis consistently showed the highest caries-related gene expression. In contrast, among LAH children, Propionibacterium acidifaciens, Selenomonas sp., Rothia dentocariosa, Atopobium parvulum, and Streptococcus sanguinis were the primary drivers of gene expression in caries lesions. By identifying the unique microbial mechanisms and pathways active in each population, we can better define the core factors required for caries development and uncover how differences in microbial function contribute to persistent disparities.},
}

@article {pmid42024423,
year = {2026},
author = {Garratt, I and Ravari, MY and Clarke, OE and McMurtrie, J and Wand, ME and Feil, EJ and Taylor, TB and Sutton, JM and Jones, BV},
title = {A model of polymicrobial catheter-associated urinary tract infection reveals biofilm-mediated modulation of treatment efficacy.},
journal = {Journal of applied microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jambio/lxag098},
pmid = {42024423},
issn = {1365-2672},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Catheter associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI) are among the most prevalent healthcare associated infections and an important site for development and spread of antimicrobial resistance. Although CAUTI are frequently polymicrobial, the majority of research focuses on individual pathogens in monoculture, largely due to a lack of representative and tractable models.

AIMS: The aim of this study was to develop a tractable and reproducible model of polymicrobial CAUTI.

METHODS: Here we describe the use of an in vitro model of the catheterised urinary tract to generate polymicrobial communities encompassing common uropathogens (Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus and Proteus mirabilis), in an environment representative of the catheterized urinary tract.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: We show that our system establishes stable and reproducible polymicrobial communities and facilitates analysis across both planktonic and biofilm lifestyles. We confirm that polymicrobial biofilms in this system display distinct population dynamics compared to planktonic populations and modulate the impact of ciprofloxacin treatment by protecting the most susceptible community members. In addition, we demonstrate the capacity of P. mirabilis to encrust and block catheters when part of a polymicrobial community and confirm that thioridazine treatment remains effective at inhibiting catheter blockage under these conditions.},
}

@article {pmid42025880,
year = {2026},
author = {Peng, L and He, Z and Fang, L and Liu, Y and Xu, Y},
title = {Reduced nitrous oxide emissions in a comammox-dominated continuous-flow moving bed biofilm reactor compared to a sequencing batch reactor.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {134688},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.134688},
pmid = {42025880},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {The complete ammonia oxidation (comammox) bacteria play an important role in biological nitrogen removal from wastewater. However, limited information is available on the effect of reactor operational mode on comammox bacteria enrichment and the associated nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions under varying dissolved oxygen (DO) and ammonium levels. In this work, a moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) and a sequencing batch reactor (SBR) were adopted to selectively enrich comammox bacteria under oligotrophic (∼142.7 mg N/L/d) and oxygen-rich (> 6.0 mg O2/L) conditions. Stable ammonium removals (>90%) were achieved for both reactors, with comammox bacteria dominating over counterparts at relative abundances of 97.4-98.9%. N2O emission factors across operational cycles were ∼ 0.06% and ∼ 0.1% for the comammox-dominated MBBR and SBR, respectively. DO played an important role in N2O production by either comammox-dominated biofilm or comammox-dominated floccular sludge. Increasing DO from 0.35 to 6.0 mg O2/L resulted in a significant decrease in N2O emissions for both comammox-dominated biofilm (0.5% to 0.04%) and floccular sludge (0.5% to 0.1%), mainly through suppressing abiotic NH2OH oxidation pathway. Non-aerated settling and decanting phases in the batch-mode SBR were responsible for 46.1% higher N2O emissions compared to the continuous-flow MBBR, probably ascribed to the heterotrophic denitrification in comammox-dominated floccular sludge under limited oxygen and organic carbon availabilities. These results suggest the potential of comammox-dominated biofilm-driven continuous-flow reactors in reducing N2O emissions while maintaining efficient pollutant removal.},
}

@article {pmid42015920,
year = {2026},
author = {Lin, IF and Chou, CY and Chen, YF and Wang, TY and Lin, JT and Lee, CC and Chen, JW and Jan, JS and Hung, YP},
title = {Biofilm- and Spore-Disruptive Star-Shaped Poly(l-lysine)/Hyaluronic Acid Microgels for Targeted Oral Therapy of Clostridioides difficile Infection.},
journal = {Biomacromolecules},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acs.biomac.5c02037},
pmid = {42015920},
issn = {1526-4602},
abstract = {Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) remains a major healthcare challenge due to recurrent disease, spore persistence, and biofilm-associated tolerance, while conventional antibiotics often disrupt gut microbiota. Here, we report a star-shaped poly(l-lysine) dendrimer (G3-PLL9) formulated into hyaluronic acid-based microgels for targeted oral delivery to the inflamed colon. G3-PLL9 exhibited potent antimicrobial activity, including rapid bactericidal effects, superior spore inhibition compared with vancomycin, and robust biofilm disruption at subinhibitory concentrations. In a murine CDI model, rectal administration of G3-PLL9 alleviated clinical symptoms, reduced tissue damage, and lowered recurrence risk. To enable oral therapy, G3-PLL9 was incorporated into hyaluronic acid microgels, achieving site-specific release through hyaluronidase-mediated degradation in the inflamed colon. Importantly, treatment preserved commensal gut microbiota more effectively than vancomycin. Collectively, these findings highlight G3-PLL9 microgels as a microbiota-sparing therapeutic that targets multiple stages of CDI pathogenesis─including spores and biofilms─and demonstrate their potential for clinical translation.},
}

@article {pmid42016031,
year = {2025},
author = {Khanjani, S and Nikkhahi, F and Zeynali Kelishomi, F and Javadi, A and Sadeghi, S and Bijani, B and Sadeghi, H and Saghi Sarabi, H and Marashi, SMA},
title = {Phage Cocktail against Acinetobacter baumannii biofilm on Endotracheal Tube: An in vitro study.},
journal = {International journal of molecular and cellular medicine},
volume = {14},
number = {4},
pages = {1045-1058},
pmid = {42016031},
issn = {2251-9637},
abstract = {Although biofilms on endotracheal tube (ET) surfaces represent a major clinical challenge, studies addressing the effect of lytic bacteriophages on these biofilms are relatively scarce. This study focused on examining the anti-biofilm capability of three specific phage against an XDR isolate of Acinetobacter baumannii in a 48-hour pre-formed biofilm on an ET surface. For this purpose, crystal violet staining, colony counting, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were employed. The results demonstrated a significant decrease in biofilm mass and bacterial count after 24 hours of exposure to the phage cocktail. SEM images confirmed a dramatic reduction in the biofilm. Based on these findings, phage therapy has the potential to reduce and disrupt biofilms on ET surfaces.},
}

@article {pmid42016371,
year = {2026},
author = {Mohammadi, M and Nikkhahi, F and Charkhchian, M and Kiaheyrati, N and Javadi, A and Fard Sanei, A and Fardsanei, F},
title = {Synergistic Anti-Biofilm and Bactericidal Activity of Ethanol and Chlorhexidine Combined with EDTA Against Staphylococcus aureus Isolates from Healthcare-Associated Carriers.},
journal = {Infection and drug resistance},
volume = {19},
number = {},
pages = {580129},
pmid = {42016371},
issn = {1178-6973},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), particularly in dialysis units, remain a significant challenge due to the frequent use of invasive devices and the immunocompromised status of patients. Among the most concerning pathogens is Staphylococcus aureus, known for its multidrug resistance and biofilm-forming capacity. This study aimed to investigate the antibiofilm effects of ethanol, chlorhexidine, and EDTA, individually and in combination, against S. aureus isolates from hospital carriers in the dialysis department of Qazvin teaching hospitals, Qazvin, Iran.

METHODS: A total of 400 samples were collected from nasal cavities, fingernails, patient beds, and dialysis machines. Isolates were identified by biochemical tests and PCR. Antibiotic susceptibility was evaluated via disk diffusion and E-test, with mupirocin resistance determined by mupA and mupB detection. Biofilm formation was assessed using the microtiter plate assay with crystal violet staining. The antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities of a combined solution of chlorhexidine, ethanol, and EDTA were analyzed using broth microdilution and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

RESULTS: 70 S. aureus isolates were analyzed for antibiotic resistance and biofilm formation. High resistance rates were observed to ciprofloxacin (62.8%), doxycycline (57.1%), and tetracycline (54.2%), while mupirocin resistance was detected in 4.2% of isolates (mupA positive). Multidrug resistance (MDR) was found in 68.6% of isolates. Strong biofilm formation was observed in 90% of isolates and was significantly associated with MDR. The combination of chlorhexidine and EDTA exhibited potent antibiofilm activity (FICI ≤ 0.5), with SEM imaging confirming disruption of biofilm structure and bacterial cell integrity.

CONCLUSION: Our findings indicate a high prevalence of multidrug-resistant and strong biofilm-producing S. aureus in dialysis units. Among the tested disinfectant combinations, chlorhexidine in combination with EDTA demonstrated substantial antibiofilm and antimicrobial effects, whereas EDTA and ethanol alone showed no significant activity. These results highlight the potential of synergistic disinfectant combinations to disrupt biofilm structures and suggest the need for further studies to evaluate their applicability in clinical settings.},
}

@article {pmid42016518,
year = {2026},
author = {Yuan, S and Wang, W and Yin, H and Luu, QH and Kong, L and Zhang, X and Lu, S and Bai, X and Han, X and Jiang, W},
title = {Transposon mutant library reveals the complex regulatory network of biofilm formation in Vibrio parahaemolyticus.},
journal = {Biofilm},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {100359},
pmid = {42016518},
issn = {2590-2075},
abstract = {Vibrio parahaemolyticus (V. parahaemolyticus) is a globally prevalent seafood-borne pathogen and a leading cause of gastroenteritis. It readily forms biofilms on shrimp, shellfish, and food packaging surfaces, enhancing its environmental tolerance, survival, and risk of cross-contamination during processing and storage. In this study, we constructed a transposon mutant library to systematically identify genes involved in biofilm regulation. Quantitative screening of 4000 mutants revealed 103 candidate genes, with 28 mutants showing reduced biofilm formation and 75 showing enhanced formation. Enrichment analysis indicated that these genes are primarily associated with the two-component systems (TCS), pyrimidine metabolism, and amino acid biosynthesis pathways. Two previously uncharacterized genes were further analyzed. Results showed that vp2252, encoding a component of a TCS, and vp2888, encoding a diguanylate cyclase with cyclic di-GMP (c-di-GMP) synthetase activity, broadly regulate biofilm formation, motility, and virulence. Transcriptomic data suggest that vp2252 mediates the transition from free-swimming to surface-associated swarming lifestyles. These findings provide new insights into the genetic regulation of V. parahaemolyticus biofilm development, highlight potential molecular targets for biofilm control, and lay the groundwork for future studies on its regulatory networks.},
}

@article {pmid42018147,
year = {2026},
author = {Mushtaq, K and Shakeel, N and Chaman Lal, K},
title = {Beyond replacement frequency: age, biofilm ecology, and methodological constraints in tracheostomal colonization studies.},
journal = {European archives of oto-rhino-laryngology : official journal of the European Federation of Oto-Rhino-Laryngological Societies (EUFOS) : affiliated with the German Society for Oto-Rhino-Laryngology - Head and Neck Surgery},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42018147},
issn = {1434-4726},
}

@article {pmid42018469,
year = {2026},
author = {Jungbauer, G and Giacobbo, L and Stähli, A and Sculean, A and Burger, J and Eick, S and Hofmann, M},
title = {Modeling In Vitro Biofilm-Calculus Formation for Assessing Periodontal Instrumentation and the Forces Applied.},
journal = {Clinical and experimental dental research},
volume = {12},
number = {2},
pages = {e70359},
doi = {10.1002/cre2.70359},
pmid = {42018469},
issn = {2057-4347},
support = {//Association for Dental Infection Control/ ; //Geistlich-Stucki Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; Humans ; *Dental Calculus/microbiology/therapy ; In Vitro Techniques ; Periodontitis/microbiology/therapy ; Ultrasonic Therapy/instrumentation ; Dental Scaling/instrumentation ; Periodontal Pocket/microbiology/therapy ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: In vitro models provide valuable insights into treatment options and their effectiveness prior to and alongside clinical evaluation. Such models should be standardized, reproducible, and closely reflect the clinical situation. This study aimed to investigate the removal of subgingival biofilm and calculus by instrumentation, which is vital in the successful treatment of periodontitis. The approach was to (i) develop an in vitro model based on biofilm and calculus formation and (ii) assess it by hand and ultrasonic instrumentation, while (iii) measuring the forces applied in an innovative periodontal defect model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A multi-species mixture consisting of 11 bacterial strains was used to form an initial calculus over 14 days. Inserts carrying human dentin specimens, either with biofilm or with a combination of biofilm and calculus, were placed in a periodontal pocket model equipped with a multi-axis force sensor, followed by treatment with hand or ultrasonic instrumentation. Instrumentation forces were recorded, and the remaining biofilm or biofilm/calculus was analyzed for bacterial colony-forming unit (cfu) counts and calcium levels after instrumentation.

RESULTS: The results revealed that the cfu counts and calcium levels in the biofilm/calculus group were higher compared to the respective biofilm controls. Ultrasonic instrumentation was more effective than hand instrumentation in reducing cfu counts in both the biofilm and biofilm/calculus groups. Furthermore, both hand and ultrasonic instrumentation reduced calcium levels in the biofilm/calculus groups. The peak forces Fy in the hand instrumentation groups were significantly higher in both the biofilm and biofilm/calculus groups compared to the respective ultrasonic groups.

CONCLUSIONS: The model enabled an initial reproducible calculus formation and evaluation of different instrumentation modalities, including the forces applied. The results favored the ultrasonic instrumentation due to its superior removal of biofilm and calculus and lower lateral forces. The presented biofilm/calculus model offers a new in vitro approach for comparing different instrumentation modalities.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
Humans
*Dental Calculus/microbiology/therapy
In Vitro Techniques
Periodontitis/microbiology/therapy
Ultrasonic Therapy/instrumentation
Dental Scaling/instrumentation
Periodontal Pocket/microbiology/therapy

@article {pmid42018900,
year = {2026},
author = {Viana, AAG and Borchardt, H and Dantas, JV and Dias, DSB and Amaral, IPGD and Vasconcelos, U},
title = {Exogenous phenazine allows biofilm stability but retards biodegradation of recently WLO-contaminated aqueous system.},
journal = {Anais da Academia Brasileira de Ciencias},
volume = {98},
number = {1},
pages = {e20250706},
doi = {10.1590/0001-3765202620250706},
pmid = {42018900},
issn = {1678-2690},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; Biodegradation, Environmental/drug effects ; *Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/metabolism ; *Phenazines/pharmacology ; *Water Pollutants, Chemical/metabolism ; *Petroleum/metabolism ; *Lubricants/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Each year, millions of liters of lubricating oil are consumed worldwide, and more than 50% of Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons (TPH) enter the environment through spills or improper disposal. Numerous strategies are applied to remediate oil-contaminated sites, and each scenario contributes to assessing the maximum efficiency of available cleanup approaches. This study evaluated, on a laboratory scale, the effect of phenazine methosulfate (PMS) on Waste Lubricating Oil (WLO) removal by P. aeruginosa. Microcosms were contaminated with WLO containing 448,000 mg·kg[-1] of TPH. WLO: aqueous phase ratios of 1:40, 1:20, and 1:10 were tested, all supplemented with PMS at 5 µg·mL[-1]. After 20 days of incubation at 29°C, greater WLO removal was observed in microcosms without PMS (33.8-37.8%), whereas PMS-amended systems removed only 9.9-15.3% (p > 0.05) possibly due to WLO composition or PMS interacting with alternative cell pathways. In both treatments, the inoculated cells were not adversely affected by the stressful conditions and established stable biofilms. This is the first report describing the effect of PMS on P. aeruginosa biofilm formation during WLO biodegradation under recent-contamination conditions. These findings indicate that combining bioaugmentation with exogenous phenazine addition should be avoided in the initial treatment phase.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
Biodegradation, Environmental/drug effects
*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/metabolism
*Phenazines/pharmacology
*Water Pollutants, Chemical/metabolism
*Petroleum/metabolism
*Lubricants/metabolism

@article {pmid42020691,
year = {2026},
author = {Vávrová, P and Janďourek, O and Coraça-Huber, DC and Spiegel, C and Nachtigal, P and Krátký, M and Konečná, K},
title = {Host soluble plasma factors increase dual-species Staphylococcus epidermidis and Candida albicans biofilm biomass without enhancing stress tolerance.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41598-026-49557-1},
pmid = {42020691},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {SVV 260 664//Univerzita Karlova v Praze, Czechia/ ; NW24-05-00539//Ministerstvo Zdravotnictví Ceské Republiky/ ; },
}

@article {pmid42008411,
year = {2026},
author = {Tuon, FF and Suss, PH and Dantas, LR and Ortis, GB},
title = {Comparative In Vitro Staphylococcus aureus Biofilm Evaluation on 3D-Printed Polylactic Acid and Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol-modified Surfaces.},
journal = {Journal of visualized experiments : JoVE},
volume = {},
number = {230},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3791/70394},
pmid = {42008411},
issn = {1940-087X},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; *Polyesters/chemistry/pharmacology ; *Printing, Three-Dimensional ; *Staphylococcus aureus/physiology/drug effects ; *Polyethylene Glycols/chemistry/pharmacology ; *Polyethylene Terephthalates/chemistry ; *Lactic Acid/chemistry ; *Polymers/chemistry ; },
abstract = {Three-dimensional (3D) printing has accelerated the development of customized medical devices, but biofilm formation on printed materials remains a major threat to implant safety and performance. Because material chemistry and print-dependent surface features can influence bacterial attachment and antibiotic tolerance, standardized in vitro approaches that enable meaningful comparisons across commonly used 3D-printing polymers are needed. Here, we compare biofilm development on polylactic acid (PLA) and polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG) using a multi-model in vitro evaluation framework that captures complementary aspects of biofilm biology, including early adhesion, maturation, and antimicrobial tolerance, under both static and flow conditions. S. aureus biofilms were established and assessed using quantitative (viable bacterial load and minimal biofilm eradication concentration [MBEC]) and qualitative (scanning electron microscopy) endpoints. Both PLA and PETG supported biofilm formation across models; however, PLA tended to show higher early adhesion and greater biofilm density. In static assays, PLA demonstrated higher CFU values than PETG, whereas vancomycin MBEC values were similar between materials. Assay-dependent differences in MBEC were observed across platforms, underscoring how model structure can influence apparent antimicrobial susceptibility. Under dynamic flow, biofilm burden increased relative to static conditions, with minimal material-dependent differences. Collectively, these results highlight the susceptibility of both polymers to biofilm formation and demonstrate the value of a multi-model framework for evaluating material-associated biofilm behavior and benchmarking antimicrobial performance on 3D-printed device-relevant substrates.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
*Polyesters/chemistry/pharmacology
*Printing, Three-Dimensional
*Staphylococcus aureus/physiology/drug effects
*Polyethylene Glycols/chemistry/pharmacology
*Polyethylene Terephthalates/chemistry
*Lactic Acid/chemistry
*Polymers/chemistry

@article {pmid42010135,
year = {2026},
author = {Lendel, AM and Antonova, NP and Grigoriev, IV and Goldin, IV and Dedova, AV and Usachev, EV and Gushchin, VА and Vasina, DV},
title = {Search for effective bacteriolytic enzymes and their combinations for the treatment of polymicrobial biofilm-associated infections.},
journal = {World journal of microbiology & biotechnology},
volume = {42},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {42010135},
issn = {1573-0972},
support = {125021101874-6//Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation/ ; 125021101874-6//Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation/ ; 125021101874-6//Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation/ ; 125021101874-6//Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation/ ; 125021101874-6//Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation/ ; 125021101874-6//Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation/ ; 125021101874-6//Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation/ ; 125021101874-6//Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation/ ; },
}

@article {pmid42011017,
year = {2026},
author = {Sadia, H and Amin, A and Ahmed, I},
title = {Metagenomic and Phenotypic Insights Into Biofilm-Forming Pathogens in Patients With Nosocomial Sepsis.},
journal = {BioMed research international},
volume = {2026},
number = {1},
pages = {e8989667},
pmid = {42011017},
issn = {2314-6141},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; Humans ; *Sepsis/microbiology/genetics ; *Cross Infection/microbiology/genetics ; *Metagenomics/methods ; *Bacteria/genetics/classification ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Metagenome ; Male ; Female ; Phenotype ; },
abstract = {Biofilm-related infections significantly contribute to bacterial diseases, with estimates suggesting that at least 80% of such infections are associated with biofilms. These infections often involve opportunistic pathogens, which not only influence the type of infection but also impact the microenvironment by interacting with other polymicrobial pathogens, thereby altering microbial diversity within the infection site. The present study was designed to assess potential changes in bacterial communities across various infection types. The 50 samples were collected and pooled from different anatomical locations: II-H1 (calf), ul-H2 (thighs), ft-H3 (upper leg), ct-H4 (chest), and Ca-H5 (catheter). The 16S rDNA sequencing was performed on 10 representative samples using the Sanger method to identify bacterial taxa, whereas the metagenomic analysis was conducted on the Illumina MiSeq platform (Illumina, Inc., San Diego, California). Sanger sequencing identifying several bacterial strains including Bacterium MS-AsIII-61, Bacterium HB33-1, Mammaliicoccus sciuri SSB38, multiple Staphylococcus species (S. aureus DA101 and S8, Staphylococcus sp. C0021-01R and TSA25S, S. cohnii FC2265, and S. saprophyticus A), and Enterobacter hormaechei D15. The metagenomics analysis revealed variations and diversity in the different location across the organ by relative abundance of 5 bacterial phyla and 38 species. The Proteobacteria phylum was the most abundant phylum across all sites, with the highest prevalence observed in Ca-H5, followed by ul-H2, ct-H4, II-H1, and ft-H3 in the decreasing order. In contrast, the Bacteroidetes phylum exhibited the highest abundance in ft-H3. Catheter-associated infections (Ca-H5 site) show a homogeneous ARG profile, dominated by genes supporting biofilm formation and persistence. MSA samples reflect diversity in methicillin and multidrug resistance genes, consistent with surgical-site and opportunistic infections. Trypto samples may represent an environmental or experimental condition leading to alternative ARG expression, highlighting site- or condition-specific variations. The different virulence factor responsible for the boost in the establishment of biofilms in these pathogens includes, surface adhesion proteins, increasing resilience to environmental, efflux pumps, quorum-sensing regulators, stresses, and antibiotic treatments. The study demonstrates the dynamic nature and impact of biofilm-related infections at anatomical sites. It also focused on biofilm-associated infections at surgical sites, their progression into chronic conditions, and the corresponding treatment patterns. The integration of metagenomic analysis with phenotypic studies provided deeper insights into the roles of key genes and their mechanisms in biofilm formation.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
Humans
*Sepsis/microbiology/genetics
*Cross Infection/microbiology/genetics
*Metagenomics/methods
*Bacteria/genetics/classification
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
Metagenome
Male
Female
Phenotype

@article {pmid42012057,
year = {2026},
author = {Chaluvaraju, PB and Ramu, R and Swamy, SN and K B, VG and C, KA and Priya, BS},
title = {Unveiling the Potential of Isoquinoline-Tethered 1,2,3-Triazoles as Promising Anti-Biofilm Agents Against Candida albicans: Synthesis, Biological Evaluation, ADME, and Molecular Docking Studies.},
journal = {Chemistry & biodiversity},
volume = {23},
number = {4},
pages = {e03083},
doi = {10.1002/cbdv.202503083},
pmid = {42012057},
issn = {1612-1880},
mesh = {*Candida albicans/drug effects/physiology ; *Biofilms/drug effects ; *Molecular Docking Simulation ; *Triazoles/chemistry/pharmacology/chemical synthesis ; *Antifungal Agents/pharmacology/chemical synthesis/chemistry ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Isoquinolines/chemistry/pharmacology ; Structure-Activity Relationship ; Molecular Structure ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Humans ; },
abstract = {A library of twelve new 1-phenyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline tethered 1-phenyl-1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl-methyl derivatives 7(a-l) were synthesized via copper-catalyzed azide alkyne cycloaddition. The synthesized derivatives were characterized by [1]H-NMR, [13]C-NMR, and mass spectrometry techniques. All the derivatives were screened for in vitro antifungal activity against an opportunistic pathogen Candida albicans by broth microdilution method. The study revealed that compound 7i exhibited the potent antifungal profile with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 6 µg/mL, minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) of 32 µg/mL, and it demonstrated 82% biofilm inhibition and 78% filament inhibition. The results showed an improvement over the standard drug fluconazole which exhibited MIC of 8 µg/mL and MFC of 64 µg/mL, 78% biofilm inhibition, and 65% of filament inhibition. Further the inhibition was confirmed by SEM analysis and qRT-PCR was conducted against HWP1, EFG1, and ALS3 genes. In addition, an in silico molecular docking study was carried out to demonstrate the interactions between the synthesized compounds and target amino acids. ADMET analysis indicated all the compounds met the criteria of drug-likeness and follow Lipinski's rule of five. Further optimization of these derivatives could yield promising therapeutics for Candidal infections.},
}

*Candida albicans/drug effects/physiology
*Biofilms/drug effects
*Molecular Docking Simulation
*Triazoles/chemistry/pharmacology/chemical synthesis
*Antifungal Agents/pharmacology/chemical synthesis/chemistry
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Isoquinolines/chemistry/pharmacology
Structure-Activity Relationship
Molecular Structure
Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
Humans

@article {pmid42012157,
year = {2026},
author = {Poulsen, JS and Van Alin, A and Larsen, PB and Haarder, FMN and Meyer, RL and Koren, K and Kjeldsen, KU},
title = {Limits of bacterial osmoadaptation during planktonic and biofilm growth: a step toward effective biofouling control.},
journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0241125},
doi = {10.1128/aem.02411-25},
pmid = {42012157},
issn = {1098-5336},
abstract = {Salinity is a key parameter for bacterial survival and growth. Halophilic and halotolerant bacteria can adapt to elevated salinity, but the energetic demands of osmoadaptation increase under fluctuating salt concentrations, potentially constraining growth and persistence. A new concept in reverse osmosis (RO) filtration is batch operation with oscillating rather than constantly high brine salinity. We hypothesize that fluctuating salinity can diminish biofouling in such RO systems. To test this hypothesis, we examined the survival and activity of Aliivibrio fischeri and Pseudomonas fluorescens under fluctuating salinities in planktonic and biofilm cultures as representative of halophilic and halotolerant species, respectively, and common members of biofouling communities. At 28°C, P. fluorescens grew at 0%-6% salinity with fastest growth rate at 0%-1%. At 7%-10% salinity, P. fluorescens remained viable but did not grow. At 22°C, A. fischeri grew at 0.5%-7% salinity, with fastest growth rate at 2%-3%, but unlike P. fluorescens, it lost viability outside this growth range. Cultures did not respire at salinities that did not support growth, suggesting that survival under such salt stress does not depend on high metabolic activity. Furthermore, cell-specific aerobic respiration rates in A. fischeri correlated with growth rate but not osmotic stress. Biofilm formation did not enhance the osmotic stress tolerance of the two bacteria. Our results indicate that high constant salinity favors the halophilic A. fischeri over the halotolerant P. fluorescens, but oscillating salinity (e.g., 0%-7%) favors neither. Oscillating salinity may, therefore, offer a new mechanism for controlling microbial growth that circumvents community adaptation to environmental conditions.IMPORTANCEReverse osmosis filtration is a widely used technology to address the scarcity of clean freshwater. However, the efficiency of reverse osmosis systems is challenged by microbial biofouling, as microbial communities adapt to the environmental conditions within the system and form biofilms on the membranes. This study investigated the impact of fluctuating salinity on the growth and survival of halophilic and halotolerant bacteria. The findings suggest that oscillating salinity disrupts the growth and viability of both types of bacteria, in both planktonic cultures and biofilms. The study, thus, supports the hypothesis that fluctuating salinity in reverse osmosis systems could reduce biofouling by impeding microbial adaptation to salinity. This represents a promising new strategy for microbial control in reverse osmosis systems, potentially enhancing performance by minimizing biofouling through an environmentally friendly approach.},
}

@article {pmid42012583,
year = {2026},
author = {Karthikeyan, A and Tabassum, N and Javaid, A and Kim, T and Jung, WK and Khan, F},
title = {Controlling Staphylococcus aureus skin infections by targeting biofilm and virulence properties using FDA-approved antiseptics and skin care products.},
journal = {Folia microbiologica},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42012583},
issn = {1874-9356},
support = {RS-2021-NR060118//Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF), funded by the Ministry of Education/ ; RS-2023-00241461//Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF), funded by the Ministry of Education/ ; },
abstract = {Staphylococcus aureus is a major skin pathogen that causes a broad spectrum of infections, ranging from mild skin infections to severe invasive diseases. In this study, we evaluated antibacterial and antivirulence properties of selected FDA-approved skincare bioactives and antiseptics against multiple virulence factors. Minimum inhibitory concentration analysis of benzalkonium chloride, retinol, hydroquinone, and kojic acid showed strong antimicrobial activity at concentrations from 2 to 1024 µg/mL. Epigallocatechin gallate effectively inhibits biofilm formation by 81.53% and reduces staphyloxanthin production by 68.26%. Retinol exhibited antibiofilm activity, eradicating mature biofilm mass by 79.18%. Furthermore, a combination of skincare bioactives with antibiotics, including oxacillin, ciprofloxacin, tetracycline, and rifampicin, demonstrated synergy and additive effects, enhancing antibacterial efficacy. Molecular docking analysis exhibited strong predicted binding affinities of skincare bioactives and antiseptics against key virulence factors. This study highlights the multitarget antivirulence potential of skincare bioactives and antiseptics as an alternative strategy to mitigate diverse S. aureus infections.},
}

@article {pmid42012718,
year = {2026},
author = {Mensi, M and Garzetti, G and Scotti, E and Marchetti, S and Venturi, C and Di Monda, L and Sordillo, A and Calza, S},
title = {Plaque disclosing agent as a guide in biofilm removal in patients with fixed orthodontic appliance: a randomized clinical trial.},
journal = {Odontology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42012718},
issn = {1618-1255},
abstract = {Effective professional plaque removal is of major importance in the prevention of white spot lesions and gingivitis in patients with fixed orthodontic appliances. However, visual identification of plaque can be difficult, especially around brackets, ligatures and wires. The purpose of the present randomized clinical trial was to evaluate the effectiveness of a plaque disclosing agent (PDA) as a visual guide for biofilm removal. Thirty-two systematically and periodontally healthy adults with fixed orthodontic appliances and Plaque Index (PI) > = 25% were enrolled from October 2020 to May 2022, the subjects were equally randomized into test and control group. Primary outcome was the change in the difference in percentage of residual plaque area (RPA) between the two study groups. In the test group, a PDA was applied before professional oral hygiene, whilst the control group received a hygiene session without disclosing. The PDA was then re-applied at the end of the treatment in both groups, and the RPA was assessed via Image-J software analysis of standardized frontal photos and compared between groups. The average RPA in the test group was 3.9% (CI 95% 2.6%; 5.1%), which resulted significantly lower than in the control group, where it reached 12.0% (CI 95% 8.0%-16.0%) (p-value < 0.001). The percentage of area with residual plaque was modelled using a beta-regression model. The use of plaque disclosing agents as guidance for professional oral hygiene treatment leads to improved plaque removal in patients with fixed orthodontic appliances. NCT05428189, 2022-06-08, retrospectively registered.},
}

@article {pmid42012722,
year = {2026},
author = {Mrosek, D and Białas, N and Winter, A and Prymak, O and Loza, K and Epple, M},
title = {Biofilm formation associated with calcium phosphate coating on implant metals.},
journal = {Journal of materials science. Materials in medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1007/s10856-026-07053-y},
pmid = {42012722},
issn = {1573-4838},
support = {Ep 22/64-1//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; },
abstract = {Three clinically relevant implant metals, i.e., stainless steel (SS316L), pure titanium (grade 4), and the titanium alloy Ti6Al4V (grade 5), were coated with octacalcium phosphate from supersaturated aqueous calcium phosphate solution. Calcium phosphate coatings are frequently applied to enhance the osteoconductivity of metal implants. However, this leads to a higher surface roughness that increases the risk for bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation. The bacterial species Escherichia coli (Gram-negative rods) and Staphylococcus xylosus (Gram-positive cocci) were seeded on the bare metals and the calcium phosphate-coated metals, respectively, and cultivated for up to 72 h to assess the biofilm formation. The efficiency of biofilm production by bacteria was evaluated by the crystal violet assay, scanning electron microscopy, and confocal microscopy. The growth of S. xylosus was always strong, with and without calcium phosphate coating, whereas E. coli proliferated better on calcium phosphate-coated metals. Both bacterial species colonized cavities within the porous calcium phosphate coating as indicated by scanning electron microscopy. The metabolic activity of S. xylosus caused a pH drop to 5.5 that led to corrosion of the calcium phosphate layer by acidic dissolution. In contrast, E. coli led to an increase in pH to about 8.9 that did not affect the coating. Osteoblast-like MG-63 cells adhered and proliferated well on both coated and uncoated metals, underscoring the good osteocompatibility before and after coating.},
}

@article {pmid42001570,
year = {2026},
author = {Yang, Y and Xu, B and Xu, R and Xu, G and Chen, L and Huang, S and Shi, X and Ng, HY and Lee, CH},
title = {Switch-like effects and regulatory mechanisms of DSF-mediated quorum sensing in wastewater biofilm behaviors.},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {300},
number = {},
pages = {125915},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2026.125915},
pmid = {42001570},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {Wastewater biofilms leverage quorum sensing (QS) to coordinate collective microbial processes, positioning exogenous QS signal dosing as a promising biostimulation strategy for biofilm reactors. However, the unknown threshold concentration of QS activation (common QS signals dose ranges from ∼0.1 to ∼10[5] µg/g-VSS in biostimulated biofilm reactors), and the complex concentration-dependent relationships remain poorly understood. In this study, we applied external diffusible signal factor (cis-11-methyl-2-dodecenoic acid, DSF) gradients to uncover how the prevalent, yet underexplored DSF-based QS system governs biofilm formation and their metabolisms in wastewater treatment. A low DSF dose (0.1 μM, 7.0 μg/g-VSS) triggered "switch-on" state, increasing protein-rich EPS by 86.9% and biomass by 46.9%. This was driven by a Pseudomonas-centered interspecies QS circuit via sensor PA1396, which upregulated aromatic amino acid (aroB, trpB), EPS (pelA, algD), and ATP (atpH) genes. In contrast, excessive DSF (0.1 mM, 6957.1 μg/g-VSS) induced "switch-off" state, markedly reducing biomass by 64.1% where QS-regulated Pseudomonas shifted energy from EPS secretion to reduction, and upregulated multidrug efflux genes (mexXY, oprM). This transition also involved rpfC-rpfG activation (mainly in Comamonas) and digA-D quenching (in P. panipatensis), reducing c-di-GMP and DSF while enhancing flagellar motility (fliC). Null modeling confirmed both states reinforced deterministic selection, leading to specialized communities. Overall, DSF exerted biphasic, switch-like control over biofilm phenotypes, community assembly, and functional traits, and our results suggested that analogous switch-like regulation may extend to other QS-signal pathways (e.g., AHLs and AI-2). Collectively, this study provided a mechanistic basis for precision, dose-guided ecological manipulation of wastewater biofilm reactors.},
}

@article {pmid42002056,
year = {2026},
author = {Razdan, K and Allott, M and Kanta, S and Chaudhary, E and Rahi, DK and Kumari, S and Zwain, T and Lara, JG and Sinha, VR and Singh, KK},
title = {Nanostructured lipid carrier enabled delivery of levofloxacin and clove essential oil to overcome Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm infection in burn wounds- a synergistic approach.},
journal = {International journal of pharmaceutics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {126885},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijpharm.2026.126885},
pmid = {42002056},
issn = {1873-3476},
abstract = {Conventional antibiotics struggle to completely eradicate the infection because of their ineffective penetration of biofilms. New multimodal strategy integrating antibiofilm agent with antimicrobials delivered as nanomedicine could be a powerful approach to overcome biofilm resistance. Bioactive essential oils have recently garnered great attention because of their biofilm disruption and antibiofilm activity. The present study developed an integrated functional nanostructured lipid carrier (NLCs) combining clove essential oil (CO) and levofloxacin (LFX) as model antibiotic for localized delivery as hydrogel for treatment of burn wounds infected with P. aeruginosa biofilms. In vitro cell line studies demonstrated concentration dependent uptake of LFX-CO-NLCs in human dermal fibroblasts and normal human epithelial keratinocytes, cytocompatibility and fibroblast migration in scratch wound assay. Crystal violet assay validated strong antibiofilm effect of LFX-CO-NLCs. The nanoparticles were able to infiltrate through P. aeruginosa biofilm and be up taken by bacterial cells as evidenced by confocal microscopy. LFX-CO-NLCs hydrogel showed appreciable textural profile and pseudoplastic behavior which facilitated topical application. In vivo burn wound in mice with P. aeruginosa infection displayed early wound closure, significantly improved infection clearance and enhanced collagen deposition and wound healing after treatment with LFX-CO-NLCs hydrogel in comparison to other treatment groups. Wounds were found to be devoid of any bacterial presence after 7 days of LFX-CO-NLCs hydrogel application. It is propounded that this industrially viable technology holds great promise as future therapeutics for chronic wound infections.},
}

@article {pmid42003596,
year = {2026},
author = {Louvet, M and Li, J and Areitio, M and Brandalise, D and Bachmann, D and Coste, AT and LeibundGut-Landmann, S and Sanglard, D and Lamoth, F},
title = {Role of the transcription factor Wor2 in biofilm formation of Candidozyma auris.},
journal = {mSphere},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0005726},
doi = {10.1128/msphere.00057-26},
pmid = {42003596},
issn = {2379-5042},
abstract = {The yeast pathogen Candidozyma (Candida) auris can form biofilms, which contribute to its virulence and nosocomial transmission. In this study, we identified the transcription factor Wor2 as a negative regulator of biofilm formation in C. auris. Wor2 hyperactivation in a strain of clade IV via the use of a protein tagging strategy resulted in downregulation of two important adhesins, SCF1 and ALS4112, and decreased biofilm-forming capacity. We showed that the impact on biofilm was predominantly mediated via decreased SCF1 expression in this strain. However, results of adhesion assays on inert surfaces and human keratinocytes found relatively modest roles of Wor2 and Scf1 in this process, suggesting that their effect on biofilm formation is complex and not limited to the adhesion step. Finally, analyses of other strains from different clades identified three distinct WOR2 genotypes, with variable WOR2 expression levels and distinct impacts of WOR2 deletion on biofilm formation. Notably, Wor2 negatively regulated biofilm in strains of clades I, III, and IV with distinct profiles of SCF1/ALS4112 expression, while it had no impact on biofilm in a clade II strain. Taken together, this study showed that Wor2 exhibited some distinct genotypic evolution in C. auris resulting in clade- or strain-specific regulatory roles and pathways in biofilm formation.IMPORTANCECandidozyma (Candida) auris is a pathogenic yeast exhibiting a particular capacity for interhuman transmission via medical instruments, which was the cause of nosocomial outbreaks of candidemia. Adhesion to inert surfaces and subsequent biofilm formation is therefore important for C. auris propagation. This work highlights the role of the transcription factor Wor2 as a negative regulator of biofilm formation in C. auris. In a strain of clade IV, Wor2 was shown to downregulate two important adhesins (SCF1 and ALS4112). Interestingly, Wor2 exhibited different genotypes across C. auris clades and strains, which were associated with distinct differential expression of WOR2, ALS4112, and SCF1, and possibly distinct roles in biofilm formation.},
}

@article {pmid42004886,
year = {2026},
author = {Nuwayhid, R and Ngoc-Huyen, N and Lippmann, N and Dietze, N and Kursawe, L and Kikhney, J and Moter, A and Kobbe, P and Siemers, F and Roth, A and Langer, S and Pempe, C and Kurow, O},
title = {Synergistic tissue destruction by Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis in a 3D human skin biofilm equivalent.},
journal = {Biofilm},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {100361},
pmid = {42004886},
issn = {2590-2075},
abstract = {Staphylococci are common skin commensals that can transition into opportunistic pathogens, particularly in biofilm-associated and polymicrobial infections. However, how interspecies interactions modulate virulence remains poorly understood, partly due to a lack of human-relevant models. We adapted a human cell-based three-dimensional skin equivalent (3DSE) into a biofilm infection model using monospecies biofilms of Staphylococcus aureus or Staphylococcus epidermidis, and a dualspecies co-culture. Biofilm architecture and spatial distribution were analysed by histology and fluorescence in situ hybridisation, while bacterial dominance was assessed by colony-forming unit counts. Host responses were evaluated using a composite biofilm destruction score, lactate dehydrogenase release, apoptosis and tight junction integrity, and cytokine profiling. The 3DSE supported robust, species-specific biofilm formation. Notably, despite reduced biofilm mass, dualspecies biofilms caused the most severe tissue damage, cytotoxicity and epithelial disruption. Although S. aureus dominated in co-culture, pathogenicity was not dependent on bacterial load. These findings demonstrate synergistic host modulation in polymicrobial staphylococcal biofilms and establish the 3DSE as a physiologically relevant platform for studying skin biofilm infections.},
}

@article {pmid42007030,
year = {2026},
author = {Pei, H and Xu, L and Chen, X and Kong, F and Wu, M and Shang, F and Xue, T},
title = {The TcaR-CtsR regulatory cascade governs multi-stress tolerance and biofilm formation in foodborne Staphylococcus aureus.},
journal = {Current research in food science},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {101397},
pmid = {42007030},
issn = {2665-9271},
abstract = {Staphylococcus aureus exhibits remarkable resilience to environmental stresses, largely governed by complex transcriptional regulatory networks. While CtsR is a well-established repressor of the heat shock response in Gram-positive bacteria, its role in S. aureus extends beyond proteotoxic stress management. In this study, using a foodborne S. aureus strain RMSA49, we demonstrated that CtsR is critical for biofilm formation, glycopeptide antibiotic susceptibility, and multi-stress tolerance to heat, desiccation, oxidative, and salt stresses. Genetic disruption of ctsR significantly impaired biofilm development and increased bacterial sensitivity to vancomycin and teicoplanin. Furthermore, we identified TcaR as a direct upstream regulator of ctsR, binding specifically to its promoter region, as confirmed by EMSA. This TcaR-CtsR regulatory cascade represents a novel layer of control in the stress adaptation mechanism of S. aureus. Our findings expand the functional scope of CtsR and provide new insights into the molecular basis of stress resilience and antibiotic susceptibility in this pathogen, highlighting potential targets for controlling S. aureus in both food safety and clinical contexts.},
}

@article {pmid42007712,
year = {2026},
author = {Çakmak, G and Molinero-Mourelle, P and Mosaddad, SA and Farjoud, S and Yılmaz, D and Eick, S and Schimmel, M and Yilmaz, B},
title = {Surface properties and biofilm formation of a manufacturer-reinforced, nanographene-modified pre-polymerized CAD-CAM polymethylmethacrylate denture base material: An in vitro study.},
journal = {Journal of prosthodontics : official journal of the American College of Prosthodontists},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/jopr.70132},
pmid = {42007712},
issn = {1532-849X},
abstract = {PURPOSE: To evaluate the surface roughness, hydrophobicity, and Candida albicans biofilm formation of three denture base materials, including two computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) resins and one conventional heat-polymerized PMMA, before and after thermocycling (TC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty disk-shaped specimens (Ø10 × 1.5 mm) were fabricated and assigned to three groups (n = 10 each): (1) nanographene-reinforced CAD-CAM PMMA (GDM, trace graphene content <0.05 wt%), (2) pre-polymerized CAD-CAM PMMA (MDM; nanoparticle-free control), and (3) conventional heat-polymerized PMMA (CDM; nanoparticle-free control). Specimens underwent 10,000 thermal cycles in artificial saliva, followed by repeated measurements. Surface roughness was measured before polishing, before TC (after polishing), and after TC using a noncontact optical profilometer to establish baseline surface conditions and quantify finishing- and aging-related changes. Hydrophobicity was assessed before TC (after polishing) and after TC via water contact angle analysis. C. albicans biofilm formation was evaluated before TC (after polishing) and after TC using a 48-h incubation model followed by colony-forming unit quantification. The data were analyzed using a one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's post hoc test for multiple comparisons. Additionally, paired t-tests were conducted to evaluate changes before and after TC (α = 0.05).

RESULTS: Surface roughness differed significantly before polishing and after TC (p < 0.001), but not before TC (after polishing) (p = 0.129). CDM had the highest roughness; GDM showed the lowest after TC (p < 0.001). Water contact angle did not differ significantly among materials (p ≥ 0.136). GDM initially showed higher C. albicans biofilm than CDM (p = 0.009), but levels decreased after TC (p < 0.001), with no differences thereafter. Biofilm formation after TC correlated positively with contact angle (r = 0.478) and negatively with roughness (r = -0.401).

CONCLUSION: Surface polishing reduced the roughness of all tested materials, with GDM exhibiting the lowest roughness. The incorporation of nanographene in a pre-polymerized PMMA denture base reduced roughness and C. albicans biofilm formation.},
}

@article {pmid42007716,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, S and Zhang, X and Li, M and Zhou, M and Xing, Z and Zhu, W and Liu, Y and Li, Q and Zang, X and Zhang, S},
title = {A cold-responsive fimACD chaperone-usher operon tunes motility and biofilm formation in Pseudomonas fragi D12.},
journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0247225},
doi = {10.1128/aem.02472-25},
pmid = {42007716},
issn = {1098-5336},
abstract = {Low temperature alters bacterial growth and surface-linked behaviors; however, the genetic role of the associated pilus systems in cold adaptation remains unclear. Here, we used the psychrotolerant tundra isolate Pseudomonas fragi D12 as a model to investigate the transcriptional responses and functional divergence of three fimbrial genes, fimA, fimC, and fimD, through a combination of transcriptome analysis and gene knockout/overexpression assays. RNA-seq analysis revealed that extreme cold stress (4°C) triggered a robust induction of the fim cluster and an adjacent regulatory module comprising an Arc-family DNA-binding protein and an EAL-domain phosphodiesterase. qRT-PCR confirmed the RNA-seq trends. Functional assays demonstrated distinct ecological roles; deletion of fimA increased swimming but reduced swarming, whereas overexpression of fimA led to an increase in swarming. fimC overexpression enhanced swimming, whereas fimC deletion decreased swarming. fimD deletion increased swimming and reduced swarming, while fimD overexpression suppressed swarming. Temperature-gradient experiments further showed that across the three temperatures examined (4°C, 15°C, and 30°C), motility and biofilm formation were the highest at 15°C. Transmission electron microscopy associated these behavioral changes with altered fimbrial density and organization, and growth-curve analysis indicated no major defects in planktonic proliferation. In combination, the data point to a fimbrial apparatus that is transcriptionally responsive to cold and may mechanically modulate the coupling of a single polar flagellum to liquid and solid interfaces, while the genomic context of fimACD remains compatible with local modulation of cyclic di-GMP signaling that has yet to be examined directly.IMPORTANCELow-temperature environments are widespread in nature; however, the genetic contributions of bacterial surface appendages to cold-associated behavioral adaptation remain poorly understood. Our work, using the psychrotolerant tundra isolate Pseudomonas fragi D12, offers a tractable example in which a single chaperone-usher fimbrial operon exerts a marked influence on how cells move and form biofilms across the three temperatures examined (4°C, 15°C, and 30°C). By combining transcriptomics, defined genetic changes, and imaging, we connect cold-inducible expression of the fimACD locus with altered fimbrial architecture, motility behavior, and biofilm robustness, while separating these effects from bulk growth. The results support a view in which fimbriae in a psychrotolerant bacterium operate as adjustable elements that influence when cells favor long-range swimming versus surface-associated growth. Such information may provide direct genetic and phenotypic evidence for functional specialization of the fimbrial system under cold stress, offering new insight into the molecular strategies that enable microbial survival in low-temperature habitats.},
}

@article {pmid42007726,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, S and Zheng, J and Liu, Q and Teng, T and Yang, Z and Huo, F and Xue, Y and Li, L and Huang, H},
title = {AceE affects the optimum growth and biofilm formation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis via cell wall lipid remodeling.},
journal = {mSystems},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0173225},
doi = {10.1128/msystems.01732-25},
pmid = {42007726},
issn = {2379-5077},
abstract = {Central carbon metabolism is fundamental to the growth and virulence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). The aceE gene encodes the E1 subunit of the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex that irreversibly converts pyruvate to acetyl-CoA. There, we investigated the impact of aceE inactivation on the physiological metabolism of Mtb. An aceE deletion in Mtb H37Rv was constructed, and the mutant was compared to wild type (WT) by in vitro growth assays, colony morphology, biofilm formation, stress tolerance, lipidomics, RNA-seq, and BALB/c mouse infection. Mtb ΔaceE exhibited markedly slower planktonic growth, smooth colony morphology, impaired biofilm formation, and was more sensitive to acid, NaNO2, and some commonly used antibiotics. Lipidomics revealed global depletion of mycolic acids and major phospholipids in Mtb ΔaceE mutant. Transcriptome analysis showed downregulation of TCA cycle and fatty-acid biosynthetic genes. Two weeks after intravenous infection, lung bacillary loads were 0.6 log10 lower for ΔaceE than in WT, and spleen enlargement was absent, yet the mutant persisted, and pathology was otherwise comparable to WT. AceE is required for robust lipid anabolism, biofilm formation, and maximal growth of Mtb in vitro, especially on carbohydrate-based media, but its absence only modestly attenuates acute virulence in mice, underscoring the pathogen's metabolic plasticity during infection.IMPORTANCEThe present study demonstrated that the aceE gene, a crucial enzyme that links glycolysis and the TCA cycle, plays a vital role in regulating the normal physiological metabolism of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). The aceE gene not only aids in the bacteria's energy metabolism but also promotes lipid synthesis, forming a thicker cell wall that helps Mtb resist various intracellular stresses, further favoring its survival within the host cells. During in vivo survival, the increased expression of the aceE gene in the virulent Mtb H37Rv strain may enhance the conversion of pyruvate into acetyl-CoA, thereby providing more precursor materials for the synthesis of lipids and amino acids.},
}

@article {pmid41233473,
year = {2025},
author = {Valencia-Toxqui, G and Sugumar, S and Ramsey, J},
title = {Isolation and characterization of biofilm-disrupting proteus phage Premi.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {39780},
pmid = {41233473},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {R35 GM155289/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; R35GM155289//National Institute of General Medical Sciences of the National Institutes of Health/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Proteus mirabilis/virology/physiology ; *Bacteriophages/isolation & purification/genetics/physiology ; Genome, Viral ; Phylogeny ; Proteus Infections/microbiology/therapy ; Humans ; Phage Therapy ; },
abstract = {Proteus mirabilis is a biofilm-forming, multidrug-resistant bacterium and one of the most common causes of catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs). Phage therapy is an alternative method that can be used to address the problem of multidrug-resistance. In this study, we report isolation and characterization of virulent phage Premi. The phage exhibits lytic activity against 4 out of 30 clinical isolates of P. mirabilis tested and is stable when exposed to pH values between 3 and 11. Phage Premi demonstrated significant anti-biofilm activity against P. mirabilis, reducing 24-hour established biofilms by 59-68%. In the 42-kb Premi genome, functions were assigned for the 50 predicted protein-coding genes including those involved in DNA replication, DNA modification, and lysis. Structural proteins were verified using mass spectrometry of purified virions. A comparison of its genomic features and phylogenetic analysis revealed that phage Premi is a podophage member of the order Caudoviricetes sharing 96% nucleotide similarity with Proteus phage PM 85 and has a T7-like phage genomic organization. Our study shows that Premi effectively inhibits P. mirabilis biofilms and could be a promising antimicrobial agent for treating drug-resistant P. mirabilis infection.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Proteus mirabilis/virology/physiology
*Bacteriophages/isolation & purification/genetics/physiology
Genome, Viral
Phylogeny
Proteus Infections/microbiology/therapy
Humans
Phage Therapy

@article {pmid41233755,
year = {2025},
author = {Oschmann, AM and Konrat, K and Schaudinn, C and Sohl, G and Wagner, D and Lewin, A and Arvand, M},
title = {Biofilm formation by the global outbreak strain of Mycobacterium chimaera results in significantly reduced efficacy of standard disinfectants.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {738},
pmid = {41233755},
issn = {1471-2180},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Disinfectants/pharmacology ; *Mycobacterium/drug effects/physiology ; Peracetic Acid/pharmacology ; Glutaral/pharmacology ; Sodium Hypochlorite/pharmacology ; Humans ; Disease Outbreaks ; Disinfection/methods ; Equipment Contamination/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: In 2013, a global outbreak of Mycobacterium chimaera infections due to contaminated heater-cooler units emerged. This ongoing problem has highlighted the question of whether disinfection recommendations for medical devices containing water circuits are adequate for preventing contamination and possible recontamination by nontuberculous mycobacteria. The formation of biofilms in such devices exacerbates the problem. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of disinfectants on biofilms and suspensions of the M. chimaera strain ZUERICH-1, and to compare it with two unrelated M. chimaera strains obtained from different sources.

METHODS: Disinfection efficacy testing for biofilm was performed using a Bead Assay for Biofilms and for bacteria in suspension according to the European Standard EN 14348. Three different disinfectants, glutaraldehyde, sodium hypochlorite and peracetic acid, were assessed. M. chimaera ZUERICH-1, two genetically unrelated M. chimaera isolates and M. avium subsp. avium ATCC 15769, which is included in European standards for disinfectant testing on mycobacteria, were analyzed. The biofilms' structure and composition were analyzed by chemical and molecular techniques and advanced imaging methods.

RESULTS: We found that peracetic acid and glutaraldehyde in standard concentrations were able to effectively inactivate (≥ 4 log10 reduction) suspended bacteria of all three strains, but chlorine failed in all cases. Formation of biofilm generally enhanced the tolerance of M. chimaera to disinfectants. Peracetic acid in standard concentration could not effectively inactivate biofilms of M. chimaera ZUERICH-1, but was effective against biofilms of the other M. chimaera strains tested. Similarly, glutaraldehyde in standard concentration could not inactivate biofilm of ZUERICH-1. Biomass analysis showed higher amounts of extracellular matrix of ZUERICH-1 when compared to the other two strains.

CONCLUSIONS: The data suggest that current standard disinfection recommendations do not ensure sustained inhibition of M. chimaera when embedded in biofilm. Additional measures are needed to prevent nosocomial transmission of M. chimaera through contaminated heater-cooler units.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Disinfectants/pharmacology
*Mycobacterium/drug effects/physiology
Peracetic Acid/pharmacology
Glutaral/pharmacology
Sodium Hypochlorite/pharmacology
Humans
Disease Outbreaks
Disinfection/methods
Equipment Contamination/prevention & control

@article {pmid41234539,
year = {2025},
author = {Pandi, S and Kathiresan, N and Kumar Subbaraj, G and Desai, D and Nagarajan, C and Kulanthaivel, L},
title = {Decoding the anticancer and biofilm-inhibiting efficacy of Adansonia digitata using experimental, AI-powered, and molecular modeling approaches.},
journal = {Frontiers in molecular biosciences},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {1666360},
pmid = {41234539},
issn = {2296-889X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Adansonia digitata, commonly known as the Baobab tree, is a highly multifunctional species with significant cultural and economic value across various regions of Africa. This study aims to investigate the anticancer and cytotoxic properties of ethanol extract derived from A. digitata (ADEE) on MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells, as well as its potential to inhibit biofilm formation.

METHODS: The study employs GNINA, a deep learning-based docking tool, to evaluate molecular interactions. This work integrates machine learning and molecular modeling methodologies, highlighting the potential of informatics-driven strategies to expedite the discovery of novel plant-based therapies.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Fluorescence microscopy demonstrated that ADEE effectively inhibited biofilm formation and reduced cell viability at a concentration of 1.56 μg/mL. These findings suggest that ADEE disrupts quorum-sensing signaling pathways and compromises the structural integrity of the biofilm matrix. Further assessments of cytotoxicity revealed a dose-dependent reduction in cancer cell viability, highlighting the potent anticancer properties of ADEE. The study also confirmed the pro-apoptotic effects of ADEE through Hoechst and AO/EB staining techniques. Validation utilizing GNINA-based deep learning techniques demonstrated an enhanced binding affinity and pose stability of compounds derived from ADEE. Molecular dynamics simulations provided insights into the interactions of ADEE with pqsA and CK2, showing more favorable binding characteristics compared to the reference inhibitor. PCA/FEL analyses indicated stable conformations with significant interactions at critical residues. In summary, the phytocompounds identified in ADEE demonstrated enhanced binding affinity and structural stability, indicating promising therapeutic potential for targeting QS-regulated biofilm development and serving as potential anticancer agents.},
}

@article {pmid41235794,
year = {2025},
author = {Marchesani, A and Taylor, CC and Li, Z and Hudson, W and Jiang, Y and Gilbert, ES},
title = {4-Ethoxybenzoic acid interferes with the spatiotemporal dynamics of Saphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538 biofilm formation.},
journal = {Journal of applied microbiology},
volume = {136},
number = {12},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jambio/lxaf282},
pmid = {41235794},
issn = {1365-2672},
support = {//Georgia State University/ ; },
mesh = {*Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/growth & development/pathogenicity/physiology ; *Biofilms/drug effects ; *Hydroxybenzoate Ethers/pharmacology ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Gene Expression Profiling ; Staphylococcal Infections/drug therapy ; },
abstract = {AIMS: Anti-virulence compounds can control pathogens with reduced selection for antimicrobial resistance. There is little understanding of how these compounds impact biofilm structure and development through time. We hypothesised that 4-ethoxybenzoic acid (4EB), an anti-virulence compound, disrupts normal growth for the four phases of Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538 biofilm development (attachment, multiplication, exodus, and maturation).

METHODS AND RESULTS: Flow-cell grown biofilms were fed Luria Bertani (LB) broth (control) or LB broth with 0.8 mg/mL 4EB (treatment). Treatment inhibited the progress of multiplication phase and caused a 6-hour delay in the onset of exodus phase. Transcriptional analysis showed patterns of nuc, saeS, and saeR expression consistent with the delayed exodus phenotype. Imaging by confocal laser scanning microscopy followed by digital image analysis determined that 4EB interfered with biofilm structure formation, including reductions in height (57%/44%) and biovolume (73%/63%) during the multiplication and maturation phases, respectively, with statistically insignificant effects during exodus phase (1.9%/15%). These measurements indicated that the occurrence of exodus phase was not impacted by 4EB. Gene expression analysis using flow cell effluent found significant downregulation of genes including atl (-3.1 fold change) during multiplication phase and agrA and saeR (-5.8 and -5.2 fold change, respectively) during maturation. Principal component analysis with 24 measured parameters confirmed that 4EB treatment primarily affected multiplication and maturation phases.},
}

*Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/growth & development/pathogenicity/physiology
*Biofilms/drug effects
*Hydroxybenzoate Ethers/pharmacology
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Gene Expression Profiling
Staphylococcal Infections/drug therapy

@article {pmid41235977,
year = {2026},
author = {Kolodkin-Gal, I and Murugan, PA and Mahapatra, S and Zanditenas, E and Ankri, S},
title = {Differential coping strategies exerted by biofilm and planktonic cells of Bacillus subtilis in response to a protozoan predator.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {14},
number = {1},
pages = {e0159725},
pmid = {41235977},
issn = {2165-0497},
support = {1142/24//Israel Science Foundation/ ; 1984/24//Israel Science Foundation/ ; 2024836//United States-Israel Binational Science Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Bacillus subtilis/physiology/genetics ; *Entamoeba histolytica/physiology ; Humans ; Probiotics ; Stress, Physiological ; *Plankton/physiology ; Cysteine Proteases/metabolism ; Coping Skills ; },
abstract = {UNLABELLED: The human protozoan parasite Entamoeba histolytica causes amebiasis and interacts with both beneficial and harmful members of the microbiome. In previous studies, it was shown that E. histolytica can break down pre-established biofilms of Bacillus subtilis in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Inhibiting parasitic cysteine proteases impairs biofilm degradation. However, it is still unknown whether bacteria can sense this process and respond to the degradation of the biofilms. Here, our research demonstrates a multilayered response of probiotic bacteria to the parasite, which differs between planktonic bacteria and pre-established biofilms. Sensing the activity of cysteine proteases from E. histolytica, the bacteria activate the general stress response and, to a lesser extent, the cell wall stress response. This activation helps the surviving members of the biofilm become more resistant to mild stressors such as ethanol, hydrogen peroxide, and sub-mic concentrations of ampicillin. On the other hand, planktonic cells exposed to the predators' lysate deactivate the expression of genes associated with biofilm formation while inducing their motility to avoid predation. Overall, our results indicate that bacteria have evolved to recognize amoeba predators capable of degrading biofilms. Furthermore, the partially digested biofilm cells may have unexpected disadvantages over bacteria that did not encounter a predator. These findings may be useful in developing more efficient probiotic strains that are resilient to amebiasis.

IMPORTANCE: The human protozoan parasite Entamoeba histolytica feeds on intestinal microbiota to survive. To enhance the effectiveness of probiotics, we characterized how they respond to amoeba predators. We found that probiotics decrease the expression of biofilm-related genes to avoid predation while simultaneously inducing their stress response and increasing their motility. Our results can provide novel directions for engineering probiotic bacteria to overcome gastrointestinal-associated parasitic diseases. Additionally, it highlights a fundamental mechanism through which bacterial prey can evade predation in the gastrointestinal tract.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Bacillus subtilis/physiology/genetics
*Entamoeba histolytica/physiology
Humans
Probiotics
Stress, Physiological
*Plankton/physiology
Cysteine Proteases/metabolism
Coping Skills

@article {pmid41238133,
year = {2026},
author = {Cao, YS and Cheng, YQ and Liu, Y and Zhou, XR and Tang, CC and He, ZW and Wang, WQ and Tian, Y and Wang, XC},
title = {Roles of vertical light-conducting carriers applied in microalgal-bacterial biofilm for enhanced nitrogen and phosphorus removal.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {441},
number = {},
pages = {133633},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2025.133633},
pmid = {41238133},
issn = {1873-2976},
mesh = {*Phosphorus/isolation & purification/metabolism ; *Nitrogen/isolation & purification/metabolism ; *Biofilms ; *Microalgae/metabolism/physiology ; *Light ; Biological Oxygen Demand Analysis ; *Water Purification/methods ; Chlorophyll/metabolism ; *Bacteria/metabolism ; },
abstract = {The microalgal-bacterial biofilm (MABB) system holds promise for wastewater treatment, yet uneven light distribution limits its efficiency. This study introduced vertical light-guiding plates (LGP) as bio-carriers to expand the light reception range of microalgae. Compared with the control group (Rc), the removal rates of chemical oxygen demand (COD), total nitrogen (TN), and total phosphorus (TP) in the experimental group (Re) increased by 9.9%, 20.9%, and 11.1% respectively. The content of chlorophyll a (Chl-a), volatile suspended solids (VSS), Chl-a/VSS ratio, and extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) in Re were 4.2 times, 3 times, 1.9 times, and 2.6 times higher than those of Rc, respectively. The abundance of Flavobacterium with nitrogen and phosphorus removal functions and Chlorella with strong light adaptability in Re reached 2.1% and 39.2% respectively, which was higher than that in Rc. In summary, LGP provides an effective path for expanding the application of MABB and achieving low-carbon sewage treatment.},
}

*Phosphorus/isolation & purification/metabolism
*Nitrogen/isolation & purification/metabolism
*Biofilms
*Microalgae/metabolism/physiology
*Light
Biological Oxygen Demand Analysis
*Water Purification/methods
Chlorophyll/metabolism
*Bacteria/metabolism

@article {pmid41241300,
year = {2026},
author = {Santos, VRD and Caiaffa, KS and Souza, ACA and Pereira, JA and Abuna, GF and Ribeiro, TC and Bottino, MC and Chorili, M and Duque, C},
title = {Phenolic acids-loaded thermosensitive hydrogel for intracanal biofilm management.},
journal = {Journal of dentistry},
volume = {165},
number = {},
pages = {106231},
doi = {10.1016/j.jdent.2025.106231},
pmid = {41241300},
issn = {1879-176X},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Hydrogels/chemistry/pharmacology ; Humans ; Calcium Hydroxide/pharmacology ; Cinnamates/pharmacology/administration & dosage ; Cell Survival/drug effects ; Chlorhexidine/pharmacology ; Chitosan/chemistry ; *Root Canal Irrigants/pharmacology ; *Hydroxybenzoates/pharmacology/chemistry ; Caffeic Acids/pharmacology ; Dentin/microbiology ; Fibroblasts/drug effects ; *Dental Pulp Cavity/microbiology ; Microscopy, Confocal ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning ; Temperature ; Bacterial Load/drug effects ; Rheology ; Animals ; Macrophages/drug effects ; Mice ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: In search of an inter-appointment intracanal medication capable of promoting root canal disinfection while preserving the viability of periapical cells, this study synthesized and characterized chitosan-poloxamer hydrogels (CPH) containing phenolic acids and evaluated their effects on multispecies biofilms and cell viability for potential endodontic use.

METHODS: Cinnamic acid (CI), caffeic acid (CA) and controls (calcium hydroxide [CH] and chlorhexidine [CHX]) were incorporated into the CPH matrix. The hydrogels were characterized by flow and oscillatory rheometry, sol-gel transition temperature, compounds release profile and scanning electron microscopy analysis. The effect of hydrogels on multispecies biofilms formed in radicular dentin specimens was evaluated by confocal laser scanning microscopy, while cytotoxicity of CPH containing or not the compounds was assessed using resazurin assays on fibroblasts and macrophages cultures. Statistical analysis was performed with significance determined at p < 0.05.

RESULTS: CPHs demonstrated pseudoplastic flow behavior and established a strong gel network at 37° C. Furthermore, hydrogels exhibited thermoresponsive behavior and sustained released of incorporated compounds. All formulations reduced bacterial loads in dentinal multispecies biofilms in dentin tubules, notably, CPH+CA (77.8 %) and CPH+CI (73.2 %) outperformed CPH+CH (53.6 %) and CPH+CHX (39.9 %). Overall, all CP hydrogels were cytocompatible when diluted at ratios over 1:4. CPH + CI showed lower cytotoxicity compared to CPH + CA, for both cell lines analyzed.

CONCLUSION: CPH demonstrated suitable thermoreversible and physicochemical characteristics to be applied as an injectable temporary medication. When particularly combined with cinnamic acid, it markedly reduced intra-radicular multispecies biofilms and exhibited better cytocompatibility.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Cinnamic-acid loaded chitosan-poloxamer hydrogel could be an effective intracanal medication for the management of infected root canals in endodontics.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Hydrogels/chemistry/pharmacology
Humans
Calcium Hydroxide/pharmacology
Cinnamates/pharmacology/administration & dosage
Cell Survival/drug effects
Chlorhexidine/pharmacology
Chitosan/chemistry
*Root Canal Irrigants/pharmacology
*Hydroxybenzoates/pharmacology/chemistry
Caffeic Acids/pharmacology
Dentin/microbiology
Fibroblasts/drug effects
*Dental Pulp Cavity/microbiology
Microscopy, Confocal
Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
Temperature
Bacterial Load/drug effects
Rheology
Animals
Macrophages/drug effects
Mice

@article {pmid41242559,
year = {2026},
author = {Parde, D and Singh, A and Behera, M and Dash, RR},
title = {Anammox-Moving Bed biofilm reactor Data-Driven optimization: Insights into anammox process stability and performance.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {441},
number = {},
pages = {133655},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2025.133655},
pmid = {41242559},
issn = {1873-2976},
mesh = {*Bioreactors/microbiology ; *Biofilms ; Nitrogen/isolation & purification/metabolism ; Biological Oxygen Demand Analysis ; Wastewater/chemistry ; *Ammonium Compounds/metabolism ; Water Purification/methods ; Oxidation-Reduction ; Anaerobiosis ; Denitrification ; },
abstract = {Anammox-Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR) was evaluated for energy-efficient organic and nitrogen removal from domestic wastewater under varying Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD): 250-450 mg/L, Ammonium nitrogen (NH4[+]-N): 30-80 mg/L, and Hydraulic Retention Time (HRT): 8-16 h. The results reveal that lower COD concentrations favour anammox activity, achieving the highest Total Nitrogen (TN) removal efficiency (92.2 %) at 250 mg/L COD, 80 mg/L NH4[+]-N, and 16 h HRT, while excessive COD (450 mg/L) led to a shift toward denitrification, reducing anammox contribution below 5 %. Microbial analysis confirmed a higher relative abundance of Candidatus Brocadia (14.1 %). This study identifies a stable operational window (COD 350 mg/L, NH4[+]-N 55 mg/L, HRT 12 h) with consistent COD and TN removal (around 90 %). These findings provide a novel framework for optimizing anammox-MBBR in wastewater treatment, ensuring high nitrogen removal efficiency while addressing the limitations of previous studies in handling variable organic loads.},
}

*Bioreactors/microbiology
*Biofilms
Nitrogen/isolation & purification/metabolism
Biological Oxygen Demand Analysis
Wastewater/chemistry
*Ammonium Compounds/metabolism
Water Purification/methods
Oxidation-Reduction
Anaerobiosis
Denitrification

@article {pmid41242988,
year = {2025},
author = {Tondu, F and Moeller, K and Sdiri, K and Oberhansli, F and Metian, M and Alonso Hernandez, C},
title = {Biofilm Formation on Polyethylene Microplastics Affects Brevetoxin Adsorption and Desorption.},
journal = {Bulletin of environmental contamination and toxicology},
volume = {115},
number = {6},
pages = {71},
pmid = {41242988},
issn = {1432-0800},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Marine Toxins/analysis/chemistry/metabolism ; Adsorption ; *Oxocins/analysis/metabolism/chemistry ; *Microplastics/chemistry ; *Polyethylene/chemistry ; *Water Pollutants, Chemical/analysis/chemistry/metabolism ; Dinoflagellida ; Polyether Toxins ; },
abstract = {Microplastics can serve as sites for microbial attachment, however their role in facilitating biotoxin entry into marine food webs remains poorly understood. This study quantified the adsorption and desorption kinetics of brevetoxin 3 (PbTx-3), a neurotoxin produced by the dinoflagellate Karenia brevis, on polyethylene (PE) surfaces in relation to the presence of biofilms using radiolabeled [3]H-PbTx-3. It was hypothesized that the presence of biofilms would enhance toxin retention on PE. Contrary to this hypothesis, results revealed significantly reduced adsorption of brevetoxin on biofilm-coated PE (0.035 ± 0.007 nmol mg[-1], p < 0.001) compared to virgin PE (0.59 ± 0.076 nmol mg[-1]). Furthermore, toxin desorption from biofilm-coated PE occurred rapidly, with less than 20% activity remaining after 24 h, whereas virgin PE retained over 80% activity over the same period. Complete toxin depuration was not observed within one week under either condition. These findings demonstrate that biofilms not only reduce brevetoxin adsorption on PE but also accelerate desorption. Further research is needed to elucidate the broader ecological and health implications of microplastic-mediated biotoxin transport, albeit the results of this study suggest that biofilm-coated PE likely plays a minor role as vector for biotoxins in marine food webs, at least compared to its virgin counterpart.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Marine Toxins/analysis/chemistry/metabolism
Adsorption
*Oxocins/analysis/metabolism/chemistry
*Microplastics/chemistry
*Polyethylene/chemistry
*Water Pollutants, Chemical/analysis/chemistry/metabolism
Dinoflagellida
Polyether Toxins

@article {pmid41243857,
year = {2025},
author = {Rajalakshmi, E and Chandrasekhar, B and Saranya, E and Madhavan, T and Ramya, M},
title = {Exploring Eugenol as a Growth and Biofilm Inhibitor in Leptospira interrogans by a Combined Experimental and Computational Approach.},
journal = {APMIS : acta pathologica, microbiologica, et immunologica Scandinavica},
volume = {133},
number = {11},
pages = {e70088},
doi = {10.1111/apm.70088},
pmid = {41243857},
issn = {1600-0463},
mesh = {*Eugenol/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Leptospira interrogans/drug effects/growth & development/genetics/physiology ; Molecular Docking Simulation ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Bacterial Outer Membrane Proteins ; Lipoproteins ; },
abstract = {Leptospira interrogans, known for its association with environmental biofilms, poses significant challenges in managing leptospirosis due to its persistent virulence and resistance to antimicrobial agents. Addressing the biofilms in infection and resistance necessitates novel anti-leptospiral agents and strategies, with bioactive compounds offering better biomolecules to combat leptospiral biofilms. This study investigates the role of eugenol against L. interrogans, which has been unexplored. In this study, we have evaluated the impact of eugenol on the growth and biofilm formation of L. interrogans. Eugenol inhibited 70% of biofilm formation at its MBIC70 (10 mM). These findings were further validated through fluorescence and scanning electron microscopy to assess cell viability and morphological changes. Furthermore, the expression levels of key genes, csrA and lipL32, associated with bacterial growth and biofilm formation, were analyzed using qRT-PCR. To complement these findings, molecular docking, c-DFT, and ADME profiles were performed to investigate the interaction of eugenol with the transpeptidase/penicillin-binding protein. The results strongly correlate with the biological outcomes observed in the experimental studies, supporting the efficacy of eugenol against L. interrogans.},
}

*Eugenol/pharmacology/chemistry
*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Leptospira interrogans/drug effects/growth & development/genetics/physiology
Molecular Docking Simulation
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Bacterial Outer Membrane Proteins
Lipoproteins

@article {pmid41244668,
year = {2025},
author = {Cheng, Y and Hu, H and Huang, T and Luo, X and Chen, F and Shi, P and Ma, W and Lu, Y and Lan, S and Cui, G and Qi, X and Liu, YJ and Hong, W},
title = {Pig-L mediates virulence, biofilm formation, and oxidative stress tolerance in Clostridioides difficile.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1691769},
pmid = {41244668},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) represents a significant global public health concern. The Phosphatidylinositol Glycan Class L (pig-L) gene in C. difficile encodes an enzyme critical for the biosynthesis of Glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchor, which play a vital role in bacterial surface protein localization and function.

METHODS: To investigate the role of pig-L in C. difficile pathogenesis, we utilized CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing to generate a pig-L knockout strain and a complementation strain in the wild-type (WT) background. Phenotypic characterization of these strains was performed through a suite of assays, including virulence assays, biofilm formation assays, oxidative stress sensitivity testing, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Proteomics analysis was conducted to identify differentially expressed proteins in the knockout strain.

RESULTS: Deletion of the pig-L gene resulted in a significant reduction in C. difficile virulence, decreased biofilm formation, and increased susceptibility to oxidative stress. Proteomic analysis revealed significant alterations in protein expression, with 170 proteins exhibiting upregulation and 101 proteins demonstrating downregulation in the knockout strain. Complementation of the pig-L gene partially restored the phenotypes observed in the deletion strain.

CONCLUSION: These findings demonstrate that the pig-L gene functions as a crucial regulator of C. difficile virulence, biofilm formation, and peroxide resistance. Targeting the pig-L gene or its downstream effectors represents a promising avenue for the development of novel therapeutic strategies to effectively control C. difficile infection.},
}

@article {pmid41244698,
year = {2025},
author = {Ferretti, J and Zegers, MAJ and Zeppilli, M and Jourdin, L},
title = {A two-stage strategy for methanogenesis suppression and rapid acetogenic biofilm formation in microbial electrosynthesis.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1655259},
pmid = {41244698},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {The practical implementation of microbial electrosynthesis (MES) is currently limited by the slow microbial colonisation of the electrode and the need to suppress methanogenic activity. This study investigates a two-stage strategy to suppress methanogenesis and promote the rapid formation of an acetogenic biofilm in a directed-flow-through bioelectrochemical reactor. Four start-up regimes were compared: mixotrophic without heat pre-treatment (M), mixotrophic with heat pre-treatment (MT), heterotrophic without heat pre-treatment (H), and heterotrophic with heat pre-treatment (HT), each followed by a common autotrophic phase. Mixotrophy outperformed heterotrophy by accelerating and increasing acetate accumulation. However, adding heat pre-treatment (MT) introduced a short lag phase and resulted in less sustained chain elongation than mixotrophy alone (M). Under the mixotrophic regime, microbial analysis showed an enrichment of genera with acetogenic representatives such as Clostridium sensu stricto 12 and Sporomusa, alongside a reduction in facultative anaerobic and fermentative bacteria. Full biofilm colonisation of the electrode was achieved within 55 to 65 days, while acetate, butyrate, and caproate production was initiated within the first week, reaching concentrations typically observed only after approximately 70 days under autotrophic conditions. Methane remained undetectable for about 40 days and, when detected later, exhibited low coulombic efficiencies (< 1%). Taken together, these results indicate that mixotrophic start-up provides a promising route to accelerate electrode colonisation and enhance early-stage productivity in MES, while highlighting the need for further optimisation and a deeper understanding of microbial interactions.},
}

@article {pmid41247508,
year = {2025},
author = {Wenten, IG},
title = {Rethinking Biofilm Engineering and Fouling Resistance in Membrane Bioreactors.},
journal = {Langmuir : the ACS journal of surfaces and colloids},
volume = {41},
number = {47},
pages = {31709-31719},
doi = {10.1021/acs.langmuir.5c03864},
pmid = {41247508},
issn = {1520-5827},
mesh = {*Biofilms ; *Bioreactors/microbiology ; *Membranes, Artificial ; *Biofouling/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {Membrane bioreactors (MBRs) are increasingly recognized as a key technology in sustainable wastewater treatment, offering a high effluent quality through the integration of biological degradation and membrane filtration. Among the critical factors influencing their performance are biofilm dynamics and membrane fouling. This article critically examines recent advances in biofilm engineering and antifouling strategies for MBRs, with an emphasis on microbial community modulation, quorum quenching, and hydrodynamic control to improve biofilm stability. In parallel, the review examines material-based and biological methods to mitigate membrane fouling, emphasizing multifunctional surfaces and emerging biocontrol strategies. Key operational challenges, such as energy consumption, cleaning frequency, and membrane aging, are evaluated alongside future research directions in materials design, microbial ecology, and real-time system optimization. The integration of these innovations is essential for advancing MBR technologies that are robust, resource-efficient, and aligned with circular economy principles.},
}

*Biofilms
*Bioreactors/microbiology
*Membranes, Artificial
*Biofouling/prevention & control

@article {pmid41248935,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, Y and Xu, K and He, X and Kang, X and Tang, C and Niu, C and Li, Z and Weng, J and Li, J and Chen, X},
title = {Stage-Responsive Multifunctional Microneedle Patches for Enhanced Biofilm Penetration and Accelerated Healing of Bacterial Infected Skin Wounds.},
journal = {ACS applied materials & interfaces},
volume = {17},
number = {47},
pages = {65177-65191},
doi = {10.1021/acsami.5c20107},
pmid = {41248935},
issn = {1944-8252},
mesh = {*Wound Healing/drug effects ; *Biofilms/drug effects ; Animals ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Mice ; Needles ; Curcumin/chemistry/pharmacology ; Skin/drug effects/microbiology/injuries ; Hydrogels/chemistry ; Nanoparticles/chemistry ; Glutathione/chemistry/pharmacology ; Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology ; Humans ; Photochemotherapy ; Antioxidants/chemistry/pharmacology ; Drug Delivery Systems ; },
abstract = {Biofilms, formed by microorganisms and surrounding substances, hinder traditional drug delivery and delay wound healing. Microneedles, with their excellent mechanical properties, minimally invasive nature, and ability to penetrate biofilms for rapid drug delivery, offer a promising solution for biofilm eradication. In this study, we developed an intelligent, responsive bilayer microneedle system (CurMN@RRH) based on photodynamic therapy to accelerate wound healing caused by bacterial infections. Cur@ZIF-8 nanoparticles are synthesized in a one-pot process and embedded in gelatin and hyaluronic acid to form the microneedle tips. The microneedle substrate consists of ROS-responsive boronate-ester-based hydrogels (TSPBA-PVA), loaded with the antioxidant glutathione (GSH). In the early stages of wound healing, the acidic environment triggered by bacterial infection prompts the release of curcumin from Cur@ZIF-8 nanoparticles, which generates hydroxyl radicals under blue light to promote bacterial death. In later stages, the CurMN@RRH microneedles release GSH, clearing excessive reactive oxygen species and reducing inflammation, thus accelerating healing. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrate that the intelligent CurMN@RRH microneedles exhibited strong antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, promoted cell proliferation, and accelerated tissue wound healing. This approach offers a novel strategy for treating bacterial infection-induced wounds.},
}

*Wound Healing/drug effects
*Biofilms/drug effects
Animals
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Mice
Needles
Curcumin/chemistry/pharmacology
Skin/drug effects/microbiology/injuries
Hydrogels/chemistry
Nanoparticles/chemistry
Glutathione/chemistry/pharmacology
Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology
Humans
Photochemotherapy
Antioxidants/chemistry/pharmacology
Drug Delivery Systems

@article {pmid41249920,
year = {2025},
author = {Khaddam, W and Durgham, B},
title = {Comparative analysis of biofilm detection methods and antibiotic resistance in catheter-associated uropathogens: a cross-sectional study from Syria.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {760},
pmid = {41249920},
issn = {1471-2180},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; Humans ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Urinary Tract Infections/microbiology ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; *Bacteria/drug effects/isolation & purification/growth & development ; *Catheter-Related Infections/microbiology ; Syria ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Drug Resistance, Bacterial ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; },
abstract = {Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) are a major healthcare challenge due to bacterial biofilm formation, which protects pathogens from antibiotics and host immune responses. Three phenotypic biofilm detection methods-Microplate assay, Tube Method, and Modified Congo Red Agar (MCRA)- were compared using bacterial isolates from catheter tips and urine samples. The Microplate assay, considered the reference standard, detected biofilm in 88.6% of catheter isolates and 78.6% of urine isolates. Notably, 44% of urine samples showed no microbial growth, likely due to prior antibiotic use. In catheter-derived samples, CRA showed higher sensitivity (81.8%) and specificity (61.5%) than the Tube method (72.7% and 46.2%, respectively). PPV and NPV were 87.0% and 46.2% for CRA, and 82.2% and 22.7% for Tube. Both methods performed less reliably in urine isolates. Strong biofilm formation was more prevalent in catheter isolates (62.5%) than in urine isolates (44.6%) and was associated with higher antimicrobial resistance. Gentamicin was most effective against urine isolates (85.7%), whereas Imipenem showed highest efficacy in catheter isolates (47.7%). These findings provide practical guidance for microbiology laboratories, especially in low-resource settings, by identifying reliable phenotypic methods for biofilm screening. Overall, sensitive biofilm detection combined with targeted antibiotic susceptibility testing is crucial for effective CAUTI management and antimicrobial stewardship.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
Humans
Cross-Sectional Studies
*Urinary Tract Infections/microbiology
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
*Bacteria/drug effects/isolation & purification/growth & development
*Catheter-Related Infections/microbiology
Syria
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Drug Resistance, Bacterial
Sensitivity and Specificity

@article {pmid41250896,
year = {2026},
author = {He, Y and Cao, X and Wu, J and Wang, X},
title = {Characterization of Biofilm Wrinkles Based on the Composite Bilayer Model.},
journal = {Journal of basic microbiology},
volume = {66},
number = {1},
pages = {e70128},
doi = {10.1002/jobm.70128},
pmid = {41250896},
issn = {1521-4028},
support = {//This study was funded by the Ministry of Science and Technology of the People's Republic of China and the National Natural Science Foundation of China, Grant/Award 12372321 and 11972074./ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; Finite Element Analysis ; Elastic Modulus ; *Models, Biological ; Computer Simulation ; Agar ; Biomechanical Phenomena ; },
abstract = {The study of the biofilm mechanical stability is important in the fields of biomedical and environmental engineering. In this paper, we present an innovative simplified bilayer model, which is obtained based on a simplification of the complex four-layer model. We simplify the model and reduce the computational complexity by ignoring the top layer of the biofilm and treating the middle layer and the substrate layer as a spring system connected in series. In finite element analysis, we used a simplified two-layer model to simulate the bending behavior of biofilm wrinkles and found the influence of elastic modulus ratio (Ef/Es) and biofilm thickness (h) on biofilm wrinkles and critical stress (ε $\varepsilon $). We simulated the wrinkle morphology changes of biofilm in regions II and III on three low, medium, and high agar substrates, and compared the simulated wrinkle wavelengths with experimental data for verification, providing a new perspective for understanding the mechanical behavior of biofilms.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
Finite Element Analysis
Elastic Modulus
*Models, Biological
Computer Simulation
Agar
Biomechanical Phenomena

@article {pmid41253625,
year = {2026},
author = {Wu, J and Huo, X and Liu, J and Bu, F and Zhang, P},
title = {Corrigendum to "Multifunctional NIR-II nanoplatform for disrupting biofilm and promoting infected wound healing" [Colloids Surf. B: Biointerfaces 245 (2025), 114330].},
journal = {Colloids and surfaces. B, Biointerfaces},
volume = {258},
number = {},
pages = {115255},
doi = {10.1016/j.colsurfb.2025.115255},
pmid = {41253625},
issn = {1873-4367},
}

@article {pmid41255249,
year = {2025},
author = {Yuan, H and Lu, M and Shi, C and Li, C and Yao, Z and Shang, H and Li, X and Yu, H and Bie, S},
title = {Plumbagin disrupts the mature biofilm of Staphylococcus aureus.},
journal = {Biofouling},
volume = {41},
number = {10},
pages = {1132-1144},
doi = {10.1080/08927014.2025.2589802},
pmid = {41255249},
issn = {1029-2454},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Naphthoquinones/pharmacology ; *Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology/genetics ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Molecular Docking Simulation ; Extracellular Polymeric Substance Matrix/drug effects/metabolism ; Bacterial Proteins/metabolism ; Polysaccharides, Bacterial/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Plumbagin, also known as 5-hydroxy-2-methyl-1,4-naphthoquinone (PLB), is a naturally occurring naphthoquinone molecule that has demonstrated strong antibacterial and antibiofilm properties against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). However, the potential of PLB to eradicate mature biofilms and the underlying mechanisms involved remain unclear. In this study explored the effects of PLB on disrupting mature S. aureus biofilms, focusing on its impact on the extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) and potential mechanisms of action. Crystal violet (CV) and XTT assays demonstrated that PLB significantly reduced both the biomass and metabolic activity of mature S. aureus biofilms in a concentration-dependent manner. High-content screening (HCS) imaging demonstrated that PLB treatment induced significant alterations in the biofilm EPS architecture, leading to a substantial reduction in overall biomass and average thickness, with disruption severity correlating positively with PLB concentration. Using molecular fluorescence probing techniques, this study found that treatment with PLB resulted in a marked reduction in EPS components, including extracellular polysaccharides (PIA), proteins, and extracellular DNA (eDNA), compared to untreated controls. Molecular docking analysis revealed that PLB strongly interacts with several key S. aureus proteins involved in EPS production, such as IcaA, IcaD, IcaB, IcaC, Bap, ClfB, and CidA, particularly binding strongly to the active sites of IcaA and Bap. Furthermore, gene expression analysis indicated that PLB downregulated genes associated with biofilm EPS production. Overall, these findings suggest that PLB effectively disrupts S. aureus biofilms by targeting the EPS. These results highlight PLB as a promising candidate for targeting mature S. aureus biofilms in chronic infections.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Naphthoquinones/pharmacology
*Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology/genetics
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Molecular Docking Simulation
Extracellular Polymeric Substance Matrix/drug effects/metabolism
Bacterial Proteins/metabolism
Polysaccharides, Bacterial/metabolism

@article {pmid41258437,
year = {2025},
author = {Romaní, AM and Perujo, N and Pujol, M and Gionchetta, G},
title = {Drought Drives Extracellular Polymeric Substances Accumulation and Functional Shifts in Streambed Biofilm Communities.},
journal = {Microbial ecology},
volume = {88},
number = {1},
pages = {133},
pmid = {41258437},
issn = {1432-184X},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Extracellular Polymeric Substance Matrix/metabolism ; *Rivers/microbiology/chemistry ; *Droughts ; *Geologic Sediments/microbiology ; *Bacteria/metabolism/classification/genetics ; Biomass ; Microbiota ; Chlorophyll A ; },
abstract = {This study investigates the adaptive response of streambed microbial biofilms to water scarcity, focusing on the role of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) production across a gradient of hydrological conditions. Sediment samples from 37 streams in the north-eastern Iberian Peninsula, encompassing both permanent and intermittent flow regimes, were analysed for EPS-polysaccharide content, microbial biomass, chlorophyll-a, and biofilm function (carbon substrate utilization profiles). Drought conditions were characterized based on the number of dry days over the eight months preceding sampling. Results revealed that EPS production increased significantly in intermittent streams, particularly under long-term drought, reaffirming that EPS synthesis is a key microbial strategy to mitigate desiccation stress. Notably, when normalized to prokaryotic density, EPS content exhibited a significant positive correlation with drought duration, emphasizing the dominant role of heterotrophic bacteria over algae in EPS secretion. However, EPS content alone was not a universal indicator of water scarcity, which showed a large variability in permanently flowing streams. Functional profiling showed clear shifts in carbon substrate utilization associated with stream hydrology. Intermittent streams exhibited a broader metabolic range, and particularly a capacity to use phenolic compounds, suggesting an adaptation to terrestrial organic matter inputs. Contrary to expectations, functional diversity increased in drier conditions, challenging assumptions derived from controlled experiments and underscoring the resilience of Mediterranean microbial biofilm communities to drought. These findings provide empirical support for EPS-mediated drought adaptation in natural biofilms and highlight functional diversity as a potential mechanism maintaining ecosystem processes under increasing aridity due to climate change.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Extracellular Polymeric Substance Matrix/metabolism
*Rivers/microbiology/chemistry
*Droughts
*Geologic Sediments/microbiology
*Bacteria/metabolism/classification/genetics
Biomass
Microbiota
Chlorophyll A

@article {pmid41258593,
year = {2025},
author = {Ahmad, A and Senaidi, AS and Almohamadi, H and Alnasser, AS},
title = {Correction: Electroactive biofilm enhanced microbial electrolysis for sewage sludge-to-energy conversion.},
journal = {World journal of microbiology & biotechnology},
volume = {41},
number = {12},
pages = {461},
doi = {10.1007/s11274-025-04682-3},
pmid = {41258593},
issn = {1573-0972},
}

@article {pmid41258757,
year = {2025},
author = {Saini, TC and Randhawa, S and Bathla, M and Nisha, A and Teji, N and Acharya, A},
title = {Nanoengineered Polyphenol-Quantum Dot Conjugates Inhibit Biofilm Protein-Aβ42 Heterotypic Fibrillogenesis, Restore Synaptic Transmission, and Suppress Apoptosis in Alzheimer's Disease.},
journal = {ACS chemical neuroscience},
volume = {16},
number = {23},
pages = {4458-4478},
doi = {10.1021/acschemneuro.5c00467},
pmid = {41258757},
issn = {1948-7193},
mesh = {*Amyloid beta-Peptides/metabolism ; *Biofilms/drug effects ; *Alzheimer Disease/metabolism/drug therapy ; *Apoptosis/drug effects/physiology ; Humans ; *Polyphenols/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Peptide Fragments/metabolism ; Animals ; *Quantum Dots/chemistry ; Escherichia coli ; Caenorhabditis elegans ; Cell Line, Tumor ; Bacterial Proteins/metabolism ; },
abstract = {The gut microbiota influences neurodegenerative disease progression, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), through microbial metabolites like amyloids in bacterial biofilms, such as the curli protein in Eshcherichia coli biofilm. In this context, the study focuses on two key aspects, namely, (i) how cross-kingdom bacterial biofilm proteins accelerate Aβ42 aggregation and induce neurotoxicity and (ii) whether a nanochaperone with hydrophobic sheets and hydrophilic polyphenolic moieties could inhibit cross-seeded aggregation. Considering this, we chemically synthesized and further characterized gallic acid-conjugated molybdenum disulfide quantum dots (GA@MoS2 QDs, ∼9.6 ± 4.2 nm) using spectroscopy and microscopy techniques, which showed ∼1.84-fold reduction in E. coli biofilm thickness, indicating interaction with biofilm components. The presence of the curli protein in E. coli was confirmed by dot blot and MALDI-TOF studies. Subsequent biophysical studies showed that isolated E. coli biofilm protein accelerated Aβ42 aggregation (heterotypic) by ∼6.76-fold, while GA@MoS2 QDs reduced this heterotypic aggregation by ∼9.49-fold reduction in Aβ42+ECBFP fluorescence relative to Aβ42 aggregates. In vitro studies with SH-SY5Y cells showed that heterotypic protein aggregation led to increased ROS production, intracellular calcium influx, and apoptosis induction, which were mitigated by GA@MoS2 QDs. The neuroprotective effect of GA@MoS2 QDs was also studied on Caenorhabditis elegans. Overall, the present studies suggested that the bacterial amyloid proteins may play a crucial role in Aβ42 aggregation, suggesting that targeting coaggregation could provide a novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of early onset AD.},
}

*Amyloid beta-Peptides/metabolism
*Biofilms/drug effects
*Alzheimer Disease/metabolism/drug therapy
*Apoptosis/drug effects/physiology
Humans
*Polyphenols/pharmacology/chemistry
*Peptide Fragments/metabolism
Animals
*Quantum Dots/chemistry
Escherichia coli
Caenorhabditis elegans
Cell Line, Tumor
Bacterial Proteins/metabolism