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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid42156762,
year = {2026},
author = {Feng, J and Zhang, C and Lu, Y and Qin, J and Su, W and Dong, R and Xi, H and Ma, H and Lv, J and Cheng, Y and Tang, H and Han, B},
title = {Enhanced gastrointestinal stability and therapeutic efficacy of biofilm self-coated Bacillus amyloliquefaciens C-1 probiotic in ulcerative colitis.},
journal = {NPJ science of food},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41538-026-00889-2},
pmid = {42156762},
issn = {2396-8370},
support = {2024JC-YBMS-663//Natural Science Foundation of Shaanxi Province/ ; 82173526//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Given the rising global incidence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and limited treatment options, probiotic efficacy is hindered by poor gastrointestinal survival. This study developed a self-coating biofilm technology to encapsulate the probiotic Bacillus amyloliquefaciens C-1 and yield cC-1. Biofilm-modified cC-1 exhibited a more negative zeta potential (-22.53 mV) compared to uncoated C-1 (-19.60 mV), representing a decrease of 2.93 mV decreased zeta potential, and it exhibited orders of magnitude higher survival than uncoated cells under simulated gastric acid (80.51% vs. 0.33%) and bile salt (84.32% vs. 1.64%). In DSS-induced colitis mice, oral administration of 10[9] CFU cC-1 for 14 days significantly alleviated symptoms, reduced colon shortening and restored mucosal integrity. Mechanistically, cC-1 effectively downregulated pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IFN-γ) in colon tissues; reshaped the diversity of gut microbiota by enriching beneficial Bacteroides; restored linoleic acid and glycerophospholipid metabolism, and suppressed expression of NF-κB signaling and cell adhesion molecule. Transcriptomic analysis confirmed that cC-1 reinstated host-microbe metabolic interactions with suppressed inflammatory pathways. This biofilm self-coating strategy substantially enhances probiotic gastrointestinal tolerance and exerts therapeutic effects through a multi-targeted mechanism (anti-inflammation, barrier repair, microbiota modulation, and metabolic reprogramming), offering a scalable and promising formulation for nutritional intervention in IBD.},
}

@article {pmid42156951,
year = {2026},
author = {Eldin, AMS and Zaid, ASA and Shebl, RI and Yassien, MA},
title = {Characterization and evaluation of the efficacy of phage E21 therapy in a wound animal model of biofilm-associated Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42156951},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; Animals ; *Pseudomonas aeruginosa/virology/physiology ; *Pseudomonas Infections/therapy/microbiology ; *Phage Therapy/methods ; *Pseudomonas Phages/genetics/isolation & purification/physiology ; Disease Models, Animal ; *Wound Infection/therapy/microbiology ; *Bacteriophages/genetics ; },
abstract = {Skin infections caused by strong biofilm Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) are considered a serious public health issue because of the increased resistance toward the currently available antibiotics. Consequently, innovative therapeutic strategies have emerged to address these challenging infections. Among them, phage therapy stands out, in which highly potent lytic bacteriophages (phages) are specifically selected to target and eradicate the responsible pathogens. In this study, Pseudomonas phage E21 was recovered from sewage, and it genetically belongs to the Lavrentievirus genus, Casjensviridae family. The genetic characterization of the isolated phage reveals the presence of highly potent lytic enzymes, which play a critical role in effectively suppressing the growth of the targeted pathogens. The phage has high stability patterns over a wide range of temperatures and pH values (65 ℃ and 3-11). Carboxymethylcellulose was used to formulate a hydrogel for the evaluation of the bacteriophage's efficacy against biofilm-associated wound infection in a suitable animal model. The result of the preclinical study confirmed the efficacy of isolated phage in the therapy of biofilm-associated wound infection.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
Animals
*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/virology/physiology
*Pseudomonas Infections/therapy/microbiology
*Phage Therapy/methods
*Pseudomonas Phages/genetics/isolation & purification/physiology
Disease Models, Animal
*Wound Infection/therapy/microbiology
*Bacteriophages/genetics

@article {pmid42150557,
year = {2026},
author = {Lin, W and Jiang, L and Chang, CY and Beishenaliev, A and Loke, YL and Teo, YY and Manimaran, M and Yang, CY and Yuan, CJ and Leo, BF and Kiew, LV and Chang, CC},
title = {Advances in Nanotechnology for Addressing Biofilm-related Challenges in Medical Devices.},
journal = {Nanotechnology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1088/1361-6528/ae6f1a},
pmid = {42150557},
issn = {1361-6528},
abstract = {Medical device-associated infections remain a major clinical challenge due to the rapid formation of microbial biofilms on device and implant surfaces. Biofilms are estimated to be involved in approximately 65% of microbial infections and up to 80% of chronic infections. Once established on device surfaces, these biofilms exhibit profound antibiotic tolerance, making infections difficult to eradicate, prone to relapse, and often necessitating invasive device removal, thereby imposing substantial clinical and economic burdens. These biofilms drive persistent infections that are highly tolerant to systemic antimicrobials because of restricted drug penetration, reduced metabolic activity, and adaptive resistance. Catheter-related bloodstream infections exemplify these impacts, contributing to elevated morbidity, prolonged hospitalization, and increased healthcare costs. When drug therapy fails, device removal is often required but may not be feasible for high-risk patients. Nanotechnology offers an emerging solution through interface-engineered surfaces and targeted antibiofilm strategies. Nanostructured coatings can inhibit initial microbial adhesion, while nanocarriers can penetrate established biofilms and deliver high local concentrations of antimicrobial agents with minimal systemic exposure. This review summarizes the mechanisms of biofilm formation, the limitations of current treatments, and recent advances in nanotechnology-based approaches for preventing and eradicating device-associated biofilms, and discusses the key challenges for clinical translation.},
}

@article {pmid42150715,
year = {2026},
author = {Jiang, Y and Li, Y and Zhao, S and Liu, S and Tang, Y and Shi, H and Wang, Y and Ouyang, K},
title = {Organic fertilizer regulates multispecies biofilm formation and structure to enhance Cd removal efficiency.},
journal = {Journal of advanced research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.jare.2026.05.034},
pmid = {42150715},
issn = {2090-1224},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Cadmium (Cd) contamination of soil poses a risk to both environmental and agricultural safety. Although microbial biofilms have the potential to immobilize heavy metals, there is a lack of strategies to enhance their functionality under Cd-stress.

OBJECTIVES: Investigating the effects of organic fertilizer application on the formation of multispecies biofilms in paddy soils and the cadmium adsorption capacity of biofilms under fertilization management.

METHODS: A field experiment was conducted in Zhuzhou paddy soils, comparing control and organic fertilizer treatments. Multispecies biofilms cultured from rhizosphere soil were assessed under Cd stress through minimum inhibitory concentration determination, 16S rRNA sequencing, and confocal laser scanning microscopy to evaluate their resistance, biomass, community composition, and architecture. Cd accumulation and distribution were analyzed via atomic absorption spectroscopy, while biofilm compositional responses were characterized by quantifying extracellular polymeric substances and employing Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy.

RESULTS: This study demonstrates that organic fertilizer application alters the composition of biofilm bacterial communities, enriching Novosphingobium, Pirellula, and Ellin6067, promotes multispecies biofilm formation, and significantly enhances Cd resistance. Organic fertilizer application significantly increased biofilm biomass by 0.49-fold compared with that of the control. With the increase in Cd concentration, the biofilm biomass significantly decreased, but low Cd concentrations (0.2 mmol/L) promoted biofilm development. Notably, organic fertilizer-amended biofilms demonstrated 88% Cd removal efficiency, markedly exceeding that of the controls. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy revealed that various functional groups, including C=O, -NH, C-N, and -COO[-], along with those indicative of polysaccharides (C-O, C-C, C-O-H, and C-O-C) and the eDNA biomarker PO2[-], were associated with Cd exposure, suggesting their might serve as potential metal binding sites. Enhanced secretion of extracellular polysaccharides was identified as the primary mechanism of Cd stress resistance in these biofilms.

CONCLUSION: These findings elucidate the co-regulatory effects of organic fertilization and Cd in promoting biofilm assembly and function for effective Cd adsorption, offering critical insights for optimizing microbial remediation in Cd-contaminated soil.},
}

@article {pmid42150716,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, W and Shang, H and Zhang, W and Ma, Y and Guo, T and Ding, H and Jiang, J and Dong, J and Xu, F and Huang, Y and Ma, S},
title = {Novel Dual-Targeting biofilm inhibitors for Potentiating antibiotic efficacy against Multidrug-Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections.},
journal = {Journal of advanced research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.jare.2026.05.032},
pmid = {42150716},
issn = {2090-1224},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: With the increasing global challenge posed by multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which utilizes biofilm formation and virulence mechanisms to exacerbate infections, there is an urgent need for novel therapeutic strategies.

OBJECTIVES: This work presents a novel dual-targeting biofilm inhibitor that potentiates antibiotic efficacy, offering a potent and safe candidate to combat P. aeruginosa infections.

METHODS: To address this problem, we developed dual-targeting biofilm inhibitors that simultaneously disrupt the quorum sensing (QS) system and iron homeostasis system via computer-aided drug design. Through integrated in vitro screening and computational ADMET profiling, HK-34b, a 1-hydroxybenzimidazolone derivative, was identified.

RESULTS: HK-34b inhibited 89% biofilm formation (IC 50 = 0.15 μg/mL) and eradicated 93% mature biofilms. It also reduced virulence factor production in P. aeruginosa, thereby impairing swarming motility. Notably, HK-34b combined with tobramycin and ciprofloxacin achieved 99% bacterial clearance, enhancing antibiotic efficacy by 400-fold and 2000-fold in murine wound models, respectively. Furthermore, HK-34b exhibited low toxicity in vivo. Pharmacokinetic studies demonstrated that HK-34b possesses favorable bioavailability (36.86%) and a wide safety window. Mechanistic studies confirmed the dual targeting mechanism of HK-34b, which inhibits the pqs system of P. aeruginosa by binding to PqsR (KD PqsR = 3.23 μM), a key virulence regulator of the QS system, and disrupts bacterial iron homeostasis through interaction with FpvA (KD FpvA = 5.56 μM), the outer membrane receptor for siderophores. MD simulations revealed stable binding of HK-34b to both PqsR and FpvA.

CONCLUSIONS: This dual-targeting strategy demonstrates significant translational potential by employing a novel chemical scaffold, which not only avoids the cross-resistance risks associated with the shared molecular scaffolds of conventional siderophore-antibiotic conjugates, but also overcomes the drawbacks of insufficient biofilm efficacy seen with single-target inhibitors, thereby providing a sustainable approach for the treatment of multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa infections.},
}

@article {pmid42151785,
year = {2026},
author = {Tomonaga, I and Kajiyama, S and Umeki, M and Furuichi, I and Koseki, H and Osaki, M},
title = {Bactericidal effects of diluted povidone-iodine on Staphylococcus epidermidis at different stages of biofilm formation on titanium surfaces.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12866-026-05143-z},
pmid = {42151785},
issn = {1471-2180},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Implant-associated infections, particularly those caused by Staphylococcus epidermidis, pose a significant challenge in orthopaedic surgery due to the ability of this organism to form antibiotic-resistant biofilms on titanium surfaces. Although povidone-iodine (PVP-I) is widely used as an intraoperative antiseptic, its effectiveness against biofilms at different stages of development remains unclear. This in vitro study aimed to evaluate the bactericidal effects of 0.35% diluted PVP-I on S. epidermidis biofilms on mirror-polished titanium alloy (ASTM F136) discs. Irrigation with PVP-I or saline (control) was applied at three critical stages: (1) irrigation at the pre-exposure stage; (2) irrigation after the bacterial adhesion stage; and (3) irrigation at the early biofilm stage (6 h after adhesion). Viable bacterial counts were quantified by colony-forming unit (CFU) assays, and biofilm structure was assessed using biofilm coverage rate (BCR) measured by crystal violet staining and image analysis.

RESULTS: Irrigation at the pre-exposure stage did not significantly reduce the number of adherent viable bacteria compared to controls (P = 0.55, d = 0.21). However, irrigation after the bacterial adhesion stage resulted in no viable bacteria being detected in the PVP-I group under the assay conditions (0 CFU/mL; P < 0.0001, d = 2.56). Irrigation at the early biofilm stage with PVP-I achieved a 98% reduction in viable bacteria compared to controls (P < 0.0001, d = 45.3). The relative BCR remained at 102.3% (P = 0.30, d = 0.24), likely due to matrix protein fixation by iodine rather than increased formation.

CONCLUSIONS: The timing of antiseptic irrigation is critical for effective reduction of viable bacteria from titanium surfaces. Irrigation after the bacterial adhesion stage with diluted PVP-I appears most effective in preventing biofilm establishment, while irrigation at the pre-exposure stage is insufficient, and chemical irrigation alone cannot fully remove established biofilm matrix structures. These findings highlight the importance of integrating mechanical debridement with antiseptic irrigation for optimal management of implant-associated infections.},
}

@article {pmid42152808,
year = {2026},
author = {Smith, RW and Jarman, EH and Francis, S and Burgess, JB and Hayashiganati, K and Sharma, A and Sanchez Rangle, U and Singh, A and Green, A and Fox, PM},
title = {Antibiotic eluting collagen-based hydrogel improves wound healing in a biofilm challenged murine stented wound model.},
journal = {Journal of applied biomaterials & functional materials},
volume = {24},
number = {},
pages = {22808000261447657},
doi = {10.1177/22808000261447657},
pmid = {42152808},
issn = {2280-8000},
mesh = {Animals ; *Biofilms/drug effects ; *Wound Healing/drug effects ; Mice ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology ; *Collagen/chemistry/pharmacology ; *Hydrogels/chemistry/pharmacology ; Disease Models, Animal ; Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology ; Male ; Gentamicins/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Pseudomonas Infections/drug therapy/pathology/microbiology ; Staphylococcal Infections/drug therapy/pathology ; },
abstract = {Biofilm-colonized chronic wounds are difficult to treat due to a constantly evolving microbiome. In this study, a cHG augmented with antibiotics was examined for the topical treatment of biofilm-challenged wounds in vivo. Two studies were performed in series using a murine stented wound model. Mice were divided into four groups: control (wound only), infection only (IO), infection + cHG (IcHG), and infection + cHG + antibiotics (IcHG + Abx). We first examined Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms treated with gentamicin, and then MRSA biofilms treated with clindamycin. Wound healing was assessed using photography, immunohistochemistry, and histology. Systemic symptoms were monitored with hematological laboratory tests. Pseudomonas aeruginosa infected wounds treated with cHG + Abx healed faster and were protected from bacteremia. In the MRSA infected mice, wound treatment significantly affected the outcome, explaining 5.56% of total variance (ANOVA: F(3, 366) = 17.38, p < 0.0001). Additionally, infected wounds treated with cHG + Abx demonstrated less inflammatory tissue and accelerated closure rate on day 8 (76.53% ± 7.43% vs 48.40% ± 4.95%, p < 0.0001) and day 14 (96.00% ± 3.07% vs 82.38% ± 8.24%, p = 0.003), as compared to the infection only wounds. cHG offers a biocompatible, topical option with dual functionality: antibiotic augmentation to target biofilm pathogens, and a collagen-rich dressing to accelerate wound healing.},
}

Animals
*Biofilms/drug effects
*Wound Healing/drug effects
Mice
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology
*Collagen/chemistry/pharmacology
*Hydrogels/chemistry/pharmacology
Disease Models, Animal
Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology
Male
Gentamicins/pharmacology/chemistry
*Pseudomonas Infections/drug therapy/pathology/microbiology
Staphylococcal Infections/drug therapy/pathology

@article {pmid42153475,
year = {2026},
author = {Suárez, J and Roa, S and Valdés, V and Nancucheo, I and Schwarz, A},
title = {Resilient High-Rate Sulfidogenesis in a Hydrogen-Based Membrane Biofilm Reactor: Mechanistic Analysis of Kinetic-Limited Performance Under Variable Loading.},
journal = {Biotechnology and bioengineering},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/bit.70246},
pmid = {42153475},
issn = {1097-0290},
support = {1230089//ANID Fondecyt/ ; },
abstract = {Copper mining industry generates water with high sulfate (SO4 [2-]) concentrations. The hydrogen-based membrane biofilm reactor (H2-MBfR) is a promising sulfidogenesis solution, using H2 as a clean electron donor. An H2-MBfR was operated for 209 days treating synthetic mining-influenced water under varying conditions (HRT, H2 pressure, SO4 [2-] loadings). The system proved highly resilient, achieving stable SO4 [2-] removal (> 90%) and fully recovering from a severe shock load (4500 mg S L[-1]). To identify the governing mechanisms, a transient pseudoanalytical biofilm model was developed. A Global Sensitivity Analysis (Sobol) showed performance is dominated by the maximum specific growth rate (μ max ${\mu }_
{\max }$
), detachment coefficient (b det ${b}_
{\text{det}}
$), and H2S inhibition (K H 2 S ${K}_
{H2S}$
). The model was calibrated on Stages 1-3 (Days 0-169, n = 44), achieving R[2] = 0.962 (calibration) and R[2] = 0.572 (blind validation, Stage 4). Crucial findings from the model calibration (μ max ${\mu }_
{\max }$
= 0.344 d[-1]) and a diagnostic analysis using the Thiele Modulus (mean ϕ $\phi $ = 0.224) strongly indicate that the system operated in a kinetically-limited regime. Performance was governed by the delicate balance of slow growth and high detachment, not by mass transfer (H2 supply or SO4 [2-] diffusion). This research validates the H2-MBfR for high-rate applications and correctly shifts the bottleneck for future optimization from mass transfer to biofilm retention kinetics.},
}

@article {pmid42154003,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, Y and Li, M and Yang, P and Lü, J and Li, X},
title = {Decoding Biofilm-Surface Interactions: A Hyperspectral Infrared Platform Links Interfacial Chemistry To Stress Adaptation and Assembly Mechanism.},
journal = {Langmuir : the ACS journal of surfaces and colloids},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acs.langmuir.6c00018},
pmid = {42154003},
issn = {1520-5827},
abstract = {The formation of resilient biofilms at material interfaces remains a persistent challenge across biomedical, industrial, and environmental systems. Progress has been hindered by the lack of tools that can correlate the spatial chemical heterogeneity of biofilms with the properties of the underlying surface. In this work, we introduce a transformative hyperspectral infrared imaging platform that uniquely integrates three previously disparate capabilities: (i) biomimetic surface engineering to mimic tissue interfaces, (ii) synchrotron infrared microspectroscopy for label-free chemical mapping, and (iii) integration with transcriptomic sequencing to link chemical phenotypes with genetic mechanisms. Using collagen I-functionalized surfaces to mimic biotic interfaces and bare CaF2 as an abiotic control, we demonstrate that surface biochemistry actively guides biofilm architecture and composition. Quantitative analysis revealed clear differences in biofilm thickness and biochemical makeup between biotic and abiotic surfaces. Biofilms formed on collagen exhibited an unrecognized matrix-enriched phenotype, characterized by surface polysaccharide enrichment under copper stress, a response correlated with the upregulation of exopolysaccharide biosynthesis genes. In contrast, planktonic cells underwent acute metabolic disruption. By bridging spatial chemometrics with molecular biology, this study provides a mechanistic framework for understanding and controlling biofilm formation through rational interface design. The approach holds direct implications for antibiofilm surface engineering and infection control strategies.},
}

@article {pmid42154352,
year = {2026},
author = {Ben-Amram, H and Ben-Gad, D and Azrad, M and Edelshtein, S and Agay-Shay, K and Peretz, A},
title = {The Influence of Seasonality and Antimicrobial Resistance Genes on Biofilm Formation in Hospital-Acquired Resistant Bacteria.},
journal = {Journal of epidemiology and global health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1007/s44197-026-00582-3},
pmid = {42154352},
issn = {2210-6014},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Hospital-acquired resistant infections (HARI) are difficult to manage due to limited treatment options and their ability to withstand stress conditions through biofilm production. HARI were defined as infections occurring at least 48 h after hospital admission. This work aimed to assess the distribution of HARI-associated bacterial species in north Israel and to investigate associations between biofilm formation and extended-spectrum β-lactamase(ESBL) genes, bacterial and patient characteristics, and hospitalization length, season and year.

METHODS: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), multidrug-resistant (MDR) Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) and Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii), ESBL-producing Escherichia coli (ESBL-E. coli), Klebsiella pneumoniae (ESBL-K. pneumoniae) and Proteus mirabilis (ESBL-P. mirabilis) were isolated from 569 blood, urine, wound and respiratory samples of hospitalized patients with HARI during 2020-2022 in north Israel. Enterobacterales were included if ESBL-positive (Vitek 2 and disc tests), and Acinetobacter and Pseudomonas if resistant to ≥ 3 antibiotic families. Biofilm-formation capacity was assessed by the crystalline violet method. ESBL genes were detected by real-time PCR. Data regarding season, time to infection, bacterial species, patient demographics, year, and hospital department, were collected from medical records.

RESULTS: ESBL-K. pneumoniae was the most prevalent (31.6%) bacteria. Strong biofilms were produced by 346 (60.8%), most of the strong biofilm producers were K. pneumoniae, accounting for 160 out of 346 strong-biofilm isolates (46.2%). blaCTX-M was the most commonly detected ESBL gene (87.7%). Most strains (61.2%) carried more than one ESBL gene. Hospitalization season had a notable impact on biofilm production, with a heightened risk of infection by robust biofilm producers during spring, summer and autumn compared to winter. Furthermore, the presence of blaSHV and blaTEM genes were significantly associated with enhanced biofilm production. Bacteria harboring all three ESBL genes exhibited the highest biofilm production capacities, compared to those carrying fewer than three.

CONCLUSIONS: Biofilm-production intensity differs across bacterial species and seasons and is influenced by the presence of ESBL genes.},
}

@article {pmid42155439,
year = {2026},
author = {Yang, P and Gao, X and Cheng, S and Feng, Z and Liu, S and Li, A and Chen, H},
title = {Performance improvement and microbial mechanisms of an integrated A/O biofilm reactor through optimized aeration orifice design and inflow velocity.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {408},
number = {},
pages = {129997},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2026.129997},
pmid = {42155439},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {To mitigate eutrophication in water bodies caused by high organic matter and nitrogen-phosphorus loads from rural domestic sewage, this study developed an integrated A/O biofilm reactor. Numerical simulations were conducted to optimize the flow field in both the aeration and influent zones, identifying the optimal aeration configuration as five holes, each with a diameter of 20 mm. The inlet flow velocity was maintained below 0.1 m/s, effectively mitigating short-circuiting, backflow vortices, and biofilm detachment. Experimental validation demonstrated that the optimized reactor significantly improved pollutant removal efficiency: the removal efficiencies of COD, NH4[+]-N and TN reached 92% (effluent: 28.1 mg/L), 96% (effluent: 2.11 mg/L) and 58.5% (effluent: 20.9 mg/L), respectively. Meanwhile, the average dissolved oxygen concentration increased from 1.65 mg/L under the original single-hole aeration condition to 2.25 mg/L under the optimized configuration. Microbiological analysis revealed that the enhanced nitrogen removal efficiency was associated with a substantial increase in the relative abundance of Nitrospira and Terrimonas, which facilitated simultaneous nitrification-denitrification and anaerobic ammonia oxidation within the aerobic packing. This study provides valuable theoretical insights for improving nitrogen removal performance in integrated A/O biofilm reactors.},
}

@article {pmid42143215,
year = {2026},
author = {Martínez, S and Cerdeiras, MP and Douterelo, I and Ijaz, UZ},
title = {Biofilm and sediment phases as key components of microbial community dynamics within secondary drinking water distribution systems.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12866-026-05149-7},
pmid = {42143215},
issn = {1471-2180},
support = {EP/V030515/1//Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Secondary drinking water distribution systems (SDWDS), particularly rooftop storage tanks, are critical components of water supply infrastructure in many regions, yet the ecological processes governing microbial community development within these systems remain poorly characterized. Here we present a year-long, phase-resolved metagenomic study of an operational full-scale SDWDS in Uruguay to assess how environmental conditions and surface materials are associated with microbiome dynamics across bulk water, biofilm and sediment phases. We integrated amplicon sequencing, whole-genome sequencing (WGS) metagenomics, culture-based microbiology and physicochemical analyses over a one-year period.

RESULTS: Microbial communities associated with biofilm and sediment phases consistently exhibited higher richness and diversity than bulk water, with marked seasonal variation. Biofilms formed on concrete and polyethylene surfaces followed distinct successional trajectories, indicating material-associated patterns in community development. Seasonal increases in temperature were associated with greater similarity in community composition across phases, while functional richness remained comparatively stable over time. Functional pathways related to energy production, stress response, and antibiotic resistance showed phase- and time-dependent enrichment, particularly in mature biofilms. Across the system, Proteobacteria, Actinobacteriota, and Bacteroidota were persistent taxa. Temperature and pH were the primary variables associated with temporal shifts in water-phase microbial communities, with chlorine residuals contributing to additional variation.

CONCLUSIONS: Together, these findings provide in situ ecological insight into microbial succession and phase-specific community dynamics in drinking water storage systems, highlighting the importance of long-term observations in real-world engineered environments.},
}

@article {pmid42143331,
year = {2026},
author = {Ghoraba, H and Ashrafi, F and Nadushan, RM and Abbaspour, H},
title = {α-pinene and β-sitosterol co-loaded alginate/gelatin-functionalized niosomes for enhanced antibacterial and anti-biofilm activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae.},
journal = {BMC biotechnology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12896-026-01132-2},
pmid = {42143331},
issn = {1472-6750},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The rise of antibiotic resistance in infectious disease, particularly from carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), poses a significant global health challenge. This study aimed to fabricate and evaluate a novel biocompatible hydrogel scaffold (Nio-PIN/STL@SC) incorporating niosomes loaded with α-pinene (PIN) and β-sitosterol (STL) to enhance antibacterial and anti-biofilm activities against MRSA and CRKP isolates.

METHODS: Niosomes containing PIN and STL (Nio-PIN/STL) were prepared using the thin-layer hydration method and then incorporated into an alginate/gelatin hydrogel scaffold via a straightforward crosslinking reaction, forming Nio-PIN/STL@SC. The physicochemical properties of the scaffolds were characterized using DLS, SEM, TEM, and FTIR. In vitro assays assessed drug release, swelling, degradation, stability, cytotoxicity, antibacterial efficacy (MIC, disk diffusion, time-kill assay), anti-biofilm activity (CV assay, MBEC), and the expression of biofilm-related genes.

RESULTS: The optimized Nio-PIN/STL@SC exhibited an average particle size of 263.5 ± 5.2 nm, Polydispersity Index (PDI) of 0.231 ± 0.011, and entrapment efficiencies (EE%) of 78.2 ± 1.18% (PIN) and 79.7 ± 1.35% (STL). The scaffold demonstrated a sustained biphasic release profile, with only 40.85% of PIN and 43.25% of STL released over 72 h at pH 7.4. Nio-PIN/STL@SC showed markedly enhanced antibacterial activity, with MIC values of 0.97-1.95 µg/mL against MRSA and 0.97-3.9 µg/mL against CRKP, representing at least a 16-fold reduction compared to free drugs. MBEC values revealed a significant reduction in biofilm biomass, decreasing viable MRSA and CRKP cells to approximately 2.0 and 3.5 log10 CFU/mL, respectively. qRT-PCR analysis demonstrated significant downregulation of icaA and icaD in MRSA and mrkA, mrkD, and fimA in CRKP (P < 0.001), alongside upregulation of the biofilm repressor gene icaR.

CONCLUSIONS: The developed Nio-PIN/STL@SC hydrogel scaffold demonstrates a promising drug delivery system for the synergistic enhancement of antibacterial and anti-biofilm activities against multidrug-resistant pathogens like MRSA and CRKP with reduced cytotoxic effects, suggesting its potential for treating bacterial infections. Further in vivo studies are warranted to validate these findings.

CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable.},
}

@article {pmid42143994,
year = {2026},
author = {Huang, J and Chen, R and Wang, X and Zhang, S and Zeng, Y and Chen, Y and Huang, X},
title = {Self‑oxygenating nanoparticle-mediated photodynamic therapy for biofilm control and macrophage immunomodulation in vitro.},
journal = {Journal of photochemistry and photobiology. B, Biology},
volume = {280},
number = {},
pages = {113473},
doi = {10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2026.113473},
pmid = {42143994},
issn = {1873-2682},
abstract = {Periodontitis is a chronic biofilm-induced inflammatory disease that is increasingly linked to systemic conditions. Effective treatment requires removing pathogenic biofilms and modulating the host inflammatory response. Antibacterial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) shows promising potential in the field of antibacterial treatment. However, issues such as the hypoxic microenvironment within periodontal pockets and biofilm structures, as well as the poor stability of traditional photosensitizers, pose challenges to the efficacy of aPDT. Here, we developed a multifunctional nanoparticle MB-MnO2@PLGA NPs (MMP NPs) by co-encapsulating methylene blue (MB) and PVA-pre-dispersed manganese dioxide (MnO2) nanosheets into a PLGA nanocarrier using a double emulsion-solvent evaporation method. Characterization confirmed their core-shell morphology, good colloidal stability, and high MB loading. Upon 660 nm irradiation, the nanoparticles generated reactive oxygen species and catalyzed H2O2 to produce oxygen, relieving local hypoxia and enhancing the cell compatibility of free MB. The MMP NPs disrupted P. gingivalis and F. nucleatum biofilms and exhibited superior antibacterial activity compared to free MB. Additionally, the nanoplatform significantly downregulated IL-6 and TNF-α levels. Importantly, the nanoplatform promoted macrophage polarization toward an anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype, as indicated by increased Arg-1 and CD206 expression. This work supports a synergistic in vitro strategy that simultaneously targets infection, hypoxia, and inflammation. It holds positive significance for promoting the development of periodontal disease treatment.},
}

@article {pmid42144819,
year = {2026},
author = {González-Suárez, B and López-Casanova, P and González-de la Torre, H and Durán-Saenz, I and García-Rubio, A and Verdú-Soriano, J and Berenguer-Pérez, M},
title = {Clinical Signs and Symptoms of Biofilm-Associated Infection in Chronic Wounds: A Systematic Review of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies.},
journal = {International wound journal},
volume = {23},
number = {5},
pages = {e70877},
doi = {10.1111/iwj.70877},
pmid = {42144819},
issn = {1742-481X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; *Wound Infection/diagnosis/microbiology ; Chronic Disease/therapy ; Female ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Aged ; *Wounds and Injuries ; Adult ; },
abstract = {The presence of biofilm in chronic wounds represents a major diagnostic challenge, as clinical manifestations are often subtle and laboratory confirmation remains limited. To identify clinical signs and symptoms (CSS) evaluated in validated tools or scales related to wound infection and biofilm, and to assess their diagnostic accuracy. A systematic review of diagnostic accuracy studies was conducted in accordance with PRISMA-DTA guidelines, searching six databases from inception to May 2025. Of 2064 records identified, four studies met inclusion criteria. All were focused on infection-related CSS; none were specifically designed to diagnose biofilm. Sensitivity and specificity varied substantially across CSS and study designs, and no validated, non-invasive diagnostic scale for biofilm was identified. The available evidence base is limited and heterogeneous. A preliminary list of candidate CSS is proposed to guide future validation studies and support earlier clinical recognition of biofilm-associated infection.},
}

Humans
*Biofilms/growth & development
*Wound Infection/diagnosis/microbiology
Chronic Disease/therapy
Female
Male
Middle Aged
Aged
*Wounds and Injuries
Adult

@article {pmid42146100,
year = {2026},
author = {Katsburg, M and Kopenhagen, A and Müsken, M and Eichhorn, I and Wolf, SA and Bergmann, S and Fulde, M},
title = {What makes them stick? A genetic analysis of biofilm formation of an infective endocarditis-causing Streptococcus canis strain using transposon directed insertion-site sequencing.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1777632},
pmid = {42146100},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *DNA Transposable Elements ; *Streptococcus/genetics/physiology ; Quorum Sensing/genetics ; Mutagenesis, Insertional ; Humans ; *Endocarditis, Bacterial/microbiology ; *Endocarditis/microbiology ; *Streptococcal Infections/microbiology ; Bacterial Adhesion ; Animals ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Streptococcus canis is an emerging zoonotic pathogen capable of causing infective endocarditis (IE) in animals and humans. In IE, bacterial biofilms form vegetations on heart valves, protecting microbes from antibiotics and immune responses, which complicates treatment and promotes chronic infection.

METHODS: To identify genes required for biofilm development, we performed transposon-directed insertion site sequencing (TraDIS) in combination with a biofilm formation assay on a fibrin matrix under physiologically relevant flow conditions. Mutant libraries were screened for deficiencies in biofilm formation, followed by pathway enrichment and targeted functional assays.

RESULTS: Mutants impaired in biofilm formation were enriched for disruptions in carbohydrate metabolism, cell wall biogenesis, and quorum sensing pathways. The rfb operon and galE, genes essential for extracellular polysaccharide synthesis, were identified as key contributors. Pathway analysis highlighted quorum-sensing and HIF-1 signaling as regulators of metabolic adaptation and matrix production under flow. Biofilm formation by the IE strain was inhibited by carvacrol, an inhibitor of LuxS-dependent quorum sensing. Deletion of the fibronectin-binding serum opacity factor (ScSOF) significantly reduced biofilm formation on fibronectin-coated surfaces and altered matrix composition, demonstrating its role in host matrix-dependent adhesion.

DISCUSSION: These findings provide the first genome-wide characterization of biofilm-associated gene networks in S. canis, revealing how metabolic pathways, quorum sensing, and host adhesion factors interact to promote endocardial biofilm formation.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*DNA Transposable Elements
*Streptococcus/genetics/physiology
Quorum Sensing/genetics
Mutagenesis, Insertional
Humans
*Endocarditis, Bacterial/microbiology
*Endocarditis/microbiology
*Streptococcal Infections/microbiology
Bacterial Adhesion
Animals
Bacterial Proteins/genetics

@article {pmid42146302,
year = {2026},
author = {Bicer, M and Sener, F and Öztürk, E and Fidan, Ö},
title = {Cellulose-based hydrogel matrix enhances antimicrobial and biofilm-inhibitory responses of palatal mesenchymal stem cells.},
journal = {3 Biotech},
volume = {16},
number = {6},
pages = {197},
pmid = {42146302},
issn = {2190-572X},
abstract = {Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have emerged as promising alternatives to fight drug-resistant bacterial infections. This study investigates the antibacterial activity of palatal adipose tissue-derived MSCs (PMSCs), particularly when cultured within a 3D nanofibrillar cellulose hydrogel, against four clinically relevant pathogens: Pseudomonas aeruginosa K6, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25,923, Bacillus cereus K9 and Escherichia coli O157:H7. This study showed that both PMSCs alone and PMSCs in 3D cellulose-based hydrogel effectively inhibited the growth of bacterial burden. Notably, PMSCs cultured in the 3D system demonstrated an excellent effect, reducing bacterial burden by up to 14 log in E. coli and 12 log in P. aeruginosa K6 at a 120 µL inoculum after 2 h of incubation. RT-PCR and immunocytochemical analyses found out a remarkable upregulation of the Cathelicidin (LL-37) in PMSCs 3D cultures compared to PMSCs. Furthermore, 3D cellulose-based hydrogel exhibited a significant biofilm-inhibitory effect, reaching a 57.65% reduction. The results demonstrated the importance of 3D cellulose-based hydrogel for treating antibiotic-resistant infections. PMSC therapy based on 3D hydrogel may therefore be offered as more effective antimicrobial agent to overcome drug-resistant bacterial infections.},
}

@article {pmid42147142,
year = {2026},
author = {Svendsen, IK and Rula, I and Nilsson, E and Sunde, J and Li, S and Hylander, S and Dopson, M and Forsman, A and Salis, RK},
title = {Long-term heating differently impacts diversity and seasonal dynamics of prokaryotes and micro-eukaryotes in Baltic Sea coastal biofilm communities.},
journal = {ISME communications},
volume = {6},
number = {1},
pages = {ycag101},
pmid = {42147142},
issn = {2730-6151},
abstract = {Warming temperatures, heat waves, and altered conditions associated with climate change affect biodiversity and ecological processes across environments, with coastal zones being particularly vulnerable. Biofilm-forming organisms in shallow coastal areas are taxonomically diverse and include bacteria, fungi, and algae that contribute to energy and nutrient cycling along with providing habitats and food for species at the base of the food web. To understand how biofilm-forming organisms respond differently to spatiotemporally changing environmental conditions, seasonal sampling was performed in a Baltic Sea bay that has undergone 50 years of thermal heating, an unaffected nearby control bay, and a temperature gradient along an exposed coastline between the bays. The diversity, composition, and seasonal dynamics of the biofilm communities differed between the three environments largely due to temperature and water chemistry, with biofilms in the heated bay being more similar across seasons compared with the control bay and the gradient, and with prokaryotes exhibiting stronger spatial heterogeneity and seasonal dynamics compared to micro-eukaryotes. In the gradient, the dominating taxonomic groups were distinct, community composition was primarily influenced by seasonal turnover and wave exposure, and alpha diversity of prokaryotes decreased with increasing temperature. Seasonal shifts in the composition of micro-eukaryotic heterotrophs, phototrophs, and mixotrophs differed between environments, with heterotrophs being more dominant at higher temperatures. In conclusion, these contrasting responses indicated that climate warming may disproportionately impact different components of coastal biofilm communities, potentially decoupling key ecological processes and reducing community resilience in Baltic Sea coastal habitats.},
}

@article {pmid42140025,
year = {2026},
author = {Zheng, X and Cai, X and Zhou, Y and Ma, X and Liu, Y and Zhang, W},
title = {The utilization of Salmonella phage in milk and chicken: depolymerase identification and potential for anti-biofilm activity.},
journal = {International journal of food microbiology},
volume = {457},
number = {},
pages = {111846},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2026.111846},
pmid = {42140025},
issn = {1879-3460},
abstract = {Bacteriophage (phage)-based biocontrol presents a promising strategy against foodborne pathogens. In this study, a novel phage, PH215, exhibited lytic activity against seven prevalent Salmonella serotypes, was isolated and characterized. PH215 demonstrated remarkable environmental stability, sustaining infectivity across a wide pH range (2-11) and at temperatures from 4 to 50 °C. The multiplicative potential of PH215 was evidenced by a low multiplicity of infection (MOI) of 10[-6], a short latent period of 10 min, and a substantial burst size of approximately 50 PFU per infected cell. Genomic analysis revealed a 43,505 kb double-stranded DNA genome encoding 67 putative proteins. Notably, the product of the Peg38 gene, identified as a tail spike protein (termed PH215Depo), possessed depolymerase activity. We have shown that the cloned expression of PH215Depo exhibited enzymatic activity against various Salmonella serotypes and significantly impeded biofilm formation. Furthermore, in practical application models, PH215 application reduced Salmonella counts in milk and chicken by 2.04 to 5.37 log10 CFU/mL. Our findings highlight the potential of depolymerase-encoding phages like PH215 as effective and broad-spectrum biocontrol agents against Salmonella in the food industry.},
}

@article {pmid42140131,
year = {2026},
author = {Zendehdel, M and Alizadeh, N and Komijani, M and Soltaninejad, H},
title = {Eco-friendly clinoptilolite/NH2-chitosan/PVA nanofibers for gentamicin delivery, biofilm disruption, and burn wound healing.},
journal = {Colloids and surfaces. B, Biointerfaces},
volume = {266},
number = {},
pages = {115801},
doi = {10.1016/j.colsurfb.2026.115801},
pmid = {42140131},
issn = {1873-4367},
abstract = {Biofilm-associated infections and delayed wound healing remain major challenges in burn treatment due to limited antibiotic penetration and reduced therapeutic efficacy. In this study, we developed an eco-friendly gentamicin delivery system based on 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES)-functionalized clinoptilolite incorporated into chitosan/poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) electrospun nanofibers. The nanofibers were fabricated from a homogeneous precursor solution to ensure uniform distribution of all components. Comprehensive physicochemical characterization (FT-IR, XRD, FESEM, TGA, and zeta potential) confirmed successful surface functionalization, high drug-loading efficiency, and uniform fiber morphology. Drug release studies demonstrated sustained and pH-responsive behavior, with gentamicin release exceeding 80% after 8 h for the nanofiber system and approximately 5 h for the Clin/NH2/Gen powder formulation. Antibacterial and antibiofilm assays revealed rapid biofilm disruption within 30 min and a significant reduction in Staphylococcus aureus viability over 24 h. In vivo evaluation using a third-degree burn model showed that the nanofiber-treated group achieved near-complete re-epithelialization, enhanced angiogenesis, and well-organized collagen deposition, outperforming all control groups. These findings demonstrate that amino-functionalized clinoptilolite-based nanofibers provide an effective and sustainable platform for controlled antibiotic delivery, with strong potential for the treatment of biofilm-associated burn wound infections.},
}

@article {pmid42141906,
year = {2026},
author = {Goerlich, K and Mitchell, AP},
title = {Negative control of Candida albicans biofilm formation by combined action of white-opaque regulator Wor2 and biofilm regulator Bcr1.},
journal = {G3 (Bethesda, Md.)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/g3journal/jkag133},
pmid = {42141906},
issn = {2160-1836},
abstract = {Biofilm formation is vital for survival and pathogenicity of the fungus Candida albicans. Expression of biofilm-promoting genes is coordinated by a transcription factor network that governs the yeast-filament transition and other processes. A second cell type transition, the white-opaque transition, is coordinated by its own transcription factor network. Initial studies suggested that the two transcriptional networks have a mutually exclusive relationship, driven in part by reciprocal repression of biofilm regulator Efg1 and white-opaque regulator Wor1. However, recent studies have shown that biofilm regulators and white-opaque regulators can promote one another's function in many situations. Here we test the function of white-opaque regulator Wor2 in biofilm formation. We find that Wor2 has a functional relationship with biofilm regulator Bcr1. We characterized the phenotype of bcr1Δ/Δ wor2Δ/Δ mutants in five strain backgrounds, and conducted RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis in the SC5314 reference strain background. The combined Bcr1-Wor2 impact is unexpected: although Bcr1 is known as a positive regulator of biofilm formation and biofilm-related genes, the bcr1Δ/Δ wor2Δ/Δ mutants have increased biofilm or filamentation capacity, depending on the strain, and increased expression of biofilm-related genes. Those properties suggest that Wor2 and Bcr1 function together as negative regulators of biofilm formation. Our findings argue that Bcr1 can act as both a positive and negative regulator of downstream effector genes in the biofilm network and establish a new connection between the biofilm and white-opaque regulatory networks.},
}

@article {pmid42143051,
year = {2026},
author = {de Lucena, FS and Logan, MG and Lewis, SH and Zhang, H and Barbisan, M and Icimoto, MY and Wu, H and Higashi, D and Merritt, JL and Baker, JL and Pfeifer, CS},
title = {Drug repurposing for glucosyltransferase inhibition for targeted oral biofilm disruption.},
journal = {NPJ biofilms and microbiomes},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41522-026-01006-7},
pmid = {42143051},
issn = {2055-5008},
support = {R35-DE029083/DE/NIDCR NIH HHS/United States ; R90-DE031533/DE/NIDCR NIH HHS/United States ; R35-DE028252/DE/NIDCR NIH HHS/United States ; R00-DE029228/DE/NIDCR NIH HHS/United States ; },
abstract = {Microbial dysbiosis is the root cause for many diseases. The acidogenic Streptococcus mutans (S.m.) forms a exopolysaccharide-rich biofilm (EPS), mediated by species-specific glucosyltransferases (Gtf), which synthesizes both soluble and insoluble glucans directly on the bacterial surface. GtfC was selected as the primary druggable target since its activity is essential for biofilm initiation and cohesion. Commercial drugs were screened in silico against GtfC, followed by experimental biofilm assays. Two lead compounds, Radotinib and Pranlukast, significantly inhibited GtfC activity and reduced biofilm mass by up to 80. GtfC knock-out models confirmed biofilm disruption specifically via enzyme inhibition. Importantly, Radotinib selectively inhibited S.m. growth while preserving commensal species. This study identified at least two compounds capable of specifically inactivating a primary virulence factor of S.m. without inhibiting its growth, with a much lower selective pressure for drug resistance development, while simultaneously providing a growth advantage to commensal species that promote oral health.},
}

@article {pmid42139776,
year = {2026},
author = {Majumdar, A and Kotta-Loizou, I and Buck, M and Roychowdhury, T},
title = {Temperature-dependent biofilm and sublancin production arrest soil arsenic and antibiotic resistance gene mobility.},
journal = {Journal of hazardous materials},
volume = {512},
number = {},
pages = {142339},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.142339},
pmid = {42139776},
issn = {1873-3336},
abstract = {Climate change-induced warming and arsenic soil contamination synergistically threaten agricultural sustainability by restructuring microbial communities and accelerating antimicrobial resistance dissemination. Here, through integrated greenhouse and field trials, we demonstrate that Bacillus subtilis 168-derived biofilm and sublancin, a glycosylated antimicrobial peptide, simultaneously immobilise rhizospheric arsenic and suppress horizontal transfer of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). Temperature-dependent biofilm formation (25-35°C) enhanced arsenic sequestration within the extracellular polymeric substance matrix, with SEM-EDX revealing a 74% increase in arsenic weight percentage at 35°C and ToF-SIMS confirming ∼14-fold and ∼9-fold increases in root-associated arsenic on biofilm-colonised surfaces in greenhouse and field trials, respectively. Sublancin production peaked at 30°C (129.72 mg L[-1]), selectively suppressing all 12 tested pathogenic Gram-positive species by 74-86% while preserving Gram-negative communities. Bio-amendment reduced horizontal gene transfer frequency by 74.7% (p < 0.001) across all temperature regimes. Transcriptomic profiling revealed coordinated upregulation of exopolysaccharide biosynthesis (FDR ∼1.0 × 10[-27]) and sublancin machinery (sunA: +3.5 log2), alongside downregulation of conventional ARGs (vanA, blaTEM: -2.5 to -4.0 log2). These findings establish sublancin as a dual-function, climate-adaptive soil bio-amendment simultaneously addressing arsenic bioaccumulation and antibiotic resistance gene dissemination under warming scenarios.},
}

@article {pmid42134424,
year = {2026},
author = {Kaviraj, M and Jayappriyan, KR},
title = {Development of a simple FeSO4-based liquid medium for reliable biofilm induction in Candida albicans.},
journal = {Journal of microbiological methods},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {107550},
doi = {10.1016/j.mimet.2026.107550},
pmid = {42134424},
issn = {1872-8359},
abstract = {Reproducibility in Candida albicans biofilm research is often hindered by variations in culture media and strain-dependent responses. This study evaluates the effect of oxygen-scavenging agents on biofilm induction to identify a simple and standardized liquid medium suitable for rapid and consistent biofilm formation. Modified Sabouraud Dextrose Broth (SDB) was supplemented with ferrous sulfate (FeSO4), sodium sulfite (Na2SO3), ascorbic acid, and tested across four clinical isolates of C. albicans. FeSO4-supplemented SDB promoted significant biofilm formation within 24 h and the highest biomass at 48 h (OD595 = 0.90-0.95), significantly greater than Na2SO3 (OD595 = 0.60-0.70) and ascorbic acid (OD595 = 0.30-0.45) (****p < 0.0001). The untreated control showed negligible biofilm formation. These findings establish FeSO4-enriched SDB as a rapid, reproducible, and easily adaptable liquid medium for biofilm induction in C. albicans, providing a valuable tool for antifungal screening and biofilm-associated pathogenesis studies.},
}

@article {pmid42134584,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, D and Yan, C and Zhang, H and Zhang, Z and Herman, RA and Peng, T and Gong, L and Vazquez, MA and Wang, J},
title = {A novel engineered biofilm catalyst with bacterial cell surface-anchored laccase for efficient biodegradation of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs).},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {134873},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.134873},
pmid = {42134584},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are considered a highly heterogeneous and persistent class. However, the biodegradation of such compounds is limited by poor stability, low substrate mass transfer efficiency, and low reusability. This study explores a novel engineered biofilm catalyst that integrates bacterial cell-surface display to efficiently degrade EDCs. Under the optimized catalytic conditions, the degradation efficiency of estrone (E1), bisphenol A (BPA), and 2,4-dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP) reached 93.2%, 91.8%, and 81.7%, respectively, within 30 min. Compared to the surface-displayed laccase whole cell catalyst, the catalytic efficiency of the surface-displayed laccase biofilm increased by 22.5%, 15.8%, and 23.7%. The biofilm catalyst showed excellent stability, maintaining over 40% activity across a pH range of 3-7, 97% activity at 60 °C, and retaining 50% efficiency after 7 cycles. These findings demonstrate that the biofilm catalyst is an effective approach to enhancing degradation efficiency, providing a scalable, environmentally benign strategy for advanced wastewater treatment.},
}

@article {pmid42134875,
year = {2026},
author = {Behera, AD and Das, S},
title = {Extracellular Matrix of Biofilm Regulates the Stress Tolerance Mechanism in Aspergillus terreus HLP5 Against Lead and Phenanthrene Co-Pollutants.},
journal = {Environmental microbiology},
volume = {28},
number = {5},
pages = {e70326},
doi = {10.1111/1462-2920.70326},
pmid = {42134875},
issn = {1462-2920},
support = {09/983(0048)/2020-EMR-I//Council of Scientific & Industrial Research/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Phenanthrenes/toxicity/metabolism ; *Aspergillus/drug effects/physiology/genetics/metabolism ; *Lead/toxicity/metabolism ; *Extracellular Matrix/metabolism ; Stress, Physiological ; Fungal Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Gene Expression Regulation, Fungal/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Lead [Pb(II)] and phenanthrene are major environmental co-pollutants that pose a serious threat to all life forms. The present study highlights the biofilm-associated stress responses in the marine filamentous fungus Aspergillus terreus HLP5 to various concentrations of Pb(II) and phenanthrene (25-500 ppm, 1:1 ratio). Highest biofilm formation shifted from 48 h in control to 72 h in presence of co-pollutants. A reduced surface-to-volume ratio in biofilm formed at 25-50 ppm Pb(II) + Phe indicated increased mycelial aggregation and compact architecture. The hyphal diameter increased with co-pollutant concentration. Gene expression analysis revealed downregulation of ags gene, whereas somA, medA, uge5, uge3, and gtb3 expression peaked at 72-96 h in 25-100 ppm of Pb(II) + Phe. Extracellular matrix (ECM) exhibited compositional and conformational modifications in polysaccharide and protein content. Major shifts were observed in functional groups corresponding to hydroxyl, Amide I-II, carboxyl, and phosphate moieties. Distinct peak at 8.36 ppm in [1]H NMR revealed phenanthrene-ECM interaction. A decrease in fluorescence intensity of tryptophan-like residues (290/355 nm) indicated ECM-co-pollutant binding. Upregulation of stress response genes (gst, acot2) and antioxidants like glutathione S-transferase, superoxide dismutase, and proline contributed to reduced ROS accumulation and redox homeostasis. These findings illustrated enhanced stress resilience of ECM-covered biofilm under co-pollutant stress.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Phenanthrenes/toxicity/metabolism
*Aspergillus/drug effects/physiology/genetics/metabolism
*Lead/toxicity/metabolism
*Extracellular Matrix/metabolism
Stress, Physiological
Fungal Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Gene Expression Regulation, Fungal/drug effects

@article {pmid42136485,
year = {2026},
author = {Rain, Z and Singh, AK and Kumari, S and Kumar, D and Maurya, GK and Kumar, R and Prakash, P},
title = {Standardization of In vitro Method of Biofilm Formation by Clinical Isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Elucidating Its Biofilm-Specific Proteins Through LC-Orbitrap HRMS-Based Peptidomics.},
journal = {Infectious disorders drug targets},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.2174/0118715265435468260425130003},
pmid = {42136485},
issn = {2212-3989},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms drive chronic infections, yet heterogeneous matrix composition hinders standardized in vitro classification of clinical isolates. This study aimed to develop a reproducible biofilm formation protocol using a defined supplement mix and elucidate proteomic signatures across biofilm categories to enable risk stratification and targeted therapies.

METHODS: 139 clinical P. aeruginosa isolates were tested in BHI broth supplemented with 0.5% each glucose, mannose, NaCl, and arginine. Biofilm formation was quantified via TCP assay (ODcut=0.344 at 570 nm), validated by confocal (ConA-TRITC), SEM, protein/eDNA quantification (Bradford, phenol-chloroform), SDS-PAGE, and LC-Orbitrap HRMS peptidomics (549 proteins; PRIDE PXD057726). Antimicrobial susceptibility followed CLSI guidelines.

RESULTS: Supplement mix increased biofilm OD 26.9% (1.28±0.12 vs. 0.95±0.13; P<0.001), reclassifying isolates: HBF 38.8% (n=54), MBF 46.0% (n=64), WBF 13.7% (n=19), NBF 1.4% (n=2), resistance: ceftazidime 43.9%, meropenem 43.2%, imipenem 33.1%; 12.9% MDR. HBF matrices showed the highest protein levels (1.38±0.37 mg/mL); peptidomics revealed 12 shared proteins, 26 in PAO1/HBF/MBF, and 16 HBF-unique (ribosomal RpsA-RpsQ/RplA-RplY; stress YidC/KatA/ClpB/DnaJ; metabolic Edd/Pgk/PckA/ArcA).

DISCUSSION: Distinct signatures indicate anoxic adaptations (HupB, AtpA-G) that drive HBF robustness, linking matrix heterogeneity(GeNei, India) to infection persistence beyond mere polysaccharide dominance. HBF matrices exhibited anoxic adaptation (HupB, AtpA-G), with YidC insertase facilitating membrane protein biogenesis under stress, supporting metabolic speciation for biofilm-specific diagnostics, therapies, and isolate risk stratification.

CONCLUSION: This protocol enables biofilm categorization and reveals metabolic speciation targets for diagnostics and therapies against MDR P. aeruginosa biofilms.},
}