Biofilm (Pipes)
Introduction
A biofilm, biofilm, bacterial mat or microbial mat is an organized microbial ecosystem, made up of one or several species of microorganisms associated with a living or inert surface, with functional characteristics and complex structures. This type of microbial conformation occurs when planktonic cells adhere to a surface or substrate, forming a community, which is characterized by the excretion of a protective adhesive extracellular matrix.[1].
The term biofilm is a neologism introduced in 1995 by Bill Costerton"), recognized as founder of the field of study on biofilms.[2] In their studies they analyze the characteristics of certain microorganisms that, attached to surfaces, form true communities of microbial complexes that live, interact and function in different ecosystems.[3].
Biofilms can have an impact on health (symbiosis), on the development of various infectious diseases producing dysbiosis,[4] as well as resistance to antibiotics.[5][6].
The multidisciplinary approach to the study of biofilms forged a common way of thinking about the ways in which microorganisms survive and function in each environment, as well as in medical, dental, industrial, agricultural, engineering and other contexts.[7].
A biofilm can contain approximately 15% cells and 85% extracellular matrix. This matrix is generally made up of exopolysaccharides"), which form channels through which water, enzymes, nutrients, and waste circulate. There, cells establish relationships and dependencies: they live, cooperate, and communicate through chemical signals (quorum sensing), which regulate gene expression differently in different parts of the community, such as a tissue in a multicellular organism.
To adapt to a biofilm, bacteria make important changes to their structure and metabolism. Advances in proteomics and genomics have made it possible to identify genes and proteins that are turned on and turned off through the different stages of community development. The gene expression of biofilms is quite different from that of planktonic cells, since the requirements and organizations are very different and a synchronization of events is necessary to live in a community; Many studies have tried to elucidate the changes and advantages of this type of organization with respect to planktonic life.
Since they grow on any surface to which they adhere, biofilms are associated with the chronic nature of infections such as those that occur in the lungs of patients with cystic fibrosis; it has been found that more than 60% of bacterial infections are caused by biofilms. For this reason, they have been widely studied and are considered a strong clinical threat since they are capable of growing in catheters and medical and surgical implements.