@article {pmid42584418,
year = {2026},
author = {Park, S and Sauer, K},
title = {Biofilm dispersion by Pseudomonas aeruginosa requires relocation of BdlA to drive a switch in motility by dispersed cells.},
journal = {Journal of bacteriology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0002226},
doi = {10.1128/jb.00022-26},
pmid = {42584418},
issn = {1098-5530},
abstract = {Biofilm dispersion is a regulated process that enables bacteria to escape as free-living cells. This response coincides with matrix degradation, reduced cyclic di-GMP levels, heightened antibiotic susceptibility, and restored flagellar motility. While dispersed cells have been reported to be motile, the mechanisms enabling motility upon induction of dispersion remain unclear. Here, we explored the regulatory mechanism of how Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm cells switch their motility phenotype to disperse from biofilms. Our findings reveal that changes in motility gene expression are initiated at the periphery of biofilms during induced dispersion, in which increased expression of the flagellar gene fliC is controlled by the phosphodiesterase (PDE) DipA and the chemosensory protein BdlA. In response to the dispersion signal, BdlA forms dynamic clusters and relocates to the flagellated cell pole, where it interacts with and stimulates the PDE activity of DipA, ultimately leading to elevated fliC expression. These findings establish a mechanistic link between signal sensing and motility reversion, demonstrating that the spatiotemporal coordination of BdlA and DipA governs the motility switch during P. aeruginosa biofilm dispersion.IMPORTANCEOur findings reveal a new regulatory mechanism in which dispersion signals drive BdlA relocation, activate DipA's phosphodiesterase activity, lower cyclic di-GMP, and elevate fliC expression. Moreover, by showing that BdlA foci formation and co-localization with DipA occur in response to dispersion signals, we demonstrate that the spatiotemporal regulation of BdlA and DipA extends the Touch-Seed-and-Go model beyond surface attachment to encompass dispersion and, thus, the reversion from a sessile to a motile growth state.},
}

@article {pmid42586347,
year = {2026},
author = {Zubair, M and Husain, FM and Hasan, I and Alatawy, R and Begum, S and Alamri, MM and Albalawi, Y and Alkaabneh, WAM},
title = {Synthesis and characterization of silver nanoparticles capped Guar Gum-co-Polyacrylonitrile hybrid nanocomposite: Anti-quorum sensing and anti-biofilm potential against food-borne pathogenic bacteria.},
journal = {International journal of biological macromolecules},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {154032},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2026.154032},
pmid = {42586347},
issn = {1879-0003},
abstract = {Biofilms are implicated in roughly 80% of chronic and 65% of acute bacterial infections. Therefore, targeting QS-regulated virulence and biofilm presents a potential strategy for the development of novel antimicrobials. In this investigation, AgNPs-capped Guar Gum-co-Polyacrylonitrile hybrid (GPAG) nanocomposites were synthesized biogenically by modifying guar gum (GG) chains chemically with polyacrylonitrile (PAN) chains, resulting in a copolymer matrix with suitable capping sites preventing the aggregation of Ag NPs during the synthesis of GPAG. Chemical and structural properties of the synthesized GPAG were determined using various techniques like XRD, XPS, UV-Vis spectroscopy, SEM and TEM. Characterization studies revealed successful Ag NPs formation in the matrix of GG-co-PAN matrix and GG has been copolymerized by PAN chains with an average particle size of 16 nm. GPAG demonstrated antimicrobial potential in terms of MIC against Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1, Chromobacterium violaceum ATCC 12472, Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 19114, and Serratia marcescens MTCC 97. The effect of GPAG on quorum-sensing (QS) revealed a significant reduction in QS-regulated production, such as production of violacein, pyoverdine, pyocyanin, rhamnolipid, elastase, and prodigiosin. Further, GPAG impaired biofilm formation (58%-77%) and reduced established biofilm (43%-53%) along with the significant reduction of EPS, CSH and exoprotease. Thus, GPAG is effective in curbing drug resistance, while also offering utility in controlling biofilm-related food spoilage and ensuring food safety.},
}

@article {pmid42586512,
year = {2026},
author = {Nesa, SR and Meghla, NS and Lee, H and Kang, I and Chun, KA and Mizan, MFR and Ha, SD},
title = {Regulation of Streptococcus mutans biofilm virulence by dietary sugars: Mechanistic basis of sucralose-mediated suppression.},
journal = {Microbial pathogenesis},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {108772},
doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2026.108772},
pmid = {42586512},
issn = {1096-1208},
abstract = {Streptococcus mutans is a major cariogenic pathogen whose proliferation, acidogenesis, and pathogenicity are strongly impacted by dietary sugars, resulting in dental biofilm-associated illnesses. This study evaluated the effects of sucrose, glucose, and alternative sweeteners (allulose, erythritol, stevia, sucralose, and xylitol) on S. mutans biofilm formation, adhesion, autoaggregation, acidogenicity, metabolic activity, and virulence-related gene expression across different dental surfaces. Sucrose significantly enhanced acid production and biofilm formation, with 3% sucrose resulting in the highest biofilm biomass on both hydroxyapatite (HA) and stainless steel (SS) surfaces. In contrast, alternative sweeteners exhibited variable antibiofilm activity, with sucralose demonstrating the most potent and consistent inhibitory effects across all tested concentrations. Sucralose effectively suppressed sucrose-induced S. mutans biofilm formation, exhibiting dose-dependent antibiofilm activity. Moreover, sucralose significantly reduced bacterial adhesion, the viability of established biofilms, autoaggregation, acid production, intracellular ATP levels, and biofilm structural integrity, as confirmed by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). Phenol-sulfuric acid analysis further demonstrated a significant reduction in extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) carbohydrate production, while Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) study demonstrated that sucralose influences EPS composition, namely by lowering polysaccharide-associated components connected to glucan structures. Furthermore, sucralose markedly downregulated key virulence genes involved in biofilm architecture, quorum sensing (QS), and pathogenicity (vicR, gtfC, gbpC, and comX) in a concentration-dependent manner. Notably, this study shows that sucralose disrupts both EPS structural components and virulence gene regulatory networks in S. mutans, offering novel mechanistic insights into its antibiofilm efficacy against cariogenic biofilms.},
}

@article {pmid42586513,
year = {2026},
author = {Baldodiya, GM and Parangi, S and Mishra, G and Jain, S and Soni, N and Bissa, B and Pandey, J and Prusty, D},
title = {Phytochemical-mediated disruption of Staphylococcus aureus biofilm by Tecomella undulata, Dalbergia sissoo, Heliotropium indicum, and Solanum virginianum extracts via targeting extracellular matrix.},
journal = {Microbial pathogenesis},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {108763},
doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2026.108763},
pmid = {42586513},
issn = {1096-1208},
abstract = {Ethnomedicinal use of Tecomella undulata (Rohida) bark to treat syphilis and skin infections, Dalbergia sissoo (Sheesham) leaves/wood to cure skin infections and gonorrhoea, Heliotropium indicum (Indian heliotrope) to cure wounds; and Solanum virginianum (Kantakari) roots/fruits to relieve urinary tract infections are well known. Such conditions are associated with the Staphylococcus aureus infection, a human pathogenic bacteria known for its virulence, antibiotic resistance and biofilm forming abilities. Despite the traditional relevance of these plants, detailed scientific studies on antibiofilm activity against S. aureus remains unexplored. In this study, plant/leaf extracts of these plants were evaluated for antimicrobial activity and their underlying antibiofilm mechanism. Crude extracts (n-hexane, ethyl acetate, acetone, methanol) were analyzed and antibiofilm properties were accessed via liquid and solid-phase assays and FE-SEM. LC-HRMS identified phytochemicals were further analyzed targeting S. aureus proteins ClfA, ClfB, SrtA, SarA and AgrA via molecular docking and dynamics studies. Out of 16 crude extracts, methanolic extracts demonstrated the highest antibacterial activity with lowest MIC of TU-MeOH (1.8 mg/mL) and highest SV-MeOH (7.5mg/mL). All extracts exhibited robust biofilm inhibition (conc. 5-12.5 mg/mL) confirmed by wrinkled, non-mucoid colonies and FE-SEM showing disrupted extracellular matrix. LC-HRMS analysis of TU-MeOH revealed a total of 104 phytochemicals, including flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, phenols etc. Molecular docking showed Catechin 5-O-(2-feruloyl-6-p-coumaroyl-beta-D-glucopyranoside), Goyaglycoside g and Tryptophol [xylosyl-(1->6)-glucoside] as multitargeting hits further validated by molecular dynamics showing stable interactions. Methanolic extracts of T. undulata, D. sissoo, H. indicum, and S. virginianum inhibits S. aureus biofilm disrupting the extracellular matrix. Catechin derivatives, Goyaglycoside g, and Tryptophol, act as multitarget inhibitors of key adhesive and regulatory biofilm proteins highlighting their therapeutic potential.},
}

@article {pmid42587276,
year = {2026},
author = {Ashraf, M and Abo-Amer, AE and Ghazy, M and Labena, A and Abdel-Mawgood, A},
title = {Enhancing biodegradation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons using bacterial consortia and biofilm.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42587276},
issn = {1471-2180},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Bacteria/metabolism/classification/isolation & purification/genetics ; *Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons/metabolism ; *Microbial Consortia ; Biodegradation, Environmental ; Naphthalenes/metabolism ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Phenanthrenes/metabolism ; Soil Microbiology ; Phylogeny ; DNA, Bacterial/genetics/chemistry ; Soil Pollutants/metabolism ; Sequence Analysis, DNA ; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration ; Temperature ; DNA, Ribosomal/genetics/chemistry ; },
abstract = {The release of petroleum and its constituents, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), into the environment poses a significant global threat due to their toxic, genotoxic, mutagenic, and/or carcinogenic properties. Using indigenous PAH-degrading bacteria to decontaminate the PAHs is an eco-friendly, convenient, and non-expensive way in comparison to other traditional physical and chemical methods. In the present study, several bacteria were isolated from petroleum-contaminated soils using a culture-enrichment technique. Phenanthrene and naphthalene were used as representative examples of the PAHs and as sole carbon and energy sources for the isolated bacteria. Three isolates (A1, A3, and B8-1) were selected as the most potent phenanthrene and naphthalene degraders. These three most potent isolates were used to build up four different consortiums, and both the individual isolates and developed consortiums were induced to set up biofilms. The results showed that the highest growth and degradation rate of phenanthrene and naphthalene were achieved at 37 °C and pH 7. Individual strains had higher phenanthrene degrading capacities compared to microbial consortiums in both planktonic and biofilm forms. Additionally, the developed-biofilm displays an increase in the degradation rate of individual isolates A1, A3, and consortiums. Finally, the selected biofilm degraders were used to investigate the PAHs degradation ability in an artificially contaminated soil. The finding of this experiment demonstrate that the biofilm mode of growth could be more effective in PAHs degradation compared to planktonic cultures, thus it can be applied effectively to remediate PAHs-contaminated soils. The most potent PAHs degraders were identified using 16 S rRNA, and the phylogenetic sequence analysis of the three isolates was affiliated as B8-1(Bacillus paramycoides), A1(Bacillus paranthracis), and A3(Bacillus licheniformis).},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Bacteria/metabolism/classification/isolation & purification/genetics
*Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons/metabolism
*Microbial Consortia
Biodegradation, Environmental
Naphthalenes/metabolism
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
Phenanthrenes/metabolism
Soil Microbiology
Phylogeny
DNA, Bacterial/genetics/chemistry
Soil Pollutants/metabolism
Sequence Analysis, DNA
Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
Temperature
DNA, Ribosomal/genetics/chemistry

@article {pmid42587415,
year = {2026},
author = {Peluso, E and van Uden, S and Visentin, S and Petrini, P and Pacheco, DP and Visai, L},
title = {Universal-Bac[3]Gel: A 3D Biofilm-Relevant Matrix That Supports In Vitro Growth and Biofilm Formation of ESKAPE Pathogens.},
journal = {MicrobiologyOpen},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {e70371},
doi = {10.1002/mbo3.70371},
pmid = {42587415},
issn = {2045-8827},
support = {190135075//HORIZON-EIC-2023-ACCELERATOROPEN-01/ ; //Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR)/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; Humans ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Microscopy, Confocal ; Staphylococcus aureus/growth & development/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Human microbiota is increasingly considered to shape health and disease, drawing interest of pharma and biotech industries in advanced models of in vitro human microbiome to streamline drug development. In this context, Universal-Bac[3]Gel represents a new generation of 3D biomaterials designed to mimic the properties of human mucus and biofilm features, including micro-gradients that replicate the heterogeneous environments colonized by microorganisms in the human body. To evaluate the suitability of Universal-Bac[3]Gel for studying clinically relevant species in antimicrobial resistance, the so-called ESKAPE pathogens (Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter cloacae) were cultured within this 3D environment. Bacterial growth was monitored at 24- and 48-h post-inoculation via spot plating, while viability, spatial distribution, and organization were assessed by confocal laser scanning microscopy. All ESKAPE strains successfully grew throughout the structure of Universal-Bac[3]Gel. Distinct 3D biofilm architectures were observed across species, ranging from diffuse colonization to compact microcolony formation, in agreement with species-specific biofilm patterns. Ciprofloxacin susceptibility assays revealed reduced susceptibility of bacteria cultured within Universal-Bac[3]Gel compared with their planktonic counterparts, supporting the development of biofilm-associated tolerance phenotypes. Consistent with these findings, crystal violet staining confirmed the accumulation of biofilm-associated biomass within the hydrogel. Notably, the platform's ready-to-use 96-well format allowed direct comparison of these high-priority pathogens under standardized conditions, highlighting species-specific biofilm traits that would be difficult to discern in conventional two-dimensional culture systems. This work highlights the versatility of Universal-Bac[3]Gel as a biofilm-relevant in vitro platform for studying pathogen colonization, biofilm development and antimicrobial susceptibility under controlled conditions.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
Humans
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Microscopy, Confocal
Staphylococcus aureus/growth & development/drug effects

@article {pmid42587935,
year = {2026},
author = {Xiao, W and Liu, X and Tan, X and Hu, L and Xiao, Y and Yang, H and Zhu, H},
title = {Essential Oils Derived from Traditional Chinese Medicinal Herbs as Natural Antimicrobial Candidates for Foodborne Pathogen Control: Antibacterial Activity, Biofilm Removal, and Volatile Composition.},
journal = {Foods (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {15},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/foods15152675},
pmid = {42587935},
issn = {2304-8158},
support = {Grant No. 2024M760894//China Postdoctoral Science Foundation/ ; YLS-2025-ZY04059//Yuelushan Laboratory Breeding Program/ ; },
abstract = {Foodborne pathogens and their biofilms threaten microbial safety in food systems, highlighting the need for antimicrobial candidates. This study compared nine essential oils derived from traditional Chinese medicinal herbs (TCM herb essential oils) for antibacterial activity, mature biofilm removal, volatile composition, and candidate compounds against Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella paratyphi B using DIZ, MIC, crystal violet staining, GC-MS, growth curves, and SEM. Among the tested oils, Lonicera japonica, Sinomenium acutum, and Scutellaria baicalensis essential oils showed relatively broad antibacterial activity. Lonicera japonica essential oil (LJEO) displayed the most notable overall performance, producing DIZ values of 38.29, 25.29, and 24.75 mm against S. aureus, L. monocytogenes, and S. paratyphi B, respectively, and low MIC against S. aureus and L. monocytogenes at 0.15625% and 0.3125%. LJEO removed mature biofilms of L. monocytogenes, E. coli, and S. paratyphi B by 60.58%, 50.80%, and 47.82%, respectively, but showed limited activity against S. aureus biofilms. GC-MS identified 156 volatile compounds, with LJEO characterized by abundant linalool, p-cymene, borneol, cineoles, and limonene. Growth curves and SEM indicated that LJEO inhibited bacterial proliferation and damaged cell surface structures. These findings suggest that TCM herb essential oils, especially LJEO, may serve as natural antimicrobial candidates for foodborne pathogen control and food preservation.},
}

@article {pmid42588480,
year = {2026},
author = {Palmieri, S and Mangano, V and Capini, E and De Grazia, G and La Torre, GL and Fanti, F and Sergi, M and Salvo, A},
title = {Sustainable Active Packaging Based on Chitosan-Pomegranate Peel Biofilm Protects Pecorino Romano PDO Cheese Through Polyphenol-Driven Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activity.},
journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {31},
number = {15},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/molecules31152631},
pmid = {42588480},
issn = {1420-3049},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Polyphenols/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Chitosan/chemistry ; *Pomegranate/chemistry ; *Antioxidants/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Food Packaging/methods ; *Anti-Infective Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Cheese/microbiology/analysis ; Plant Extracts/chemistry ; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid ; },
abstract = {A chitosan-based edible biofilm enriched with pomegranate peel extract and essential oils was developed as a sustainable active packaging material that exploits agro-industrial by-products, in agreement with circular economy principles. Targeted HPLC-MS/MS analysis quantified twelve polyphenols, with total polyphenol content ranging from 88.20 to 137.38 μg/g dry weight. Ellagic acid was the predominant compound (90.78 μg/g dry weight), followed by gallic acid (28.80 μg/g dry weight). Untargeted HPLC-HRMS analysis revealed additional flavonoid and ellagitannin-related derivatives, confirming the chemical complexity of the incorporated phenolic fraction. ICP-OES analysis showed heavy metal concentrations below the analytical quantification limits, supporting compliance with food-contact safety requirements. During 45 days of refrigerated storage, coated Pecorino Romano PDO cheese exhibited lower yeast and mold counts than uncoated controls, with a maximum reduction of approximately 0.87 log10 CFU/g. Enterobacteriaceae remained below the detection limit in coated samples throughout storage, whereas they were detected in untreated cheese at the end of storage. These findings demonstrate the potential of the developed edible biofilm as a safe and sustainable active packaging material for refrigerated dairy products while promoting the valorization of pomegranate processing by-products.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Polyphenols/pharmacology/chemistry
*Chitosan/chemistry
*Pomegranate/chemistry
*Antioxidants/pharmacology/chemistry
*Food Packaging/methods
*Anti-Infective Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
*Cheese/microbiology/analysis
Plant Extracts/chemistry
Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid

@article {pmid42591585,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, G and Pan, Y and Bai, Z and Zheng, Y and Wei, Y},
title = {Synergistic algae-bacteria interactions in a novel membrane aeration biofilm system: performance and microbial function.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1900925},
pmid = {42591585},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Low carbon-to-nitrogen (C/N) ratio wastewater poses a major challenge to biological nitrogen removal due to insufficient electron donors for denitrification. In this study, an algae-bacteria membrane-aerated biofilm reactor (AB-MABR) was established to enhance nitrogen removal under carbon-limited conditions, and its performance was compared with that of a conventional bacterial MABR (B-MABR). The results showed that the AB-MABR achieved superior pollutant removal performance, with COD, NH4 [+]-N, and TN removal efficiencies being 4.0, 21.9, and 12.3% higher, respectively, than those of the B-MABR. Overall, AB-MABR outperformed B-MABR in pollutant removal. The removal efficiencies of COD, NH4 [+]-N, and TN were 92.3, 77.2, and 66.6%, respectively, which were markedly higher than those achieved by B-MABR (88.8, 55.3, and 54.3%). The incorporation of microalgae significantly enhanced microbial metabolic activity, as evidenced by higher ATP content, electron transport system activity (ETSA), and cytochrome c (Cyt-c) levels. Meanwhile, EPS production increased by 25% in the AB-MABR, accompanied by greater accumulation of protein-like and humic-like substances. SEM and CLSM analyses revealed that microalgae promoted the formation of a denser and more stratified biofilm with higher biomass and stronger structural stability. Metagenomic analysis further demonstrated that pathways associated with microbial metabolism, secondary metabolite biosynthesis, and environmental adaptation were enriched in the AB-MABR system, indicating enhanced metabolic potential and ecological resilience. Overall, microalgal incorporation strengthened electron transfer, stimulated EPS secretion, improved biofilm development, and enhanced microbial metabolic functions, thereby promoting nitrogen transformation and removal under low C/N conditions. These findings provide new insights into the synergistic mechanisms of algae-bacteria biofilms and demonstrate the potential of AB-MABR technology for sustainable nitrogen removal from carbon-limited wastewater.},
}

@article {pmid42591693,
year = {2026},
author = {Tripathi, S and Rani, K and Berlia, R and Sharma, A and Hari, A and Gaur, P and Raj, PSS and Raj, VS},
title = {Carbapenem resistance genes and biofilm-virulence uncoupling in Acinetobacter baumannii.},
journal = {Frontiers in antibiotics},
volume = {5},
number = {},
pages = {1888133},
pmid = {42591693},
issn = {2813-2467},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Acinetobacter baumannii, a World Health Organization (WHO) critical-priority pathogen, causes difficult-to-treat nosocomial infections. The link between resistance genes, biofilm, and virulence carriage remains poorly understood in clinical isolates of high-burden South Asian settings. This study intended to thoroughly describe and explain linkages among clinical isolates collected in Haryana, India.

METHODS: A total of 200 non-duplicate A. baumannii isolates underwent antimicrobial susceptibility testing by broth microdilution against 17 antibiotics, interpreted according to CLSI M100 guidelines (32nd edition). Biofilm forming capacity was quantified using the standardized microtiter plate crystal violet assay. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect six carbapenemase genes (blaOXA-23, blaOXA-24, blaOXA-58, blaNDM-1, blaVIM, and blaIMP), beta-lactamase genes (blaPER-1, AmpC, and blaTEM), and virulence genes (bap, ompA, and csuE). Concordance was assessed by Cohen's κ; gene-resistance and gene-biofilm links were tested using regression and non-parametric analyses. A total of 200 pure, non-duplicate A. baumannii isolates were included and contaminated cultures were excluded. Sample size adequacy was assessed using Buderer's formula based on expected sensitivity, specificity, carbapenem-resistance prevalence, 95% confidence level, and desired precision.

RESULTS: Among 200 isolates, 54% were MDR, 34% XDR, and 61% carbapenem-resistant. The blaOXA-23 gene, present in 61%, showed near-perfect concordance with carbapenem resistance (κ = 0.81). Composite carbapenemase carriage improved concordance (κ = 0.88). Biofilm capacity was unrelated to overall resistance, but strong biofilm formers had higher colistin MICs (p = 0.001). Virulence genes (bap, ompA, and csuE) were linked to strong biofilm formation (p < 0.001) without resistance escalation.

CONCLUSIONS: blaOXA-23 emerged as the dominant genetic driver of carbapenem resistance, underscoring its value in rapid diagnostics. Colistin tolerance was linked to biofilm-associated phenotypes rather than cumulative resistance.},
}

@article {pmid42592755,
year = {2026},
author = {Mazumder, S and Dey, A and Bhattacharya, D and Lahiri, D and Nag, M and Maity, S and Kumar, N and Pandit, S and Raja, V and Sharma, S and Dwivedi, SP and Rajeev, M and Dewi, JR and Sanayeva, L and Azimova, D},
title = {Dietary Terpenoids in Advancing Biofilm-Mediated Cancer Prevention: Antibiofilm Cascade, Molecular Crosstalk, and Nano-Facilitated Functional Delivery.},
journal = {Cell biochemistry and function},
volume = {44},
number = {8},
pages = {e70281},
doi = {10.1002/cbf.70281},
pmid = {42592755},
issn = {1099-0844},
mesh = {Humans ; *Biofilms/drug effects ; *Terpenes/pharmacology/chemistry/administration & dosage ; *Neoplasms/prevention & control/microbiology ; Quorum Sensing/drug effects ; Animals ; *Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; },
abstract = {The role of microbes in cancer is gaining attention these days, especially in the context of tumor-associated biofilms and dysbiotic microbiota. Biofilm-producing microorganisms, such as Fusobacterium nucleatum and Helicobacter pylori, trigger oncogenic inflammation and immune evasion in tumor initiation and progression, and in the development of chemoresistance, through the activation of the NF-κB, STAT3, and β-catenin pathways. Dietary terpenoids are a structurally diverse group of antitumor and antibiofilm plant metabolites. Monoterpenoids, sesquiterpenoids, and triterpenoids are known to inhibit quorum sensing, the biosynthesis of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), and the expression of biofilm-associated virulence factors, proposing an unexplored convergence among antibiofilm and anticancer mechanisms. Importantly, the biofilm structure (thickness, developmental stage, EPS density) affects the efficacy of terpenoids, affecting diffusion, microbial persistence, and therapeutic susceptibility. The quorum-sensing disruption is more effective in the early stages of biofilms, while high concentrations of EPS in mature, thick biofilms will require more penetration to disrupt quorum sensing. Innovative functional food matrices, including nano-enabled delivery systems, are emerging strategies to improve bioavailability and microbiome modulation of terpenoids. Furthermore, nano-formulations allow better penetration in dense biofilm matrices, protect terpenoids from early degradation, and allow prolonged and focused drug release in the tumor microenvironment associated with biofilms. Combining precision nutrition with microbiome-informed dietary strategies can be used to prevent and treat cancer. The present review combines studies linking biofilm-driven carcinogenesis with terpenoid-mediated antibiofilm-anticancer pathways and nano-mediated functional delivery and biofilm penetration, including highlighting the potential for microbiome modulation in cancer therapy.},
}

Humans
*Biofilms/drug effects
*Terpenes/pharmacology/chemistry/administration & dosage
*Neoplasms/prevention & control/microbiology
Quorum Sensing/drug effects
Animals
*Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology/chemistry

@article {pmid42593415,
year = {2026},
author = {Carneiro, VA and Lourenço, MLMC and Magalhães, EVF and Coelho, PAT and Silva, BF and Cavalcante, RMB and Costa, RA},
title = {Kefir-Derived Lacticaseibacillus paracasei as a Promising Candidate Against Planktonic and Biofilm Cells of Foodborne Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae.},
journal = {Letters in applied microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/lambio/ovag069},
pmid = {42593415},
issn = {1472-765X},
abstract = {This study aimed to identify kefir-derived microorganisms, evaluate their probiotic potential to select the most promising strain, and assess the selected strain's antibacterial and antibiofilm activities against foodborne isolates, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Kefir grains were cultivated in selective media, and isolates were identified using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. Their acid and NaCl tolerance, auto- and co-aggregation, and antimicrobial activity were assessed to identify the most effective probiotic strain. Subsequently, the selected strain was subjected to spot overlay tests, broth microdilution assays, and biofilm inhibition experiments against E. coli and K. pneumoniae isolates. Enterococcus durans, Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides, Lacticaseibacillus paracasei, and Kluyveromyces marxianus were identified. Among these, L. paracasei (Lpk 01) demonstrated the best probiotic characteristics, with 50% survival at pH 5, tolerance to 2% NaCl, and high co-aggregation with K. pneumoniae (40%). It inhibited pathogens (inhibition zones >14 mm), and its cell-free supernatant (Lpk-cf) reduced biofilm biomass by approximately 50%, with effects minimized upon neutralization, suggesting the involvement of organic acids. These findings affirm the antimicrobial potential of L. paracasei, highlighting its application as a natural alternative against bacterial pathogens.},
}

@article {pmid42593577,
year = {2026},
author = {Pirmoradian, M and Zargar, M and Nazari, R},
title = {Virulence determinants and multidrug resistance profiles of biofilm-forming Staphylococcus aureus from healthy orthopedic surgical personnel.},
journal = {Antonie van Leeuwenhoek},
volume = {119},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {42593577},
issn = {1572-9699},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; Humans ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; *Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/genetics ; *Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/genetics/isolation & purification/pathogenicity/physiology ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Virulence Factors/genetics ; *Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology ; Iran ; Virulence/genetics ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics ; Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/genetics/drug effects/isolation & purification ; },
abstract = {Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is a clinically significant opportunistic pathogen and a leading cause of healthcare-associated infections, particularly in surgical settings. This study aimed to investigate the antibiotic resistance patterns, biofilm-forming ability, and the distribution of selected virulence and resistance genes among S. aureus isolates collected from healthy orthopedic surgical personnel in Iran. A total of 63 S. aureus isolates, comprising 52 methicillin-resistant (MRSA) and 11 methicillin-susceptible (MSSA) isolates, were recovered from nasal and hand swabs. Antimicrobial susceptibility was determined by the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method or broth microdilution for oxacillin. Biofilm formation was quantified using the tissue culture plate assay, and resistance and virulence genes were detected by PCR. All isolates were biofilm producers, with nasal isolates representing the highest proportion of strong producers, although the difference was not statistically significant. High resistance rates were observed to penicillin and ampicillin, and erythromycin resistance was significantly associated with moderate biofilm formation. MRSA, identified by cefoxitin resistance, accounted for 82.5% of the isolates and produced significantly greater biofilm biomass compared to MSSA isolates. Among MRSA isolates, 40.4% exhibited an MDR phenotype and 1.9% were XDR, while all isolates remained susceptible to vancomycin and chloramphenicol. The mecA gene was present in all MRSA isolates, while icaA was exclusive to MRSA and strongly correlated with biofilm biomass. Three agr types were identified, with agrI predominating. The convergence of potent virulence determinants, multidrug resistance, and robust biofilm formation-particularly among MRSA isolates-underscores the potential for silent nosocomial transmission and highlights the need for enhanced infection-control practices and strengthened antimicrobial stewardship.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
Humans
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
*Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/genetics
*Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/genetics/isolation & purification/pathogenicity/physiology
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Virulence Factors/genetics
*Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology
Iran
Virulence/genetics
Bacterial Proteins/genetics
Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/genetics/drug effects/isolation & purification

@article {pmid42594246,
year = {2026},
author = {Cerutti, I and de Andrade, JSR and Barboza, ADS and Machado, JB and Lee, DD and Dos Santos, MBF},
title = {Comparative Analysis of the Mechanical and Biofilm Surface Formation of 3D Printed Resins and Milled PMMA Blocks With and Without Inorganic Fillers.},
journal = {Clinical and experimental dental research},
volume = {12},
number = {4},
pages = {e70433},
doi = {10.1002/cre2.70433},
pmid = {42594246},
issn = {2057-4347},
support = {001//Coordination for the Improvement of HigherEducation Personnel (CAPES)/ ; },
mesh = {*Polymethyl Methacrylate/chemistry ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; *Printing, Three-Dimensional ; Materials Testing ; Flexural Strength ; *Composite Resins/chemistry ; Surface Properties ; Hardness ; *Dental Materials/chemistry ; Computer-Aided Design ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Despite the growing number of studies assessing the performance of temporary restorative materials fabricated through CAD/CAM technologies, comparative analyses among 3D printed resins and milled PMMA blocks with differing compositions remain limited. This study compared mechanical and biofilm surface formation of 3D printed resins PMMA blocks with different compositions, using composite resin as control.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: Bar‑shaped (25 × 2 × 2 mm) and disc‑shaped (6 × 2 mm) specimens were fabricated. Flexural strength was evaluated by three‑point bending (ISO 4049), and Vickers microhardness was recorded. Multispecies biofilm formation was quantified using CFU/mL and examined morphologically via SEM. Statistical significance was set at α = 0.05.

RESULTS: The 3D printed resins and milled hybrid PMMA showed the lowest flexural strength, with no significant differences between them, while the composite resin achieved the highest and statistically superior values (p < 0.001). 3D printed resin without inorganic fillers showed the lowest Vickers microhardness values (12.66 ± 0.83 HK) while 3D printed resin with inorganic fillers (15.20 ± 1.94 HK) and milled conventional PMMA (16.03 ± 1.35 HK) exhibited higher values. However, none of them differed statistically from the 3D printed resin without inorganic fillers (p = 0.064). Conversely, milled hybrid PMMA (16.67 ± 2.10 HK) demonstrated significantly higher Vickers microhardness than 3 d printed resin with inorganic fillers (p < 0.001). Biofilm formation ranged from 2.26 × 10[7] to 2.82 × 10[7] CFU/mL, with no significant differences among materials (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS: Milled and 3D printed materials demonstrated comparable mechanical behavior while composite resin remained the performance benchmark. Material selection for provisional restorations should account for mechanical behavior and biological interactions, as surface treatment and clinical conditions may influence microbial colonization.},
}

*Polymethyl Methacrylate/chemistry
*Biofilms/growth & development
*Printing, Three-Dimensional
Materials Testing
Flexural Strength
*Composite Resins/chemistry
Surface Properties
Hardness
*Dental Materials/chemistry
Computer-Aided Design

@article {pmid42576888,
year = {2024},
author = {Burton, NJ and Melo, LDR and Tadesse, MFD and Pearce, B and Vryonis, E and Sagona, AP},
title = {Isolation and characterisation of novel lytic bacteriophages for therapeutic applications in biofilm-associated prosthetic joint infections.},
journal = {Sustainable microbiology},
volume = {1},
number = {1},
pages = {qvae028},
pmid = {42576888},
issn = {2755-1970},
abstract = {Prosthetic joint infections are devastating complications of joint arthroplasties. Without effective management, they can lead to limb amputation and even death. A significant proportion of these infections is caused by the primarily commensal Coagulase-negative Staphylococci pathogens, which form thick, antibiotic-resistant biofilms at the site of infection. Combinatorial therapy involving antibiotics and bacteriophages may represent a strategy to overcome resistance. Previous research indicates that as bacteria develop resistance to antibiotics, they often become more susceptible to bacteriophages. In this study, we produced a cocktail of novel bacteriophages and assessed their viability to eradicate nosocomial staphylococcal biofilms. Here, we used clinical isolates from prosthetic joint infections to isolate and identify four new bacteriophages from sewage effluent. These novel phages were characterized through electron microscopy and full genome sequencing. Subsequently, we combined them into a phage cocktail, which effectively re-sensitized biofilms to vancomycin and flucloxacillin. Notably, this phage cocktail demonstrated low cytotoxicity in vitro to human epithelial cells, even when used alongside antibiotic treatments. These findings highlight the potential of the phage cocktail as a tool to increase antibiotic treatment success in prosthetic joint infections.},
}

@article {pmid42576921,
year = {2024},
author = {McFall, A and Coughlin, SA and Hardiman, G and Megaw, J},
title = {Strategies for biofilm optimization of plastic-degrading microorganisms and isolating biofilm formers from plastic-contaminated environments.},
journal = {Sustainable microbiology},
volume = {1},
number = {1},
pages = {qvae012},
pmid = {42576921},
issn = {2755-1970},
abstract = {The perpetual disposal of plastic waste, combined with ineffective waste management strategies, has resulted in widespread environmental plastic pollution. Microbial plastic biodegradation represents an emerging solution to this problem. However, biodegradation studies tend to overlook the fundamental prerequisite of initial surface colonization via biofilm formation. This study had two independent but connected aims relating to plastic surface colonization by microorganisms: to enhance biofilm formation by known plastic degraders, with translational potential for improved plastic degradation, and to isolate microorganisms from microplastic contaminated environments with the ability to colonize plastic surfaces. Planktonic and biofilm responses to diverse carbon and energy sources were investigated over 7 days, using Bacillus subtilis 168, Fusarium solani (Martius) Saccardo, Ideonella sakaiensis 201-F6, Pseudomonas putida KT2440, and Rhodococcus ruber C208. This enabled optimal conditions for biofilm formation by each strain to be determined. In parallel, environmental samples containing synthetic or natural polymeric substances (anaerobic digestate, landfill leachate, and microplastic contaminated compost) were incubated with polyethylene and polyethylene terephthalate films, to isolate microorganisms capable of colonizing their surfaces. This yielded eight bacterial isolates from three genera: Bacillus, Lysinibacillus, and Proteus. These genera contain species that have been shown to degrade plastics and other recalcitrant synthetic polymers, demonstrating the success of our approach. This study also suggests that discrete plastic types may create different ecological niches which can be exploited by unique bacterial colonizers. Our findings underscore the importance of considering plastic colonization by microbial biofilms in the context of their biodegradation.},
}

@article {pmid42576927,
year = {2026},
author = {Ferrer-Florensa, X and Liu, Y and Strube, ML and Kempen, PJ and Sternberg, C and Taboryski, R and Gram, L},
title = {Surface materials and biofilm formation affect tropodithietic acid biosynthesis gene expression in Phaeobacter piscinae S26 and its interaction with Vibrio anguillarum.},
journal = {Sustainable microbiology},
volume = {3},
number = {2},
pages = {qvag022},
pmid = {42576927},
issn = {2755-1970},
abstract = {Tropodithietic acid (TDA) is the antimicrobial compound mediating the probiotic activity of Phaeobacter spp. against pathogenic vibrios in marine larviculture. In the related genera Tritonibacter, TDA is mainly produced during biofilm growth. The purpose of the study was to determine if biofilm formation increases expression of TDA biosynthesis genes in Phaeobacter piscinae and whether surface properties can promote this expression for aquaculture. Using a GFP reporter under the tdaCDE promoter and flow cytometry, TDA biosynthesis gene expression was two-fold higher in biofilms than in planktonic cells. Biofilm formation on four surfaces showed that the most hydrophobic material, PDMS, supported ∼30-fold higher early attachment than PMMA, COC and PP, while mature biovolume was similar across materials. The TDA gene expression to biovolume ratio increased as biofilms developed. P. piscinae biofilms inhibited Vibrio anguillarum, reducing counts to 10[5] CFU/ml compared to the control that was 10[8] CFU/ml. In the presence of V. anguillarum, PDMS biofilms showed 1.5-fold higher biovolume and 2.5-fold higher TDA biosynthesis gene expression, suggesting an antagonistic response. Thus, Phaeobacter is a more effective Vibrio antagonist in the biofilm state, supporting its potential as a probiotic for future aquaculture applications.},
}

@article {pmid42580125,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, HB and Wu, YH and Bai, Y and Chen, Z and Wang, RN and Liu, H and Ikuno, N and Koji, N and Hu, HY},
title = {Undesirable risks of ozone-resistant bacteria (ORB): biofilm formation potentials and control strategy.},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {307},
number = {},
pages = {126601},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2026.126601},
pmid = {42580125},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {Increasing disinfectant usage in urban water systems has heightened concerns regarding the enrichment of disinfection-resistant bacteria, particularly those capable of forming robust biofilms. Although chlorine-resistant bacteria and their associated risks are relatively well characterized, the characteristics and control strategies of ozone-resistant bacteria (ORB) remain insufficiently explored. Here, we examined seven previously classified ORB strains with varying ozone resistance to experimentally validate their biofouling risks and investigate efficient control methods. Cellular surface hydrophobicity and growth-related traits were associated with between-strain variation in biofilm formation potential. After investigating the inhibitory patterns of methylisothiazolinone (MIT) and 2,2-dibromo-3-nitrilopropionamide (DBNPA), we developed a synergistic control strategy using low concentrations of them, which effectively inhibited the biofilm formation of ORB and reduced extracellular polymeric substances. A likely synergistic mechanism involved the different targets in the cellular proteins, which may cause more severe damage to ORB. This approach was subsequently evaluated in a typical scenario, a water reclamation reverse osmosis system. When the reclaimed water contained ORB, the normalized flux of reverse osmosis membrane decreased by 12% after ozone treatment but increased by 13% after subsequent synergistic treatment with MIT and DBNPA. The synergistic treatment was also associated with a lower approximated relative abundance of fouling-related ORB and a lower predicted biofilm-forming potential of the microbial community. In summary, our findings bridged the gap between fundamental characteristics of ORB and practical biofouling risk, highlighted the potential of a synergistic biofilm control approach, and provided preliminary insights for mitigating the risks posed by ORB in advanced water treatment processes.},
}

@article {pmid42582037,
year = {2026},
author = {Sun, H and Zhang, K and Chu, F and Dong, J and Chen, S and Ren, B and Guo, Q},
title = {Bacteriophage-mediated biofilm control: a novel targeted strategy for the management of dental caries.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1880231},
pmid = {42582037},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Dental Caries/therapy/microbiology/prevention & control ; *Bacteriophages/physiology ; Humans ; *Phage Therapy/methods ; Microbiota ; Bacteria/virology ; Streptococcus mutans/virology ; Mouth/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Dental caries, a globally prevalent chronic infectious disease, is driven by microbial dysbiosis of dental biofilm, involving multiple caries-associated colonizers. Conventional broad-spectrum antimicrobials and fluoride-based formulations often disrupt the commensal oral microbiota, contributing to antimicrobial resistance and imbalance of the oral ecosystem. In contrast, bacteriophage (phage) therapy has emerged as a promising precision strategy for caries control due to its high specificity, minimal off-target effects, and biofilm-disrupting capacity. Our review systematically summarizes recent advances in phage-based interventions for caries prevention and treatment. It describes the diversity and distribution of the oral phageome and its role in regulating oral microbial homeostasis. The review further details phages targeting key cariogenic bacteria, including S. mutans (e.g., φAPCM01, SMHBZ8), Actinomyces spp. (e.g., Av-1), and related phage enzymes. Core anti-bacterial and anti-biofilm mechanisms of oral phage are elucidated, such as direct bacterial lysis mediated by endolysins and holins, and inhibition and disassembly of biofilms through multiple mechanisms. Strategies for applying phages in caries management are also discussed, encompassing phage cocktails, combination therapies with conventional antimicrobials, and development of advanced delivery systems. Finally, current challenges and future directions of phage therapy are addressed. Overall, this review provides a comprehensive theoretical foundation for developing targeted, oral microbiome-friendly phage-based strategies against dental caries.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Dental Caries/therapy/microbiology/prevention & control
*Bacteriophages/physiology
Humans
*Phage Therapy/methods
Microbiota
Bacteria/virology
Streptococcus mutans/virology
Mouth/microbiology

@article {pmid42573813,
year = {2026},
author = {Sruthi, K and Kavya, MG and Khade, OS and Vanitha, T and Bhatt, P},
title = {Biofilm Formation and Para-cresol Production by Clostridioides difficile Under the Influence of Phytonutrients from Rhus chinensis.},
journal = {Current microbiology},
volume = {83},
number = {10},
pages = {},
pmid = {42573813},
issn = {1432-0991},
support = {No. F.N 5/9/1337/2020-Nut//Indian Council of Medical Research/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Plant Extracts/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Clostridioides difficile/drug effects/physiology/metabolism ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; *Cresols/metabolism ; *Rhus/chemistry ; *Phytochemicals/pharmacology/chemistry ; },
abstract = {In Asian countries, the decoction of Rhus chinensis berries is used in alleviation of gut related ailments, especially gastroenteritis. In the background of its ethnobotanical use, the aim of the study was to determine the inhibitory activity of berries against a gut pathobiont causing gut dysbiosis, namely Clostridioides difficile. The hot water extract of Rhus chinensis (RcHWE) indicated appreciable antimicrobial activity (60% to near 100%) against C. difficile ATCC 43,593, in the tested range of 0.5-5.5 mg/mL, evaluated by microbroth dilution and standard plate count technique. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined to be 3 mg/mL. There was visible inhibition of biofilm formation on filter membrane impregnated with varying concentration of RcHWE (0.25MIC - 10MIC). Results of flow cytometry with propidium iodide (PI) stained red fluorescence shift in extract supplemented cells, crystal violet staining with decrease in absorbance (34% to 100%) relative to unsupplemented control as well as confocal microscopy images (increase in PI-stained cells), across the tested range (0.25MIC- 10MIC), clearly indicated the antimicrobial and antibiofilm forming ability of RcHWE against C. difficile. Additionally, SEM results along with lactate dehydrogenase assay, clearly indicated extensive cell damage and destruction of cell integrity. Inhibition of p-cresol production (90-100%) with supplementation of RcHWE, was found to be both concentration and time dependent. UHPLC-HRMS/MS analysis indicated polyphenolic glycosides to be the predominant constituents of the extract. Findings highlights the modulatory potential of RcHWE against C. difficile and provides preliminary evidence for its use in gastric ailments especially due to gut dysbiosis.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Plant Extracts/pharmacology/chemistry
*Clostridioides difficile/drug effects/physiology/metabolism
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
*Cresols/metabolism
*Rhus/chemistry
*Phytochemicals/pharmacology/chemistry

@article {pmid42573819,
year = {2026},
author = {Kouidhi, B and Rhim, H and Bhouri, M and Kadri, Y and Haddad, O and Mastouri, M and Sheikh, RA and Mohamed Ali, EM and Altayeb, HN and Kazmi, I and Chaieb, K},
title = {Genomic insights into efflux-mediated biofilm persistence and multidrug resistance in Achromobacter xylosoxidans from cystic fibrosis.},
journal = {Archives of microbiology},
volume = {208},
number = {11},
pages = {},
pmid = {42573819},
issn = {1432-072X},
support = {IPP: 264-130-2025//King Abdulaziz University/ ; },
mesh = {*Achromobacter denitrificans/genetics/drug effects/isolation & purification/physiology ; *Cystic Fibrosis/microbiology ; Humans ; *Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/genetics ; *Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Genome, Bacterial ; Whole Genome Sequencing ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Gram-Negative Bacterial Infections/microbiology ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Sputum/microbiology ; Genomics ; },
abstract = {Achromobacter xylosoxidans is an emerging opportunistic pathogen related to cystic fibrosis (CF). Its clinical impact is variable among patients depending on strain-specific genomic diversity and interaction with co-infecting pathogens. Hence, genomic analysis plays a key role in understanding its pathogenic potential and adaptation in the CF disease. This study included a clinical strain isolated from sputum of a patient with CF. The strain was evaluated for its antimicrobial susceptibility using VITEK 2 and biofilm formation / inhibition using crystal violet assay in the presence and absence of PAβN. Whole-genome sequencing was conducted using Illumina technology, followed by genome assembly and annotation. The resistome and virulence profiling of MICB25 was achieved using BV-BRC and PGAP pipelines. The clinically strain (MICB25) was identified as Achromobacter xylosoxidans. Our study shows that secretion systems, multidrug efflux systems are functionally linked to biofilm formation in a CF-associated A. xylosoxidans MICB25, as evidenced by PAβN-mediated biofilm inhibition. The whole-genome sequencing revealed a multifaceted resistome including β-lactamases, aminoglycoside-modifying enzymes, and other resistance determinants in addition to an exceptionally broad and varied efflux repertoire covering ABC, MFS, RND, and SMR families. The application of whole-genome sequencing in this study provides crucial insights into the persistence-oriented pathogenic strategy of this emerging CF pathogen A. xylosoxidans. The coexistence of multidrug efflux determinants and PAβN-sensitive biofilm formation suggests that efflux activity could be involved in persistence and warrants addditional mechanistic investigation.},
}

*Achromobacter denitrificans/genetics/drug effects/isolation & purification/physiology
*Cystic Fibrosis/microbiology
Humans
*Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/genetics
*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Genome, Bacterial
Whole Genome Sequencing
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Gram-Negative Bacterial Infections/microbiology
Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Sputum/microbiology
Genomics

@article {pmid42573848,
year = {2026},
author = {Tabassum, N and Kim, T and Khan, F},
title = {Lactic acid bacteria-derived biosurfactants: emerging strategies for biofilm control, virulence attenuation, and food safety.},
journal = {World journal of microbiology & biotechnology},
volume = {42},
number = {8},
pages = {},
pmid = {42573848},
issn = {1573-0972},
support = {(RS-2023-00241461, RS-2025-00555808, and RS-2021-NR060118)//Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF), funded by the Ministry of Education/ ; },
mesh = {*Biosurfactants/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Biofilms/drug effects ; *Food Safety ; Virulence/drug effects ; *Lactobacillales/metabolism/chemistry ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Humans ; Bacteria/drug effects/pathogenicity ; Quorum Sensing/drug effects ; Glycolipids/pharmacology ; Fungi/drug effects ; Animals ; },
abstract = {Biofilm-associated infections caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria and fungi impose a substantial global health burden, and conventional antibiotics are increasingly ineffective at eradicating them due to poor penetration of the extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) matrix and escalating resistance. Biosurfactants produced by lactic acid bacteria (LAB) have attracted research interest as alternatives, owing to the GRAS status of their producing organisms and their broad mechanistic repertoire. This review critically evaluates the structural diversity of LAB-derived biosurfactants, covering glycolipids, lipopeptides, glycoproteins, lipoteichoic acids, and iminosugar conjugates, and examines their antibiofilm, anti-adhesion, and antivirulence activities against clinically relevant bacterial pathogens, including Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin-resistant S. aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Enterococcus faecalis, as well as fungal pathogens, particularly Candida species. The criteria used to distinguish low-molecular-mass biosurfactants from high-molecular-mass bioemulsifiers and surface-active cell-wall polymers are stated explicitly, and reported activities are interpreted against the strain, extraction, purification, and assay variables that make quantitative comparison between studies difficult. Mechanistic evidence from gene expression analyses, quorum-sensing interference, molecular docking, and surface-coating experiments on catheters, voice prostheses, and implant-grade materials is organized by biological target rather than by individual study, separating reproducible mechanisms from those inferred from single observations. The review further covers biosurfactant-mediated synthesis of metallic nanoparticles with enhanced antimicrobial stability, food-preservation applications in meat, juice, and egg matrices, and combinations with antibiotics and antifungals. Evidence remains almost entirely in vitro: one intravaginal murine study and four food-matrix trials constitute the whole body of work performed outside laboratory culture, and no clinical data exist. Low and rarely reported yields, protocol-dependent purification, undetermined structure-activity relationships, unassigned biosynthetic gene clusters, and the absence of standardized characterization protocols are identified as the principal barriers to translation, alongside research priorities in genome mining, multi-omics, fermentation and downstream process development, standardized bioassay, and CRISPR-based metabolic engineering of LAB chassis.},
}

*Biosurfactants/pharmacology/chemistry
*Biofilms/drug effects
*Food Safety
Virulence/drug effects
*Lactobacillales/metabolism/chemistry
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Humans
Bacteria/drug effects/pathogenicity
Quorum Sensing/drug effects
Glycolipids/pharmacology
Fungi/drug effects
Animals

@article {pmid42575915,
year = {2026},
author = {Abu-Resha, AM and Saleh, HH and Abou-Dobara, MI and El-Sayed, AK},
title = {Prevalence and associations of antibiotic resistance and biofilm formation with molecular determinants in clinical Acinetobacter baumannii isolates.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42575915},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Acinetobacter baumannii/genetics/drug effects/isolation & purification/physiology ; Humans ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Acinetobacter Infections/microbiology/epidemiology/drug therapy ; *Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/genetics ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics ; beta-Lactamases/genetics ; Prevalence ; Virulence Factors/genetics ; },
abstract = {Acinetobacter baumannii is a notorious opportunistic pathogen commonly associated with healthcare-associated infections and multidrug resistance. Its survival in hospital environments, biofilm formation, and iron acquisition systems complicate treatment. Understanding virulence factors and resistance mechanisms is crucial for developing effective control strategies. This study investigates genetic determinants of virulence and antibiotic resistance in selected MDR/XDR clinical A. baumannii isolates and explores their relationship with phenotypic traits. The selected MDR/XDR clinical A. baumannii isolates were identified using standard microbiological methods. Antimicrobial susceptibility followed CLSI guidelines. Biofilm formation was assessed using the tissue culture plate method. Molecular confirmation and detection of the selected genes were performed by multiplex PCR. In this study, 150 non-duplicate MDR/XDR clinical A. baumannii isolates were selectively collected from routine laboratory records based on their resistance profiles. Among the selected isolates, (84%) were XDR and (16%) were MDR. blaOXA-51 and adeA gene were present in all selected MDR/XDR isolates (100%). Among MBL genes, blaIMP, blaNDM, and blaVIM were detected in 82%, 64%, and 52% of the selected studied isolates, respectively, with each isolate carrying at least one or more of these genes, while blaKPC was absent. Biofilm formation was observed in 96% of the selected MDR/XDR studied isolates, including 36% strong, 44% moderate, and 16% weak producers. Virulence genes basD, surA1, and bfmR were present in all selected MDR/XDR isolates, while csuE, ompA, and bap were detected in 94%, 80%, and 46%, respectively. The high detection rates of metallo-β-lactamases, biofilm formation, and iron acquisition genes among the selected MDR/XDR clinical isolates, highlight the importance of continuous surveillance and infection control measures. Notably, a significant association was observed between biofilm formation and antimicrobial susceptibility profile for most tested antibiotics. Additionally, the antimicrobial susceptibility profile of the selected MDR/XDR A. baumannii showed statistically significant and non-significant associations with both antibiotic resistance genes and biofilm genes.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Acinetobacter baumannii/genetics/drug effects/isolation & purification/physiology
Humans
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Acinetobacter Infections/microbiology/epidemiology/drug therapy
*Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/genetics
Bacterial Proteins/genetics
beta-Lactamases/genetics
Prevalence
Virulence Factors/genetics

@article {pmid42570681,
year = {2026},
author = {Bougouizi, A and Tagueha, AD and Nencioni, L and Ambrosi, C and Scribano, D},
title = {Antivirulence strategies targeting adhesion and biofilm formation in uropathogenic E. coli: Recent advances and clinical perspectives-review.},
journal = {Microbial pathogenesis},
volume = {219},
number = {},
pages = {108757},
doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2026.108757},
pmid = {42570681},
issn = {1096-1208},
abstract = {Urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) represent one of the most prevalent and persistent bacterial diseases globally, with high recurrence and a growing burden of multidrug resistance. Central to UPEC pathogenesis are robust adhesion to uroepithelial surfaces and biofilm formation, mediated by diverse fimbrial and afimbrial adhesins. This review integrates the molecular mechanisms driving UPEC adhesion and biofilm development and provides a focused evaluation of antivirulence strategies that disrupt these processes. Approaches highlighted include small-molecule FimH antagonists, pilicides and curlicides, vaccines targeting adhesins, natural phytocompounds, probiotic interventions, biosurfactants, and innovative biomaterial-based tactics such as antiadhesive catheter coatings. Evidence from in vitro, in vivo, preclinical, and early clinical studies are discussed for each therapeutic class, alongside advances in targeted drug delivery and combination regimens. The review concludes with future perspectives on optimizing safety, overcoming resistance, and integrating antivirulence therapies into standardized clinical practice to break the cycle of UTI persistence.},
}

@article {pmid42570751,
year = {2026},
author = {Pecile, MA and Mujica, MA and Nicolosi Gelis, MM and Sathicq, MB and Scardamaglia, ME and Pazos, R and Cordero Llanos, T and Pardini, FM and Delevati Colpo, K and Cochero, J},
title = {Polymer identity shapes freshwater biofilm responses to plastic pollution: implications for bioplastic risk assessment.},
journal = {Environmental pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {128931},
doi = {10.1016/j.envpol.2026.128931},
pmid = {42570751},
issn = {1873-6424},
abstract = {Plastic particles are widespread contaminants in freshwater ecosystems, yet their effects on microbial communities remain difficult to predict, partly because most studies have focused on petroleum-derived plastics while ignoring biodegradable alternatives. We evaluated whether biofilm responses to plastic particles depend on polymer identity and particle concentration using an experimental exposure with three particle types: high-density polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, and a corn starch-derived bioplastic, each tested at two environmentally relevant concentrations. Bioplastic particles consistently increased algal biomass (chlorophyll-a, > 70% on average relative to controls) and extracellular polymeric substances (EPS, up to > 150% relative to controls) production, and shifted the community toward autotrophic dominance (< 45% lower autotrophic index), whereas PE and PVC produced largely neutral responses across most variables. Total biomass, metabolism (P:R ratio), and algal community composition were not significantly affected by any treatment. Bacterial density showed a concentration-dependent temporal response, increasing at high particle loads regardless of material type. Multivariate analyses confirmed that the bioplastic treatments were driving the primary axis of differentiation while petroleum-derived plastics and control treatments remained overlapping in multivariate space. These results indicate that plastic particles do not uniformly affect freshwater biofilms with biodegradable polymers stimulating more autotrophic growth and matrix production. Our findings highlight that bioplastics should not be assumed environmentally benign, and polymer identity should be incorporated into freshwater plastic pollution assessment, bioplastic regulation, and environmental management strategies.},
}

@article {pmid42571327,
year = {2026},
author = {Zaeem, I and Mondal, SI and Niloy, RK and Jewel, NA and Mahin, MR and Bhatta, R and Karim, D and Rolin, MH and Khatoon, M and Akter, A},
title = {Isolation, characterization, and alginate hydrogel delivery of a Klebsiella aerogenes bacteriophage and its impact on biofilm degradation.},
journal = {Current research in microbial sciences},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {100652},
pmid = {42571327},
issn = {2666-5174},
abstract = {Multidrug-resistant Klebsiella aerogenes poses a significant clinical challenge due to its antimicrobial resistance and biofilm-forming capacity in chronic wounds and device-associated infections. Bacteriophage therapy offers a promising alternative to conventional antibiotics, though effective delivery systems remain critical for clinical translation. This study reports the isolation, genomic characterization, and alginate hydrogel-based formulation of a lytic bacteriophage, KA_SGEB_01, targeting multidrug-resistant K. aerogenes. The phage was isolated from hospital sewage using multidrug-resistant K. aerogenes as a host. Comprehensive characterizations included plaque morphology and host range determination, multiplicity of infection (MOI) optimization, one-step growth kinetics, antibiofilm activity assays, and environmental stability testing. Complete genome sequencing and annotation were performed. Phage-loaded alginate hydrogels were developed and evaluated for release kinetics, long-term viability, and antibiofilm efficacy. KA_SGEB_01 produced clear plaques (1 ± 0.1 mm) with halos indicative of depolymerase activity and exhibited strict host specificity. The optimal MOI was 0.01 with a 15-minute latent period and the phage remained stable between -20 °C and 50 °C; and across a pH range 6-9. Biofilm assays demonstrated around 60% Crystal-Violet-stained biomass reduction as well as significant biofilm disruption visualized by Scanning Electron Microscopy. Whole-genome sequencing revealed a 175,095 bp double-stranded DNA genome encoding 289 predicted coding sequences, classified within the family Straboviridae, genus Slopekvirus, and lacking any virulence or AMR genes. Encapsulation in alginate hydrogels preserved viability (>10[9] PFU/mL) for 14 days and enabled sustained release (∼ 67% at 72 h), resulting in significant biofilm biomass inhibition. Collectively, KA_SGEB_01-loaded alginate hydrogels represent a promising platform for treating multidrug-resistant K. aerogenes in wound and device-associated infections caused by the bacterium.},
}

@article {pmid42571553,
year = {2026},
author = {Soltani, N and Nemati, M and Pourahmad, F},
title = {Molecular investigation of biofilm-forming genes in staphylococci isolated from dogs in Ilam, Iran.},
journal = {Veterinary research forum : an international quarterly journal},
volume = {17},
number = {3},
pages = {191-197},
pmid = {42571553},
issn = {2008-8140},
abstract = {Biofilm formation is a key virulence factor in Staphylococcus aureus, contributing to bacterial persistence, antimicrobial resistance, and chronic infections. This study aimed to investigate the presence of biofilm-associated genes (fib, fnbA, fnbB, clfA, and clfB) in S. aureus isolates from dogs in Ilam, Iran. From December 2022 to September 2023, 250 swab samples were collected from nasal, oral, and rectal sites of dogs, yielding 81 S. aureus isolates confirmed by PCR amplification of the nuc gene. The prevalence of biofilm-associated genes varied, with clfA, clfB, and fnbA detected in 98.80% of isolates, fib in 63.00%, and fnbB in 16.00%. Notably, fnbA, clfA, and clfB were present in all rectal isolates, while fnbB was absent in this group. The findings highlighted the widespread presence of biofilm-related genes in S. aureus from dogs, suggesting their potential role in colonization and zoonotic transmission. The high prevalence of adhesion-associated genes underscored the need for monitoring biofilm-forming S. aureus in companion animals to mitigate antimicrobial resistance and public health risks.},
}

@article {pmid42573612,
year = {2026},
author = {Guo, Y and Wang, M and Yin, Y and Shi, L and Cao, W and Du, Y and Zhang, J and Zhuoga, D and Cuomu, O and Li, S and Chen, J and Hu, C},
title = {Identification, antimicrobial resistance, and biofilm-forming capability of bacterial isolates from bovine mastitis in the high-altitude region of Shannan, Tibet.},
journal = {Archives of microbiology},
volume = {208},
number = {11},
pages = {},
pmid = {42573612},
issn = {1432-072X},
support = {SNSBJKJJHXM2025008//The Science and Technology Plan Projects at the Municipal Level of Shannan/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; Cattle ; *Mastitis, Bovine/microbiology ; Female ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Tibet ; Altitude ; *Bacteria/isolation & purification/drug effects/classification/genetics ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; *Drug Resistance, Bacterial ; Milk/microbiology ; Staphylococcus/drug effects/isolation & purification ; },
abstract = {Bovine mastitis imposes substantial economic losses on the dairy industry worldwide, yet systematic etiological data from high-altitude regions remain scarce, limiting evidence-based treatment decisions. This study aimed to characterize the bacterial isolates, antimicrobial resistance phenotypes, and biofilm-forming capabilities associated with bovine mastitis in the high-altitude region of Shannan, Tibet, China. A total of 177 raw milk samples were collected from cows diagnosed with mastitis based on clinical signs (udder swelling, redness, heat, and milk abnormalities including clots or watery appearance) and/or positive California Mastitis Test (CMT) results. Samples were inoculated onto trypticase soy agar for bacterial isolation, with preliminary phenotypic identification performed based on colony morphology and coloration. Purified single colonies were subjected to 16 S rRNA gene sequencing to enable species-level identification. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was conducted using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method as a screening tool, with the broth microdilution method used for confirmation, covering β-lactams, macrolides, fluoroquinolones, aminoglycosides, and glycopeptides. Biofilm-forming capability was assessed using the crystal violet staining method, with classification according to Stepanović criteria. A total of 188 bacterial isolates were obtained, among which Staphylococcus accounted for the highest proportion (20.2%, 38/188), followed by Bacillus (10.1%, 19/188) and Enterococcus (7.0%, 13/188). Within the staphylococci, Staphylococcus aureus was the most frequently identified species (8 isolates). Antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed that all Streptococcus and Enterococcus isolates exhibited multidrug resistance (MDR), whereas a high proportion of Staphylococcus (76.3%) and Bacillus (63.2%) isolates also exhibited MDR. Notably, 62% of Enterococcus isolates exhibited a vancomycin-resistant phenotype, though this was not confirmed by molecular methods. In contrast, the majority of isolates (96%) remained highly susceptible in vitro to fluoroquinolones. Biofilm formation assays demonstrated that most isolates possessed biofilm-forming capability (93%, 174/188), and isolates with higher levels of multidrug resistance (≥ 4 MDR, defined as resistance to four or more classes of antimicrobial agents) tended to exhibit stronger biofilm-forming ability (Spearman's [Formula: see text]). Collectively, these findings indicate that bovine mastitis in the high-altitude region of Shannan, Tibet, is characterized by a predominance of staphylococci, accompanied by pronounced multidrug resistance and a considerable potential for biofilm formation. This study provides a foundational basis for etiological surveillance and targeted antimicrobial therapy for bovine mastitis in this region, however, the lack of molecular characterization of resistance determinants, limited sample sizes for certain genera, and the absence of high-resolution clonal typing represent important limitations that should be addressed in future investigations.},
}

Animals
*Biofilms/growth & development
Cattle
*Mastitis, Bovine/microbiology
Female
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Tibet
Altitude
*Bacteria/isolation & purification/drug effects/classification/genetics
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
*Drug Resistance, Bacterial
Milk/microbiology
Staphylococcus/drug effects/isolation & purification

@article {pmid42569526,
year = {2026},
author = {Aboagye, EF and Forauer, EC and Gilmour, AJ and Blackwell, HL and Cushman, L and Herren, CS and Farace, PD and Denaro, S and Felten, L and Ballard, M and Etter, AJ},
title = {Biofilm forming capacity, sanitizer tolerance, and genetic characterization of persistent and non-persistent Listeria monocytogenes from artisan cheese processing environments.},
journal = {Biofilm},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {100379},
pmid = {42569526},
issn = {2590-2075},
abstract = {Listeria monocytogenes is known to colonize food production environments and cross-contaminate finished foods. We investigated 30 L. monocytogenes isolates collected from artisan raw milk cheese production facilities in Vermont from 2006 to 2008, Sixteen of which represented a putatively persistent ribotype (DUP-1042B) found in one facility over two years. To determine persistence mechanisms, we evaluated the whole genome of the isolates as well as their sanitizer tolerance and biofilm formation capacity. For a representative subset (six isolates), we evaluated their mature biofilm properties on stainless steel. Isolates of the putatively persistent ribotype all aligned into ST191 and were 0-6 Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) different, confirming they represented a persistent strain. SSI-1 and an enrichment of genes in DNA repair and biosynthetic pathways were also exclusively confirmed in the core and accessory genome respectively, of the persistent strain. However, no significant differences in sanitizer tolerance were found between persistent and non-persistent strains, and none of the 30 isolates carried sanitizer resistance genes (bcrABC or qacH). Some ST 191 isolates formed visually more complex biofilms as shown by SEM and maintained significantly higher biomass over five days on polystyrene but were indistinguishable from non-persistent strains over ten days on stainless steel. No clear persistence mechanism was thus identified, but evidence for biofilm formation was stronger in the ST191 isolates than in the non-persistent strains. Our results highlight the importance of regular environmental testing and strain typing for rapid detection of L. monocytogenes colonization attempts while they can still be removed without major renovations or equipment replacement.},
}

@article {pmid42569696,
year = {2026},
author = {Cao, S and Qi, B and Di, P and Xie, J and Lin, S and Chang, P},
title = {Biofilm-Responsive Nanoplatforms for Infected Wound Reconstruction.},
journal = {International journal of nanomedicine},
volume = {21},
number = {},
pages = {626269},
pmid = {42569696},
issn = {1178-2013},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; Humans ; *Wound Infection/microbiology/therapy/drug therapy ; Animals ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/administration & dosage ; *Wound Healing/drug effects ; Nanomedicine ; },
abstract = {Antibiotic-resistant, biofilm-infected wounds are a major clinical challenge because bacterial persistence is embedded within a broader pathological wound ecosystem characterized by chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, hypoxia, vascular dysfunction, impaired extracellular matrix remodeling, and defective tissue regeneration. Conventional antimicrobial strategies may reduce planktonic bacteria but often fail to eradicate mature biofilms or restore the biological conditions required for durable healing. This review critically examines biofilm-responsive nanoplatforms as stage-adaptive, interface-aware, and translationally disciplined therapeutic systems for reprogramming chronic infected wounds toward regenerative repair. Rather than treating these platforms as nanoscale antibiotic carriers, we emphasize their potential to coordinate sequential wound needs: early extracellular polymeric substance disruption, pathogen suppression, and local niche penetration, followed by immune recalibration, redox balance restoration, angiogenic support, and matrix reconstruction. Across metallic, oxide, polymeric, lipid, silica, metal-organic framework, and two-dimensional nanomaterial systems, therapeutic performance is governed by both material composition and integration into wound-facing interfaces such as hydrogels, electrospun dressings, multilayer patches, microneedles, injectable depots, and biofabricated scaffolds. These interfaces determine retention, activation, penetration depth, and biological timing. We further highlight that multifunctionality must be balanced against a "complexity tax": additional responsive elements are clinically justified only when they address defined biological barriers that simpler systems cannot overcome. We conclude that biofilm-responsive wound nanomedicine must move beyond bacterial killing alone toward validated wound-ecosystem regulation, with stronger emphasis on mature biofilm models, polymicrobial infection, human-relevant tissue testing, long-term scar quality, and reproducible manufacturing. This disciplined design approach is essential for translating biofilm-responsive nanoplatforms from laboratory constructs into clinically credible tools for tissue reconstruction.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
Humans
*Wound Infection/microbiology/therapy/drug therapy
Animals
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/administration & dosage
*Wound Healing/drug effects
Nanomedicine

@article {pmid42563261,
year = {2026},
author = {Millar, J and Wu, T and Cannon, RD and Farella, M and Mei, L},
title = {Efficacy of Air-Polishing in Managing Biofilm Formation in Patients Wearing Fixed Orthodontic Appliances: A Single-Blind, Split-Mouth, Randomised Controlled Trial.},
journal = {International journal of dental hygiene},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/idh.70143},
pmid = {42563261},
issn = {1601-5037},
support = {//New Zealand Dental Research Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To investigate the efficacy of air-polishing in managing biofilm formation in patients wearing fixed orthodontic appliances.

METHODS: This pilot study was designed as a single-blind split-mouth randomised controlled study. Twenty patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment were enrolled. Each patient received monthly air-polishing with an erythritol-based powder via the Airflow Handy 3.0 plus handpiece (EMS, Switzerland) in two quadrants for five months, and the other two quadrants received the traditional oral hygiene instruction (OHI) toothbrushing as the control. The allocation was based on computer-generated random sequencing using balanced block randomisation. The gingival index (GI), plaque index (PI), enamel loss assessed by quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF), and white-spot lesion area were measured and analysed.

RESULTS: The air-polishing resulted in a two-fold greater immediate reduction in PI scores (p < 0.001) than traditional OHI toothbrushing for all time points in the trial. However, when compared with traditional OHI, the air-polishing did not show a significant difference in GI and PI scores (time × intervention interaction F = 0.2; p = 0.943). After five months, changes in QLF (p = 0.089) and white-spot lesion size (p = 0.311) did not differ significantly between the two groups either.

CONCLUSION: Air-polishing produced a significantly greater immediate reduction in plaque in patients with fixed orthodontic appliances, approximately twice that of conventional OHI toothbrushing, suggesting its usefulness for rapid professional biofilm removal. These findings indicate a short-term adjunctive benefit when used alongside routine oral hygiene rather than as a replacement for established home care practices.},
}

@article {pmid42565849,
year = {2026},
author = {Middleton, CM and Jones, A-AD},
title = {Dimensional analysis as a tool for biofilm comparative analysis: bridging the interdisciplinary divides.},
journal = {Journal of bacteriology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0018826},
doi = {10.1128/jb.00188-26},
pmid = {42565849},
issn = {1098-5530},
abstract = {Biofilms are the predominant lifestyle for bacteria. Biofilm abundance makes understanding their behavior important for different research domains. These domains can have different information and reporting standards. Information reporting standards have been proposed for some biofilm research methods. Standard methods and consensus standards have also been promulgated. We propose dimensional analysis to encourage abundant information reporting and facilitate comparative analysis. Dimensional analysis utilizes physical system parameters to generate generalizable model data. We review dimensionless quantities that can be applied to biofilm studies. We suggest dimensionless quantities for existing standards, with three examples using dimensional analysis to quantitatively compare literature data.},
}

@article {pmid42565994,
year = {2026},
author = {da Silva, GP and Valentini, PFC and Monteiro, DR and Pessan, JP and Delbem, ACB and do Prado, RL and Arias, LS},
title = {Influence of environmental and nutritional conditions on Nakaseomyces glabratus biofilm development in vitro.},
journal = {Archives of microbiology},
volume = {208},
number = {11},
pages = {},
pmid = {42565994},
issn = {1432-072X},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; Culture Media/chemistry ; Carbon/metabolism ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning ; *Saccharomycetales/physiology/growth & development/metabolism ; Glucose/metabolism ; Biomass ; },
abstract = {Biofilm formation is a major virulence trait in Nakaseomyces glabratus, contributing to antifungal tolerance and persistent infections. Environmental and nutritional parameters influence fungal biofilm development, but standardized experimental frameworks for evaluating N. glabratus biofilm modulation remain limited. This study investigated how defined environmental conditions, including incubation time, agitation, and carbon source supplementation modulate biofilm development under controlled in vitro conditions. Biofilms were formed for 24-72 h under static (0 rpm) and agitated (120 rpm) conditions in Sabouraud dextrose broth supplemented with glucose or galactose as carbon sources. Biofilm formation was assessed using complementary analytical methods, including crystal violet staining for total biomass, XTT reduction assay for metabolic activity, viable cell counts, and scanning electron microscopy for structural characterization. Incubation time and culture medium composition significantly affected biofilm development, whereas agitation exerted a comparatively minor effect. High carbon supplementation acted as a controlled metabolic challenge, enabling the investigation of biofilm adaptability under carbon-excess conditions. Overall, this study establishes a reproducible in vitro framework for investigating environmental and nutritional modulation of N. glabratus biofilms and provides a basis for future functional and antifungal studies.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
Culture Media/chemistry
Carbon/metabolism
Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
*Saccharomycetales/physiology/growth & development/metabolism
Glucose/metabolism
Biomass

@article {pmid42566120,
year = {2026},
author = {Singh, N and Anand, A and Garg, P and Kaur, P and Yanadaiah, P and Abubakar, M and Kumar, N and Harish, V and Saini, S},
title = {Exploring the potential of extracellular matrix modulation to modify oral biofilm architecture.},
journal = {Molecular biology reports},
volume = {53},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42566120},
issn = {1573-4978},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; Humans ; *Extracellular Matrix/metabolism ; *Mouth/microbiology ; Quorum Sensing ; Microbiota ; },
abstract = {Biofilms are well-organized, surface-attached colonies of microorganisms that can thrive in host cavities. A balanced, diverse mix of protective microbes in these biofilms helps preserve host health. Dysbiosis in biofilms is responsible for consequential diseases in associated tissues. Dietary factors and other xenobiotics can cause ecological dysbiosis in the oral cavity that underpins dental caries, periodontal diseases, halitosis, and periapical infections. Although the gold standard for oral biofilm elimination remains mechanical removal, it is achieved with manual curettage or an ultrasonic scaler. However, the removal of non-pathogenic microorganisms, which contribute to chemical signaling and metabolic complementation of the host, thereby produces deleterious side effects. Therefore, to maintain ecological balance, alternatives are a major area of research. A 'control without killing' approach to modulating biofilms focuses on maintaining biofilm ecology rather than indiscriminately using antimicrobial agents. The extracellular matrix (ECM) of a biofilm protects the embedded microbial communities; measures that disintegrate it can emerge as a promising modality to control the growth of pathogenic microbes in them. Currently, research focuses on limiting virulence traits (acid production, protease activity, or quorum sensing) to degrade the ECM and slow pathogen growth without eliminating commensals. This article highlights current research on approaches to managing oral cavity biofilms and the translational challenges they pose. Understanding these alternative approaches can help formulation researchers, microbiologists, and materials science experts work integratively to manage microbial biofilms. This article opens gateways to implementing oral biofilm-modulating strategies in the management of other biofilm-associated infections.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
Humans
*Extracellular Matrix/metabolism
*Mouth/microbiology
Quorum Sensing
Microbiota

@article {pmid42568602,
year = {2026},
author = {Shi, T and Xu, S and Zheng, X and Shi, W and Zhang, R and Chen, H and Chen, T and Chen, H},
title = {Genomic characterization of carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii from a specialized orthopaedic hospital in Southeast China, with phenotypic analysis of biofilm formation.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1904047},
pmid = {42568602},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; *Acinetobacter baumannii/genetics/drug effects/isolation & purification/classification/physiology ; China/epidemiology ; Humans ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; *Carbapenems/pharmacology ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Multilocus Sequence Typing ; Phylogeny ; *Acinetobacter Infections/microbiology/epidemiology ; Whole Genome Sequencing ; Genome, Bacterial ; Phenotype ; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide ; beta-Lactamases/genetics ; Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/genetics ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics ; Hospitals ; Drug Resistance, Bacterial ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) is a major threat to hospitalised patients, particularly in intensive care units and orthopaedic wards where implant-associated infections are common. However, the genomic and biofilm characteristics of CRAB in orthopaedic specialty hospitals remain poorly understood.

METHODS: A total of 97 non-duplicate CRAB isolates collected between 2024 and 2025 were included. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using the VITEK-2 system, and biofilm formation was quantitatively assessed by the crystal violet method. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) was carried out on the Illumina platform to analyse multilocus sequence typing (MLST), capsular types, resistance genes and virulence genes. A phylogenetic tree was constructed based on single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs).

RESULTS: ST2 was the dominant clone (95.88%) among the 97 isolates, and KL3 was the most prevalent capsular type (83.51%). All isolates carried intrinsic blaOXA-51-like genes, predominantly blaOXA-66 (95.88%). The most common acquired carbapenemase gene was blaOXA-23 (98.97%), and two isolates carried metallo-β-lactamase (MBL) genes (blaNDM-1 and blaNDM-5, respectively). All isolates exhibited a multidrug-resistant phenotype, with low resistance rates to tigecycline (6.19%) and minocycline (7.22%), and all remained susceptible to colistin. Strong biofilm formers accounted for 91.75% of isolates, and the carriage rates of biofilm-associated genes (bap, csuABCDE, pgaABCD) exceeded 90%. Phylogenetic analysis grouped the isolates into three clonal clades, with the majority (88.66%) falling into Clade C (ST2/KL3). This clade had been circulating in China as an outbreak lineage since 2018, gradually replacing Clade B (ST2/KL2), and became the dominant clone in 2024-2025.

CONCLUSION: CRAB isolates in this orthopaedic specialty hospital are dominated by the ST2/KL3 clone, which carries multiple resistance and virulence genes, exhibits a remarkably strong biofilm-forming ability, and shows a capsular switch trend from KL2 to KL3. Enhanced molecular surveillance of this dominant clone and increased attention to anti-biofilm strategies for orthopaedic implant-related infections are strongly recommended.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
*Acinetobacter baumannii/genetics/drug effects/isolation & purification/classification/physiology
China/epidemiology
Humans
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
*Carbapenems/pharmacology
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Multilocus Sequence Typing
Phylogeny
*Acinetobacter Infections/microbiology/epidemiology
Whole Genome Sequencing
Genome, Bacterial
Phenotype
Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide
beta-Lactamases/genetics
Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/genetics
Bacterial Proteins/genetics
Hospitals
Drug Resistance, Bacterial

@article {pmid42560526,
year = {2026},
author = {Yang, Y and Wang, Y and Zhi, M and Wang, Y and Liu, Q and Ye, J and Zhang, X and Que, K and Liu, Y},
title = {Multifunctional dual drug-loaded Gel-Alg/MINO/MEL composite hydrogel for combating three-dimensional multi-species biofilm and experimental periodontitis treatment.},
journal = {Clinical oral investigations},
volume = {30},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {42560526},
issn = {1436-3771},
support = {TJWJ2023MS008//ianjin Health Science and Technology Project/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Periodontitis/drug therapy ; *Biofilms/drug effects ; *Minocycline/pharmacology/administration & dosage ; *Melatonin/pharmacology/administration & dosage ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/administration & dosage ; *Hydrogels/chemistry ; Rats ; Materials Testing ; Drug Delivery Systems ; Disease Models, Animal ; Rats, Sprague-Dawley ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Adjunctive drug therapy is indispensable in periodontitis treatment. Currently, such pharmacotherapy is not ideal, so new formulations need to be explored to optimize prolonged in situ slow release of active ingredients, biocompatibility, and preparation costs. This study constructed an injectable dual drug delivery composite hydrogel system (Gel-Alg/MINO/MEL) to locally deliver minocycline hydrochloride (MINO) and melatonin (MEL) for antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant effects and bone formation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: We tested the release kinetics of Gel-Alg/MINO/MEL, evaluated its in vitro and in vivo biocompatibility, and detected its in vitro effects on multi-species biofilm, pro-inflammatory cytokines, related genes/proteins and reactive oxygen species, as well as in vivo effects on periodontal inflammation and tissue reconstruction.

RESULTS: Release kinetics showed Gel-Alg/MINO/MEL continuously released MINO and MEL for over 10 days with good biocompatibility. In vitro, it inhibited biofilm formation, reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines, increased related genes/proteins expression and scavenged excessive reactive oxygen species; in vivo, it relieved periodontal inflammation and promoted tissue reconstruction and collagen fiber attachment.

CONCLUSIONS: The Gel-Alg/MINO/MEL hydrogel has promising potential as a local drug delivery system for treating periodontitis, with favorable sustained release and biocompatibility.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Regular placement of the Gel-Alg/MINO/MEL composite hydrogel in periodontal pockets, in conjunction with basic clinical periodontal treatment, might remodel the bone and soft tissues lost during periodontitis. Therefore, this is expected to be a more effective medication-assisted treatment modality for refractory periodontitis.},
}

Animals
*Periodontitis/drug therapy
*Biofilms/drug effects
*Minocycline/pharmacology/administration & dosage
*Melatonin/pharmacology/administration & dosage
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/administration & dosage
*Hydrogels/chemistry
Rats
Materials Testing
Drug Delivery Systems
Disease Models, Animal
Rats, Sprague-Dawley

@article {pmid42561653,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, X and Jia, X and Yu, C and Li, X and Zou, J and Mao, Y and Li, Y},
title = {An osmium-modified Prussian blue heterostructure for biofilm disruption and oxidative stress to combat methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infections.},
journal = {Journal of colloid and interface science},
volume = {724},
number = {Pt 3},
pages = {141290},
doi = {10.1016/j.jcis.2026.141290},
pmid = {42561653},
issn = {1095-7103},
abstract = {One major contributor to the therapeutic recalcitrance of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections is its robust biofilm formation, which impedes therapeutics penetration, diminishes bacterial susceptibility to exogenous stimulus and exacerbates host inflammation, collectively leading to suboptimal therapeutic outcomes. To address these interrelated challenges, we developed an osmium-modified cobalt‑iron Prussian blue analogue (OsCoPBA) heterostructure with high-affinity binding to MRSA biofilm and exceptional photothermal conversion efficiency under near-infrared (NIR) irradiation, thereby enabling effective biofilm disruption. The OsCoPBA heterostructure was characterized by its redox property, imparting both pro-oxidant and anti-oxidant capabilities under different conditions. In acidic wounds, OsCoPBA exhibited a peroxidase (POD)-like activity, generating bactericidal reactive oxygen species (ROS) to induce oxidative stress within MRSA. Conversely, during the wound healing phase, OsCoPBA exhibited robust superoxide dismutase (SOD)-like activity (a peak ·O2[-] scavenging efficiency of 95% at the optimal concentration of 250 μg mL[-1]) and enhanced catalase (CAT)-like activity, effectively scavenging excess ROS to suppress inflammation. This heterostructure achieved on-demand regulation of ROS for meeting the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory requirements, representing a rational design strategy for managing MRSA-infected wounds.},
}

@article {pmid42561869,
year = {2026},
author = {Tang, Y and Chen, Y and Qi, YD and Yan, HY and Peng, WA and Wang, YQ and Huang, QX and Liu, XH and Ye, JJ and Yu, Y and Zhang, XZ and Huang, C},
title = {Corrigendum to 'Engineered Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus enhances antibiotic penetration and biofilm eradication' [Journal of Controlled Release 380 (2025) 283-296].},
journal = {Journal of controlled release : official journal of the Controlled Release Society},
volume = {398},
number = {},
pages = {115216},
doi = {10.1016/j.jconrel.2026.115216},
pmid = {42561869},
issn = {1873-4995},
}

@article {pmid42562696,
year = {2026},
author = {Su, W and Li, Z and Feng, S and Yu, Z and Li, S and Lu, H and Song, X and Tu, J and Qi, Z and Shao, Y},
title = {Corrigendum to "YgeP, a global regulator within the ETT2 pathogenicity island, coordinates motility-biofilm balance and negatively controls serum resistance in avian pathogenic Escherichia coli" [Vet. Microbiol. 320 (2026), 111147].},
journal = {Veterinary microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {111184},
doi = {10.1016/j.vetmic.2026.111184},
pmid = {42562696},
issn = {1873-2542},
}

@article {pmid42552580,
year = {2026},
author = {Mao, MY and Liang, YJ and Chen, JX and Zhang, YJ and Li, WP and Huang, ZW},
title = {Dissecting the essential role of luxS-relevant small RNAs in biofilm formation of Streptococcus mutans.},
journal = {Virulence},
volume = {17},
number = {1},
pages = {2707874},
doi = {10.1080/21505594.2026.2707874},
pmid = {42552580},
issn = {2150-5608},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Streptococcus mutans/genetics/physiology/growth & development ; *Carbon-Sulfur Lyases/genetics/metabolism ; *Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial ; Quorum Sensing ; *RNA, Bacterial/genetics/metabolism ; Polysaccharides, Bacterial/biosynthesis/metabolism ; Gene Expression Profiling ; *RNA, Small Untranslated/genetics/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Streptococcus mutans is considered the key contributor to human dental caries. The LuxS/AI-2 quorum‑sensing (QS) system in S. mutans plays a crucial role in the development of cariogenic oral biofilms. Many QS systems rely on regulation carried out by small RNAs (sRNAs) to achieve optimal performance. However, the identities and functions of sRNAs in S. mutans QS system are not well elucidated. Here, we identify two novel sRNAs named SmqsR2 and SmqsR4 (Streptococcus mutans quorum-sensing-related small RNA 2 and 4), which respond to luxS expression and support biofilm formation by mediating exopolysaccharides (EPS) synthesis. We showed that overexpression of SmqsR2 and SmqsR4 in S. mutans, respectively, resulted in declined growth rates, altered biofilm architecture, increased EPS production, and upregulated expression of gtfB/C/D genes. Transcriptome analysis revealed that several genes related to carbohydrate utilization were differentially expressed, with ccpA being markedly upregulated in both SmqsR2 and SmqsR4 overexpression strains. Specifically, SmqsRs promoted ccpA transcript, and CcpA triggered transcription of SmqsR2 and SmqsR4 via direct binding, thus forming a positive feedback loop. We speculate that SmqsRs augment LuxS-mediated biofilm matrix production, most likely through the activation of gtfB/C/D expression and the reprogramming of S. mutans central carbon metabolism by ccpA. In summary, we have confirmed that SmqsR2 and SmqsR4 function as supporting factors that maintain the optimal status of the LuxS/AI-2 system in S. mutans, which is important for cell growth, EPS synthesis, and biofilm formation. Hence, sRNA activity may represent a promising target to modulate S. mutans cariogenicity.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Streptococcus mutans/genetics/physiology/growth & development
*Carbon-Sulfur Lyases/genetics/metabolism
*Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial
Quorum Sensing
*RNA, Bacterial/genetics/metabolism
Polysaccharides, Bacterial/biosynthesis/metabolism
Gene Expression Profiling
*RNA, Small Untranslated/genetics/metabolism

@article {pmid42553056,
year = {2026},
author = {Elias, AE and El-Chami, C and Bagnall, J and McBain, AJ and O'Neill, CA},
title = {Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG lysate inhibits Staphylococcus aureus biofilm formation in human skin explants.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1885754},
pmid = {42553056},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {Humans ; *Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology/growth & development ; *Skin/microbiology ; *Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus ; Skin Microbiome ; Bacterial Lysates ; Keratinocytes/microbiology ; Organ Culture Techniques ; *Probiotics/pharmacology ; },
abstract = {Staphylococcus aureus is a leading cause of skin and soft tissue infections and a major nosocomial pathogen, with biofilm formation contributing to significantly higher morbidity and mortality. In atopic dermatitis (AD), where skin barrier dysfunction and microbial dysbiosis are common features, S. aureus abundance and biofilm formation are associated with disease severity and flare recurrence. We previously demonstrated that a lysate of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG)- a common human commensal and widely used probiotic strain- can inhibit S. aureus attachment to human keratinocytes by mechanisms including displacement and competitive exclusion. In this study, we extended these findings utilizing organ-cultured human skin to evaluate the protective effects of LGG lysate against S. aureus challenge in a physiologically relevant model. LGG lysate preserved skin integrity by preventing S. aureus penetration, proliferation, eDNA release and biofilm maturation. These effects were dose-dependent and effective when the lysate was applied from 24 hours pre-S. aureus inoculation to up to 3 hours post inoculation. Together, these data provide mechanistic insight into microbiome- pathogen interactions at the skin surface which could be exploited for therapeutic potential, particularly in the prevention of nosocomial S. aureus skin infections and mitigating S. aureus-driven flares in AD.},
}

Humans
*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology/growth & development
*Skin/microbiology
*Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus
Skin Microbiome
Bacterial Lysates
Keratinocytes/microbiology
Organ Culture Techniques
*Probiotics/pharmacology

@article {pmid42554110,
year = {2026},
author = {Shukla, SD and Iyer, BD},
title = {Antimicrobial peptides and enzymes: synergistic mechanisms and strategies for disrupting biofilm-associated infections.},
journal = {Critical reviews in microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-18},
doi = {10.1080/1040841X.2026.2709509},
pmid = {42554110},
issn = {1549-7828},
abstract = {Medical biofilms are a significant problem in chronic diseases like diabetic ulcers that do not heal, infections of medical devices and CF. The extracellular polymeric matrix is a barrier to antibiotic penetration. In search of an alternative, approaches based on antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and enzymes have been developed to tackle the multi-drug resistance. This review collates the existing literature on zoonotic and bacterial origin AMPs, along with the matrix-disrupting and quorum-quenching enzymes, highlighting those which have proven to be effective in vitro/in vivo against clinical isolates from patients. Enzymes (e.g. cellulase, alginate lyase, and dispersin B) can break down matrix components or block critical signaling molecules and can be seen to have strong synergy with antibiotics, whereas AMPs disrupt cell membranes and downregulate genes that encode biofilm-forming proteins. Our analysis reveals however, a key translational bottleneck: there were no clinical trials in human subjects identified despite strong preclinical evidence of activity. This review discusses these encouraging pre-clinical findings and identifies specific physiological and challenges that need to be overcome to take these alternative therapies to clinical practice.},
}

@article {pmid42555577,
year = {2026},
author = {Jahan, R and Fahim, NAI and Hasan, MAE and Rana, ML and Antor, MTH and Salam, S and Masud, RI and Jany, DA and Bakhtiyar, Z and Islam, MS and Hossain, MT and Rahman, MT},
title = {Fresh fruit surface: A potential source for multidrug-resistant biofilm-forming Enterococcus faecalis having potential public health significance.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {21},
number = {8},
pages = {e0355410},
pmid = {42555577},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Enterococcus faecalis/drug effects/isolation & purification/genetics/physiology ; *Fruit/microbiology ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; *Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/genetics ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Public Health ; Humans ; Virulence/genetics ; },
abstract = {Fruits are important in the diet because of the nutrients, vitamins, and minerals they provide for a healthy life; however, they can also serve as a potential source of opportunistic pathogens, including enterococci. They are considered zoonotic pathogens that cause severe infections in humans. This work aimed to isolate Enterococcus faecalis from fruit surfaces and to detect its virulence genes, biofilm-forming ability, and antibiotic resistance patterns. A total of 76 samples of seven different types of fruits were collected and surface-washed, and used to isolate and identify E. faecalis by cultural and biochemical tests, followed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), the disk diffusion method for antimicrobial susceptibility testing, a Congo Red Agar test for the determination of biofilm-forming ability, and PCR for virulence gene detection. Out of 76 samples, 47 (61.84%) fruit samples were found to be positive for E. faecalis, with the highest prevalence in oranges compared to the other six fruits. In the phenotypic antibiogram study, resistance was most frequently observed against commonly used antibiotics, including ampicillin (90.00%) and erythromycin (57.50%), while notable resistance was also detected against vancomycin (47.50%) and the last-resort antibiotic linezolid (47.50%). The ampicillin-resistance gene, blaTEM, was present in 65% of the isolates. Additionally, 60% of isolates exhibited multidrug resistance (MDR), with the MAR index ranging from 0.33 to 0.78. Key virulence genes (agg, ace, gelE, fsrB, and pil) and biofilm-forming capabilities were distributed among the isolates, indicating their potential for persistence and pathogenicity. These findings suggest that fruit surfaces harbor antibiotic-resistant E. faecalis; therefore, fruits should be thoroughly washed before eating and monitored using One Health strategies to reduce the risk to human health.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Enterococcus faecalis/drug effects/isolation & purification/genetics/physiology
*Fruit/microbiology
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
*Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/genetics
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Public Health
Humans
Virulence/genetics

@article {pmid42557123,
year = {2026},
author = {Tang, L and Pan, Z and Li, X and Li, J and Meng, J},
title = {Retraction notice to "Antibiotics resistance removal from piggery wastewater by an integrated anaerobic-aerobic biofilm reactor: Efficiency and mechanism" [Sci. Total Environ. 905 (2023) 167031].},
journal = {The Science of the total environment},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {182159},
doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2026.182159},
pmid = {42557123},
issn = {1879-1026},
}

@article {pmid42557279,
year = {2026},
author = {Ahmed, HA and El Feky, TM and Shalaby, M and Elsotohy, ME and Mohsen, RA and Ahmed, AA},
title = {Integrated One-Health analysis of antimicrobial resistance, biofilm formation, and genetic relatedness of Enterococcus spp. at the human-food interface.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42557279},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; Humans ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA Technique ; Meat/microbiology ; *One Health ; Food Microbiology ; *Enterococcus faecalis/genetics/drug effects/isolation & purification ; *Drug Resistance, Bacterial/genetics ; *Enterococcus faecium/genetics/drug effects/isolation & purification/physiology ; Animals ; *Enterococcus/genetics/drug effects ; Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/genetics ; },
abstract = {Enterococcus species are opportunistic pathogens and reservoirs of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) that can be transmitted through food chain. This study investigated Enterococcus faecalis and Enterococcus faecium isolated from retail meat, workers and consumers within a One Health framework. A total of 250 samples yielded 50 (20%) isolates, which were analyzed for antimicrobial resistance, virulence genes, biofilm formation, and RAPD-PCR genotyping. This study provides an integrated One Health assessment linking food contamination, occupational exposure, and human colonization. Beef meat showed the highest isolation rate, and E. faecium predominated among consumers. High resistance rates were observed for rifampin (94%, 47/50), erythromycin, and tetracycline (88%, 44/50, each), while vancomycin resistance was low (8%, 4/50). Multidrug resistance was observed in 88% of isolates, and MAR index ranged from 0.07 to 0.86 (average = 0.43). Biofilm formation occurred in 68% (34/50) of isolates, with moderate strength predominated. Resistance genes were widely distributed, particularly tetL (88%, 44/50), while esp (84%, 42/50) and gelE (68%, 34/50) were the most prevalent virulence genes. RAPD-PCR revealed five clusters with moderate discriminatory power (D = 0.729), demonstrating genetic relatedness across sources. Importantly, the co-occurrence of resistance, virulence, and biofilm traits across genetically related isolates highlights the possibility of the food chain as a potential transmission interface. These findings highlight the role of Enterococcus species in AMR dissemination within a One-Health framework.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
Humans
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA Technique
Meat/microbiology
*One Health
Food Microbiology
*Enterococcus faecalis/genetics/drug effects/isolation & purification
*Drug Resistance, Bacterial/genetics
*Enterococcus faecium/genetics/drug effects/isolation & purification/physiology
Animals
*Enterococcus/genetics/drug effects
Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/genetics

@article {pmid42548692,
year = {2026},
author = {Nakazwe, Z and Ries, S and Kar, S and Sarkar-Tyson, M and Debowski, AW and Haese, E and Stubbs, KA and Eijkenboom, M and Swaminathan-Iyer, K and Barker, A},
title = {Resistance breakers: a novel approach to tackle biofilm associated infections and antimicrobial resistance.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1783729},
pmid = {42548692},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has emerged as one of the greatest global health concerns and its threat to effective treatment of infectious diseases is accelerating. Biofilms remain a major contributor to antimicrobial resistance and persistence of infections. Bacterial biofilms are sessile communities of bacteria surrounded by a self-produced extracellular polymeric substance (EPS). Bacterial cells in biofilms are less susceptible to conventional antibiotics and to host immune effector mechanisms as the cells are protected by the EPS, exhibit altered gene expression as well as heterogeneity in metabolic and physiological states compared to planktonic cells. This poses a challenge for antimicrobial treatments and the development of innovative antibiofilm strategies to combat biofilm associated infections and resistance. This review explores resistance in bacterial biofilms and the recent advancements in resistance breakers: compounds that can inhibit or disrupt mechanisms of resistance to restore clinical efficacy of antibiotics. Different categories of resistance breakers are discussed including matrix disruptors, efflux pump inhibitors, enzyme inhibitors, membrane permeabilizers, quorum sensing inhibitors, and metabolic modulators. Finally, we discuss perspectives on existing translational and clinical challenges.},
}

@article {pmid42549841,
year = {2026},
author = {Gao, N and Ma, Y and Zhang, M and Cui, M and Li, X and Yang, R},
title = {Z-Nucleic Acids: A Regulator of Macrophage PANoptosis and Fungal Biofilm in Fungal Keratitis.},
journal = {Investigative ophthalmology & visual science},
volume = {67},
number = {10},
pages = {6},
doi = {10.1167/iovs.67.10.6},
pmid = {42549841},
issn = {1552-5783},
mesh = {Animals ; *Biofilms ; *Eye Infections, Fungal/microbiology/metabolism/immunology ; *Macrophages/metabolism/microbiology ; Mice ; *Fusarium/physiology ; *Keratitis/microbiology/metabolism ; Disease Models, Animal ; *Fusariosis/microbiology/metabolism ; Blotting, Western ; Mice, Inbred C57BL ; Female ; DNA-Binding Proteins/metabolism ; Phagocytosis ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE: This study aimed to investigate the role of Z‑nucleic acids (Z‑NAs) in the pathogenesis of fungal keratitis (FK), focusing on its regulatory effects on fungal immune escape, inflammation, and biofilm activity.

METHODS: A mouse model of FK was established by the combination of stromal scrapes and corneal contact lens with Fusarium solani. Disease severity was assessed using clinical scoring and histopathological examination. In vitro, bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) were infected with F. solani, and the efficiency of fungal phagocytosis and escape by BMDMs was determined through fungal counting. The expression of Z‑DNA binding protein 1 (ZBP1)-PANoptosis markers in corneal tissues and BMDMs was detected by western blot, and the localization of Z-NAs in these samples was examined by immunofluorescence staining. Additionally, Z‑NA expression within in vitro fungal biofilms was detected by immunofluorescence, and its roles in modulating biofilm activity, antifungal drug resistance, and chemotactic ability were further characterized.

RESULTS: ZBP1-PANoptosis was significantly activated in FK corneal tissues and positively correlated with clinical severity in FK. F. solani infection triggered Z‑NA transformation and ZBP1-PANoptosis activation in BMDMs, which in turn promoted fungal immune escape and exacerbated inflammation. Z‑NAs accumulated as extracellular DNA in fungal biofilms and were shown to regulate biofilm activity, drug resistance, and chemotaxis.

CONCLUSIONS: Z‑NAs play a dual pathogenic role in FK by inducing ZBP1-PANoptosis in macrophages and enhancing biofilm function, thereby promoting the progression of FK.},
}

Animals
*Biofilms
*Eye Infections, Fungal/microbiology/metabolism/immunology
*Macrophages/metabolism/microbiology
Mice
*Fusarium/physiology
*Keratitis/microbiology/metabolism
Disease Models, Animal
*Fusariosis/microbiology/metabolism
Blotting, Western
Mice, Inbred C57BL
Female
DNA-Binding Proteins/metabolism
Phagocytosis

@article {pmid42549922,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, C and Wu, H and Wang, Y and Wei, W and Wu, D and Feng, X and Wang, T and Wang, C},
title = {Baicalein suppresses adhesion and biofilm formation in Candida auris.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0109726},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.01097-26},
pmid = {42549922},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {Candida auris, an emerging multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen, poses a severe global public health threat owing to its high nosocomial transmissibility, considerable mortality, and widespread antifungal resistance. Baicalein (BE), a major bioactive constituent of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi, exhibits notable antifungal potential, yet its specific molecular mechanisms against C. auris remain poorly elucidated. In this study, we determined the antifungal activity of BE against multiple C. auris isolates, assessed its effects on fungal growth, virulence attributes, adhesion, and biofilm development, validated its in vivo protective efficacy in a Galleria mellonella infection model, and explored the underlying mechanisms via transcriptomic sequencing. BE exerted potent and consistent antifungal activity against all tested strains, with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 1 μg/mL, minimum fungicidal concentrations of 4-8 μg/mL, and a sessile minimum inhibitory concentration of 32 μg/mL. It time- and concentration-dependently suppressed fungal growth, virulence factor expression, adhesion to biological and non-biological surfaces, and biofilm formation, while conferring significant in vivo protection against C. auris infection. Transcriptomic analysis identified 11 adhesion- and biofilm-associated target genes, among which SCF1 and ALS1 served as pivotal regulators. Collectively, BE exerts robust anti-C. auris effects by modulating key target gene expression to interfere with multiple virulence-related processes, providing experimental support for its development as a novel antifungal agent for C. auris infection treatment.IMPORTANCEThe emerging multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen Candida auris has become a critical global public health concern. Its pronounced nosocomial transmissibility, high infection-associated mortality, and extensive cross-resistance to mainstream antifungal agents have created substantial unmet needs in clinical treatment and nosocomial infection control. In this study, we systematically validated the in vitro and in vivo antifungal activity of baicalein against C. auris and elucidated the molecular mechanism underlying its modulation of virulence-related genes. Our findings provide a pivotal experimental basis for the development of novel antifungal therapeutics targeting C. auris infections.},
}

@article {pmid42551801,
year = {2026},
author = {Klun, B and Zidar, Ž and Klančnik, A and Starin, M and Novak, J and Rozman, U and Čelan Korošin, N and Kim, C and Jung, J and Kalčíková, G},
title = {Additives in microplastics shape biofilm composition during aging and favour antibiotic-resistant microorganisms.},
journal = {Environmental pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {128882},
doi = {10.1016/j.envpol.2026.128882},
pmid = {42551801},
issn = {1873-6424},
abstract = {Plastic additives are emerging as active agents that shape the environmental impacts of microplastics. In this study, we investigated how a polyethylene microplastic formulation containing the commonly used UV filter benzophenone-3 (BP-3) and a calcium carbonate filler affects aging and biofilm colonization in freshwater. The additive-containing formulation altered the density and crystallinity of polyethylene particles and predisposed the material for faster surface transformation and formation of pits and cracks during aging. At the same time, it suppressed biofilm formation, reduced the development of extracellular polymeric substances by microorganisms, and specifically affected phototrophic microorganisms. Microbial community profiling revealed a shift from cyanobacteria-dominated biofilms to heterotrophic, chemically more resilient taxa, accompanied by enrichment of antibiotic resistance genes. Despite comparable genetic potential for polymer degradation, microbial activity was inhibited, indicating a trade-off between abiotic and biotic degradation. These results indicated that the tested additive-containing polyethylene formulation reduces microplastics stability and alters biofilm composition, highlighting the importance of considering additives in assessments of microplastic persistence and environmental effects.},
}

@article {pmid42545035,
year = {2026},
author = {Rezzoug, I and Vanparis, O and Poiraud, J and Nandakumaran, S and Girlich, D and Latour, L and Defoi, H and Emeraud, C and Jousset, AB and Birer, A and Pilmis, B and Jacquemin, A and Bonnin, RA and Dortet, L},
title = {Carbapenemase-producing Klebsiella oxytoca complex in France (2017-2023): Molecular epidemiology integrated with virulence and biofilm phenotypes.},
journal = {Emerging microbes & infections},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {2713319},
doi = {10.1080/22221751.2026.2713319},
pmid = {42545035},
issn = {2222-1751},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This study analysed a large French collection of carbapenemase-producing Klebsiella oxytoca complex (KoC) isolates (2017-2023) to map species and carbapenemase distributions and identify emerging lineages. We further investigated virulence traits to understand the epidemiological success of the dominant ST-2 lineage.

METHODS: We conducted a retrospective study of all KoC isolates received at the French National Reference Center for Antimicrobial Resistance from 2017 to 2023. Whole-genome sequencing was performed to assess species assignment, phylogeny, and sequence types. Virulence analyses included biofilm formation assays (on abiotic surfaces and eukaryotic cells) and Galleria mellonella infection models.

RESULTS: K. oxytoca sensu stricto remained the most prevalent species among the KoC. OXA-48-like enzymes were the most common carbapenemases, and two major lineages predominated: ST-141 and, far ahead, ST-2. The success of ST-2 appears linked to its low virulence combined with a strong capacity for long-term persistence.

CONCLUSION: Our findings confirm that K. oxytoca comprises a complex of distinct species whose taxonomy warrants continued revision. ST-2 circulates widely in France and, despite its limited virulence, shows remarkable persistence, making it an epidemiological important lineage.},
}

@article {pmid42545628,
year = {2026},
author = {Aydin, E and İzgi, E},
title = {Dental clinic surfaces as reservoirs of biofilm-forming Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus spp. isolates: phenotypic and genotypic analysis.},
journal = {Molecular biology reports},
volume = {53},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42545628},
issn = {1573-4978},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; Dental Clinics ; *Staphylococcus aureus/genetics/isolation & purification/pathogenicity/physiology ; Humans ; *Enterococcus/genetics/isolation & purification/pathogenicity ; Phenotype ; Genotype ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics ; Environmental Microbiology ; Virulence/genetics ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Dental clinic surfaces may serve as reservoirs for opportunistic pathogens that can survive environmental stress, persist on abiotic surfaces, and contribute to cross-contamination. This study investigated the phenotypic biofilm-forming capacity and selected biofilm-associated virulence genes of Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus spp. isolated from environmental surfaces in a university dental clinic in Kütahya, Türkiye.

METHODS: A total of 196 environmental surface samples were collected from five clinical units. Biofilm-forming capacity was assessed using the crystal violet microtiter plate assay. The presence of icaA and icaD in S. aureus isolates and gelE and esp in Enterococcus spp. isolates was determined by PCR.

RESULTS: Overall, 84 S. aureus and 64 Enterococcus spp. isolates were recovered. Biofilm production was detected in 78.6% of S. aureus isolates and 98.4% of Enterococcus spp. isolates. Moderate and strong biofilm production was more frequent among Enterococcus spp. Molecular analysis identified icaD in 65.5% and icaA in 19.0% of S. aureus isolates. Among Enterococcus spp. isolates, gelE and esp were detected in 46.9% and 34.4%, respectively, while 14.1% carried both genes.

CONCLUSIONS: Dental clinic surfaces may harbor S. aureus and Enterococcus spp. isolates with substantial biofilm-forming capacity and selected virulence-associated genes. The predominance of moderate and strong biofilm production among Enterococcus spp. suggests a potential for persistence under the tested conditions. These findings support routine environmental surveillance and surface-specific cleaning and disinfection strategies, particularly for frequently contacted dental equipment.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
Dental Clinics
*Staphylococcus aureus/genetics/isolation & purification/pathogenicity/physiology
Humans
*Enterococcus/genetics/isolation & purification/pathogenicity
Phenotype
Genotype
Bacterial Proteins/genetics
Environmental Microbiology
Virulence/genetics

@article {pmid42545644,
year = {2026},
author = {Bertoli, G and Buonfrate, D and Piovan, G and Soramel, L and Sangiovanni, R and Ragusa, A and Lleshaj, S and Povegliano, L and Mazzi, C and Zorzi, C and Marocco, S},
title = {DTT-based biofilm and conventional intraoperative cultures for the detection of prosthetic joint infections: a comparative study.},
journal = {European journal of clinical microbiology & infectious diseases : official publication of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42545644},
issn = {1435-4373},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Accurate diagnosis of prosthetic joint infection (PJI) remains challenging. Biofilm culture by sonication has been included according to EBJIS criteria; however, this method is associated with technical difficulties. Dithiothreitol pretreatment (DTT-P) biofilm culture appears to be a promising alternative. The aim of this study was to compare the microbiological results from intraoperative tissue cultures (reference standard) with those obtained from DTT-P biofilm culture on explanted prosthesis, in order to explore the role of DTT-P in routine practice.

METHODS: We conducted a retrospective, single-center, observational study including consecutive adult patients who underwent hip, knee, or shoulder prosthetic revision, between May 2023 and November 2024. For each explanted prosthesis, microbiological analysis was performed using both conventional intraoperative tissue cultures and DTT-P biofilm culture.

RESULTS: Among 192 revision procedures, the overall concordant results between the two methods were 93.8% (180/192). Thirty-four procedures (17.7%) were managed as PJIs. Of these, 19 (70.6%) were identified by both methods, 6 (17.6%) fulfilled the EBJIS criteria by DTT-P biofilm culture with negative conventional tissue cultures, and 6 were exclusively diagnosed by conventional culture. Three cases were defined as "Likely" infections. Slow-growing Gram-positive bacteria and polymicrobial infections represented a diagnostic challenge. The EBJIS histopathological criterion (≥ 5 PMNs in ≥ 5 HPFs) was met in only 2 out of 154 cases (1.3%), indicating a very limited contribution of histopathology in detecting PJIs in our cohort.

CONCLUSIONS: Overall, these findings reflect the complexity of diagnosing PJI in clinical practice. Though DTT-P may provide complementary diagnostic information by identifying additional PJI cases, its results should be interpreted with caution. Larger prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings and evaluate the cost-effectiveness of this approach.},
}

@article {pmid42546489,
year = {2026},
author = {Wei, H and Yang, F and Yuan, F and Wu, J and Guo, Y and Ding, Z and Shen, K and Wu, B and Li, L and Qu, Q},
title = {From surface coverage to biofilm involvement: Hyaluronic acid influences TiZr alloy corrosion under sterile and Staphylococcus aureus biofilm conditions.},
journal = {Bioelectrochemistry (Amsterdam, Netherlands)},
volume = {173},
number = {},
pages = {109414},
doi = {10.1016/j.bioelechem.2026.109414},
pmid = {42546489},
issn = {1878-562X},
abstract = {Hyaluronic acid (HA) is widely used for intra-articular injection to improve joint lubrication and mobility, but its influence on microbiologically influenced corrosion of joint implants remains unclear. Here, we investigated how HA affects the corrosion behavior of TiZr alloy in simulated body fluid (SBF) under sterile and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) biofilm conditions. Surface observations and chemical analysis indicated that HA-related surface coverage was formed on the TiZr surface and reduced surface damage under sterile conditions, suggesting a protective role of HA. However, in the presence of S. aureus biofilm, HA showed contrasting effects at different immersion stages, slightly reducing corrosion at the early stage compared with the S. aureus group but aggravating biofilm-associated localized damage after prolonged exposure. Contact angle analysis showed decreases of 68.1% and 57.1% within 1 min in the S. aureus + HA group on days 7 and 14, respectively, indicating that HA promoted rapid surface wetting and altered the interfacial wetting behavior in the biofilm environment. At these time points, electrochemical tests further confirmed corrosion acceleration, with the S. aureus + HA group showing the highest corrosion current densities among all groups, reaching 7.972 × 10[-][6] A cm[-][2] and 2.715 × 10[-][6] A cm[-][2], respectively. These results demonstrate that the effect of HA on TiZr alloy corrosion shifts from protection under sterile conditions to corrosion aggravation during prolonged S. aureus biofilm exposure. This finding suggests that HA-related effects on biofilm formation and implant corrosion should be considered when assessing the corrosion risk of TiZr joint implants under infection-related conditions.},
}

@article {pmid42540343,
year = {2026},
author = {Pedrosa, MS and Iannaccone, LL and Schuls, CS and Ribeiro, AA},
title = {Buprenorphine enhances Streptococcus mutans virulence and biofilm formation.},
journal = {Journal of oral microbiology},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {2652173},
pmid = {42540343},
issn = {2000-2297},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Buprenorphine is widely prescribed for opioid use disorder (OUD). In 2022, the U.S. FDA issued a safety warning on dental diseases associated with buprenorphine. While reports implicate increased caries risk, the microbial mechanisms remain unclear.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether buprenorphine directly modulates Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) virulence traits relevant to cariogenesis.

DESIGN: S. mutans UA159 were exposed to buprenorphine. Planktonic growth, acidogenicity, acid tolerance, aggregation, and carbohydrate utilization were assessed. Biofilm biomass and extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) production were quantified in hydroxyapatite disc-based monospecies and saliva-derived microcosm models. Biofilm architecture was evaluated using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). The expression of competence- and biofilm-associated genes (comC, comX, gcrR, gtfB, and gtfC) was measured by RT-qPCR.

RESULTS: Buprenorphine did not affect planktonic growth, acid production, or carbohydrate metabolism. However, it increased biofilm biomass and EPS production. FISH imaging revealed denser matrix-rich biofilms with closer spatial integration of S. mutans. Gene expression showed upregulation of comC, comX, gcrR, gtfB, and gtfC, indicating enhanced quorum sensing, stress adaptation, and matrix synthesis.

CONCLUSIONS: Buprenorphine promoted a biofilm-specific virulence program in S. mutans, fostering thicker, EPS-rich biofilms without altering planktonic physiology. These findings provide a mechanistic rationale for buprenorphine's association with caries risk.},
}

@article {pmid42540968,
year = {2026},
author = {Huang, C and Li, X and Yang, Z and Xia, C and Zhao, X and Yuan, J},
title = {Effects of common disinfectants on biofilm formation and eradication in Klebsiella pneumoniae with different resistance phenotypes.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1873119},
pmid = {42540968},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Disinfectants/pharmacology ; *Klebsiella pneumoniae/drug effects/physiology/isolation & purification ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Humans ; *Drug Resistance, Bacterial ; Phenotype ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Klebsiella Infections/microbiology ; Microbial Viability/drug effects ; Benzalkonium Compounds/pharmacology ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Biofilm formation is a critical virulence factor that facilitates the persistence and transmission of Klebsiella pneumoniae (KP) in healthcare settings, complicating infection control efforts. This study aimed to characterize the biofilm-forming capacity of KP isolates with different resistance phenotypes and to evaluate the antibacterial, biofilm-inhibitory, and biofilm-eradicating activities of commonly used disinfectants.

METHODS: Forty-five clinical KP isolates were enrolled, comprising 15 susceptible isolates, 15 extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing isolates, and 15 carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) isolates. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) of povidone-iodine, chlorhexidine, glutaraldehyde, benzalkonium bromide, and sodium hypochlorite were determined by broth microdilution. Biofilm formation was quantified over 7 days using crystal violet staining (OD590). The inhibitory and eradicating effects of chlorhexidine, benzalkonium bromide, and sodium hypochlorite on biofilms were further assessed by crystal violet staining and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM).

RESULTS: MIC and MBC values of the five disinfectants were identical across the three KP groups. Chlorhexidine exhibited the most potent antibacterial activity (MIC: 16 µg/mL; MBC: 32 µg/mL). Biofilm biomass increased progressively in all groups, peaking on day 5. In the inhibition assay, OD590 values in disinfectant-treated groups remained consistently lower than those in the positive control group, with 16 µg/mL chlorhexidine, 32 µg/mL benzalkonium bromide, and 1000 µg/mL sodium hypochlorite all significantly reducing biofilm biomass by day 5 (P < 0.05). In the eradication assay, 2000 µg/mL chlorhexidine and 5000 µg/mL sodium hypochlorite significantly reduced OD590 values compared with the untreated control (P < 0.05), whereas 2000 µg/mL sodium hypochlorite did not.

CONCLUSION: Chlorhexidine, benzalkonium bromide, and sodium hypochlorite effectively inhibited biofilm formation in KP isolates regardless of resistance phenotype. Chlorhexidine and benzalkonium bromide exhibited stronger inhibitory activity than sodium hypochlorite. Chlorhexidine and sodium hypochlorite also demonstrated biofilm-eradicating activity, with chlorhexidine showing the greatest overall efficacy.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Disinfectants/pharmacology
*Klebsiella pneumoniae/drug effects/physiology/isolation & purification
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Humans
*Drug Resistance, Bacterial
Phenotype
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Klebsiella Infections/microbiology
Microbial Viability/drug effects
Benzalkonium Compounds/pharmacology

@article {pmid42542025,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, X and Zhang, F and Lin, Z and Tang, T and Xu, J and Yu, P and Liu, Y and Wu, F},
title = {Electric field optimizes bacterium-phage interactions to enhance biofilm adaptation and microbial function in constructed wetlands.},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {306},
number = {},
pages = {126583},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2026.126583},
pmid = {42542025},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {Despite the promising potential of bio-electrochemical systems integrated with constructed wetlands (BES-CWs) for wastewater treatment, bacterium-phage interactions under electric field stress have been largely overlooked. This study utilized microcosm BES-CWs fed with synthetic wastewater containing sulfamethoxazole (SMX) as a model antibiotic. It elucidated the synergistic regulatory mechanisms underlying the "phage-biofilm-function" interplay under three direct current voltages (0.4 V, 1.0 V, and 3.0 V), and further revealed the role of phage-mediated metabolic regulation in pollutant removal and microbial resistance attenuation in BES-CWs. Electric field stress significantly reshaped bacterial and phage diversity as well as community composition, with the strongest effects observed at 1.0 V. Compared with open-circuit BES-CWs, electric field application markedly enhanced lactic dehydrogenase activity (1.57-2.87-fold), extracellular polymeric substance production (3.52-11.25-fold), and biofilm thickness (1.33-2.23-fold), thereby promoting bacterial metabolic activity and optimizing biofilm structure. This structural adaptation improved substrate diffusion and electron transfer, alleviating mass transfer limitations typically associated with thick biofilms. Furthermore, electric fields activated bacterial antiviral defense systems and intensified bacterium-phage interactions. This increased predation pressure facilitated genetic exchange and nutrient recycling, thereby enhancing the functional resilience of the microbial community under environmental stress. In addition, electric field application selectively enriched auxiliary metabolic genes associated with metabolism and SMX degradation, promoting pollutant removal while reducing bacterial resistance potential. Overall, these findings provide mechanistic insights into how electric fields regulate biofilm development and bacterium-phage interactions, offering a potential strategy for enhancing the ecological stability and treatment performance of constructed wetlands.},
}

@article {pmid42542146,
year = {2026},
author = {McKnight, MM and Lakshminarasimman, N and Parker, W and Neufeld, JD},
title = {Microbiology of a membrane aerated biofilm reactor upgrade in a municipal wastewater treatment facility.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {135550},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.135550},
pmid = {42542146},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Novel wastewater treatment biotechnologies, including membrane aerated biofilm reactors (MABR), aim to reduce energy consumption, and improve nitrogen removal and nitrification in cold weather conditions. A municipal wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in southern Ontario was upgraded with a large-scale MABR system in 2022, which was installed upstream of the existing conventional activated sludge (CAS) system. Here we evaluated how the MABR upgrade impacted mixed liquor and MABR biofilm microbial communities spatially and temporally, which previously has not been done in large-scale hybrid MABR-CAS systems. Microbial communities were characterized using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing, with selected MABR biofilm samples analyzed with metagenomics to evaluate the functional potential of the biofilm for nitrification and denitrification. The CAS mixed liquor before the upgrade included ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB; Nitrosomonas) and nitrite-oxidizing bacteria (NOB; Nitrotoga), which exhibited seasonal abundance and activity patterns. Following the upgrade, seeding from the MABR biofilm increased diversity of the mixed liquor, including nitrifiers. Along with AOB, Nitrospira NOB and comammox Nitrospira were present in the MABR biofilm, representing upwards of 10 % of microbial community profiles. Metagenomic sequencing showed that biofilm microbial communities were equipped to perform nitrification and denitrification in the system. Overall, characterization of microbial communities in the WWTP showed that the MABR installation increased microbial diversity, concomitant with increased representation of nitrifier groups and coinciding with reductions in plant effluent nitrogen concentrations.},
}

@article {pmid42544990,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, Z and Pahlavan, AA},
title = {Biofilm density regulates diffusiophoretic colloid penetration.},
journal = {Soft matter},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1039/d6sm00320f},
pmid = {42544990},
issn = {1744-6848},
abstract = {Biofilms are structured communities of microorganisms embedded in an extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) matrix whose dense, polymer-rich architecture strongly hinders the transport of antimicrobial agents and nanoparticle carriers. Diffusiophoresis, the motion of colloidal particles along solute concentration gradients, can enhance penetration into viscoelastic matrices. However, how the changes in biofilm microstructure and density modulate diffusiophoretic delivery of particles is not yet understood. Here, we investigate how biofilm density as characterized by the transmitted light intensity index, Ĩ, modulates diffusiophoretic particle penetration by systematically varying biofilm culture time and particle size and by comparing motile and nonmotile Escherichia coli (E. coli) strains. We find that increasing Ĩ systematically reduces the effective early-time diffusiophoretic mobility, identifying a biofilm-accumulation regime beyond which gradient-enhanced delivery becomes strongly suppressed. Over the range examined here, larger particles penetrate more deeply than smaller ones, indicating that their mobility advantage outweighs the geometric advantage of smaller size. We further observe later-stage reverse particle motion and propose that it results from the combined effects of weakening diffusiophoretic penetration, transient biofilm deformation under the imposed solute gradient, and possible shear-assisted removal of expanded biofilm material near the pore entrance. Together, these results provide a quantitative framework for identifying the range of biofilm accumulation states in which diffusiophoresis can effectively enhance colloidal delivery into biofilms and the denser regime in which biofilm structure suppresses that enhancement.},
}

@article {pmid42531940,
year = {2026},
author = {Dalar, ZG and Gönüllü, N},
title = {Biofilm-associated reduced antimicrobial susceptibility in Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates from cystic fibrosis patients: MIC-MBEC discordance.},
journal = {Diagnostic microbiology and infectious disease},
volume = {116},
number = {3},
pages = {117577},
doi = {10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2026.117577},
pmid = {42531940},
issn = {1879-0070},
abstract = {Chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections in cystic fibrosis are characterized by biofilm formation, which substantially alters antimicrobial susceptibility profiles. In this study, planktonic minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum biofilm eradication concentration (MBEC) values were compared for P. aeruginosa isolates obtained exclusively from patients with cystic fibrosis using a peg-based biofilm model. All tested antimicrobials showed significantly reduced susceptibility under biofilm conditions compared with planktonic conditions (p < 0.0001), and no isolate exhibited an MBEC value lower than its corresponding MIC. While ciprofloxacin, amikacin, tobramycin, and azithromycin retained relatively more preserved activity in the biofilm state, beta-lactams, levofloxacin, and colistin showed pronounced loss of efficacy. These findings highlight the biological and clinical relevance of biofilm-associated antimicrobial tolerance in cystic fibrosis and support the potential role of biofilm-based susceptibility testing as a complementary tool to conventional MIC testing in selected clinical contexts.},
}

@article {pmid42532790,
year = {2026},
author = {Ge, G and Wu, L and Zhang, F and Wang, T and Han, L and Kong, X and Shi, J},
title = {Corrigendum to "Na2S2O4@co-metal organic framework (ZIF-67)@ glucose oxidase for biofilm-infecting wound healing with immune activation" [Int. J. Biol. Macromol. 226 (2023) 1533-1546].},
journal = {International journal of biological macromolecules},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {153667},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2026.153667},
pmid = {42532790},
issn = {1879-0003},
}

@article {pmid42535848,
year = {2026},
author = {Deng, X and Yang, C and Chen, L and Chen, R and Yang, J},
title = {Polystyrene microplastics facilitate Clostridioides difficile biofilm formation and attenuate antibiotic susceptibility.},
journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0116826},
doi = {10.1128/aem.01168-26},
pmid = {42535848},
issn = {1098-5336},
abstract = {Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) constitutes a critical global public health challenge, with its high recurrence rates intrinsically linked to spore germination, biofilm formation, and antibiotic resistance. Although microplastics are recognized as emerging foodborne contaminants, their potential to exacerbate the risk of CDI recurrence remains largely unexplored. This study systematically elucidates the impact of polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) on C. difficile (CD) pathogenicity, biofilm dynamics, and antibiotic resistance. Exposure to PS-MPs (0-400 μg/mL) induced intracellular oxidative stress, thereby facilitating bacterial proliferation and biofilm formation. Concurrently, PS-MPs upregulated the expression of quorum-sensing genes (agrD, luxS) and enhanced AI-2 secretion, which subsequently augmented bacterial motility. Furthermore, PS-MPs exposure significantly elevated the expression of virulence and sporulation genes (e.g., Spo0A), intensifying cytotoxicity toward intestinal epithelial cells (HT-29 and Caco-2). Critically, antimicrobial susceptibility testing demonstrated that both short-term (48 h) and long-term (20 d) PS-MPs exposure significantly increased the half-inhibitory concentration (IC50) of CD against seven antibiotics. Notably, long-term exposure to 100 μg/mL PS-MPs resulted in a 2.42-fold increase in the IC50 for vancomycin, concomitant with the upregulation of resistance genes (tetW, gyrA, and gyrB). Collectively, these findings indicate that PS-MPs exposure potentiates CD pathogenicity and antibiotic resistance by activating the quorum-sensing system and facilitating biofilm formation. This study provides novel evidence linking environmental pollutants to CDI epidemiology, suggesting that microplastic pollution may compound the clinical recurrence risk and therapeutic challenges associated with CDI.IMPORTANCEIt is well established that both microplastics and C. difficile (CD) can enter the human body through the food chain, where they pose significant health risks. However, the mechanistic interactions between these two factors remain poorly understood. In this study, we provide novel insights into this interaction by demonstrating that polystyrene microplastics induce intracellular oxidative stress in CD, thereby activating quorum-sensing pathways and promoting biofilm formation. These events collectively enhance bacterial proliferation, motility, and virulence expression. More importantly, microplastic exposure substantially increases the tolerance of CD to multiple clinically relevant antibiotics, including vancomycin, an effect that is closely associated with the upregulation of key antibiotic resistance genes. Collectively, these findings reveal that environmental microplastic pollution not only serves as a physical vector for pathogen dissemination but also exacerbates the therapeutic challenges and recurrence risk associated with CD infections through direct modulation of bacterial pathogenicity and antimicrobial resistance.},
}

@article {pmid42535849,
year = {2026},
author = {Ahmed, S and Guéneau, V and Rochat, T and Fradet, B and Leclercq, E and Duchaud, E and Briandet, R},
title = {Diversity of biofilm architectures within the genus Tenacibaculum.},
journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0118126},
doi = {10.1128/aem.01181-26},
pmid = {42535849},
issn = {1098-5336},
abstract = {Marine aquaculture sustainability is increasingly threatened by tenacibaculosis, a disease caused by Tenacibaculum species that are thought to persist through biofilm formation. However, the architectural diversity of biofilms across the genus and its contribution to persistence remain unclear. Here, we conducted a large-scale phenotypic analysis of 40 Tenacibaculum isolates including 19 T. maritimum strains, an aquaculture-relevant fish pathogen, and 21 type strains representing different species. Using three complementary growth models: planktonic free-cell cultures, macro-colony biofilms, and submerged biofilms, 17 quantitative parameters were measured. We observed substantial inter- and intra-species heterogeneity. Strains adopted distinct developmental phenotypes, ranging from a high-yield, slow-growth profile associated with thick, structured three-dimensional biofilms to fast-growing communities with limited architectural complexity. Confocal imaging revealed high structural variation across the genus, with Congo red-labeled extracellular materials exhibiting strain-specific differences in porosity and spatial distribution within the biofilm. Multivariate analysis partitioned the collection into four phenotypic clusters defined by distinct growth and structural signatures. Antimicrobial susceptibility assays using oxytetracycline hydrochloride in four representative strains showed that biofilm-associated tolerance was strain-dependent. Together, this work identifies biofilm architecture as a measurable and informative dimension of phenotypic diversification in Tenacibaculum and provides candidate structural markers to support future mechanistic studies and the development of strategies aimed at limiting the persistence of problematic Tenacibaculum species in aquaculture systems.IMPORTANCEThe genus Tenacibaculum includes several fish-pathogenic species that pose major concerns in marine aquaculture, yet their biofilm biology remains poorly characterized. By analyzing 40 isolates across complementary growth models, we show that biofilm architecture represents a quantifiable source of phenotypic variation within the genus. Strains adopted various developmental profiles that uncouple the growth rate, biomass yield, and three-dimensional structural complexity. Importantly, experiments performed on four representative strains indicate that biofilm-associated antimicrobial survival is strain-dependent and may be influenced by biofilm structural organization. These findings emphasize the need to account for structure-based functional profiling in addition to species-based classification. By identifying candidate architectural markers and representative phenotypic clusters, this work provides a rational framework for future mechanistic studies and for evaluating whether specific biofilm traits are associated with persistence or risk in aquaculture systems.},
}

@article {pmid42539276,
year = {2026},
author = {Bardy, P and Nguyen, PM and Liu, Y and Craske, MW and Read, N and Davies, RM and Turkenburg, JP and Hart, SJ and Antson, AA and Fogg, PCM},
title = {The mechanism of biofilm degradation by a detachable tailspike of gene transfer agents.},
journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.64898/2026.07.19.739414},
pmid = {42539276},
issn = {2692-8205},
abstract = {Gene transfer agents (GTAs) are phage-derived elements that have evolved repeatedly across diverse prokaryotes, where they drive high-frequency horizontal gene transfer (HGT). Here, we demonstrate that the Rhodobacter capsulatus GTA (RcGTA) tailspike protein, TspA, is a potent biofilm-degrading enzyme. Purified TspA is effective at both preventing initial biofilm formation and clearing established, mature biofilms. Crucially, TspA enhances RcGTA-mediated gene transfer, suggesting that this enzyme facilitates GTA navigation through the extracellular matrix. Unlike the permanently anchored tailspikes of canonical phages, TspA possesses a unique β-sandwich N-terminal domain that enables its dissociation from mature particles and engages in biofilm polysaccharide recognition. Our findings indicate that TspA is an evolutionary adaptation used by GTAs to optimize HGT within complex, densely packed microbial biofilm communities.},
}

@article {pmid42539332,
year = {2026},
author = {Nam, KM and Fowler, N and Kandel, R and Zhu, Y and Liu, Y and Lai, YJ and Hassan, MF and Gerace, E and Asp, M and Olson, R and Li, Y and Nieh, MP and Zhong, M and Woods, RJ and Moreau, A and Yan, J},
title = {Conformational dynamics of exopolysaccharides underlie biofilm matrix mechanics in Vibrio cholerae.},
journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.64898/2026.07.22.739955},
pmid = {42539332},
issn = {2692-8205},
abstract = {Polysaccharides remain the least understood biomacromolecules, particularly in terms of the relationship between their chemical structure and physical properties. On the other hand, polysaccharides often serve as the main structural components in biofilms: surface-attached aggregates of bacterial cells encased within a mechanically resilient extracellular matrix. The large chemical space explored by bacteria within biofilms provides excellent opportunities to establish the structure-function relationship for polysaccharides. In this paper, we systematically characterize various polymer properties of V ibrio p oly s accharide (VPS), the major exopolysaccharide in biofilms formed by Vibrio cholerae , the causative agent of pandemic cholera. Using a combination of shear rheology, dynamic and static light scattering, and small-angle X-ray scattering, we measure the viscosity, molecular weight, persistence length, radius of gyration, and hydrodynamic radius of this chemically unique biopolymer. Combining all-atom and coarse-grained simulations, we show how the conformational flexibility of a single glycosidic linkage within each VPS monomer can lead to dramatic compaction of the entire polymer chain and nonclassical entanglement behavior. Our comprehensive quantification represents a rare endeavor for bacterial biofilms, whose matrix composition and physical properties remain largely nebulous; it also represents a significant step towards a detailed understanding of the molecular origins of biofilm mechanics.},
}

@article {pmid42530666,
year = {2026},
author = {Fathuddin, R and Ramalingam, K},
title = {Nanoemulsion-Mediated Suppression of Multidrug-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae via Oxygen Consumption Reduction and Biofilm Inhibition.},
journal = {Current microbiology},
volume = {83},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {42530666},
issn = {1432-0991},
support = {Project ID: BT/PR41043/AAQ/3/1003/2020//Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology, India/ ; Project ID: 2020-4964//Indian Council of Medical Research/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Klebsiella pneumoniae/drug effects/physiology/metabolism ; *Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/drug effects ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Emulsions/pharmacology/chemistry ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Oxygen Consumption/drug effects ; Animals ; Humans ; Klebsiella Infections/microbiology ; },
abstract = {In this study, seven water‑in‑oil (W/O) nanoemulsion (NE) (NE-21 to NE-27) were developed via high-pressure microfluidization (100-500 nm droplets, Zeta-potential - 3.6 to + 64.5 mV) The formulations comprised sunflower, castor, or olive oils, non‑ionic surfactants Tween‑60 and Brij‑30 (6-8%), cetylpyridinium chloride (1%), and active agents including silver nanoparticles (0.05%) and sodium hypochlorite (2.5%). From over thirty preliminary formulations, seven were selected based on physicochemical stability, with no phase separation observed over seven days at 25 °C. Then evaluated against Klebsiella pneumoniae reference strains (ATCC 35657, MTCC 432) and clinical multidrug‑resistant (MDR) Klebsiella spp. clinical isolates (CI-1 to CI-3). NE-25/NE-26 showed notable antimicrobial activity (MIC 40-94 µg/mL, 45-106 × dilutions), rapid bactericidal action (30 min), 83.92% biofilm inhibition, and metabolic suppression (OCR 0.11 nmol mL[-][1] min[-][1]) despite minimal membrane damage (< 10% leakage). Low hemolytic activity under static agar conditions and high NIH/3T3 cell viability (NE-23/25 > 240% at 100 μL via MTT) acceptable biocompatibility. Favorable pH (4.46-6.27), spreadability (53-139 mm[2]), and controlled release (10-22% in 24 h) support topical use against Klebsiella, combining multi-target efficacy with acceptable safety.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Klebsiella pneumoniae/drug effects/physiology/metabolism
*Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/drug effects
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Emulsions/pharmacology/chemistry
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Oxygen Consumption/drug effects
Animals
Humans
Klebsiella Infections/microbiology

@article {pmid42531936,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, X and Wu, T and Sun, Z and Li, J and Wang, B and Huang, T and Wen, G},
title = {Aerobic denitrification of low-C/N reservoir water using an nZVI@SiO2-immobilized fixed-bed bioreactor: Roles of inorganic electron supply and biofilm retention.},
journal = {Journal of hazardous materials},
volume = {515},
number = {},
pages = {143135},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.143135},
pmid = {42531936},
issn = {1873-3336},
abstract = {Excessive nitrogen (N) loading in drinking-water reservoirs accelerates eutrophication and threatens water safety, yet aerobic denitrification (AD) in oxygenated, low-C/N waters is limited by insufficient electron donors and poor biofilm retention. Here, an immobilized, aerated, upflow fixed-bed bioreactor was developed for reservoir side-stream treatment using nZVI@SiO2-modified porous polyurethane (PU) sponges as a slow-release inorganic electron donor and biofilm carrier for aerobic denitrifying bacteria (ADB). At a hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 8 h and C/N ratio of 3.0, the reactor achieved 83.4% NO3[-]-N and 55.7% total nitrogen (TN) removal. Under severe carbon limitation (C/N = 1.5), performance was sustained through electron-balance contributions of 11.06% from nZVI@SiO2 and 6.74% from ADB-associated biological enhancement. Treatment of real reservoir water (C/N = 1.1) achieved 33.4% NO3[-]-N and 24.1% TN removal, representing increases of 24.5% and 19.0%, respectively, over the control. Mechanistically, the SiO2 shell moderated nZVI corrosion, sustaining Fe[2+] release and potentially generating H2 to replenish reducing equivalents under aerobic, carbon-limited conditions. The interconnected PU pore structure retained microbial biomass, reduced washout, and created localized electron donor-oxygen gradients that promoted denitrification. These conditions increased protein-like extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), enriched denitrifying genera (Acinetobacter, Diaphorobacter, and Hydrogenophaga), and elevated the abundances of NapA, NirS, NirK, and NosZ. Overall, the immobilized nZVI@SiO2-ADB fixed-bed bioreactor provides an effective, low-carbon side-stream pretreatment strategy for nitrogen removal from oligotrophic reservoir water.},
}

@article {pmid42525352,
year = {2026},
author = {Erasmus, DJ and Santiago, AC and Pratavieira, S and Stacey, NT and Polikarpov, I},
title = {Enzymatic tools for the treatment of caries-associated biofilms: Investigating the enzymes of a putative polysaccharide utilization locus from Prevotella melaninogenica and their application against Streptococcus mutans biofilm.},
journal = {World journal of microbiology & biotechnology},
volume = {42},
number = {8},
pages = {},
pmid = {42525352},
issn = {1573-0972},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Streptococcus mutans/drug effects/physiology/growth & development ; *Dental Caries/microbiology ; *Glycoside Hydrolases/metabolism/genetics/pharmacology ; *Prevotella melaninogenica/enzymology/genetics ; Polysaccharides/metabolism ; Cloning, Molecular ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Polysaccharides, Bacterial/metabolism ; Multigene Family ; Recombinant Proteins ; },
abstract = {We identified a potential cluster of genes in the organism Prevotella melaninogenica which was predicted to represent a polysaccharide utilization locus (PUL). Based on the knowledge that PUL glycoside hydrolase (GH) enzymes are frequently co-expressed to saccharify a complex polysaccharide, and that one of the enzymes (PmGH87) is known to hydrolyse a major linkage of the extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) of cariogenic biofilms, we hypothesized that the predicted PUL (pPmPUL) GHs may be relevant to the degradation of biofilms associated with oral disease. To test this, the pPmPUL GHs were selected for cloning, recombinant expression and further study. GHs-consisting of a family 87 mutanase (PmGH87), a family 97 glucosidase (PmGH97) and an enzyme of unknown function assigned to the GH71/99 superfamily (PmGH99)-were characterised both structurally and biochemically and were assessed for their ability to degrade caries-associated Streptococcus mutans biofilms formed in vitro, both individually and in combinations. The results were compared to a previously described heterologous combination of complex carbohydrate active enzymes (PmGH87 and CoGH66). Both assays quantifying the relative change in biomass and confocal microscope images confirm the ability of pPmPUL GHs to remove S. mutans biofilm.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Streptococcus mutans/drug effects/physiology/growth & development
*Dental Caries/microbiology
*Glycoside Hydrolases/metabolism/genetics/pharmacology
*Prevotella melaninogenica/enzymology/genetics
Polysaccharides/metabolism
Cloning, Molecular
Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Polysaccharides, Bacterial/metabolism
Multigene Family
Recombinant Proteins

@article {pmid42526545,
year = {2026},
author = {Luong, JHT and Gedanken, A},
title = {Strategies for biofilm disruption: Mechanisms, polymeric networks, mixed infections, and emerging biomaterials.},
journal = {Biotechnology advances},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {108994},
doi = {10.1016/j.biotechadv.2026.108994},
pmid = {42526545},
issn = {1873-1899},
abstract = {Biofilms represent the predominant microbial lifestyle in clinical and environmental settings, where the extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) matrix provides structural integrity, metabolic cooperation, and pronounced antimicrobial tolerance. This matrix forms a dynamic macromolecular network of polysaccharides, proteins, extracellular DNA (eDNA), lipids, and associated ions that collectively regulate hydration, adhesion, diffusion resistance, and persistence. Across ESKAPE (Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter species) pathogens and Candida albicans, conserved matrix components shape biofilm architecture, enabling nutrient sequestration, immune evasion, and chronic infection. Mechanistic advances in biofilm eradication highlight the roles of enzymatic depolymerization, antibiotic penetration dynamics, nanoparticle-mediated disruption, bacteriophage-encoded depolymerases, and antibody-guided targeting. Parallel progress in biofilm inhibition emphasizes quorum-sensing interference, adhesion blockade, surface engineering, vaccines, and immunomodulatory strategies that prevent early community establishment. Emerging approaches-including peptide nucleic acids, aptamers, CRISPR-based antimicrobials, and biofilm-responsive delivery systems-enable precise targeting of genetic and structural vulnerabilities. Together, these developments provide a mechanistic foundation for next-generation antibiofilm interventions and support translational strategies aimed at recalcitrant, persistent infections.},
}

@article {pmid42526557,
year = {2026},
author = {Wei, W and Gao, CH and Cao, B and Qiao, J and Jia, S and Liu, L and Wei, H and Yan, Y and Cai, P and Yang, M},
title = {Pathogen-enriched transcriptional regulators modulate biofilm formation and virulence in Escherichia coli O157:H7.},
journal = {International journal of biological macromolecules},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {153822},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2026.153822},
pmid = {42526557},
issn = {1879-0003},
abstract = {Pathogenic Escherichia coli O157:H7 encodes numerous lineage-enriched transcriptional regulatory proteins that are absent or poorly conserved in non-pathogenic strains, yet their functions in transcriptional programming and biofilm-associated virulence remain largely uncharacterized. Here, we identified eight previously unreported biofilm-associated regulatory proteins involved in biofilm formation in enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC) O157:H7 via comparative genomic analysis. Conserved domain analysis revealed that these regulators belong to diverse DNA-binding protein families, including LysR-, GntR-, LuxR-, AraC/XylS-, Cro/CI-, and Ogr/Delta-like families. Among these, two regulators (ECs_2620 and ECs_4457) were confirmed as direct DNA-binding transcriptional regulators through in vitro and in vivo DNA-binding assays. Functional analyses showed that overexpression of these regulators enhanced biofilm formation, whereas gene deletion impaired biofilm development and reduced bacterial virulence in both THP-1 cell and mouse infection models. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that these regulators primarily modulate genes involved in bacterial chemotaxis and flagellar assembly, representing a regulatory framework distinct from the classical c-di-GMP-centered regulatory paradigm described in non-pathogenic E. coli. Furthermore, we identified that the specific DNA-binding motifs of two regulators with direct in vitro DNA-binding activity. Evolutionary analysis showed that these regulators are highly conserved among pathogenic E. coli lineages, including EHEC, enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC), and enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC), but are absent or truncated in non-pathogenic E. coli K-12 strains. Collectively, this study characterizes a set of pathogen-enriched transcriptional regulatory proteins and provides new insights into the macromolecular regulatory mechanisms underlying biofilm formation and virulence in pathogenic E. coli.},
}

@article {pmid42526709,
year = {2026},
author = {Gallagher, M and Harkova, LG and Krawiel, D and McCarthy, RR and Cooke, G and Kelleher, F},
title = {Ciprofloxacin Metabolites Drive Resistance Development and Biofilm Changes in Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus.},
journal = {Journal of global antimicrobial resistance},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.jgar.2026.07.024},
pmid = {42526709},
issn = {2213-7173},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To investigate how two major ciprofloxacin metabolites, 2-oxo ciprofloxacin (M3) and N-formyl ciprofloxacin (M4), influence the resistance profiles and biofilm characteristics of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PAO1) and Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923).

METHODS: Both metabolites were synthesised, structurally validated, and co-cultured with bacterial strains at sub-inhibitory concentrations (SICs) over a 30-day period. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assays, crystal violet biofilm quantification, and genomic and transcriptomic analyses (whole genome and differential RNA sequencing) were employed to assess phenotypic and molecular adaptations.

RESULTS: Exposure to ciprofloxacin metabolites altered bacterial behaviour despite their weak intrinsic antimicrobial activity. In S. aureus, continuous exposure to M3 and M4 resulted in an eight and four-fold increase, respectively, in ciprofloxacin MIC values. In P. aeruginosa, although MIC values remained unchanged, prolonged exposure to both metabolites enhanced biofilm formation, M4 (p<0.0001) and M3 (p<0.0089)). Genomic sequencing of P. aeruginosa revealed a missense mutation (A290D) in the wspA gene following M3 exposure, which activates biofilm-promoting pathways via cyclic-di-GMP signalling. RNA sequencing identified 220 differentially expressed genes, including upregulation of quorum sensing regulators (rhlI, pqsH), nitric oxide cycle genes (nir, norCB), and the pel operon.

CONCLUSIONS: Ciprofloxacin metabolites, though less potent than the parent antibiotic, can drive adaptive responses linked to resistance and persistence. Their capacity to induce stable genetic and transcriptomic shifts underscores their potential ecological and clinical significance as underexplored factors in AMR.},
}

@article {pmid42528402,
year = {2026},
author = {Al-Gallas, N and Abbassi, MS},
title = {Aquatic enterococci from a Mediterranean lagoon (Bizerte, Tunisia): co-occurrence of antibiotic resistance, heavy metal tolerance, biofilm formation, and ST17 lineage.},
journal = {International journal of environmental health research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-13},
doi = {10.1080/09603123.2026.2709005},
pmid = {42528402},
issn = {1369-1619},
abstract = {Coastal lagoons receiving urban, agricultural, and industrial inputs are hotspots for co-selection and dissemination of antimicrobial and heavy metal resistance, yet their role as reservoirs of resistant enterococci remains poorly characterized in North Africa. This study investigated the Lagoon of Bizerte (northern Tunisia) as a reservoir of antimicrobial and heavy metal resistance in Enterococcus spp. A total of 146 isolates from eight sites were analyzed using integrated phenotypic, molecular, and epidemiological approaches. Enterococcus faecium (44.5%) and E. faecalis (26.7%) predominated. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing showed high resistance to tetracycline (44.5%) and erythromycin (43.1%), with multidrug resistance more frequent in E. faecium (46.1%). Fourteen resistance genes were identified, including tet(M/O/L/K), erm(A/B/C), mefA, msrA, aminoglycoside-modifying enzyme genes, and optrA, frequently linked to the Tn916-Tn1545 integrative element. Heavy metal tolerance was most common for copper, lead, zinc, and mercury, with corresponding resistance genes (pcoA, pbrT, zntB, merA, cnrA, silC, nccA, arsA) detected, particularly in E. faecium. Biofilm formation occurred in 81.6% of isolates, strongest in E. faecalis and E. faecium. Multilocus sequence typing of five optrA-positive E. faecium showed predominance of ST17. These findings demonstrate co-selection of resistance traits in lagoon enterococci, underscoring their epidemiological relevance as a public health concern in coastal ecosystems.},
}

@article {pmid42529510,
year = {2026},
author = {Mijajlovic, A and Stankovic, D and Sentic, M and Costache, V and Wang, S and Jbara, H and Deschamps, J and Briandet, R and Sojic, N and Vidic, J},
title = {In Situ Electrochemical Monitoring of Bacillus cereus Biofilm Formation.},
journal = {Chemical & biomedical imaging},
volume = {4},
number = {7},
pages = {1361-1369},
pmid = {42529510},
issn = {2832-3637},
abstract = {Unwanted biofilms pose significant challenges in the food industry, on medical devices, in water supply systems and marine environments, and even in space exploration. Label-free, advanced sensing approaches such as electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) have been investigated as tools for monitoring biofilm formation. The electrode material and the surrounding medium, differing in carbon source, ionic strength, or nutrient availability, can strongly influence bacterial metabolic activity, extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) production, and consequently the resulting impedimetric parameters. Here, we report Bacillus cereus (B. cereus) biofilm formation on gold and indium tin oxide (ITO) surfaces in two bacterial media that promote biofilm formation. We characterized the impedance responses of biofilms formed at different time points after inoculation and demonstrated a direct correlation between variations in charge transfer resistance and biofilm structure. Non-Faradaic EIS, confocal laser scanning microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy all indicated that B. cereus exhibited faster biofilm development on ITO than on gold, possibly due to differences in surface charge or antibacterial effects associated with the nanostructured gold surface. We demonstrate a strong correlation between EIS measurements and microscopic imaging observations of early biofilm formation and the extent of biofilm development. This combination of methodologies provides a reliable approach for detecting and characterizing biofilms, particularly given the high heterogeneity and dynamic behavior of microbial communities.},
}

@article {pmid42529625,
year = {2026},
author = {Cai, W and Xu, W and Ding, Y and Wang, H and Luo, X and Li, X and Zhang, M and Zhang, Y and Lu, R},
title = {LtrB inhibits Vibrio parahaemolyticus motility while promoting biofilm formation and seafood adhesion.},
journal = {Current research in food science},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {101512},
pmid = {42529625},
issn = {2665-9271},
abstract = {Vibrio parahaemolyticus is a major seafood-borne pathogen whose ability to form biofilms enhances its persistence in food-processing environments and contributes to its resistance to antimicrobial agents. In this study, we investigated the role of the LysR-type transcriptional regulator LtrB (VPA0388) in coordinating the switch between motility and biofilm formation in V. parahaemolyticus. We demonstrated that LtrB is required for proper biofilm development, extracellular matrix production, and wrinkled colony morphotype formation, while simultaneously repressing both swimming and swarming motility. Mechanistically, we showed that LtrB acts as a direct transcriptional regulator that binds to the promoter regions of multiple genes, including biofilm-matrix genes (cpsA, scvE, cpsQ, mfpA) and flagellar genes (flgM, flgA, flgB, flgK, lafA, fliD), activating the former and repressing the latter. In contrast, the regulation of motY and fliM appears to be indirect, as no binding of LtrB to their promoter regions was detected. Furthermore, LtrB exerts these regulatory effects largely independently of the c-di-GMP signaling pathway, as intracellular c-di-GMP levels remain unaltered upon ltrB deletion. Consistent with its role in promoting a sessile lifestyle, LtrB was required for bacterial adhesion to biotic (mussel and shrimp) and abiotic (glass and stainless steel) surfaces relevant to food production. These findings establish LtrB as a regulator that promotes a sessile, biofilm-forming lifestyle by downregulating motility and upregulating matrix production, thereby facilitating persistent colonization in food-related environments.},
}

@article {pmid42520506,
year = {2026},
author = {McCall, A and Pakhare, A and Shin, C and Jiang, Z and Guduru, P and Shukla, A},
title = {Investigating biofilm-induced mechanical changes in skin using a biofilm-skin composite model.},
journal = {Journal of the mechanical behavior of biomedical materials},
volume = {182},
number = {},
pages = {107563},
doi = {10.1016/j.jmbbm.2026.107563},
pmid = {42520506},
issn = {1878-0180},
abstract = {Wounds are highly susceptible to bacterial biofilm infections, which are difficult to treat and can lead to significant patient morbidity. Microneedles offer a promising strategy for enhancing therapeutic delivery to biofilms, but their interaction on biofilm-affected skin remains poorly understood. In this study, we developed a Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm-skin composite model to evaluate time-dependent changes in the mechanical properties of ex vivo porcine skin. Flat punch indentation and single solid microneedle penetration studies were performed for skin exposed to P. aeruginosa over three days to assess the influence of bacterial biofilm maturation on skin mechanics. As the bacterial biofilm matured with increasing bacterial burden, indentation testing revealed progressive changes in the mechanical response of the skin, including increased indenter adhesion to the biofilm-skin composite. Additionally, with increasing incubation time, microneedle puncture experiments demonstrated a decrease in observed punctures, suggesting both increased resistance or altered compliance of the biofilm-skin composite. Collectively, these findings provide a framework for mechanically informed evaluation of biofilm-infected skin that can guide future design of microneedle based and other topical therapeutic strategies for wound infection management.},
}

@article {pmid42520641,
year = {2026},
author = {Barman, S and Hossain, MW and Bansidhar, AC and Older, E and Li, J and Decho, AW and Tang, C},
title = {Synthetic polypeptide adjuvant-antibiotic combination eradicates polymicrobial assemblies, dormant bacteria and bacterial biofilm.},
journal = {Biomaterials},
volume = {336},
number = {},
pages = {124481},
doi = {10.1016/j.biomaterials.2026.124481},
pmid = {42520641},
issn = {1878-5905},
abstract = {In this work, we explore the potency of poly(D-peptide) (D-PP) in combination with diverse classes of antibiotics to address multidrug-resistant (MDR) Gram-negative superbugs, including their mature biofilms, polymicrobial assemblies, and dormant subpopulations, which are among complex challenging targets. The polypeptide adjuvant displayed significant antibiotic potentiation, resulting in a moderate to rapid bactericidal activity against the Gram-negative pathogens in their planktonic stage. The adjuvant and its combination restored susceptibility in dormant bacterial subpopulations. In polymicrobial settings, these combinations were able to reduce both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterial species, unlike individual antibiotic exposure. Importantly, one of the lead combinations (D-PP-rifampicin) resulted in moderate biofilm eradication of P. aeruginosa. Transcriptomic analysis demonstrated the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) involved in membrane integrity, stress response, and transport systems. Together with our previous mechanistic findings, this further confirmed that bacterial membrane perturbation is caused by the adjuvant. Such perturbation facilitated antibiotic accumulation within microbial cells. Furthermore, polypeptide reduces the bacterial resistance development towards doxycycline and rifampicin, unlike polymyxin B. Taken together, these findings exhibit that membrane-active polypeptide adjuvants can enhance antibiotic efficacy across diverse bacterial states and environments, providing a promising strategy to combat persistent and multidrug-resistant infections.},
}

@article {pmid42520664,
year = {2026},
author = {Blanco-Cabra, N and Huguet, J and Samitier, J and Rodríguez-Trujillo, R and Torrents, E},
title = {A simple diagnostic platform reveals shear stress as critical in biofilm development.},
journal = {Colloids and surfaces. B, Biointerfaces},
volume = {268},
number = {Pt 1},
pages = {116013},
doi = {10.1016/j.colsurfb.2026.116013},
pmid = {42520664},
issn = {1873-4367},
abstract = {Biofilms are complex microbial communities that exhibit increased tolerance to antibiotics, posing significant challenges in treating chronic infections and highlighting the need for more accurate and personalized diagnostic approaches, as well as simple and accessible platforms for growing biofilms under controlled flow conditions that better mimic in vivo environments. The XpertBiofilm is a novel platform designed to reproduce dynamic flow conditions by applying controlled shear stress, enabling a more realistic simulation of biofilm formation while allowing straightforward downstream analysis. Using this platform, we demonstrated a direct relationship between shear stress and biofilm biomass formation in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Moreover, the XpertBiofilm was successfully validated for diagnostic applications using both clinical P. aeruginosa strains and direct sputum samples from cystic fibrosis patients, accurately reflecting their known susceptibility profiles and supporting the platform's potential to enable better patient treatment selection. Overall, the XpertBiofilm provides a reliable, user-friendly, and physiologically relevant platform for studying biofilms and evaluating therapeutic strategies, offering strong potential for both basic research and personalized clinical diagnostics.},
}

@article {pmid42521574,
year = {2026},
author = {Xia, Y and Zhu, L and Geng, N and Lu, D and Xu, C and Withana, PA and Vithanage, M and Khan, E and Ok, YS},
title = {Retraction notice to "Nitrogen transformation in slightly polluted surface water by a novel biofilm reactor: Long-term performance and microbial population characteristics" [Sci. Total Environ. 829 (2022) 154623].},
journal = {The Science of the total environment},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {182090},
doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2026.182090},
pmid = {42521574},
issn = {1879-1026},
}

@article {pmid42522627,
year = {2026},
author = {Ji, Z and Yin, L and Xie, Y and Xu, Z and Zheng, C and Jiao, X and Chen, X},
title = {[Multidimensional characterization of biofilm formation promoted by Mycobacterium tuberculosis Rv1904].},
journal = {Sheng wu gong cheng xue bao = Chinese journal of biotechnology},
volume = {42},
number = {7},
pages = {3217-3228},
doi = {10.13345/j.cjb.260025},
pmid = {42522627},
issn = {1872-2075},
support = {2021YFD1800403//the National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; D18007//the 111 Project/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; *Mycobacterium tuberculosis/genetics/physiology/drug effects ; *Bacterial Proteins/genetics/physiology/metabolism ; Mycobacterium smegmatis/genetics/physiology ; Thioacetazone/pharmacology ; },
abstract = {Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tb), the causative agent of tuberculosis, forms biofilms that contribute significantly to enhanced drug resistance. This study aimed to investigate the role of Rv1904 in the biofilm formation of M. tb. Recombinant strains were constructed for both Mycobacterium smegmatis and M. tb, followed by systematic biological characterization in terms of colony morphology, biofilm-forming ability, sliding motility and aggregation phenotypes, transcription levels of specific genes, tolerance to environmental stresses, intracellular survival capacity, and susceptibility to multiple compounds. The results demonstrated that Rv1904 markedly promoted biofilm formation, upregulated the transcription of the fatty acid synthesis gene fabg4, and enhanced bacterial tolerance to abiotic stresses such as temperature fluctuations, oxidative damage, and nutrient deprivation. These effects collectively improved intracellular survival within host cells. Among the seven tested compounds, thioacetazone (TB1) exhibited the strongest inhibitory effect on biofilm formation. In conclusion, Rv1904 enhances the environmental adaptation and survival advantage of M. tb by promoting biofilm formation, whereas TB1 effectively suppresses Rv1904-mediated biofilm formation. This study reveals the critical role of Rv1904 in biofilm regulation and provides a potential new target for the development of anti-tuberculosis drugs targeting biofilms.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
*Mycobacterium tuberculosis/genetics/physiology/drug effects
*Bacterial Proteins/genetics/physiology/metabolism
Mycobacterium smegmatis/genetics/physiology
Thioacetazone/pharmacology

@article {pmid42522769,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, Q and Li, L and Luo, Y and Huang, C and Xu, Y},
title = {Synergistic physicochemical defense: integrating hydrophobic repulsion with spontaneous oxidase-mimetic activity to construct antibacterial and anti-biofilm nanofiber membranes.},
journal = {Nanoscale},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1039/d6nr00719h},
pmid = {42522769},
issn = {2040-3372},
abstract = {Nanofiber membranes loaded with nanozymes exhibit considerable promise in the domain of sanitary protection. Existing research strategies predominantly use outside energy sources like light or electricity to enhance catalytic activity. Although these approaches improve antibacterial efficiency, they fail to address application constraints and the potential for secondary contamination from biofilms, hindering the development of practical protective devices. Herein, we propose an oxidase-mimetic Co-N-C nanozyme with thermodynamic spontaneity loaded onto a hydrophobic polyacrylonitrile (PAN)/polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) fiber membrane substrate via electrospinning technology, achieving bactericidal and anti-biofilm effects through a synergistic "chemical (oxidase-mimetic-mediated sterilization)" and "physical (membrane hydrophobicity against biofilms)" effect. Specifically, Co-N-C enzymes can efficiently utilize water and oxygen in the air, making reactive oxygen species (ROS) all the time, which makes cell membranes less permeable and causes proteins to leak out; the sterilization rate can reach over 99%. Hydrophobic PAN/PVP fiber membranes effectively decrease bacterial adhesion on the membrane surface, thereby mitigating conditions favourable to biofilm formation. Long-term cyclic inactivation tests show that PAN/PVP/Co-N-C effectively inactivates pathogens and reduces biofilm formation by up to 90.4%. PAN/PVP/Co-N-C can serve as an ideal product for antimicrobial barrier films, with potential for expansion into other protective materials (such as masks) through technological improvements, presenting broad commercialization prospects.},
}

@article {pmid42523099,
year = {2026},
author = {Sahu, S and Kim, B and Lee, S and Lee, SG and Lee, JH and Oh, T-J},
title = {Complete genome of Bacillus zhangzhouensis PAMC22242 isolated from biofilm in Svalbard, Norway.},
journal = {Microbiology resource announcements},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0024326},
doi = {10.1128/mra.00243-26},
pmid = {42523099},
issn = {2576-098X},
abstract = {The present study presents the complete genomic sequence of a novel Bacillus zhangzhouensis PAMC22242 isolated from biofilm at Kongsfjorden dock, Svalbard, Norway. The genome size is 3,507,368, with a 41.5% GC content, including genes putatively associated with non-ribosomal peptide synthetase biosynthesis and metal-related transport systems.},
}

@article {pmid42523307,
year = {2026},
author = {Smith, OER and Clemente, CM and Andreeva, A and Wang, Z and Weimann, A and Dinan, A and Houghton-Flory, C and Tarafder, AK and Böhning, J and O'Toole, GA and Floto, RA and Mobarec, JC and Bateman, A and Bharat, TAM},
title = {Structural basis of biofilm formation mediated by the Pseudomonas aeruginosa fibrillar adhesin CdrA.},
journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.64898/2026.07.13.738186},
pmid = {42523307},
issn = {2692-8205},
abstract = {Many bacteria, including the important human pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa , are naturally found in antibiotic-tolerant, multicellular biofilms. Cell-cell interactions within P. aeruginosa biofilms are mediated by a large fibrillar adhesin called CdrA in an extracellular polysaccharide-dependent manner. Here, we report an electron cryomicroscopy structure of the 60 kDa CdrA adhesive N-terminus, which combined with electron cryotomography of focused-ion beam milled specimens, allows us to derive a complete in situ model of the native adhesin. Our structure reveals a small adhesive domain (called ADEPT) at the distal tip of CdrA that is nearly perfectly conserved across the P. aeruginosa pangenome, with structural similarity to previously reported sugar-binding domains in multiple bacterial species. Inhibitory nanobodies targeting CdrA that reduce biofilm formation bind to epitopes in, or close to, the ADEPT on bacterial cells. Furthermore, structure-guided mutagenesis of residues within the ADEPT abolishes bacterial aggregation, and genomic deletion of the whole ADEPT leads to strong attenuation of biofilm formation. Our data forms a rational basis for future targeted inhibition of pathogenic P. aeruginosa biofilms and elucidates the mechanism of biofilm formation mediated by fibrillar adhesins that are widespread in bacteria.},
}

@article {pmid42507243,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, J and Li, W and Lan, W and Ye, L and Gao, B},
title = {Comparison of Laser and Conventional Root Canal Disinfection Protocols in an dual-biofilm in-vitro model.},
journal = {Lasers in medical science},
volume = {41},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42507243},
issn = {1435-604X},
support = {2023NSFSC0575//Sichuan Provincial Science and Technology Support Program/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Biofilms/radiation effects ; Enterococcus faecalis/radiation effects ; *Lasers, Solid-State/therapeutic use ; *Disinfection/methods ; Candida albicans/radiation effects ; *Dental Pulp Cavity/microbiology/radiation effects ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning ; Photochemotherapy/methods ; Periapical Periodontitis/microbiology/therapy ; Root Canal Irrigants ; Root Canal Preparation/methods ; },
abstract = {To compare the effect of laser and other four traditional root canal disinfection methods on the removal of microorganisms in the root canal of refractory periapical periodontitis. 155 single-canal premolars were made into 13 mm long standard roots, infected with E. faecalis and C. albicans, randomly divided into five groups, and treated with A: lateral syringe irrigation group; B: ultrasonic irrigation group; C: sonic irrigation group; D: Er∶ YAG laser in SWEEPS mode group; E: photodynamic therapy group for root canal irrigation. Root canal samples were collected with 25# K files before and after irrigation. The irrigation effectiveness was quantitatively analyzed by flat colony counting method and observed by scanning electron microscope and confocal laser scanning electron microscope. The Er∶ YAG laser group had the highest clearance efficiency for E. faecalis (P < 0.05), and the ultrasonic irrigation effect was lower than that of Er∶ YAG laser (P < 0.05), while there was no difference between that of sonic irrigation group, photodynamic therapy group and lateral syringe irrigation group (P > 0.05). These five methods were all able to clear C. albicans well without significant difference (P > 0.05). SEM and confocal laser SEM showed that Er∶ YAG laser groups were more effective at removing smear layers and total bacteria. The performance of Er∶ YAG laser eliminating E. faecalis and C. albicans and the smear layer was found superior in the root canal of refractory apical periodontitis. It is recommended to employ Er∶ YAG laser for subsequent root canal decontamination following root canal preparation. Clinical trial number: Not applicable.},
}

Humans
*Biofilms/radiation effects
Enterococcus faecalis/radiation effects
*Lasers, Solid-State/therapeutic use
*Disinfection/methods
Candida albicans/radiation effects
*Dental Pulp Cavity/microbiology/radiation effects
Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
Photochemotherapy/methods
Periapical Periodontitis/microbiology/therapy
Root Canal Irrigants
Root Canal Preparation/methods

@article {pmid42508658,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, H and Luo, W and Wu, T and An, Z and Xu, J and Shan, W and Li, D},
title = {Exogenous phytohormone-assisted rotating algal biofilm reactor for enhanced polyacrylamide wastewater treatment and bioresource recovery.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {135512},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.135512},
pmid = {42508658},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Polyacrylamide (PAM) is a refractory pollutant with a stable molecular structure and low bioavailability, which severely limits the efficiency of conventional biological treatment processes. This study established a rotating algal biofilm (RAB) system for PAM-laden wastewater treatment and investigated the regulatory effects of exogenous indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and salicylic acid (SA) on treatment performance, carbon metabolism, and microbial communities. Single-dose tests identified 15 mg L[-1] IAA and 3 mg L[-1] SA as the optimal concentrations under laboratory conditions. The combined IAA + SA treatment outperformed single-hormone and control groups, achieving higher PAM and total organic carbon removal efficiencies, accelerated inorganic carbon turnover, and significantly improved biofilm biomass, chlorophyll-a content, and intracellular lipid accumulation. This approach achieved synchronous wastewater treatment and biomass enrichment within the experimental cycle, and lipid-rich biofilms have potential for subsequent resource utilization. Specifically, IAA promoted the enrichment of typical heterotrophic genera including Persicitalea, Arenimonas and Lewinella, which were positively correlated with PAM removal. Meanwhile, SA facilitated photoautotrophic growth to maintain metabolic stability. Combined phytohormone regulation reshaped prokaryotic and eukaryotic community structures, balanced trophic relationships, and supported PAM transformation and carbon metabolic coupling during operation. Overall, this strategy optimized carbon metabolic patterns and microbial assembly, and simultaneously enhanced pollutant removal and high-value biomass accumulation at the laboratory scale. The findings provide a theoretical reference for PAM wastewater bioremediation and biomass resource recovery in phototrophic biofilm systems.},
}

@article {pmid42508701,
year = {2026},
author = {Pinheiro, DRS and Barbosa, SA and de Oliveira, LC and de Farias Cabral, VP and Rodrigues, DS and da Costa, ÉRM and Silveira, MJCB and Gomes, LEAM and Cavalcanti, BC and Magalhães, IL and Dos Santos, CAL and de Oliveira Ferreira, JR and de Moares Filho, MO and de Andrade Neto, JB and do Amaral Valente Sá, LG and da Silva, CR and Júnior, HVN},
title = {Antifungal and anti-biofilm activity of doxepin against Candida spp. mediated by oxidative stress and modulation of adhesion-related genes.},
journal = {Microbial pathogenesis},
volume = {219},
number = {},
pages = {108735},
doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2026.108735},
pmid = {42508701},
issn = {1096-1208},
abstract = {Candida species are associated with invasive infections characterized by causing high rates of mortality and morbidity, particularly when linked to biofilm formation. The present study investigated the in vitro antifungal activity of doxepin (DOX) against fluconazole-resistant strains of Candida spp., including 10 clinical isolates, 2 ATCC strains and 1 CDC strain. Antifungal susceptibility assays were performed on planktonic cells and biofilms, followed by cytometric analyses, including reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, mitochondrial depolarization, phosphatidylserine externalization, and cell viability. Molecular analyses involved docking and gene expression by qRT-PCR. DOX exhibited fungicidal activity against all strains, with MIC50 values ranging from 64 to 256 μg/mL, as well as significant reduction of biofilm formation. In combination with amphotericin B, a predominantly synergistic effect was observed, with increased efficacy at lower concentrations. Mechanistically, DOX induced oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and apoptosis, reducing fungal viability. The in silico ADME profile showed high gastrointestinal absorption, indicating potential for oral bioavailability, compatible with systemic use. Furthermore, it established stable interactions with the Als3 and Sap5 proteins, also promoting changes in the expression of virulence-related genes, such as als3, sap5, ece1, and hwp1. These findings indicate that DOX exhibits promising antifungal activity for the treatment of Candida infections, particularly highlighting its potential against biofilms.},
}

@article {pmid42508702,
year = {2026},
author = {Xu, KZ and Yin, LJ and Ding, ZW and Wang, M and Meng, D},
title = {Transcriptomic Insights into Casein-Driven Adaptive Evolution of Burkholderia thailandensis: Implications for Biofilm Formation and Antibiotic Susceptibility.},
journal = {Microbial pathogenesis},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {108733},
doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2026.108733},
pmid = {42508702},
issn = {1096-1208},
abstract = {How nutrient stress shapes bacterial evolution and the associated fitness trade-offs remains a central question in microbiology. Using Burkholderia thailandensis as a surrogate for the pathogen B. pseudomallei, we performed adaptive laboratory evolution with casein as the sole carbon source. Over 30 days of serial passaging, the population shifted towards protease deficiency, with mutants constituting 54.94% by the endpoint. These evolved strains exhibited pleiotropic virulence attenuation-including reduced rhamnolipid production, motility, auto-aggregation, and biofilm formation-alongside increased susceptibility to imipenem and chloramphenicol. RNA-seq analysis of evolved strain E3101 revealed 2,836 differentially expressed genes, with significant downregulation of quorum sensing (AHL synthesis), rhamnosyltransferases, flagellar assembly, and biofilm regulatory pathways. Our findings demonstrate that casein-driven evolution selects for social 'cheaters' that conserve energy by downregulating costly virulence determinants, revealing a fundamental virulence-fitness trade-off. The coordinated transcriptional repression of biofilm and antibiotic resistance pathways provides a mechanistic framework for understanding bacterial adaptation strategies and potential therapeutic vulnerabilities in Burkholderia.},
}

@article {pmid42511590,
year = {2026},
author = {Tankiewicz, M and Niciejewski, K and Dydecka, A and Topka-Bielecka, G},
title = {The Fruit Biome: Biofilm Dynamics and Consumer Health Risks with Focus on the Apple (Malus domestica) as a Model System.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {14},
pages = {},
pmid = {42511590},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {01-30026/0010494/01/322/322/0/2026//Ministry of Science and Higher Education/ ; },
abstract = {Fruit surfaces serve as ecological interfaces that support diverse microbial communities, where biofilm formation by spoilage organisms and human pathogens contributes to postharvest safety concerns. Although fruit-associated microbiota and chemical residues have been widely investigated, the interactions between surface microstructure, residue dynamics, and microbial persistence remain insufficiently integrated. This review synthesizes current knowledge by considering three key processes: temporal succession of microbial communities, structural vulnerability of the fruit surface, and chemically mediated selective pressures. Using apple (Malus domestica) as a model system, we examine how structural features such as lenticels and cuticular microdamage interact with pesticide residues to facilitate microbial retention, sequestration, and internalization. Evidence indicates that pesticide residues may act as selective stressors and, in some cases, potential metabolic substrates, thereby enhancing microbial persistence and tolerance to sanitization. These combined factors contribute to the formation of a high-persistence surface environment. Integrating microbiological, chemical, and plant structural perspectives, this review provides a mechanistic basis for the limited effectiveness of conventional decontamination approaches and highlights the need for multidisciplinary postharvest strategies to improve produce safety and shelf life.},
}

@article {pmid42511734,
year = {2026},
author = {Yuantrakul, S and Yinsai, O and Chaiwarit, T and Srisithan, P and Zhou, W and Ruenjai, K and Khamnoi, P and Duangsonk, K},
title = {Comprehensive Phenotypic Characterization of Clinical Elizabethkingia Isolates and Evaluation of the Antimicrobial and Anti-Biofilm Activity of Dialdehyde Cellulose.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {14},
pages = {},
pmid = {42511734},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {103-69//Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University/ ; },
abstract = {Elizabethkingia species have emerged as important nosocomial pathogens associated with multidrug resistance and persistent infections. This study aimed to characterize clinical Elizabethkingia isolates from Northern Thailand regarding antimicrobial susceptibility, virulence-associated phenotypes, and biofilm formation, and to evaluate the antimicrobial and anti-biofilm activity of dialdehyde cellulose (DAC) film. A total of 49 clinical isolates were identified by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry, with species identification confirmed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Antimicrobial susceptibility was determined against 12 agents. Virulence traits (protease, lipase, lecithinase, and hemolysin production) and biofilm formation were assessed using standard phenotypic assays. DAC films were evaluated against selected resistant isolates. Elizabethkingia anophelis predominated, and most isolates exhibited multidrug or extensive drug resistance, with high resistance to carbapenems and cephalosporins. Piperacillin-tazobactam, levofloxacin, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole showed the greatest activity. All isolates demonstrated protease production and time-dependent hemolysis, while lipase and lecithinase activities were absent. Biofilm formation varied among isolates, while DAC films inhibited bacterial growth and prevented detectable biofilm formation in the tested isolates. No significant difference was observed between DAC and DAC supplemented with meropenem in inhibition zone diameters (p = 0.555). Clinical Elizabethkingia isolates demonstrated extensive antimicrobial resistance with conserved virulence traits and heterogeneous biofilm formation. DAC films demonstrated antimicrobial activity and prevented detectable biofilm formation under the experimental conditions. Further studies are warranted to evaluate their mechanism of action and potential applications.},
}

@article {pmid42513106,
year = {2026},
author = {Maliszewska, I and Nowinski, D and Baturo-Cieśniewska, A},
title = {Atmospheric Pressure Dielectric Barrier Discharge Plasma Treatment of Alternaria and Fusarium Species: Impact on Fungal Physiology, Antifungal Sensitivity, and Biofilm Formation.},
journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {31},
number = {14},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/molecules31142422},
pmid = {42513106},
issn = {1420-3049},
abstract = {This study investigated the effects of repeated dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma applications on the morphological and physiological characteristics of pathogenic Alternaria and Fusarium species. Fungi, including both culture collection strains and environmental isolates, were exposed to sublethal doses of DBD plasma. The results demonstrated that the plasma exposure time required to achieve 90% cell mortality varied significantly among microorganisms, ranging from 2 min and 39 s for Fusarium culmorum DSM 1094 to 5 min and 19 s for Alternaria alternata DSM 62010. Tolerance to oxidative stress, assessed by determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) of hydrogen peroxide, generally decreased following repeated plasma exposure. Notably, F. tricinctum Ft11S-23 exhibited increased resistance to hydrogen peroxide, with MIC values doubling after fifteen plasma treatments. The MFC also increased significantly, rising from 25.5 mM to 102.0 mM. Furthermore, repeated DBD plasma applications resulted in reduced tolerance of fungi to at least one of the tested fungicides; however, exceptions were observed, including increased tolerance of F. culmorum to specific fungicides. The capacity for biofilm formation was modulated by plasma treatment, with some species exhibiting reduced biofilm formation while others demonstrated increased capacity, depending on the specific pathogen and frequency of plasma exposure.},
}

@article {pmid42513920,
year = {2026},
author = {Alba-Cuevas, JE and Villa-Cruz, V and Ladrón de Guevara, HP and Zelaya-Molina, LX and Gómez-Velázquez, HD},
title = {Biofilm Characterization by AFM and SEM and Growth Kinetics of Geobacter sulfurreducens in Regional Cheese Whey.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14071414},
pmid = {42513920},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {1002206//SECIHTI/ ; },
abstract = {Geobacter sulfurreducens is a model bacterium widely used in microbial fuel cell (MFC) research due to its efficient extracellular electron transfer. However, the high cost of synthetic media limits the scalability of these systems, making agro-industrial byproducts like cheese whey a sustainable alternative. This study evaluated cheese whey as a growth medium for G. sulfurreducens and its influence on biofilm development on graphite bars electrodes. Bacterial growth kinetics and biofilm architecture were characterized using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) as the primary quantitative tool, supplemented by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Growth curves revealed a diauxic-like transition within the first 48 h, with high cell viability (94%). AFM analysis demonstrated a non-linear topographical evolution: an initial attachment phase was followed by a peak in structural heterogeneity at 14 days (Sq = 683.08 nm), eventually reaching a mature, confluent state at 21 days with a maximum thickness of ~8 μm. Energy-Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) confirmed an organic and mineral matrix consistent with bacterial biomass and whey components. These results demonstrate that cheese whey effectively supports the growth of G. sulfurreducens and the formation of structurally complex biofilms, highlighting its potential as a low-cost substrate for microbial cultivation and dairy waste valorization.},
}

@article {pmid42513934,
year = {2026},
author = {Cosimato, I and Di Siervi, G and De Prisco, M and Dell'Annunziata, F and Capuano, N and Cafà, N and Barbato, A and Sammartino, JC and Salzano, F and Pagliano, P and Boccia, G and De Caro, F and Rescigno, G and Franci, G},
title = {Investigation of Biofilm Formation and Antimicrobial Resistance in Bacteria Isolated from Hospital Medical Devices.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14071429},
pmid = {42513934},
issn = {2076-2607},
abstract = {Background: Medical device-associated infections represent a major component of healthcare-associated infections. Biofilm formation promotes microbial persistence on device surfaces, reduces antimicrobial susceptibility, and contributes to multidrug resistance (MDR), complicating diagnosis and treatment. Materials and Method: This study investigated biofilm production and antimicrobial resistance in microorganisms recovered from 100 indwelling and implantable medical devices, including urinary and venous catheters, urethral stents, catheter tips, and orthopedic or prosthetic materials, collected at a tertiary-care hospital (AOU "San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d'Aragona", Salerno, Italy). Microbiological cultures were performed using direct and enrichment methods. Microbial identification was carried out by MALDI-TOF MS, antimicrobial susceptibility testing by VITEK[®] (bioMérieux, Marcy-l'Étoile, France) 2 according to EUCAST criteria, and biofilm production was assessed using the crystal violet tissue culture plate assay. MDR status was defined according to international guidelines. Results: Microbial growth was detected in the majority of analized devices, frequently with polymicrobial contamination. Within the study cohort, coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) were the most frequently recovered microorganisms (20%), followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae (10%), Candida albicans (9%), Staphylococcus aureus (9%), Enterococcus faecalis (8%), and Escherichia coli (8%). A significant association was observed between multidrug resistance and biofilm production, with MDR isolates showing a markedly higher likelihood of being biofilm producers compared with non-MDR isolates (OR 9.50; 95% CI 2.72-42.96; p < 0.005). Biofilm formation also differed significantly among device types (p = 0.028). Conclusions: These findings indicate a high prevalence of biofilm-producing MDR microorganisms among isolated recovered from medical devices in our cohort and highlight a significant association between MDR phenotype and biofilm production. These results provide a microbiological characterization of device-associated isolates that may support future studies on infection dynamics and control strategies.},
}

@article {pmid42513941,
year = {2026},
author = {Aworh, MK and Reggans, CW and Sellars, MS and Deutschlander, JC and Taylor, IJ and Struble, DG and Edwards, KL and Harden, L and Locklear, R and Delaney Nguyen, K},
title = {Interconnected Reservoirs: Virulence & Biofilm Traits of ESBL-Klebsiella pneumoniae in Municipal Wastewater & Agricultural Systems.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14071435},
pmid = {42513941},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {DBFS Research Seed Award//Fayetteville State University/ ; },
abstract = {Extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae (ESBL-KP) is an important antimicrobial-resistant pathogen, and wastewater may serve as a reservoir for its persistence and dissemination. This study investigated the virulence-associated genes, biofilm-forming capacity and genomic relatedness of ESBL-KP isolates recovered from wastewater and livestock farm environments in southeastern North Carolina. A cross-sectional study was conducted between May and September 2025 at two wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) and two livestock farms. ESBL-KP isolates recovered from wastewater, animal feces, and water samples were characterized using PCR, whole-genome sequencing and crystal violet biofilm assays. Genomic relatedness was assessed using phylogenomic analysis. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Fisher's exact test. ESBL-KP was detected in 15.4% (n = 69/449) of samples, with the highest prevalence observed in WWTPs (75.4%, n = 52) followed by poultry farms (21.7%, n = 15). The most frequent virulence genes were mrkD (30/69), entB (26/69), K2 (21/69), and rmpA (21/69). Significant variation in gene distribution by sample type was observed for mrkD (p = 0.0013) and entB (p = 0.0011). Biofilm formation varied by sample type, with strong biofilm predominating in influent (n = 20) and sludge (n = 8), although no significant differences were detected across sample types (p = 0.357). Phylogenetic analysis revealed that one poultry farm isolate was clonally related to wastewater isolates, differing by 1-3 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and sharing the virulence genes mrkA, iutA, and fimH. Overall, environmental ESBL-KP isolates exhibited widespread virulence potential and robust biofilm-forming capacity, while phylogenetic evidence demonstrated clonal relatedness between poultry farm and wastewater isolates and sharing mrkA, iutA, and fimH virulence genes. These findings highlight wastewater and agricultural systems as genetically related reservoirs for clinically relevant ESBL-KP strains and underscore the need for strengthened One Health-based surveillance to monitor and mitigate their environmental dissemination.},
}

@article {pmid42513977,
year = {2026},
author = {Di Bonaventura, G and Gherardi, G and Barchitta, M and Agodi, A and Pompilio, A},
title = {Enhanced Biofilm Formation by ICU-Associated Stenotrophomonas maltophilia Isolates: A Potential Contributor to Persistence and Clonal Dissemination.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14071471},
pmid = {42513977},
issn = {2076-2607},
abstract = {Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is an emerging multidrug-resistant opportunistic pathogen in intensive care units (ICUs) and cystic fibrosis (CF), where biofilm formation may favor persistence, device-associated colonization/infection, and clonal dissemination. This study compared biofilm formation, clonal relatedness, biofilm phenotypes, and motility in 37 ICU-associated and 42 CF-associated S. maltophilia isolates. Biofilm formation on polystyrene was quantified by crystal violet assay and expressed both as absolute biomass and as a growth-normalized Biofilm Index, calculated to account for differences in planktonic growth. Genetic diversity was assessed by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis, while swimming and twitching motility were evaluated using agar-based assays. ICU isolates showed a higher prevalence of biofilm formation, greater biofilm biomass, and higher growth-normalized Biofilm Index values than CF isolates. They also displayed lower genetic diversity and more frequent cross-transmission, supporting the circulation of selected hospital-associated lineages. Conversely, CF isolates showed greater heterogeneity and a more complex biofilm pattern, consistent with adaptation to a distinct chronic airway environment. Motility was not associated with biofilm formation, suggesting that the enhanced biofilm phenotype of ICU isolates is not explained by swimming or twitching alone. Overall, these findings support a setting-specific model in which enhanced biofilm-forming capacity may contribute to S. maltophilia ICU persistence and clonal dissemination, highlighting the need for targeted surveillance and careful device management.},
}

@article {pmid42514088,
year = {2026},
author = {Shrestha, A and Shringi, S and Awosile, B and Shah, DH},
title = {Prevalence of Biofilm-Forming Non-Typhoidal Salmonella Across the Farm-to-Fork Continuum: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14071584},
pmid = {42514088},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {NA//Texas Tech University School of Veterinary Medicine/ ; },
abstract = {Non-typhoidal Salmonella (NTS) remains a major cause of foodborne illness worldwide, and its persistence along the food-production continuum poses a significant public health challenge. Biofilm formation is an adaptive mechanism that enhances NTS survival and persistence outside the primary animal reservoir, particularly under extra-host stress conditions in food and environmental settings. We hypothesized that true biofilm-positive NTS are less prevalent in animal reservoirs and relatively enriched in food-, environmental-, and human-associated sources along the farm-to-fork continuum, reflecting their increased likelihood of persisting in foods and contributing to human exposure. Systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following PRISMA guidelines, identifying 88 eligible studies; 57 qualified for systematic review, and 47 and 35 qualified for source- and serogroup-based meta-analyses, respectively. Descriptive synthesis revealed substantial biological and methodological heterogeneity across studies. Proportion-based analysis showed that true biofilm-positive (TBP) prevalence was lowest among animal isolates (58.4%), increased in food (67.7%) and human isolates (73.1%), and was highest among environmental isolates (88.1%) (χ[2] test, p < 0.001). In the source-based meta-analysis, the pooled TBP prevalence was 73.9% (95% CI: 58.4-85.06%). Meta-regression demonstrated that the predicted proportion of TBP NTS among food and human sources was significantly higher compared with the animal reservoir (food: p = 0.0002; human: p = 0.0005), whereas the difference between the environmental and animal reservoirs was not statistically significant (p = 0.075). These findings suggest that biofilm-forming NTS are enriched outside the primary animal reservoir under extra-host stress conditions. The results raise testable hypotheses regarding biofilm-mediated persistence and enrichment across the food-production continuum and support future longitudinal studies to evaluate its role in transmission and targeted sanitation strategies.},
}

@article {pmid42516389,
year = {2026},
author = {Deng, X and Zhang, L and Li, J and Yang, F and Peng, C and Peng, J and Yu, Y and Huang, X and Yang, X and Yang, L},
title = {Berberine alleviates biofilm-associated immune-inflammatory injury in Staphylococcus aureus-induced osteomyelitis: insights from network pharmacology and experimental validation.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1878634},
pmid = {42516389},
issn = {1664-3224},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Staphylococcus aureus (SA)-induced osteomyelitis (OM) is a common orthopedic infection characterized by biofilm formation and persistent inflammation. Berberine (BBR), a natural isoquinoline alkaloid, exhibits antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities. However, its therapeutic potential in OM and underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study investigated the effects of BBR against SA-induced OM and explored potential mechanisms through network pharmacology and validation.

METHODS: An in vitro SA biofilm model was established to assess the effects of BBR on bacterial survival and mature biofilm structure using colony-forming unit (CFU) counting, light microscopy, and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). A mouse model of SA-induced OM was established. A clindamycin (CLD)-treated group was included in vivo as a positive antibiotic comparator to benchmark the antibacterial efficacy of BBR and assess the limitations of this compound. Biofilm formation on implants was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Serum inflammatory mediators were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and histopathological changes in peri-implant bone were evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. Network pharmacology and molecular docking were performed to identify targets and pathways, and key proteins were validated by Western blotting.

RESULTS: BBR significantly reduced bacterial viability within biofilms and decreased CFU counts in vitro. Microscopic observations showed disrupted biofilm architecture and reduced biofilm coverage after treatment. In vivo, compared with the untreated OM group, CLD produced a more pronounced reduction in bacterial load than BBR. BBR significantly alleviated bone destruction, reduced implant-associated biofilm formation, decreased inflammatory cell infiltration, and improved tissue morphology. ELISA results showed that BBR markedly reduced pro-inflammatory mediator levels. Network pharmacology identified prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2) as a key target and implicated the hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1) signaling pathway. Molecular docking indicated favorable binding between BBR and PTGS2. Western blotting showed that BBR downregulated PTGS2 and HIF-1α expression in infected tissues.

CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that BBR exerts protective effects against SA-induced OM through antibiofilm and anti-inflammatory activities. However, its antibacterial efficacy was weaker than that of CLD, indicating that BBR should not be regarded as a replacement for antibiotics but rather as an adjunctive therapy for biofilm-associated osteomyelitis.},
}

@article {pmid42516399,
year = {2026},
author = {Davies, E and Drauch, V and Alitabar, M and Fesina, D and Großpointner, L and Hess, C and Martelli, F},
title = {Influence of the Salmonella Infantis pESI plasmid on disinfectant efficacy when in biofilm.},
journal = {Access microbiology},
volume = {8},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {42516399},
issn = {2516-8290},
abstract = {Salmonella Infantis strains harbouring multi-drug resistance to high-priority critically important antimicrobials have been isolated globally, giving cause for concern. The serovar is highly persistent throughout the poultry industry and is the fourth most reported serovar linked to zoonotic disease. The serovar's resistance is attributed to the presence of a megaplasmid termed pESI. Biocides are an important tool to reduce the need to use antimicrobials, including antibiotics. Bacteria can produce a protective exopolysaccharide matrix called biofilm, and biofilm presence can reduce the efficacy of disinfectants. Here, we aimed to assess the role of pESI on disinfectant efficacy and biofilm formation and a contributing factor in serovar persistence. We analysed S. Infantis strains isolated within the UK and Austria, using in vitro planktonic and biofilm disinfectant efficacy assays. Commercially available, commonly used peroxymonosulphate, chlorocresol and aldehyde-quaternary ammonium compound-based UK poultry disinfectants were assessed. Biofilm formation was evaluated after 72- and 120-h incubation and on a variety of surfaces. Comparative genomic analysis was performed between the UK and Austrian isolates, as well as further globally isolated strains. We identified variation in the presence/absence of antimicrobial resistance genes in both the whole-genome and plasmid sequences, within and between the UK and Austrian strains. Variation in biofilm formation was observed between strains, with greater biofilm formation on non-porous surfaces. Despite this, we could not demonstrate an influence of the pESI plasmid on biofilm formation. Additionally, the presence or absence of the plasmid, or variation observed within the plasmid, did not seem to influence planktonic nor biofilm disinfectant tolerance. Further investigation should be undertaken to identify the influence of pESI on the persistence of S. Infantis and to ensure effective prevention and control of the spread of the serovar and the plasmid.},
}

@article {pmid42518061,
year = {2026},
author = {Daghrery, A and Lunkad, H and Al Moaleem, M and Alhazmi, AA and Dallak, OE and Lam, WYH and Homeida, HE},
title = {Surface topography, optical properties, and biofilm adhesion of additive and subtractive-manufactured ceramic reinforced hybrid composite: an in-vitro study.},
journal = {Odontology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42518061},
issn = {1618-1255},
abstract = {This in vitro study aimed to assess the influence of manufacturing techniques (additive vs. subtractive) and surface finishing (glazing vs. polishing) on the average surface roughness (Ra), optical properties as mean color change (ΔEab), translucency parameter (TP) and opalescence parameter (OP), and microbial adhesion as colony-forming units per milliliter (CFU/mL) of ceramic-reinforced composite veneers subjected to toothbrush simulation and coffee immersion. Eighty veneers were fabricated (n = 40 per manufacturing method) and assigned to four groups (n = 20): printed-glazed, printed-polished, milled-glazed, and milled-polished groups. All specimens underwent a combined protocol of thermal cycling in coffee and simulated tooth brushing. Scanning electron microscopy was used to analyze the morphological characteristics of the groups. Ra was measured via contact profilometry. ΔEab was assessed via spectrophotometry. The bacterial adhesion of Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus mutans was quantified as CFU/mL. Statistical analysis was performed using two-way ANOVA and repeated ANOVA with p ˃ 0.05 were considered as significant differences. Spearmen correlation analysis was performed to check the association between the groups. Additively manufactured glazed specimens demonstrated the greatest color change (ΔEab = 2.45 ± 1.69) and average surface roughness increase (Ra = 0.371 ± 0.04 μm) following aging, while milled-polished specimens showed superior surface stability. Translucency decreased significantly in milled-polished groups (ΔTP = - 10.35 ± 4.80). Milled-polished surfaces exhibited the highest bacterial adhesion (980.80 ± 401.37 CFU/mL), whereas additively manufactured glazed surfaces demonstrated the lowest microbial colonization (679.78 ± 448.00 CFU/mL). The p-value was ˃ 0.05 for both manufacturing technology and surface condition treatments. Manufacturing technique and surface finishing significantly influenced optical stability and microbial adhesion of resin-ceramic hybrid veneers. Milled-polished specimens showed superior surface stability, whereas additively manufactured glazed surfaces demonstrated favorable microbial resistance. Clinicians should consider both fabrication method and finishing protocol when optimizing long-term esthetic and biological performance of veneer restorations.},
}

@article {pmid42518391,
year = {2026},
author = {Montoya, C and Chang, RY and Dikin, DA and Sousanieh, M and Xiang, Z and Liu, Y and Puri, S and Orrego, S},
title = {Cyclic Mechanical Deformation of Denture PMMA Regulates Fungal Biofilm Virulence.},
journal = {ACS omega},
volume = {11},
number = {27},
pages = {39877-39890},
doi = {10.1021/acsomega.6c00878},
pmid = {42518391},
issn = {2470-1343},
abstract = {Cyclic mechanical deformation is a well-characterized phenomenon in polymeric biomaterials under physiological mastication loading, yet its role in regulating biological responses at material interfaces remains poorly understood. Here, we investigate whether cyclic mechanical loading of denture-base poly-(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) functions as a biomaterial-derived cue that regulates fungal biofilm behavior. This study establishes that mechanically induced Candida albicans virulence is strain dependent and extends to clinically relevant isolates, thereby improving the translational relevance of denture mechanobiology models. Biofilms of C. albicans strains with distinct filamentation capacities, including the laboratory reference strain SC5314, two clinical isolates (hyphae-defective (UR18) and hyperfilamentous (UR13)), and a hyphae-deficient (efg1ΔΔ mutant), were grown on polished and rough PMMA surfaces and subjected to physiologically relevant cyclic deformation. Results showed that cyclic loading significantly altered biofilm behavior in a Candida strain-dependent manner. Filament-competent strains exhibited increased viability, extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) production, hyphal formation, and protease secretion, with the hyperfilamentous clinical isolate showing the strongest mechanosensitive virulence response. Filament-incompetent strains still retained robust protease secretion triggered by cyclic mechanical loading, revealing that toxic enzyme production can be mechanically activated independently of hyphal growth. While surface roughness modulated response magnitude, cyclic deformation alone was sufficient to activate virulence even on polished/smooth PMMA surfaces. These findings identify cyclic mechanical deformation as a biomaterial parameter governing the biofilm behavior and virulence of clinical and laboratory fungal strains and highlight the importance of incorporating mechanical loading into the design and evaluation of polymeric biomaterials.},
}

@article {pmid42518698,
year = {2026},
author = {Chu, Z and Fang, S and Fu, W and Liang, J and Wu, Y and Xu, L and Zhang, H and Wang, J and Qian, H and Shao, M},
title = {Synergistic eradication of NDM-1 Klebsiella pneumoniae biofilm infection by a Meropenem/EDTA Co-delivery system based on gelatin microspheres.},
journal = {Materials today. Bio},
volume = {39},
number = {},
pages = {103441},
doi = {10.1016/j.mtbio.2026.103441},
pmid = {42518698},
issn = {2590-0064},
abstract = {New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase (NDM)-producing drug-resistant bacteria often form stubborn biofilms and cause severe pneumonia, resulting in conventional antibiotic failure. In this study, we developed gelatin-genipin microspheres co-loaded with EDTA and meropenem (GEM) for targeted treatment of NDM pneumonia. EDTA exerted dual functions: it chelated Zn[2+] to inactivate NDM enzyme and restore meropenem activity (FIC = 0.046875), while also disrupting bacterial biofilms through chelation. GEM microspheres enable accelerated drug release in the artificial phlegm environment. In a mouse model of NDM pneumonia, GEM microspheres can enhance the recruitment of neutrophils and M1 cells at the early stage (12 h) through bacterial clearance, modulate the secretion of interferon-γ by CD8[+] T cells and natural killer cells, and reshape the pulmonary immune microenvironment. Furthermore, GEM treatment reduced pathological pulmonary immune cell infiltration and excessive inflammation at late time points (days 3-7). Taken together, GEM microspheres integrate biofilm disruption, enzyme inhibition, synergistic bactericidal effects, and immunoregulation, representing a promising strategy against NDM drug-resistant bacterial pneumonia.},
}

@article {pmid42518799,
year = {2026},
author = {Heroza, RI and Azizinezhad, P and Moss, KA and Lewis, HM and Pajewska, P and Seco de Herrera, AG and Dumbrell, AJ and Laissue, PP and Aldred, N},
title = {From annotation to analysis: a deep-learning pipeline for optical coherence tomography (OCT)-based measurements of biofilm morphology.},
journal = {Biofilm},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {100383},
doi = {10.1016/j.bioflm.2026.100383},
pmid = {42518799},
issn = {2590-2075},
abstract = {Biofilms represent the predominant mode of bacterial life at solid-liquid interfaces, and understanding their composition, structure, and dynamics is critical to addressing key challenges across medical, environmental, and engineering applications. This study presents a deep learning-based framework for rapid morphological characterisation of biofilms using optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging and an automated image processing pipeline. Images were used to train two state-of-the-art segmentation models: YOLOv8 and SegFormer. Both models delivered impressive results in delineating biofilm structures; YOLOv8 achieved 0.99 for accuracy and an intersection over union (IoU) of 0.9, while SegFormer scored 0.97 and 0.87, respectively. Model robustness was assessed across eight challenging biofilm conditions, with YOLOv8 showing superior performance in discriminating thin and non-growing biofilms, and SegFormer's superiority with stable morphologies. Additionally, we developed a framework to extract key morphological characteristics from the segmented images, including thickness, roughness and density distribution. The model-derived measurements showed strong agreement with manually generated ground truth data, confirming the reliability of the automated pipeline. Furthermore, an experiment involving four taxonomically distinct multi-species biofilms demonstrated the utility of the approach for discriminating biofilms based on their morphology. The software, containing both segmentation models, is openly available to the community and provides a foundation for future high-throughput studies examining biofilm responses to taxonomic or environmental variation.},
}

@article {pmid42519881,
year = {2026},
author = {Furlong, C and Mohapatra, S and Harold, D and Finlay, E and Holland, L},
title = {The metabolic trap: Candida parapsilosis inhibits Staphylococcus aureus biofilm maturation by disrupting pH homeostasis and inducing premature exodus.},
journal = {Journal of medical microbiology},
volume = {75},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1099/jmm.0.002186},
pmid = {42519881},
issn = {1473-5644},
abstract = {Introduction. Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) frequently manifest as device-related biofilms that exhibit enhanced tolerance to conventional therapies contributing to antimicrobial resistance. Polymicrobial biofilms involving Candida and Staphylococcus species are a major cause of persistent nosocomial infections. However, while the synergism between Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus is well-characterized, the interactions involving non-albicans Candida remain poorly understood.Hypothesis/Gap Statement. The specific interactions between Candida parapsilosis and S. aureus were entirely unknown, although it was broadly assumed they would be synergistic in nature, mirroring known Candida-Staphylococcus models.Aim. This study investigated the interspecies dynamics between C. parapsilosis and S. aureus within a mixed biofilm context.Methodology. C. parapsilosis secretome fractions were isolated and screened against methicillin-sensitive (MSSA) and methicillin-resistant (MRSA) S. aureus strains. Their effects on biofilm formation, primary attachment, planktonic growth and eradication were evaluated under varying glucose concentrations, followed by transcriptomic analysis of treated staphylococcal cells.Results. We report the discovery of a small (<10 kDa), heat-stable fungal-secreted factor that significantly inhibits the maturation of MSSA biofilms and disperses preformed biomass without affecting primary attachment or planktonic growth, although MRSA strains remained recalcitrant. This antagonism is strictly glucose-dependent; the inhibitory effect is potent in 0.2% glucose but is abolished in both 0.5 and 1.0% glucose. Transcriptome analysis revealed that the fungal secretome triggers a pleiotropic 'Metabolic Trap' in S. aureus, characterized by the downregulation of the glycolytic pathway (e.g. tpiA, gapA) and a failure to induce critical-acid-tolerance systems, including the arginine deiminase and urease operons. This metabolic reprogramming maintains a near-neutral local pH (5.8-6), which in turn provides an optimal environment for the observed upregulation of staphylococcal nuclease (nuc) ultimately degrading the extracellular matrix and preventing the development of a mature biofilm architecture.Conclusion. We propose that the C. parapsilosis secretome effectively tricks S. aureus into a premature exodus phase, where nuclease-mediated matrix degradation prevents the establishment of a stable biofilm architecture. These findings underscore the highly species-specific nature of fungal-bacterial interactions and identify a specific metabolic vulnerability in S. aureus that may be exploited to develop novel anti-biofilm strategies against polymicrobial communities.},
}