@article {pmid42470569,
year = {2026},
author = {Song, SH and Lee, EB},
title = {Repeated sub-MIC exposure and biofilm derivation are associated with resistance development and reduced bactericidal susceptibility in Aeromonas hydrophila KCTC 2358.},
journal = {Molecular biology reports},
volume = {53},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42470569},
issn = {1573-4978},
support = {RS-2025-00523220//National Research Foundation of Korea/ ; },
mesh = {*Aeromonas hydrophila/drug effects/genetics/physiology ; *Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests/methods ; Oxytetracycline/pharmacology ; *Drug Resistance, Bacterial/genetics/drug effects ; Animals ; Thiamphenicol/analogs & derivatives/pharmacology ; Enrofloxacin/pharmacology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Repeated exposure to sub-minimum inhibitory concentrations (sub-MICs) of antimicrobials can impose selective pressure on bacterial pathogens, potentially promoting adaptive responses beyond classical resistance. This study investigated whether sequential sub-MIC exposure, followed by biofilm derivation, is associated with resistance development and phenotypes consistent with reduced bactericidal susceptibility in Aeromonas hydrophila KCTC 2358.

METHODS AND RESULTS: A parental population (R0) was subjected to ten cycles of sub-MIC exposure to generate an adapted population (R10), followed by biofilm derivation. Antimicrobial susceptibility, growth kinetics, post-antibiotic effect (PAE), INT reduction activity, biofilm formation, and gene expression were evaluated under oxytetracycline, florfenicol, and enrofloxacin. Serial sub-MIC exposure resulted in stepwise increases in minimum inhibitory concentration and disproportionate increases in minimum bactericidal concentration, leading to elevated MBC/MIC ratios. Biofilm-derived populations exhibited further increases in bactericidal thresholds and sustained growth under high antimicrobial concentrations. Time-kill and PAE analyses revealed reduced growth suppression and accelerated regrowth, with consistently negative PAE observed in biofilm-derived R10 populations. Population-level INT reduction activity remained higher under antimicrobial stress. Notably, high oxytetracycline concentrations led to an increase in residual biofilm biomass, suggesting retention of biofilm-associated material rather than definitive evidence of tolerant subpopulations or a classical Eagle effect.

CONCLUSIONS: Collectively, these findings indicate that repeated sub-MIC exposure and biofilm-associated growth are associated with reduced bactericidal susceptibility and increased residual biofilm biomass. These findings provide a proof-of-concept laboratory observation that subinhibitory antimicrobial exposure may contribute to reduced susceptibility-associated phenotypes, highlighting the need for further validation using multiple A. hydrophila strains and aquaculture-derived isolates.},
}

*Aeromonas hydrophila/drug effects/genetics/physiology
*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Microbial Sensitivity Tests/methods
Oxytetracycline/pharmacology
*Drug Resistance, Bacterial/genetics/drug effects
Animals
Thiamphenicol/analogs & derivatives/pharmacology
Enrofloxacin/pharmacology

@article {pmid42470823,
year = {2026},
author = {Grini, FE and Tayane, S and Gaber, J and Abouzoul, W},
title = {Computational spatial transcriptomic re-analysis reveals biofilm-depth-dependent compartmentalization of SOS-associated and DNA-repair transcriptional programs in Escherichia coli.},
journal = {Computational biology and chemistry},
volume = {124},
number = {Pt 2},
pages = {109231},
doi = {10.1016/j.compbiolchem.2026.109231},
pmid = {42470823},
issn = {1476-928X},
abstract = {Biofilms are spatially structured microbial communities in which local physiological conditions vary across depth, potentially shaping DNA stress responses, repair pathways, and genome-plasticity-associated cellular states. However, the spatial organization of these transcriptional programs within individual bacterial biofilms remains poorly understood. Here, we re-analyzed public RAINBOW-seq spatial transcriptomic data from Escherichia coli BW25113 biofilms (GSE197541) using a curated 73-gene panel encompassing SOS response, stress response, biofilm matrix, conjugation- and competence-associated proxy genes, housekeeping controls, and metabolic reference genes. Because sequencing depth was spatially biased across biofilm depth, all analyses were performed using TMM-normalized logCPM expression values. Twenty genes displayed significant spatial gradients after false-discovery-rate correction. SOS-associated genes did not behave as a single spatially uniform module. Instead, DNA repair and damage-tolerance genes, including uvrA, uvrB, dinB, and sbmC, were enriched toward the biofilm interior, whereas ruvC, encoding a Holliday junction resolvase, was enriched toward the periphery. Module-level analyses confirmed this spatial dichotomy, which remained robust in leave-one-biofilm-out analyses. Beyond SOS-associated functions, broader categories also exhibited depth-dependent polarization. General stress genes were predominantly interior enriched, whereas several metabolic genes were peripheral enriched. Candidate housekeeping genes were not uniformly spatially invariant, with rpoD and gapA displaying significant but opposing spatial gradients. These findings demonstrate that DNA repair-, stress-response-, and genome-plasticity-associated transcriptional states are spatially compartmentalized within E. coli biofilms rather than being uniformly distributed throughout the community. The results also highlight the importance of validating reference genes in spatial transcriptomic studies of structured microbial systems.},
}

@article {pmid42471776,
year = {2026},
author = {Alqahtani, SS and Abusrewil, S and Baradwan, O and Alshanta, OA and Kean, R and McLean, W and Brown, JL and Nile, CJ},
title = {Interkingdom Endodontic Biofilm Supernatant Induces a Biphasic Inflammatory and Metabolic Transcriptional Response in Dental Pulp Stem Cells In Vitro.},
journal = {Clinical and experimental dental research},
volume = {12},
number = {4},
pages = {e70417},
pmid = {42471776},
issn = {2057-4347},
support = {//British Society for Oral and Dental Research/ ; //NIHR Newcastle Biomedical Research Centre/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; Humans ; *Dental Pulp/cytology/microbiology/metabolism ; *Stem Cells/metabolism ; Porphyromonas gingivalis/physiology ; Fusobacterium nucleatum/physiology ; Streptococcus gordonii/physiology ; Candida albicans/physiology ; Cells, Cultured ; Transcriptome ; Inflammation ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To investigate how soluble byproducts derived from a four-species endodontic biofilm model impact the viability, transcriptomic profile, and inflammatory response of human dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs).

METHODS: A sterile-filtered supernatant was extracted from an established interkingdom endodontic biofilm model comprising Streptococcus gordonii, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Candida albicans. DPSCs were exposed to the microbial biofilm supernatant (BSN) for 4 and 24 h. Cellular responses were evaluated via MTT, CCK-8, LDH assays, and Annexin V/PI staining. Transcriptomic sequencing was performed to assess gene expression dynamics, with GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses. IL6 and IL8 expression was validated by qPCR and ELISA. Data were analyzed using t-tests/ANOVA and RNA-seq differential expression using DESeq. 2 with FDR adjustment.

RESULTS: BSN significantly suppressed DPSC metabolic activity without inducing apoptosis or necrosis. RNA-seq revealed 723 significantly differentially expressed genes at 4 h and 1667 at 24 h. Early responses were dominated by upregulation of inflammatory mediators, with enrichment of TNF, NF-κB, and JAK-STAT signaling pathways. At 24 h, the expression profile shifted toward redox regulation and metabolic suppression, including downregulation of glycolytic and purine metabolism pathways. IL6 and IL8 expression was markedly increased at both transcript and protein levels.

CONCLUSIONS: Soluble factors produced by a biofilm model representative of deep caries and carious pulp exposures induce a time-dependent transcriptional response in DPSCs. This response is characterized by a biphasic pattern of early immune activation followed by later transcriptional metabolic adaptation. These findings highlight the capacity of soluble biofilm-derived products associated with deep caries to modulate DPSC immune-metabolic signaling. They further emphasize the importance of vital pulp therapy strategies that not only target microorganisms but also account for their secreted byproducts.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
Humans
*Dental Pulp/cytology/microbiology/metabolism
*Stem Cells/metabolism
Porphyromonas gingivalis/physiology
Fusobacterium nucleatum/physiology
Streptococcus gordonii/physiology
Candida albicans/physiology
Cells, Cultured
Transcriptome
Inflammation

@article {pmid42472684,
year = {2026},
author = {Su, D and Chen, Y},
title = {Advances in modification strategies for polymer-based biocarriers in biofilm wastewater treatment.},
journal = {Preparative biochemistry & biotechnology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-13},
doi = {10.1080/10826068.2026.2689403},
pmid = {42472684},
issn = {1532-2297},
abstract = {Biofilm technology is an effective biological wastewater treatment method that has attracted significant attention. As the core component of this technology, biocarriers play a vital role in microorganism attachment and biofilm formation. Polymer materials have long been favored as biocarrier materials due to their excellent properties. However, characteristics such as surface smoothness, hydrophilicity, and electronegativity can hinder microbial colonization and cause biofilms to detach easily. Therefore, developing new modified materials is a key strategy for improving the performance of traditional polymer-based biocarriers. This paper systematically reviews the research progress on modification strategies for polymer-based biocarrier materials, focusing on bulk modification (including filling, blending, and crosslinking), surface modification (such as grafting, etching, coating, and impregnation), and composite modification. Additionally, future research directions in this field are discussed. The goal is to advance the development of high-performance biocarrier materials.},
}

@article {pmid42474312,
year = {2026},
author = {Shvartsman, E and Grant, C and McQueen, P and McCorrister, S and Westmacott, G and Sandstrom, P and MacDonald, KS},
title = {Comparative proteomics reveal striking differences in biofilm formation and virulence potential of Gardnerella leopoldii, G. piotii, and G. vaginalis isolates.},
journal = {Journal of bacteriology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0041625},
doi = {10.1128/jb.00416-25},
pmid = {42474312},
issn = {1098-5530},
abstract = {Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common, recurrent cause of abnormal vaginal discharge that is associated with an increased risk of sexually transmitted infections and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Despite its clinical significance, the pathogenesis of BV remains incompletely understood, limiting the effectiveness of current interventions. Although the Gardnerella genus has been proposed to play a pivotal role in BV pathogenesis via biofilm initiation, it was initially considered monotypic. This paradigm shifted with the recognition of species heterogeneity within the Gardnerella genus. Here, we examined in vitro biofilm growth and proteomes of a representative isolate from each of three Gardnerella species: G. vaginalis, G. leopoldii, and G. piotii. G. leopoldii and G. piotii formed more robust biofilms compared to G. vaginalis, with higher biomass, suggesting differences in extracellular matrix composition. Proteomic analysis identified significant differences in functional pathways and virulence proteins among the studied isolates. Cysteine synthase (CysK), implicated in cysteine synthesis and potentially possessing secondary functions, was enriched in the more robust G. leopoldii and G. piotii biofilms, suggesting a possible role in biofilm formation. Cytolysins were more abundant in the thinner G. vaginalis biofilms, whereas immune evasion proteins were more abundant in G. leopoldii biofilms. Adhesion and glycogen-degrading proteins varied in type and abundance across species. These findings reveal functional heterogeneity among the tested isolates and provide insight into how certain Gardnerella isolates establish biofilms. Targeting virulence factors identified in this study may offer novel strategies to disrupt Gardnerella biofilm formation to improve management of BV.IMPORTANCEBacterial vaginosis (BV) is a leading cause of abnormal vaginal discharge, associated with high post-treatment recurrence. Gardnerella species play a central role in BV via initiation of polymicrobial biofilms, yet species-specific contributions remain poorly understood. This work demonstrates that tested isolates of G. leopoldii and G. piotii form more robust biofilms compared to G. vaginalis and differentially produce proteins associated with immune evasion, adhesion, and biofilm formation. Certain proteins were enriched in the more robust biofilm producers, suggestive of differences that may contribute to strain-specific biofilm formation. By demonstrating fundamental differences among the studied isolate biofilms, these findings highlight Gardnerella heterogeneity and provide a foundation for future studies aimed at targeting Gardnerella biofilm formation in BV.},
}

@article {pmid42474753,
year = {2026},
author = {Yang, H and Tang, Y and Zhang, Z and Wang, J and Tao, C and Wang, X},
title = {The biofilm detachment modes and mechanisms in porous media.},
journal = {Biodegradation},
volume = {37},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {42474753},
issn = {1572-9729},
support = {12372321, 11972074//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; Porosity ; Hydrodynamics ; Bacterial Adhesion ; },
abstract = {Biofilms are widely present in natural and engineered porous media, playing a crucial role in pollution control, resource recovery, and industrial applications; in which, the biofilm detachment induces the dynamic changes in flow paths within porous media, and significantly impact the permeability and hydrodynamic properties of porous media. In this review paper, we first introduce two types of biofilm detachment based on the detaching position: internal detachment occurs within the biofilm far from the flow path, creating a new flow path; and external detachment occurs outside the biofilm near the flow path, causing the flow path to widen. These two types of detachment work together in porous media, often leading to increased permeability and reorganization of flow paths. Then we systematically summarize two kinds of stresses influencing the biofilm detachment: shear stress generated by fluid flow on the biofilm, and cohesive strength inside the biofilm. Shear stress significantly influences biofilm dynamics, including growth, structure, and detachment, and is influenced by the pore structure characteristics of the medium and the physical properties of the biofilm. Biofilm cohesive strength, crucial for stability and adhesion, increases with depth and is influenced by EPS content and composition, pH value, and the presence of metal ions. The interplay between shear stress and cohesive strength determines biofilm stability and detachment, affects biofilm performance in various applications. Therefore, understanding biofilm detachment mechanism can better control and optimize physical and chemical properties of the porous media.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
Porosity
Hydrodynamics
Bacterial Adhesion

@article {pmid42475389,
year = {2026},
author = {Do, E and Zarnowski, R and Andes, DR and Mitchell, AP},
title = {An emergent biofilm program from inactivation of Candida albicans master regulators Efg1 and Ndt80.},
journal = {PLoS pathogens},
volume = {22},
number = {7},
pages = {e1014469},
doi = {10.1371/journal.ppat.1014469},
pmid = {42475389},
issn = {1553-7374},
abstract = {Biofilm formation by the fungus Candida albicans is a central virulence trait that enables colonization of implanted medical devices and mucosal surfaces. Biofilm formation reflects a complex regulatory network, and depends upon multiple master regulators that include transcription factors Efg1 and Ndt80. It is well established that efg1Δ/Δ and ndt80Δ/Δ single gene mutants are defective in biofilm formation. We report here that an efg1Δ/Δ ndt80Δ/Δ double mutant of reference strain SC5314 is able to form a robust biofilm in vitro and in vivo. We refer to the efg1Δ/Δ ndt80Δ/Δ biofilm as an emergent biofilm because this phenotype could not have been predicted from the phenotypes of efg1Δ/Δ or ndt80Δ/Δ single gene mutants. In four additional strain backgrounds, efg1Δ/Δ ndt80Δ/Δ mutants do not form biofilms, but in all strain backgrounds the efg1Δ/Δ ndt80Δ/Δ mutants can form filamentous cells, which are components of biofilms. Emergent biofilm formation is especially pronounced in YPD + FBS medium at 30°C, and RNA-seq under those conditions reveals altered expression in the efg1Δ/Δ ndt80Δ/Δ double mutant of biofilm-related genes: upregulation of BCR1, UME6, and HGC1, and downregulation of ALS3, BRG1, and HWP1. These gene expression changes suggest that the emergent biofilm program is partially distinct from the conventional biofilm program. This inference is supported by functional analysis: emergent biofilm formation is independent of Brg1, Rob1, Tec1, and Wor3, all of which have positive roles in conventional biofilm formation. Emergent biofilm formation depends upon the hyphal cyclin Hgc1, the biofilm transcription factors Bcr1 and Ume6, and the Bcr1/Ume6-activated adhesin gene FLO9. The seemingly simple emergent biofilm program may represent a primordial surface colonization strategy.},
}

@article {pmid42475814,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, M and Cai, W and Wang, H and Luo, X and Li, X and Zhang, Y and Lu, R},
title = {Allyl isothiocyanate exerts bactericidal and anti-biofilm effects against Vibrio parahaemolyticus via global transcriptional reprogramming.},
journal = {International journal of food microbiology},
volume = {460},
number = {},
pages = {111970},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2026.111970},
pmid = {42475814},
issn = {1879-3460},
abstract = {Allyl isothiocyanate (AITC), a bioactive compound found in various cruciferous vegetables including wasabi, exhibits potent antimicrobial properties against foodborne pathogens. This study demonstrates that AITC significantly inhibits the growth of Vibrio parahaemolyticus in both culture media and seafood matrices (minced shrimp). For mid-log phase planktonic and biofilm-embedded V. parahaemolyticus, AITC exerts potent bactericidal effects that intensify at higher concentrations (≥50 μg/ml) and longer exposure times. Crucially, AITC disrupts pre-formed biofilms on abiotic (e.g., polystyrene) and biotic (shrimp shell) surfaces, degrading extracellular matrices and dispersing embedded cells, as visualized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Sublethal AITC exposure (25 μg/ml) triggers extensive transcriptional reprogramming in V. parahaemolyticus RIMD2210633, downregulating 1299 genes, including key virulence determinants (e.g., T3SS1, T3SS2, T6SS2, and TDH), flagellar assembly components, exopolysaccharide (EPS) biosynthesis machinery, and type IV pili. Paradoxically, despite inhibiting swimming motility and biofilm formation, AITC upregulates cyclic di-GMP (c-di-GMP) synthesis, suggesting a stress-adaptive response. Collectively, these findings reveal that AITC combats V. parahaemolyticus through direct bactericidal activity, biofilm dismantling, and global downregulation of virulence and colonization-associated genes, with the observed c-di-GMP increase representing a stress-adaptive response whose functional significance requires further investigation. This work supports the potential of AITC as a natural strategy to enhance seafood safety and provides a mechanistic framework for its multi-target action.},
}

@article {pmid42476373,
year = {2026},
author = {Fu, J and Li, Y and Liu, Y and Xiong, C and Li, P and Long, X and Li, Q and Chen, R},
title = {Biochar-assisted rapid formation of core-biofilm anammox granules via interfacial trapping of extracellular polymeric substances.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {135469},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.135469},
pmid = {42476373},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {The slow formation and insufficient structural stability of conventional anammox granules remain major limitations to reactor start-up and long-term stability. Here, we propose a biochar-assisted core-biofilm granulation mode to accelerate the formation of anammox granules with clearly identifiable structural features. Millimeter-scale biochar particles served as persistent internal cores and were progressively encapsulated by compact microbial biofilms, resulting in the rapid formation of biochar-nucleus granules with a distinct core-biofilm architecture. During early granulation, extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) were markedly enriched on biochar surfaces, and α-helix and β-turn protein fractions increased as granules matured. Mechanistic analyses indicated that rapid EPS anchoring onto biochar was mainly driven by π-π stacking and further strengthened by carboxyl-enabled hydrogen bonding, which improved biochar-biofilm interfacial affinity, lowered the interfacial thermodynamic barrier, and facilitated microbial colonization and outward biofilm growth. Furthermore, biochar promoted the preferential enrichment of Candidatus Kuenenia during granule development, accompanied by higher abundances of key anammox genes (Hzs and Hdh). Overall, this work reveals a biochar-assisted core-biofilm granulation mode and provides a materials-based strategy for the rapid cultivation of structurally stable and high-performance anammox granules.},
}

@article {pmid42470113,
year = {2026},
author = {Shakibaie, MR and Ghahraman, MRK and Mahdiun, F and Kamali, A and Shakibaie, S},
title = {Molecular analysis of clinical Acinetobacter baumannii isolates based on colistin resistance, biofilm formation, clonal relationships, and pmrA gene expression.},
journal = {Future microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-14},
doi = {10.1080/17460913.2026.2704354},
pmid = {42470113},
issn = {1746-0921},
abstract = {AIMS: This study investigates the molecular characteristics of multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (MDRAB) clinical isolates with particular emphasis on colistin resistance, biofilm formation, antimicrobial resistance determinants, clonal relatedness, and pmrA gene expression.

METHODS: Twenty MDRAB isolates were collected from intensive care unit patients at Afzalipour Hospital, Kerman, Iran. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using the broth microdilution method according to the EUCAST 2022 guidelines. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL), carbapenemase, biofilm-associated genes, and class 1 integrons. Clonal relatedness was assessed using Repetitive-element PCR (Rep-PCR), and the pmrA gene (GenBank accession no. MN787072.1) expression analyzed through quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR).

RESULTS: The isolates demonstrated high minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) particularly against carbapenems. Many isolates showed strong biofilm, while carrying biofilm-associated genes bap, csuE, pgaA, and ompA. Class 1 integrons and the blaCTX-M gene detected in 94% and 65% of isolates, respectively. Colistin-resistant (ColR) isolates shared a distinct Rep-PCR profile (singleton) and harbored both the pmrA and blaCTX-M-15 genes. DNA sequencing and qRT-PCR analysis revealed that, the Q218→K mutation had marginal effect on pmrA gene expression.

CONCLUSION: These findings underscore the urgent need for effective antibiotic stewardship to address rising incidence of carbapenemase-producing, colistin resistance in A. baumannii.},
}

@article {pmid42470474,
year = {2026},
author = {Biswas, A and Rahman, MH and Chichger, H and Shil, A},
title = {A sucralose-based sweetener promotes biofilm formation and plasmid-mediated antibiotic resistance transfer in opportunistic gut bacteria.},
journal = {Archives of microbiology},
volume = {208},
number = {10},
pages = {},
pmid = {42470474},
issn = {1432-072X},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Sucrose/analogs & derivatives/pharmacology ; *Plasmids/genetics ; *Sweetening Agents/pharmacology ; *Drug Resistance, Bacterial ; Escherichia coli/drug effects/genetics/growth & development ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; *Bacteria/drug effects/genetics/growth & development ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects ; Gene Transfer, Horizontal/drug effects ; Klebsiella pneumoniae/drug effects/genetics ; Enterococcus faecalis/drug effects/genetics ; },
abstract = {Artificial sweeteners are widely used sugar substitutes, yet their effects on bacterial physiology and antimicrobial resistance dissemination remain poorly understood. This study evaluated the impact of the sucralose-based artificial sweetener Zerocal on bacterial growth, biofilm formation, and plasmid-mediated gene transfer in gut-associated opportunistic bacteria including extended-spectrum β-lactamase producing Escherichia coli, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Enterococcus faecalis. Bacterial growth was monitored spectrophotometrically, biofilm formation was quantified using a crystal violet assay, and conjugative plasmid transfer was assessed using donor-recipient co-culture experiments. Exposure to Zerocal at 0.5 mM and 1 mM did not significantly alter planktonic growth of any tested strain during 24 h incubation. In contrast, Zerocal markedly enhanced biofilm formation in a strain-dependent manner. K. pneumoniae exhibited the greatest increase, with biofilm biomass rising by approximately 260% at 0.5 mM and ~ 200% at 1 mM relative to controls. ESBL E. coli and E. faecalis showed increases of approximately 222% and ~ 150%, respectively, whereas no change was observed in E. coli. Zerocal also significantly enhanced conjugative plasmid transfer from K. pneumoniae to E. coli, increasing the number of transconjugants by 61.7% at 12 h compared with untreated controls. Co-exposure with 0.1 mM zinc sulfate reduced Zerocal-associated biofilm formation and partially attenuated conjugation. Together, these results suggest that sucralose-containing sweeteners may promote bacterial traits associated with persistence and antimicrobial resistance dissemination. These findings raise the possibility that widely consumed artificial sweeteners may unintentionally influence bacterial traits associated with persistence and antimicrobial resistance dissemination within the gut environment.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Sucrose/analogs & derivatives/pharmacology
*Plasmids/genetics
*Sweetening Agents/pharmacology
*Drug Resistance, Bacterial
Escherichia coli/drug effects/genetics/growth & development
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
*Bacteria/drug effects/genetics/growth & development
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects
Gene Transfer, Horizontal/drug effects
Klebsiella pneumoniae/drug effects/genetics
Enterococcus faecalis/drug effects/genetics

@article {pmid42467121,
year = {2026},
author = {Jeyasanta, KI and Sathish, N and Sudhakar, BJ and Aswini, T and Patterson, J},
title = {Biofilm-associated microbial communities on microplastics in rural and urban aquatic environments of Tamil Nadu, India: Functional characterization and antibiotic resistance.},
journal = {World journal of microbiology & biotechnology},
volume = {42},
number = {8},
pages = {},
pmid = {42467121},
issn = {1573-0972},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; India ; *Microplastics/analysis ; *Bacteria/isolation & purification/drug effects/classification/genetics/metabolism ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Extracellular Polymeric Substance Matrix/metabolism ; *Water Pollutants, Chemical/analysis ; *Water Microbiology ; Drug Resistance, Bacterial ; Drug Resistance, Microbial ; Fresh Water/microbiology ; Geologic Sediments/microbiology/chemistry ; },
abstract = {Microplastics (MPs) are persistent aquatic pollutants that provide substrates for microbial colonization and biofilm development. This study investigated the functional characteristics of MP-associated microbial communities across coastal, estuarine, and freshwater environments in Tamil Nadu, India, providing a comparative assessment of plastisphere functionality under varying levels of anthropogenic influence. A total of 615 MPs were collected from water and sediment samples, of which 279 particles (45.4%) exhibited visible biofilms and were selected for further analysis. Biofilm-associated MPs showed higher abundance, biofilm formation, and extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) production in urban environments than in rural systems. Fragments (54.4%) and films (27.4%) were dominant, while polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) were the most prevalent polymers. A total of 71 bacterial isolates were recovered from MP-associated biofilms. Biofilm formation varied significantly among environments (OD570: 0.58-1.12), with the highest values recorded in nutrient-enriched urban systems. EPS production was also elevated in urban sites, reaching 254 ± 15 µg g[-1] of carbohydrates and 172 ± 10 µg g[-1] of proteins. Correlation and principal component analyses demonstrated strong associations among nutrient concentrations, MP abundance, EPS production, and biofilm development. Enzyme assays revealed higher hydrolytic activity in EPS-rich isolates, particularly Pseudomonas spp. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed microbial colonization and biofilm development on MP surfaces. Antibiotic susceptibility testing indicated widespread resistance to ampicillin and erythromycin, with broader resistance profiles in urban environments. Overall, MPs function as microbial habitats supporting biofilm formation, microbial metabolism, and antibiotic resistance, with environmental conditions playing a key role in shaping plastisphere functionality.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
India
*Microplastics/analysis
*Bacteria/isolation & purification/drug effects/classification/genetics/metabolism
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Extracellular Polymeric Substance Matrix/metabolism
*Water Pollutants, Chemical/analysis
*Water Microbiology
Drug Resistance, Bacterial
Drug Resistance, Microbial
Fresh Water/microbiology
Geologic Sediments/microbiology/chemistry

@article {pmid42468200,
year = {2026},
author = {Su, W and Li, Z and Feng, S and Yu, Z and Li, S and Lu, H and Song, X and Tu, J and Qi, Z and Shao, Y},
title = {YgeP, a global regulator within the ETT2 pathogenicity island, coordinates motility-biofilm balance and negatively controls serum resistance in avian pathogenic Escherichia coli.},
journal = {Veterinary microbiology},
volume = {320},
number = {},
pages = {111147},
doi = {10.1016/j.vetmic.2026.111147},
pmid = {42468200},
issn = {1873-2542},
abstract = {Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) is the primary pathogen causing avian colibacillosis, leading to significant economic losses in the global poultry industry. Its pathogenicity relies on a complex network of virulence factors, among which the type III secretion system 2 (ETT2) is a key component. However, unlike the classical T3SS, the ETT2 gene cluster in APEC commonly exhibits pseudogenization and deletions, suggesting that its function may have undergone adaptive remodeling. Notably, the YgeP gene located at the end of this pathogenicity island is highly conserved, implying that it may play an important role in the pathogenic process. To elucidate the function of YgeP, a member of this pathogenicity island, in APEC pathogenesis, a gene deletion mutant was constructed. The study confirmed that YgeP acts as a key global regulator, positively regulating bacterial motility by influencing the expression of flagellar synthesis-related genes. Conversely, YgeP negatively regulates biofilm formation and adhesion to chicken fibroblast cells. Additionally, YgeP differentially regulates bacterial tolerance to various environmental stresses, such as acid, alkali, heat, and oxidative stress. Mechanistically, YgeP negatively regulates serum resistance by inhibiting the Rcs phosphorelay system (manifested as upregulation of RcsA/B genes) and the expression of downstream capsular polysaccharide synthesis genes (e.g., wza, wzaA). Promoter activity assays further demonstrated that YgeP directly represses these target genes as a transcriptional repressor. Therefore, YgeP plays a central role in APEC pathogenesis by balancing two infection strategies: motility-mediated dissemination and colonization, and biofilm-mediated attachment and tolerance. Simultaneously, it negatively regulates key virulence traits, including serum resistance, during the early stages of infection.},
}

@article {pmid42468466,
year = {2026},
author = {Ghahremanpour, H and Talebi Bezmin Abadi, A and Fooladi, AAI},
title = {Biofilm and blaOXA-40 Co-Production: A Key Pathogenic Strategy in Hospital-Adapted Pseudomonas aeruginosa.},
journal = {Archives of medical research},
volume = {57},
number = {7},
pages = {103479},
doi = {10.1016/j.arcmed.2026.103479},
pmid = {42468466},
issn = {1873-5487},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The coexistence of both carbapenem resistance and biofilm formation in Pseudomonas aeruginosa represents a major clinical challenge, particularly in intensive care units (ICUs). This study investigated antimicrobial resistance, carbapenemase genes, and biofilm-related characteristics in ICU and non-ICU isolates.

METHODS: A total of 130 non-duplicate P. aeruginosa clinical isolates were collected from hospitalized patients. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using the disk diffusion method. Carbapenemase production was assessed using mCIM/eCIM assays. Biofilm formation was quantified using a microtiter plate assay. Carbapenemase genes (blaKPC-2, blaOXA-40, blaOXA-48, blaGES-2, blaVIM, blaIMP, and blaNDM-1) and biofilm-associated genes (algD, pelF, and pslD) were detected by PCR, while algD and pelF expression levels were evaluated by qPCR.

RESULTS: Resistance to meropenem (61.5%) and imipenem (60%) was significantly higher among ICU isolates. Carbapenemase production was detected in 91% of carbapenem-resistant isolates. The blaGES-2 gene was the predominant carbapenemase determinant (93.6%), followed by blaNDM-1 (14.6%). This study reports the first sequenced P. aeruginosa isolates harboring blaOXA-40 in Iran. Carbapenem-resistant isolates demonstrated significantly stronger biofilm formation and higher algD and pelF expression compared with carbapenem-susceptible isolates (p <0.01). ICU hospitalization, male sex, and tracheal aspirates were identified as independent risk factors for acquiring carbapenem-resistant P. aeruginosa.

CONCLUSION: The high prevalence of extensively drug-resistant, carbapenem-resistant P. aeruginosa isolates in ICUs, together with enhanced biofilm formation and carbapenemase production, highlights an important therapeutic and infection control challenge. Continuous surveillance and molecular monitoring are essential for the effective management of hospital-associated infections.},
}

@article {pmid42468758,
year = {2026},
author = {Luo, H and Feng, R and Xu, B and Li, X and Li, D and Jiang, H and Ren, X and Ran, P},
title = {A hesperidin-engineered metal-phenolic nanoplatform for biofilm-targeted and self-amplified photothermal/chemodynamic therapy of skin abscesses.},
journal = {Journal of controlled release : official journal of the Controlled Release Society},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {115188},
doi = {10.1016/j.jconrel.2026.115188},
pmid = {42468758},
issn = {1873-4995},
abstract = {Biofilm-associated skin abscesses remain challenging to manage because the extracellular polymeric matrix restricts drug access and bacteria rapidly activate protective stress programs. Here, we developed a hesperidin/Fe[3+]-assembled metal-phenolic nanoplatform functionalized with phenylboronic acid (HF@PBA) for biofilm-targeted photothermal/chemodynamic therapy. Hesperidin not only participates in nanoparticle assembly as a natural flavonoid ligand, but also contributes anti-biofilm bioactivity and efficient near-infrared photothermal responsiveness after coordination with Fe[3+]. PBA modification enhances adhesion to the extracellular polymeric matrix, improving retention and penetration within infectious lesions. Under 808 nm irradiation, HF@PBA enables mild photothermal therapy, while released hesperidin suppresses DnaK/HSP70-associated heat-stress tolerance. In the acidic and glutathione-rich biofilm microenvironment, the nanoparticles dissociate, releasing Fe[3+], which is reduced to Fe[2+] and subsequently drives hydroxyl radical generation. Meanwhile, hesperidin further interferes with quorum sensing and virulence-related responses. Consequently, HF@PBA effectively eliminated planktonic bacteria and mature biofilms in vitro, and transcriptomic/protein analyses revealed marked suppression of heat-shock and quorum-sensing pathways. In a murine MRSA abscess model, HF@PBA achieved 99.7% bacterial eradication, alleviated inflammation, and enhanced collagen regeneration and angiogenesis with negligible systemic toxicity. This work provides a simple biodegradable strategy for treating persistent biofilm-associated skin infections.},
}

@article {pmid42461448,
year = {2026},
author = {Hellwig, F and Kohnert, E and Hellwig, E and Cieplik, F and Bartsch, S and Tchorz, JP and Altenburger, MJ and Al-Ahmad, A},
title = {Influence of heat-non-burn tobacco aerosol on the microbiome of biofilm from human whole saliva bacteria in vitro.},
journal = {Clinical oral investigations},
volume = {30},
number = {8},
pages = {},
pmid = {42461448},
issn = {1436-3771},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; Humans ; Aerosols ; *Microbiota/drug effects ; *Saliva/microbiology ; Cattle ; Animals ; In Vitro Techniques ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: The heat-not-burn tobacco product IQOS (I Quit Ordinary Smoking) has recently become widely used. However, the impact of IQOS aerosol on the oral microbiome remains unclear. The present study therefore aimed to investigate the influence of IQOS aerosol on the microbial composition of microcosm biofilms formed from human saliva using a standardized biofilm reactor.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: A custom-designed biofilm reactor was constructed to enable the intermittent exposure of biofilms to IQOS aerosol. Microcosm biofilms were formed on bovine enamel samples with a defined surface (19.635 mm[2]) with unstimulated pooled human saliva from three healthy probands being used as inoculum. Biofilm formation took place with continuous nutrient medium supply for 5 days. The biofilm in the test setup was exposed to IQOS aerosol 8 times a day for 5 min each time. A parallel test setup ensured simultaneous biofilm formation without exposure to IQOS aersol and served as a negative control. After 5 days, the microbial composition of the formed biofilms was examined by amplicon sequencing using the V1-V3 region of the 16S rRNA gene. In addition, the biofilm was visualized using scanning electron microscopy.

RESULTS: After one week, the surfaces of the bovine enamel samples on which biofilm formation took place were similarly covered, whether under the influence of IQOS aerosol or in the negative control. The Simpson index showed significant differences (P < 0.05), while the Pielou index showed highly significant differences (0.01 < P < 0.05), as did the Shannon index (0.001 < P < 0.01) and the Richness index (P < 0.001). The β-diversity showed different clustering between the treated biofilm and the negative control, corresponding to the significantly different (p = 0.001) microbial community caused by the IQOS aerosol. The abundance of the genera Gemella, Haemophilus, Neisseria and Rothia was significantly lower in biofilms influenced by IQOS aerosol. Additionally, the abundance of different species was significantly modified by IQOS aerosol.

CONCLUSIONS: IQOS aersol may shift oral microbial composition, even though not inhibiting biofilm growth. This highlights the need for further research into the effects on oral microbal ecology of IQOS users, as well as the development of prevention and education measures regarding the potential health risks associated with IQOS.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
Humans
Aerosols
*Microbiota/drug effects
*Saliva/microbiology
Cattle
Animals
In Vitro Techniques
Microscopy, Electron, Scanning

@article {pmid42462273,
year = {2026},
author = {Kandikatla, A and Shit, J and Suresh, A and Das, V and Kar, S and Chinnadurai, S and Malayil Manikandan, V and Subrfarazhussain, HS and Murugaiyan, J},
title = {Revisiting biofilm quantification: crystal violet assay and the emerging role of hyperspectral imaging.},
journal = {Analytical methods : advancing methods and applications},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1039/d6ay00772d},
pmid = {42462273},
issn = {1759-9679},
abstract = {Bacterial biofilms are major contributors to persistent and chronic infections. Conventional methods used to quantify biofilms, such as the crystal violet assay, provide only semi-quantitative and non-specific estimates of their biomass. In this study, we highlight hyperspectral imaging (HSI) as a non-destructive approach for biofilm analysis. To address this, stainless steel coupons were developed to support robust biofilm formation. We propose HSI, coupled with machine learning tools, to detect and quantify Acinetobacter baumannii biofilms for potential real-time monitoring. This method has the potential to capture the biochemical as well as structural heterogeneity within biofilms and may serve as a valuable tool in biofilm research.},
}

@article {pmid42463619,
year = {2026},
author = {Che, R and Sun, Y and Zhao, J},
title = {Metabolomics study of the inhibitory effects of tubuloside A on Streptococcus suis biofilm.},
journal = {International microbiology : the official journal of the Spanish Society for Microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42463619},
issn = {1618-1905},
support = {LBH-Z21192//Heilongjiang Postdoctoral Financial Assistance/ ; JJ2023LH1529//Natural Science Foundation of Heilongjiang Province of China/ ; XYB202018//Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University Talent Research Start-up Fund/ ; },
abstract = {Streptococcus suis (S. suis) is an important zoonotic pathogen. Biofilm formation contributes to persistent and chronic infections, increases the difficulty of bacterial eradication, and may pose a threat to public health. Clinically, S. suis infection is mainly treated with antibacterial drugs. However, biofilm-forming S. suis exhibits enhanced drug tolerance, and conventional drugs are often unable to eradicate established biofilms effectively. At present, screening traditional Chinese medicine monomer drugs to interfere with the formation of biofilms has become a promising strategy for controlling S. suis biofilms. In this study, the antibiofilm effect of tubuloside A (TA) on S. suis ATCC700794 and the associated metabolic changes were investigated using untargeted metabolomics. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of TA against S. suis ATCC700794 was determined by the broth microdilution method. The effects of TA were studied using crystal violet staining. The morphology of TA treated ATCC700794 cells was observed by scanning electron microscopy. Differentially abundant metabolites were screened using metabolomics and bioinformatics analyses. The MIC of TA was 64 µg/mL, whereas 1/2 MIC (32 µg/mL) of TA significantly inhibited biofilm formation without markedly affecting bacterial growth under the tested conditions and reduced biofilm structural formation. After treatment with 1/2 MIC of TA, 65 annotated metabolites met the screening criteria, including 23 upregulated and 42 downregulated metabolites. Bioinformatic analysis showed that the metabolic changes in S. suis ATCC700794 after TA treatment were mainly associated with glycine, serine and threonine metabolism, purine metabolism, cysteine and methionine metabolism, alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism, the citrate cycle, arginine and proline metabolism, and pyruvate metabolism. This study provides preliminary metabolomic evidence that TA-mediated inhibition of S. suis biofilm formation is associated with alterations in amino acid metabolism and central carbon metabolism, offering candidate metabolic clues for future mechanistic studies.},
}

@article {pmid42463891,
year = {2026},
author = {Lee, SC and Cho, K and Lee, CG and Kim, SB and Choi, N},
title = {Enhanced biodiesel wastewater treatment using moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) and improved applicability to subsequent coagulation process.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41598-026-62982-6},
pmid = {42463891},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {RS-2025-02214066//Korea Environmental Industry and Technology Institute/ ; },
abstract = {Biodiesel wastewater (BDW) is a high-strength industrial effluent rich in organic matter, oils, and suspended solids, posing significant challenges for conventional treatment processes. In this study, a pilot-scale moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) was operated continuously for three months to evaluate its performance in treating biodiesel wastewater (BDW) and its impact on the efficiency of subsequent coagulation. The MBBR achieved sustained chemical oxygen demand (COD) and total organic carbon (TOC) removal under fluctuating influent conditions, with average removal rates of 74.79% and 81.37%, respectively. Microbial community analysis based on 16 S rRNA gene sequencing revealed a diverse biofilm community in the MBBR carriers, with Bacteroidetes, Saccharibacteria_TM7, Proteobacteria, and Firmicutes as major phyla. At the genus level, Saccharimonas, Chryseobacterium, and Proteiniphilum were the predominant taxa. In addition, MBBR pre-treatment substantially enhanced the performance of downstream coagulation using ferrous sulfate. The COD removal efficiency by coagulation increased more than 2.5-fold after MBBR treatment (from 13.35% to 34.29%), along with notable enhancements in TOC and SS removal. These enhancements may be associated with biological modification of wastewater characteristics during MBBR pretreatment, which improved the conditions for particle aggregation during subsequent coagulation. By linking continuous pilot-scale MBBR operation, carrier-associated biofilm characterization, and downstream FeSO4 coagulation response, this study provides practical insight into the integration of biofilm-based pretreatment with existing physicochemical treatment processes for high-strength industrial wastewater.},
}

@article {pmid42464116,
year = {2026},
author = {Umar, NK and Ueda, R and Shiga, T and Fujishiro, T and Onishi, Y and Kamiyama, T and Sakatani, H and Mizobata, K and Tamagawa, S and Hotomi, M and Kono, M},
title = {Synergistic biofilm formation by the coexistence of nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis reduces amoxicillin efficacy.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12866-026-05420-x},
pmid = {42464116},
issn = {1471-2180},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi) and Moraxella catarrhalis are recognized as the key pathogens that cause respiratory tract infections, and both are capable of forming biofilms. Although interspecies biofilm formation has been described, the impact of co-culture conditions on antimicrobial responsiveness remains incompletely defined. In this study, we examined biofilm formation by co-culturing NTHi and M. catarrhalis and evaluated their antimicrobial responsiveness to amoxicillin and alternative clinically relevant antibiotics, including sequential exposure following initial amoxicillin treatment, in an in vitro model.

RESULTS: Biofilm formation was quantitatively evaluated using the crystal violet staining method with a 96-well pin replicator. Twenty clinical isolates of M. catarrhalis were first cultured for 24 h to assess their biofilm-forming capacities, which varied considerably among strains, with some producing robust biofilms. To further examine interspecies interactions, M. catarrhalis and NTHi were co-cultured at different CFU ratios, revealing that increasing the proportion of M. catarrhalis in the inoculum enhanced overall biofilm production compared with either species alone. Additionally, exposure to selected antibiotics showed that respiratory quinolones were associated with greater reductions in biofilm biomass and viable bacteria within co-culture-derived biofilms compared with amoxicillin, both during direct treatment and following prior amoxicillin exposure, under the experimental conditions tested.

CONCLUSION: Co-culture of NTHi and M. catarrhalis was shown to significantly enhance biofilm formation compared with either culture species alone. In particular, a higher proportion of M. catarrhalis was associated with increased biofilm production. These findings suggest that polymicrobial coexistence may contribute to reduced antimicrobial responsiveness through enhanced biofilm formation.},
}

@article {pmid42464402,
year = {2026},
author = {Stiffler, AK and Varona, NS and Wallace, BA and Silveira, CB},
title = {Chemical prophage induction selectively removes Vibrio from a pelagic Sargassum-derived multispecies biofilm.},
journal = {Environmental microbiome},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s40793-026-00925-4},
pmid = {42464402},
issn = {2524-6372},
support = {2023349872//National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program/ ; 2023353157//National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program/ ; 80NSSC23K0676/NASA/NASA/United States ; 2424579//National Science Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Pelagic Sargassum has undergone significant range expansion and dramatic blooms in the Atlantic over the past 15 years. This alga's microbiome provides symbiotic functions that are believed to contribute to its ecological success. Recent research shows that Sargassum-associated bacteria are enriched in integrated prophages compared to the surrounding seawater and that these prophages are inducible by chemical and ultraviolet treatment.

RESULTS: Here, we investigated a Sargassum-derived in vitro multispecies biofilm encompassing the dominant heterotrophic microbial members associated with Sargassum to probe the impacts of prophage induction on the composition of Sargassum microbiomes. Induction was quantified by coverage-based virus-to-host ratios in chemically induced treatments with Mitomycin C and non-induced controls, and the community composition and metabolic profiles were analyzed after Mitomycin C treatment. Chemical induction led to a significant increase in abundance and virus-to-host ratio of viral genomes linked to Vibrio metagenome-assembled genomes. This was accompanied by altered biofilm community composition, with a reduction in Vibrio bacterial abundance that opened niche space for other biofilm members in the genera Pseudoalteromonas, Alteromonas, and Cobetia. The induced Vibrio-associated phages encoded genes involved in quorum sensing, biofilm formation, virulence, and host metabolism. Induction led to the depletion of 17 metabolic modules, including functions related to energy metabolism and nitrogen utilization.

CONCLUSION: Due to the high frequency of lysogeny in the Sargassum microbiome and the susceptibility of prophages to chemical and ultraviolet light induction, these results suggest that prophage integration and induction are mechanisms that contribute to structuring the Sargassum microbiome and its functional profiles, potentially aiding in microbiome flexibility in changing environmental contexts.},
}

@article {pmid42464506,
year = {2026},
author = {Madalambika, and Kumar, AC and BharathKumar, PM and Gowda, KBV and Ramu, R and Naik, N},
title = {Exploring Biofilm Inhibition Potential of Imidazo-Pyridine Linked Tetrazoles Against Candida albicans: Synthesis, Biological Evaluation With Computational Studies.},
journal = {Chemical biology & drug design},
volume = {108},
number = {1},
pages = {e70359},
doi = {10.1111/cbdd.70359},
pmid = {42464506},
issn = {1747-0285},
support = {DST/KSTePS/Ph.D.Fellowship/CHE-06:2022-23/989//Karnataka Science and Technology Promotion Society (KSTePS), DST Ph.D. Fellowship Programme./ ; },
mesh = {*Candida albicans/drug effects/physiology ; *Biofilms/drug effects ; Humans ; *Antifungal Agents/pharmacology/chemistry/chemical synthesis ; *Tetrazoles/chemistry/pharmacology/chemical synthesis ; Molecular Docking Simulation ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Pyridines/chemistry/pharmacology ; HEK293 Cells ; *Imidazoles/chemistry/pharmacology ; Hemolysis/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Infectious diseases remain one of the major global health challenges due to their rapid transmission and evolving pathogenic mechanisms. Among them, Candida albicans has emerged as a significant opportunistic antifungal pathogen, which is responsible for biofilm-associated infections. In the present study, a library of new tetrazole bearing imidazo-pyridine molecules (4a-4j) was synthesised and characterised through spectroscopic techniques ([1]H, [13]C and MS) for structural confirmation. Their in vitro antifungal potential was evaluated against C. albicans, where compound 4d emerged as the most promising lead among all by exhibiting a MIC of 7 μg/mL and MFC of 45 μg/mL, conquering the reference fluconazole (FLC) which showed 8 μg/mL and 64 μg/mL of MIC and MFC, respectively. Compound 4d also demonstrated 75% and 86% inhibition of fungal filamentation and of biofilm formation, respectively. qRT-PCR analysis confirmed the significant downregulation of important virulence genes, and SEM imaging further validated biofilm prevention. Toxicity assessment through hemolytic and cytotoxic assays on HEK293 cell line indicated low toxicity across tested concentrations. Additionally, computational evaluation including molecular docking and ADMET parameters supported the predicted binding affinities and pharmacokinetic properties of the synthesised compounds.},
}

*Candida albicans/drug effects/physiology
*Biofilms/drug effects
Humans
*Antifungal Agents/pharmacology/chemistry/chemical synthesis
*Tetrazoles/chemistry/pharmacology/chemical synthesis
Molecular Docking Simulation
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Pyridines/chemistry/pharmacology
HEK293 Cells
*Imidazoles/chemistry/pharmacology
Hemolysis/drug effects

@article {pmid42465252,
year = {2026},
author = {Balistreri, A and Gomulinski, M and Chapman, MR and Kelly, JW},
title = {The Microglial Protein sTREM2 Inhibits the Bacterial Functional Amyloid CsgA and Suppresses Amyloid-Dependent Biofilm Formation.},
journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.64898/2026.07.03.736422},
pmid = {42465252},
issn = {2692-8205},
abstract = {Protein misfolding and aggregation, including amyloid fibril formation, underlie a large class of human diseases including prominent neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. A small number of human proteins have been identified that inhibit amyloidogenesis. One such protein is sTREM2, a soluble receptor liberated from microglia, the resident macrophages of the central nervous system. The extracellular domain of TREM2 is shed upon proteolytic cleavage to create sTREM2, which has previously been shown to inhibit amyloid-β aggregation in vitro . TREM2 is also expressed by intestinal macrophages, which are known to directly bind the bacterial amyloid curli and mount cytokine responses upon exposure. Here we show that sTREM2 is a sub-stoichiometric inhibitor of CsgA amyloidogenesis, CsgA being the major protein component of curli that drives biofilm formation in uropathogenic Escherichia coli and many other proteobacteria. In vitro , sTREM2 potently and sub-stoichiometrically inhibited CsgA amyloidogenesis in a dose-dependent manner. Kinetic modeling indicated that sTREM2 slowed primary and secondary nucleation, rather than altering fiber elongation. When added exogenously to bacterial growth medium, sTREM2 significantly suppressed curli-dependent pellicle biofilm formation without affecting bacterial growth. These findings establish sTREM2 as a member of the small group of human proteins capable of inhibiting bacterial functional amyloidogenesis, suggesting that gut-resident TREM2-expressing macrophages, which are already known to interact with curli, may employ sTREM2 as a physiologically relevant defense against bacterial amyloid formation.},
}

@article {pmid42466057,
year = {2026},
author = {Aminy, SA and Aman, AT and Damayanti, E and Rahayu, A and Taufiq, A and Cateau, E and Imbert, C and Nuryastuti, T},
title = {Pathogen Characteristic of Biofilm-Related CAUTI in the Intensive Care Unit.},
journal = {International journal of microbiology},
volume = {2026},
number = {},
pages = {8369920},
pmid = {42466057},
issn = {1687-918X},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) in the intensive care unit (ICU) is one of the healthcare-associated infections with increased length of stay, healthcare costs, morbidity, and mortality. CAUTI can be caused by antimicrobial-resistant and biofilm-forming microorganisms, resulting in recurrent and persistent infections. This study is aimed at analyzing the pathogens, antimicrobial sensitivity patterns, and biofilm-forming capabilities of CAUTI isolates in two referral hospitals in Yogyakarta, Indonesia.

METHOD: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 71 patients with indwelling urinary catheters from October 2022 to March 2023. Urine specimens were collected aseptically and cultured. Microorganisms were identified and tested for antimicrobial susceptibility using Vitek 2, CHROMagar, and broth microdilution. Biofilm-producing bacteria were identified by microtiter plate assay (MTPA), and selected urinary catheters were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

RESULTS: A total of 71 urine specimens from patients with indwelling latex-urinary catheters resulted in 49 bacterial isolates and 28 yeasts identified. Escherichia coli, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Candida albicans were the most frequent pathogens. Among Enterobacterales, 62.5% were extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) producers, whereas 90% of A. baumannii and 20% of Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates were carbapenem-resistant. In contrast, C. albicans and C. tropicalis showed a fairly good level of sensitivity to various antifungals. Biofilm formation was observed in 91.8% of bacterial and in all Candida isolates. SEM examination of urinary catheter segments and tips revealed biofilm structures and microbial morphologies consistent with urine culture findings.

CONCLUSION: E. coli, A. baumannii, and C. albicans were the predominant CAUTI pathogens. Most isolates exhibited biofilm-forming ability. Although bacteria showed high antibiotic resistance, yeasts remained relatively susceptible to antifungals.},
}

@article {pmid42466572,
year = {2026},
author = {Liang, Y and Sun, L and Yan, K},
title = {Adaptation to Sublethal Sodium Hypochlorite Enhanced Biofilm Formation of Salmonella Enteritidis on Food-Contact Surfaces.},
journal = {Foodborne pathogens and disease},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {15353141261469731},
doi = {10.1177/15353141261469731},
pmid = {42466572},
issn = {1556-7125},
abstract = {Sodium hypochlorite (NaClO) is a widely used disinfectant in food processing to control foodborne pathogens. However, exposure to sublethal concentrations of NaClO may induce adaptive responses in bacteria, potentially affecting their persistence on food-contact surfaces. In this study, the effects of adaptation to sublethal NaClO on the biofilm-forming characteristics of Salmonella Enteritidis and the underlying regulatory mechanisms were investigated. NaClO-adapted cells exhibited significantly increased biofilm biomass on stainless steel 304 and glass compared with non-adapted cells. Compositional analysis of the biofilm matrix revealed that 48-h biofilms of NaClO-adapted cells contained higher levels of extracellular proteins, carbohydrates, and extracellular DNA (eDNA). Furthermore, adaptation to NaClO resulted in a significant reduction in motility, with swimming diameter decreasing from 7.73 ± 0.37 cm to 3.45 ± 0.42 cm. Additionally, NaClO-adapted cells exhibited enhanced cell surface hydrophobicity and a marked increase in auto-aggregation ability, with an auto-aggregation index of 39.12%, compared to 25.42% in non-adapted cells. Gene expression analysis revealed that adaptation to NaClO significantly upregulated key biofilm-related genes, including the biofilm master regulator csgD, cellulose synthase bcsA, global regulator csrA and quorum sensing luxS. In contrast, the flagellar biosynthesis gene fliA was significantly downregulated in NaClO-adapted cells, which was consistent with the observed reduction in motility. This study highlights the unintended risks related to improper NaClO application and provides critical insights for optimizing disinfection strategies to mitigate the persistence of biofilm-forming Salmonella Enteritidis and improve food safety.},
}

@article {pmid42466856,
year = {2026},
author = {Herishko, MA and Zurier, HS and Banta, S},
title = {Identification and characterization of quorum-quenching enzyme AiiF from Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans and its application for biofilm disruption.},
journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0075826},
doi = {10.1128/aem.00758-26},
pmid = {42466856},
issn = {1098-5336},
abstract = {Quorum sensing-induced functions, including biofilm formation, can greatly influence biotechnology applications, including industrial metal bioleaching processes. Biofilm formation by the acidophilic chemolithoautotrophs Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans and Acidithiobacillus thiooxidans is a key factor affecting mineral attachment and leaching efficiency, and is mediated by N-acyl homoserine lactone (AHL) quorum-sensing systems. Here, we identified an AHL lactonase gene native to A. ferrooxidans strains TFBk and BY-3, termed AiiF, which suppresses AHL-dependent quorum sensing. The kinetic parameters of AHL degradation by AiiF recombinantly expressed in Escherichia coli were obtained and represent a relatively slow reaction (Km of 3.5 ± 2.2 mM and kcat of 0.15 ± 0.04 [Formula: see text]), where the high Km value is similar to its closest relative, AiiA. AHL docking simulations and in vivo biosensor data suggest that AiiF is mechanistically promiscuous and exhibits broad substrate specificity. Exogenous addition of AiiF disrupted biofilm formation in laboratory strains of both A. ferrooxidans and A. thiooxidans. Overexpression of recombinant AiiF in A. thiooxidans demonstrated that quorum quenching can reduce biofilm formation and influence growth behavior on a sulfur substrate.IMPORTANCEBiomining of critical materials with metal sulfide-oxidizing bacteria can reduce costs and environmental impacts. The relationship between biofilm formation and bioleaching efficiency is complex, with different mineral systems being enhanced or inhibited by biofilm formation. We identified and characterized a new lactonase enzyme native to Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans, AiiF, that can degrade N-acyl homoserine lactone (AHL) autoinducers. This enzyme can reduce biofilm formation in bioleaching microbes, and this activity may be leveraged to enhance future biomining activities.},
}

@article {pmid42454920,
year = {2026},
author = {Soból, P and Kęsek, W and Kirzyc, M and Podsiadły, E and Obrębski, M and Skowrońska, W and Piwowarski, JP and Równicki, M},
title = {Types I, II, V, and VI secretion system genes in clinical uropathogenic Escherichia coli associate with antibiotic susceptibility, biofilm formation, and persister cells.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0028626},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.00286-26},
pmid = {42454920},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) often causes recurrent urinary tract infections, where biofilms and persister cells can promote recalcitrance. This study evaluated whether secretion-system marker genes associate with antimicrobial susceptibility, biofilm formation, and biofilm-associated persistence in clinical urinary isolates. A total of 71 isolates were screened by PCR for fimH and markers of secretion systems: type I (hlyA), type II (gspD), type V (ag43), and type VI (hcp). Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) were measured by Etest, biofilm biomass by crystal violet assay, and persister survival in strong biofilm producers after antibiotic challenge. fimH was detected in 91.5% isolates; gspD and ag43 were common (71.8% and 80.3%), while hlyA and hcp occurred in 32.4% and 46.5%. Marker co-occurrence was frequent, with 19.7% carrying all four secretion markers, and 8.5% with no secretion markers detected. A total of 81.7% isolates formed biofilm, including 18.3% strong producers. Individual marker prevalence did not differ across biofilm categories. Carriage of hlyA and hcp was associated with lower MIC distributions for selected antibiotics (including fosfomycin, ciprofloxacin, and ampicillin-sulbactam), whereas gspD and ag43 showed no consistent MIC associations. The biofilm category was linked to non-susceptibility to ampicillin-sulbactam, but not the other agents tested. Strong biofilm producers showed biphasic killing consistent with persister formation, and hcp carriage tended to align with higher ciprofloxacin survival. These findings map secretion-system markers in clinical UPEC and suggest that a type VI secretion system may track with biofilm-associated persistence.IMPORTANCERecurrent urinary tract infections (rUTI) often relapse after antibiotic treatment because bacteria can generate persister cells-temporary survivors that tolerate antibiotics without being genetically resistant. Clinicians, therefore, lack markers that flag isolates likely to persist. In 71 clinical urinary Escherichia coli isolates, this study surveyed genes encoding several secretion systems, molecular machines that help bacteria interact with each other and with host tissues. These markers were widespread and frequently co-occurred, but they did not track with stronger biofilm formation. However, a type VI secretion system marker (hcp) was associated with higher survival during ciprofloxacin exposure in strong-biofilm isolates, linking virulence-associated machinery with biofilm-associated persistence. Genetic signatures that reflect persistence, rather than routine resistance, could help prioritize follow-up testing and support development of strategies that target hard-to-eradicate rUTI infections.},
}

@article {pmid42455397,
year = {2026},
author = {Kashi, M and Haghighi, H and Aslani, A and Chegini, Z and Shariati, A and Farahani, A},
title = {Emerging hypervirulent and extensively drug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae with potent biofilm formation as a new clinical challenge.},
journal = {Molecular biology reports},
volume = {53},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42455397},
issn = {1573-4978},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Klebsiella pneumoniae/pathogenicity/genetics/drug effects/isolation & purification ; Humans ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests/methods ; *Klebsiella Infections/microbiology/drug therapy ; *Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/genetics ; Virulence Factors/genetics ; Virulence/genetics ; Iran ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics ; },
abstract = {Hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae strains (hvKp) can induce invasive community-acquired infections in healthy individuals. A total of 71 K. pneumoniae isolates were obtained from patients admitted to teaching hospitals in Arak, Iran. The hypermucoviscous phenotype was assessed using the string test. The presumptive hvKp strains were identified by the iucA gene and screened for capsular genes (K1, K2, K5, K20, K54, K57) and virulence factors (rmpA, rmpA2, iroB, peg-344). Antimicrobial susceptibility and colistin broth disk elution were also conducted. The biofilm formation ability was evaluated using a microtiter plate assay. Of the isolates, 28.17% (20/71) were identified as presumptive hvKp. Among the 20 isolates, the K2 serotype was the most prevalent (35%), followed by K1 (25%) and K20 (20%). In addition, K54 and K57 serotypes were each identified in one isolate. The virulence gene rmpA2 was highly prevalent (80%), along with peg-344 (75%), iroB (70%), and rmpA (70%). Regarding antibiotic susceptibility, cefotaxime showed the weakest effect, with 100% resistance, followed by cefoxitin, ampicillin-sulbactam, meropenem, ceftazidime, and cefepime, each of which demonstrated a 90% resistance rate. Tetracycline and gentamicin were the most effective antibiotics, with susceptibility rates of 60% and 50%, respectively. Additionally, 30% (6/20) of isolates were confirmed as ESBL positive, and none exhibited resistance to colistin. Among isolates, 85% (17/20) were extensively drug-resistant (XDR). Moreover, 80% of presumptive hvKp isolates demonstrated biofilm formation capacity, with 20% showing strong biofilm formation. The emergence of biofilm-producing and XDR strains underscores the need for enhanced surveillance and effective infection control measures.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Klebsiella pneumoniae/pathogenicity/genetics/drug effects/isolation & purification
Humans
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Microbial Sensitivity Tests/methods
*Klebsiella Infections/microbiology/drug therapy
*Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/genetics
Virulence Factors/genetics
Virulence/genetics
Iran
Bacterial Proteins/genetics

@article {pmid42456858,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, YY and Chen, TT and Li, CM and Luo, BZ and Li, BH and Liu, Z and Chang, YQ and Xie, T and Guo, JL},
title = {Hexadentate 3-hydroxypyridin-4(1H)-ones as dual biofilm inhibition and dispersion agents against Pseudomonas aeruginosa potentiate ciprofloxacin activity.},
journal = {Bioorganic & medicinal chemistry letters},
volume = {140},
number = {},
pages = {130735},
doi = {10.1016/j.bmcl.2026.130735},
pmid = {42456858},
issn = {1464-3405},
abstract = {Opportunistic Gram-negative Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) often causes complicated infections with the formation of biofilm, which contribute to its resistance to antibiotics. Quorum sensing (QS) inhibitors has been developed as an effective strategy to combat P. aeruginosa resistance by reducing bacterial biofilms. Herein, we report hexadentate 3-hydroxypyridin-4(1H)-ones with a tripodal backbone as dual-acting biofilm inhibition and dispersion agents against P. aeruginosa. Tris-3-hydroxypyridin-4(1H)-one 5 exhibited excellent iron-chelating ability, enabling them to potently restrict bacterial iron acquisition. 5 inhibited 58.3% biofilm formation, and dispersed bacterial mature biofilms, and reduced the production of virulence phenotypes. Mechanistic studies revealed that 5 prevented bacterial biofilm formation by suppressing the expression of pqsA, and reduced the production of pqs-regulated (pyocyanin) virulence with low cytotoxicity. Moreover, 5 showed obvious antibacterial synergy in combination with ciprofloxacin using Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) infection models in vitro and in vivo. In conclusion, these results highlight that 5 has potential for further development as an antimicrobial adjuvant to combat biofilm-associated infections.},
}

@article {pmid42456991,
year = {2026},
author = {Tomar, SS and Verma, N and Nigam, KDP},
title = {Efficient nitrate removal by photo-assisted microbial denitrification using FexOy/g-C3N4-biofilm hybrid in a coiled flow inverter.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {135420},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.135420},
pmid = {42456991},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Nitrate contamination in aquatic systems poses serious environmental and public health challenge, necessitating efficient and sustainable denitrification technologies. In this study, a photo-assisted microbial denitrification system was developed by integrating an S-scheme FexOy/g-CN (FCN) photocatalyst with an in situ grown microbial biofilm in a coiled flow inverter (CFI) reactor. The FCN heterojunction enhanced visible-light absorption and charge separation, enabling efficient generation of photoinduced electrons for microbial nitrate reduction. The biofilm matrix provided a protective microenvironment, facilitating extracellular electron transfer while suppressing reactive oxygen species through the hole-scavenging role of extracellular polymeric substances. The CFI reactor significantly improved mixing, mass transfer, and photon distribution, resulting in enhanced photocatalyst-biofilm interactions. Under optimized conditions, the FCN/biofilm system achieved ∼98% nitrate removal with high N2 selectivity and an approximately 2-fold increase in reaction rate compared to batch systems. Kinetic and mechanistic analyses revealed that photogenerated electrons promoted intracellular NADH regeneration, thereby accelerating enzymatic denitrification pathways. Response surface methodology was used to optimize key operating parameters and validate system performance. The system exhibited excellent stability over multiple cycles and achieved 76.9% nitrate removal in real wastewater. Overall, this study demonstrates an efficient remediation of nitrate from wastewater using a scalable, energy-efficient photo-microbial platform.},
}

@article {pmid42459003,
year = {2026},
author = {Mohapatra, A and Panigrahi, A and Pattanaik, S},
title = {Curcumin Liposomal Photodynamic Gel for Plaque Control: Physicochemistry, Singlet-oxygen Yield, and Biofilm Kill Curves - An In vitro Study.},
journal = {Annals of African medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.4103/aam.aam_125_26},
pmid = {42459003},
issn = {0975-5764},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Effective plaque control is essential for preventing caries and periodontal diseases. While curcumin-mediated photodynamic therapy has demonstrated antimicrobial efficacy, its clinical use is limited by poor solubility and bioavailability. This study evaluates a curcumin-loaded liposomal photodynamic gel for enhanced in vitro plaque control.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Curcumin was encapsulated in phosphatidylcholine-based liposomes and incorporated into a bioadhesive gel. Physicochemical properties, including particle size, zeta potential, and encapsulation efficiency, were characterized. Singlet oxygen (1O2) generation was measured under blue light (450 nm) using the 1,3-diphenylisobenzofuran assay. A multispecies oral biofilm model was established with Streptococcus mutans, Lactobacillus casei, Actinomyces viscosus, and Fusobacterium nucleatum. Biofilms were treated with curcumin gel ± light, and bacterial viability was quantified.

RESULTS: The liposomal gel exhibited a mean particle size of ~ 250 nm, encapsulation efficiency of ~ 85%, and pH of ~ 6.8. Curcumin liposomal gel generated a higher 1O2 yield than free curcumin. Photodynamic treatment reduced viable biofilm bacteria by > 4 log10 CFU/ml, significantly more than control treatments.

CONCLUSION: Curcumin liposomal gel shows enhanced 1O2 production and potent photodynamic biofilm inactivation. This formulation may offer a novel adjunct for nonantibiotic plaque control.},
}

@article {pmid42460558,
year = {2026},
author = {Fan, L and Sun, F},
title = {Composition and function of biofilm microbial communities reveal high efficiency potential in carbohydrate metabolism in the mariculture.},
journal = {Water science and technology : a journal of the International Association on Water Pollution Research},
volume = {94},
number = {1},
pages = {60-69},
pmid = {42460558},
issn = {0273-1223},
support = {ZDYF2021XDNY131//Key Research and Development Project of Hainan Province/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms ; *Carbohydrate Metabolism ; Bacteria/metabolism/genetics ; Citric Acid Cycle ; },
abstract = {Biofilms on composite carriers may contribute to organic matter transformation in mariculture effluents, but the taxa and carbon-metabolic functions underlying this process remain unclear. This study employed metagenomic sequencing and functional annotation to comprehensively analyze the microbial composition and metabolic potential involved in glycoside hydrolase (GH), glycolysis, and the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle in biofilms, revealing the functional characteristics of microbial communities in carbon metabolism. The results showed high microbial diversity in various carbon metabolism pathways, with Bacteroidota, Proteobacteria, and Planctomycetota being the dominant phyla, and Flavobacteriales and Planctomycetales being the predominant orders across all metabolic pathways. Functional analysis indicated that key enzymes involved in polysaccharide hydrolysis, glycolysis, and the TCA cycle exhibited high abundance. Core functional genes included polysaccharide hydrolases (GH33, GH109), glycolytic enzymes (glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, phosphofructokinase), and TCA cycle enzymes (succinate dehydrogenase, pyruvate dehydrogenase). These profiles suggest that carrier-associated biofilm communities harbor coordinated genetic potential for carbohydrate depolymerization and downstream central carbon metabolism in mariculture effluents. This study offers theoretical and practical guidance for developing efficient and sustainable biofilm-based wastewater treatment systems.},
}

*Biofilms
*Carbohydrate Metabolism
Bacteria/metabolism/genetics
Citric Acid Cycle

@article {pmid42460990,
year = {2026},
author = {Nwobodo, DC and Egbujor, MC and Kiprotich, S and Meijler, MM},
title = {Organosulfur Scaffolds as Quorum Sensing and Biofilm Modulators in Gram-Negative Bacteria.},
journal = {FEMS microbiology reviews},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/femsre/fuag032},
pmid = {42460990},
issn = {1574-6976},
abstract = {Quorum sensing (QS) is a cell-density-dependent communication system that coordinates bacterial virulence, biofilm formation, motility, and stress adaptation, making it a compelling target for antivirulence intervention. Due to the possibility of sulfonyl (-SO2-) and sulfinyl (-S=O-) functional groups to impart specific electronic and steric properties that can modulate bacterial signaling and receptor interactions, organosulfur compounds are increasingly gaining attention. This review highlights recent advances in the development of sulfonyl- and sulfinyl-containing organosulfur compounds as modulators of QS and biofilm formation in clinically relevant Gram-negative pathogens. Both natural and synthetic quorum-sensing inhibitors are considered, with activity directed toward LuxR-type regulators, diffusible signal factor (DSF)-mediated systems, and the Las/Rhl networks of Gram-negative bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Vibrio spp., Chromobacterium violaceum, and Xylella fastidiosa. Emphasis is placed on emerging structure-activity relationships and mechanistic insights derived from biochemical and computational studies. Key challenges, including resistance potential, pharmacological constraints, and delivery considerations, are also discussed. Together, we provide an integrated microbiological and medicinal chemistry perspective for the rational development of organosulfur-based strategies to attenuate QS-regulated pathogenicity.},
}

@article {pmid42461018,
year = {2026},
author = {Chirumbolo, JL and Hutsell, A and Kosovac, A and Ihemis, I and Whitford, MJ and Nguy, J and Wolf, RJ and Sarajlic, D and Hunter, T and Myntti, MF and Ellis, TN},
title = {Acid exposure induces adaptive resistance in Klebsiella pneumoniae to combination treatment with antibiotics and biofilm-disrupting surgical lavage.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0024326},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.00243-26},
pmid = {42461018},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {Surgical irrigation solutions remove bacteria and disrupt biofilms to prevent nosocomial infections. This study evaluated the impact of combined treatment of a biofilm-disrupting lavage solution and antibiotic therapy. Bacteria treated with antibiotics and/or lavage were evaluated via broth microdilution and checkerboard assays. Staphylococcus aureus was strongly inhibited by all doses of surgical lavage, while combination treatments of Escherichia coli increased antibiotic susceptibility by more than 10-fold. However, combination treatments of Klebsiella pneumoniae resulted in specific dose regimens with diluted lavage solution that eliminated the bacteriostatic effect, such that significant bacterial growth occurred at 4× minimum inhibitory concentration treatments. This effect was observed across multiple strains of K. pneumoniae and multiple classes of antibiotics. Analysis of the individual components of the lavage solution revealed this to be a pH-related effect. Klebsiella grown in pH 4.5 media replicated the observed increase in minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) without the addition of the other lavage components. This adaptive resistance response was correlated with activated stress responses, alterations in membrane polarization, and altered transcription of outer membrane porins. Transcription of ompA and lpp, which stabilize the outer membrane, was upregulated, while transcription of the alternative maltoporin lamB was halted. Deletion of the iroA siderophore also enhanced growth in bacteriostatic concentrations of antibiotics at low pH. Together, these data strongly suggest that Klebsiella has a distinct ability to mount a rapid adaptive response to an acidic environment via changes in membrane permeability, porin, and siderophore gene expression to enhance survival in the presence of both disinfecting agents and antibiotics.IMPORTANCEDisinfecting washes that disrupt biofilms are commonly used in hospital settings to prevent the establishment of bacterial infection. This study investigated how combined exposure to a biofilm-disrupting surgical wash and antibiotics affected bacterial susceptibility to these bacteriostatic agents. While the response to Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli was additive and fully bacteriostatic, we found specific combinations of antibiotic and diluted disinfecting agent that enhanced bacterial growth of Klebsiella pneumoniae, evidence of an adaptive resistance response. This response was found to be specific to Klebsiella, was initiated by a specific acidic pH range, and required altered transcription of major porins. These data indicate that Klebsiella can adapt to an acidic pH in ways that enhance resistance to both antibiotics and disinfectant agents. This adaptive response may be an important precursor to the evolution of fully resistant strains of Klebsiella via porin loss.},
}

@article {pmid42461034,
year = {2026},
author = {Anwer, R},
title = {Disruption of quorum sensing and biofilm formation by lawsone in gram-negative bacteria.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0118726},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.01187-26},
pmid = {42461034},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {Antimicrobial resistance is a major global health threat, exacerbated by bacterial virulence mechanisms such as quorum sensing (QS) and biofilm formation, which enhance pathogenicity and reduce antibiotic susceptibility. Targeting QS offers a promising antivirulence strategy that may attenuate pathogenic traits without imposing selective pressure. In this study, lawsone was evaluated for anti-QS and antibiofilm activity against Chromobacterium violaceum, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Serratia marcescens. Lawsone significantly inhibited QS-regulated virulence factors, with reductions in violacein production in C. violaceum (90.62%) at 250 µg/mL (1.43 mM). There was also a reduction in pyocyanin and pyoverdin in P. aeruginosa (87.90% and 81.97%, respectively) and prodigiosin in S. marcescens (~83%) at 500 µg/mL (2.87 mM) lawsone. Additionally, lawsone suppressed protease and elastase activities, as well as rhamnolipid production in P. aeruginosa. Biofilm formation was inhibited in a dose-dependent manner, reaching 84.28% in C. violaceum, 76.22% in P. aeruginosa, and 56.27% in S. marcescens at respective sub-MICs. Computational analyses supported these findings; docking showed stable binding of lawsone to QS regulators, including CviR (-7.8 kcal/mol), LasR (-8.5 kcal/mol), and SmaR (-7.7 kcal/mol). Molecular dynamics simulations confirmed the stability of these complexes, with root mean square deviation values of 0.200 ± 0.016 nm (CviR-lawsone), 0.238 ± 0.036 nm (LasR-lawsone), and 0.632 ± 0.061 nm (SmaR-lawsone). Molecular Mechanics Poisson-Boltzmann Surface Area (MM-PBSA) calculations further demonstrated favorable binding. To my knowledge, this is the first study to systematically demonstrate the anti-QS and antibiofilm potential of lawsone across multiple clinically relevant gram-negative pathogens using an integrated experimental and computational approach. This work provides possible mechanistic insights into lawsone-QS regulator interactions, highlighting its potential as a broad-spectrum antivirulence agent targeting conserved QS systems.IMPORTANCEAntimicrobial resistance is a growing global threat, driven in part by bacterial virulence mechanisms such as quorum sensing (QS) and biofilm formation. Targeting QS offers an alternative strategy to reduce pathogenicity without promoting resistance. This study shows that lawsone effectively inhibits QS-regulated virulence factors and biofilm formation in gram-negative pathogens, like Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Serratia marcescens, and Chromobacterium violaceum. These findings highlight lawsone as a promising antivirulence agent that could complement existing therapies for managing biofilm-associated and drug-resistant infections.},
}

@article {pmid42461042,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhao, F and Niman, CM and Chavez, MS and Atkinson, JT and Conley, BE and Gralnick, JA and Boedicker, JQ and El-Naggar, MY},
title = {Light-directed biofilm formation reveals the functional contributions of periplasmic cytochromes to the electrochemical activity of Shewanella oneidensis.},
journal = {mBio},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0126426},
doi = {10.1128/mbio.01264-26},
pmid = {42461042},
issn = {2150-7511},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Shewanella oneidensis MR-1 is a model electroactive bacterium whose extracellular electron transfer (EET) pathway includes a sequential network of c-type cytochromes that span the inner membrane, periplasm, and outer membrane. While electrochemical studies have revealed the critical role of outer-membrane cytochromes in mediating both outward EET from cells to external surfaces and lateral biofilm conduction across cells, the specific functional role of periplasmic cytochromes in these processes remains less understood. Dissecting the contributions of periplasmic components has been challenged by the complexity of the periplasmic cytochrome network and the variability of native biofilms, which confound electrochemical comparisons of cytochrome mutants. Here, we overcome these limitations with a synthetic biology approach combining targeted deletion of genes encoding key periplasmic cytochromes with light-induced biofilm patterning to create uniform, geometrically defined biofilms on electrodes for robust electrochemical comparisons. Voltammetric measurements of patterned S. oneidensis mutant biofilms confirmed the essential role of periplasmic cytochromes in facilitating outward EET, a contribution that becomes apparent when flavins are present, accelerating interfacial electron transfer between outer-membrane cytochromes and the electrode. In contrast to this role in routing outward EET across the periplasm, electrochemical gating measurements of lateral biofilm conductivity revealed that the periplasmic cytochromes do not contribute to long-distance electron transport along cellular layers bridging electrodes. These findings provide new insights into the role of periplasmic cytochromes in S. oneidensis, highlighting a robust functional redundancy within the periplasmic network, and distinguish their contributions to routing outward EET across the cell envelope versus biofilm conductivity.

IMPORTANCE: Microbes capable of extracellular electron transfer (EET) are central to global biogeochemical cycles and emerging bioelectrochemical technologies. In the important model EET bacterium Shewanella oneidensis MR-1, the outer-membrane components that interface with external surfaces are well characterized. However, the functional role of the periplasmic components linking the inner and outer membranes has remained obscured by the complex network of multiple cytochromes and biofilm heterogeneity, limiting precise comparisons across mutants. By combining light-induced biofilm patterning with electrochemical analysis, we successfully revealed the specific contributions of periplasmic cytochromes: these components are essential for facilitating outward EET across the cell envelope but do not impact lateral long-distance electron transport across the biofilm. The results refine our understanding of extracellular respiration and provide design rules for engineering living electronic materials.},
}

@article {pmid42461404,
year = {2026},
author = {Gandomi, S and Ashrafi, F and Heidari, P and Namvar, Z},
title = {Enhanced antibacterial and anti-biofilm activity of PEGylated niosomes co-loaded with nisin and ZnO nanoparticles against VRSA and ceftazidime-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa.},
journal = {Archives of microbiology},
volume = {208},
number = {10},
pages = {},
pmid = {42461404},
issn = {1432-072X},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Zinc Oxide/chemistry/pharmacology ; Liposomes/chemistry ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Ceftazidime/pharmacology ; Polyethylene Glycols/chemistry ; Nanoparticles/chemistry ; *Nisin/pharmacology/chemistry ; Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology ; Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial ; },
abstract = {Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and biofilm-associated infections caused by multidrug-resistant pathogens, particularly vancomycin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (VRSA) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ceftazidime-resistant), pose serious healthcare challenges. This study aimed to develop PEGylated niosomes co-loaded with nisin (Nis) and biosynthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles (Nio-Nis/ZnO@PEG) to enhance antibacterial and anti-biofilm efficacy. The formulation was prepared using thin-film hydration followed by PEGylation and characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Nio-Nis/ZnO@PEG exhibited high encapsulation efficiency, sustained-release kinetics, and good physicochemical stability. Antibacterial activity and anti-biofilm effects were evaluated using standard microbiological assays. The PEGylated formulation showed significantly lower minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC)/minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values, larger inhibition zones, and sustained bactericidal activity against VRSA and ceftazidime-resistant P. aeruginosa compared to free agents or non-PEGylated niosomes (P < 0.001). Anti-biofilm assays demonstrated > 80% biomass reduction and the lowest minimum biofilm eradication concentration (MBEC) values across clinical and reference strains. The quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) revealed marked downregulation of all target genes. Cytotoxicity assays using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2 H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay confirmed minimal adverse effects on mammalian cells. Overall, PEGylated niosomal co-delivery of Nis and ZnO nanoparticles provides a potent, broad-spectrum, and biocompatible strategy to combat multidrug-resistant bacteria and disrupt biofilms, supporting its potential for further in vivo evaluation.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
*Zinc Oxide/chemistry/pharmacology
Liposomes/chemistry
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Ceftazidime/pharmacology
Polyethylene Glycols/chemistry
Nanoparticles/chemistry
*Nisin/pharmacology/chemistry
Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology
Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial

@article {pmid42446838,
year = {2026},
author = {Dias-Souza, MV and Alves, AL and de Cássia Mourão Silva, U and Júlio, ADL and Veiga, A and Pagnin, S and Dos Santos, VL},
title = {Diversity, biofilm formation and antimicrobial susceptibility of aerobic heterotrophic bacteria isolated from cooling towers.},
journal = {World journal of microbiology & biotechnology},
volume = {42},
number = {8},
pages = {},
pmid = {42446838},
issn = {1573-0972},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Brazil ; *Bacteria, Aerobic/isolation & purification/classification/drug effects/genetics/physiology ; Phylogeny ; *Water Microbiology ; Drug Resistance, Bacterial ; Refrigeration ; Biodiversity ; *Bacteria/classification/isolation & purification/drug effects/genetics ; DNA, Bacterial/genetics ; },
abstract = {Cooling towers (CTw) are essential for industrial refrigeration but provide favourable conditions for microbial growth and biofilm formation, potentially facilitating the spread of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria (ARB). This study examines bacterial diversity, biofilm potential and antimicrobial susceptibility in two industrial CTw in Brazil using culture-based and metataxonomic (16 S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing) approaches. Fourteen bacterial genera and 22 species were identified, including Bacillus spp. (60% of isolates), Acinetobacter spp. (14%) and others like Pseudomonas, Serratia, and Ochrobactrum, many linked to biofilm formation and ARB. Metataxonomic analysis revealed a broader and more diverse microbial community, comprising families such as Burkholderiaceae, Comamonadaceae, and Sphingomonadaceae, which are known for their biofilm resilience. Pathogens including Legionella were also detected. Bacterial richness was higher in CTw 2, likely due to untreated industrial and domestic effluent inputs, whereas CTw 1, supplied with treated secondary industrial effluent, exhibited lower diversity. Functional predictions indicated genes associated with biofilm formation, quorum-sensing, motility and xenobiotic degradation. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing showed high resistance to β-lactams and nitrofurantoin, with meropenem being the most effective. Higher resistance rates in CTw 2 suggest selective pressure from industrial contaminants. These findings underscore the complex microbial ecology of CTw and the coexistence of cultivable and non-cultivable bacteria with biofilm-forming capacity and antimicrobial resistance traits in these systems.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Brazil
*Bacteria, Aerobic/isolation & purification/classification/drug effects/genetics/physiology
Phylogeny
*Water Microbiology
Drug Resistance, Bacterial
Refrigeration
Biodiversity
*Bacteria/classification/isolation & purification/drug effects/genetics
DNA, Bacterial/genetics

@article {pmid42447110,
year = {2026},
author = {Elkins, M and Grando, K and Covolo, C and Spencer, D and Maziarz, JF and Vasicek, EM and DeAntoneo, C and Albicoro, FJ and Bessho, S and Reichenbach, ZW and Olubajo, S and Buttaro, B and Balachandran, S and Gunn, JS and Pisetsky, D and Tükel, Ç},
title = {Biofilm-derived curli and Z-DNA shape anti-DNA antibody responses during Salmonella infections.},
journal = {PLoS pathogens},
volume = {22},
number = {7},
pages = {e1014047},
doi = {10.1371/journal.ppat.1014047},
pmid = {42447110},
issn = {1553-7374},
mesh = {Animals ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; Mice ; *DNA, Z-Form/immunology ; *Antibodies, Antinuclear/immunology ; *Salmonella typhimurium/immunology ; *Salmonella Infections/immunology/microbiology ; Female ; *Bacterial Proteins/immunology/metabolism ; *DNA, Bacterial/immunology ; Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic/immunology ; Antibody Formation/immunology ; },
abstract = {Antibodies to Z-DNA, a non-canonical DNA conformation with a left-handed zigzag backbone, are abundant in the serum of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), with levels increasing with disease activity and flares. As SLE is associated with bacterial infections, and as extracellular DNA (eDNA) within biofilms of several bacterial species has been shown to adopt the Z-DNA conformation, bacterial Z-DNA may represent a source of immunogenic Z-DNA in SLE and other related autoimmune conditions. In these studies, we investigated whether eDNA in Salmonella biofilms also contained Z-DNA and whether such Z-DNA could elicit an antibody response. Using antibody-based staining approaches, we observed abundant eDNA in Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium (STm) biofilms in both the Z- and canonical B-DNA configurations, consistent with the highly Z-prone nature of the GC-rich Salmonella genome. To assess the functional contribution of these DNA conformations to biofilm integrity, biofilms were treated with DNase I, which lacks enzymatic activity against Z-DNA, or with benzonase, a nonspecific nuclease that degrades both B- and Z-DNA. DNase I treatment applied after biofilm maturation was less effective at thinning biofilms than treatment during early biofilm formation, a pattern also observed with benzonase treatment. Purified curli:DNA complexes contained Z-DNA and, when administered intraperitoneally to mice, elicited robust anti-Z-DNA antibody responses. Similarly, infection with invasive STm induced the production of anti-Z-DNA antibodies in vivo. Moreover, STm infection in mice fed a diet that promotes biofilm development was associated with increased Z-DNA levels in the cecal lumen and elevated anti-DNA antibody responses. Collectively, these findings suggest that Z-DNA, likely formed by extruded Salmonella genomic DNA, and embedded within curli:DNA complexes of STm biofilms, triggers a host immune response and drives anti-Z-DNA antibody production. This work provides mechanistic insight into how bacterial infections and diet-dependent modulation of biofilm formation may contribute to anti-Z-DNA antibody responses in autoimmune diseases like SLE.},
}

Animals
*Biofilms/growth & development
Mice
*DNA, Z-Form/immunology
*Antibodies, Antinuclear/immunology
*Salmonella typhimurium/immunology
*Salmonella Infections/immunology/microbiology
Female
*Bacterial Proteins/immunology/metabolism
*DNA, Bacterial/immunology
Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic/immunology
Antibody Formation/immunology

@article {pmid42448417,
year = {2026},
author = {Haryini, S and Gopikrishnan, M and Ramasamy, M and Doss C, GP},
title = {Screening of prospective biofilm-inhibitory drug candidates aimed at the biofilm-associated protein (BAP) in Staphylococcus aureus: An in-silico investigation.},
journal = {Advances in protein chemistry and structural biology},
volume = {153},
number = {},
pages = {485-504},
doi = {10.1016/bs.apcsb.2025.10.010},
pmid = {42448417},
issn = {1876-1631},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Molecular Docking Simulation ; *Bacterial Proteins/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism/chemistry ; Molecular Dynamics Simulation ; Humans ; Drug Evaluation, Preclinical ; },
abstract = {Staphylococcus aureus is the leading pathogen responsible for hospital- and community-acquired infections. The increasing prevalence of nosocomial infections in healthcare settings presents a significant challenge, particularly due to the strong biofilm-forming capability of clinical strains, which contributes to biofilm-mediated multidrug resistance. The biofilm-associated protein (BAP) plays a pivotal role in the initial adhesion and maturation of biofilms, significantly increasing the likelihood of failure of conventional antimicrobial therapies. Given its crucial function in biofilm formation, BAP represents a promising target for anti-biofilm drug development. A high-throughput virtual screening technique was implemented to identify potent BAP inhibitors, utilizing triple-mode docking with the Glide module of the Schrödinger Maestro suite. About 28,831 compounds from the ENAMINE-targeted antibacterial library were screened against BAP in S. aureus. Among the selected ligands, Z1430813924 and Z1738791774 exhibited the lowest binding energy, demonstrating superior docking scores alongside favorable ADME and physicochemical properties, which suggests an enhanced inhibitory potential. To validate the docking findings, a 100-ns molecular dynamics simulation was employed to assess the stability of the protein-ligand complex within a dynamic environment. The essential dynamics analysis, including free energy landscape (FEL) and principal component analysis (PCA) evaluations, affirmed the stability and efficacy of the top compounds, Z1430813924 and Z1738791774, as promising BAP inhibitors. These insights provide a strong foundation for subsequent experimental validation and the potential development of novel anti-biofilm therapeutics targeting S. aureus infections.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Molecular Docking Simulation
*Bacterial Proteins/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism/chemistry
Molecular Dynamics Simulation
Humans
Drug Evaluation, Preclinical

@article {pmid42448561,
year = {2026},
author = {Raman, V and Kuehne, SA and Palin, WM and Camilleri, J},
title = {Model-dependent antimicrobial performance of endodontic sealers: An in vitro comparison of planktonic and multispecies biofilm assays.},
journal = {Dental materials : official publication of the Academy of Dental Materials},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.dental.2026.07.005},
pmid = {42448561},
issn = {1879-0097},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the antibacterial effects of tricalcium silicate cement-based sealers and epoxy resin-based sealer with planktonic versus multispecies biofilm assays at 0, 28, and 90 days. The physicochemical properties of the tested sealers were also assessed.

METHODS: Four root canal sealers were investigated: AH Plus Jet and AH Plus Bioceramic (Dentsply Sirona, Tulsa, OK, USA), BioRoot RCS, and BioRoot Flow (Septodont, Saint-Maur-des-Fossés, France). Film thickness, flow, radiopacity and solubility were assessed in accordance with ISO 6876:2012. Hydration characteristics and functional groups were analysed using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. Antibacterial activity was evaluated using a direct contact test (DCT) against planktonically grown Enterococcus faecalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum, as well as a multispecies biofilm assay incorporating E. faecalis, F. nucleatum, Streptococcus oralis, and Porphyromonas gingivalis. Bacterial viability was determined on material aged for 0, 28, and 90 days. Morphological evaluation of sealers and biofilms was performed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Data were analysed using one-way and two-way ANOVA with Tukey post hoc tests.

RESULTS: All sealers met the ISO 6876:2012 requirements for setting time, flow, film thickness and radiopacity, but the hydraulic sealers exhibited higher solubility than AH Plus (P < 0.001). Progressive Ca (OH)₂ formation, particularly in BioRoot RCS, was confirmed by XRD and FT-IR over time. In planktonic assays, tricalcium silicate sealers demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against both bacterial species (P < 0.001), whereas AH Plus resin- based sealer showed limited inhibition. However, the multispecies biofilm assay revealed greater bacterial tolerance and reduced antimicrobial effects for all sealers.

CONCLUSION: Tricalcium silicate sealers exhibited strong antibacterial activity against planktonic bacteria, however, their antimicrobial effects were diminished against multispecies biofilms. These findings highlight the importance of using biofilm-based assays to evaluate the clinically relevant antimicrobial performance of endodontic sealers, aligning laboratory evaluations with the clinical challenges encountered in root canal infections.},
}

@article {pmid42449561,
year = {2026},
author = {Kamalloo, H and Moeininejad, M and Golshoui, MK and Samadyar, F and Shivaee, A and Kalani, BS},
title = {Comparative Analysis of Chlorhexidine Derivatives and Alternative Agents on Streptococcus mutans Viability, Biofilm Formation, and Gene Expression.},
journal = {MicrobiologyOpen},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {e70360},
doi = {10.1002/mbo3.70360},
pmid = {42449561},
issn = {2045-8827},
support = {//Ilam University of Medical Sciences/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Chlorhexidine/pharmacology/analogs & derivatives ; *Streptococcus mutans/drug effects/physiology/genetics ; Humans ; *Microbial Viability/drug effects ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; *Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial/drug effects ; Fibroblasts/drug effects ; Gene Expression Profiling ; Biguanides ; },
abstract = {This study evaluates the antimicrobial and antibiofilm effects of chlorhexidine and related compounds against S. mutans, focusing on bacterial viability, biofilm formation, and expression of key biofilm genes. Eight compounds were tested for their chemical properties, MICs, and interactions via FIC analyses. Time-kill assays assessed bactericidal activity over 24 h, while cytotoxicity was evaluated in human gingival fibroblasts. Gene expression of biofilm-related genes was analyzed to determine transcriptional modulation. Chlorhexidine gluconate and alexidine showed the strongest antimicrobial activity, with MICs of 2 μg/mL against the reference strain and 4 μg/mL for clinical isolates. Time-kill results demonstrated bacterial reductions from ~7.2 to < 1.0 log CFU/mL in the reference strain but less effect in clinical isolates. Chlorhexidine reduced biofilm biomass by nearly 19% at 48 h, whereas amoxicillin increased biofilm formation by over 12%. Cytotoxicity varied, with proguanil showing high cell viability (90%), while chlorhexidine and alexidine reduced viability to 50-70%. Gene expression analyzes revealed significant downregulation of gtfD and brpA by chlorhexidine and analogs, contrasting with mild upregulation by amoxicillin. These findings highlight chlorhexidine compounds as effective anti-biofilm agents, emphasizing the need for continued exploration of alternatives and combination therapies to enhance dental caries treatment.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Chlorhexidine/pharmacology/analogs & derivatives
*Streptococcus mutans/drug effects/physiology/genetics
Humans
*Microbial Viability/drug effects
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
*Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial/drug effects
Fibroblasts/drug effects
Gene Expression Profiling
Biguanides

@article {pmid42449969,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, TA and Chuang, YT and Lin, HY and Chang, YF and Hsieh, YH and Chen, CH and Lin, CS and Wang, YJ},
title = {Serratia marcescens in Intensive Care Units: Molecular Epidemiology, Biofilm-Mediated Persistence, Antimicrobial Resistance, and Genomic Surveillance.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {13},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27135697},
pmid = {42449969},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {*Serratia marcescens/genetics/drug effects/physiology ; *Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; Humans ; *Intensive Care Units ; *Serratia Infections/epidemiology/microbiology/drug therapy ; Molecular Epidemiology ; *Cross Infection/microbiology/epidemiology ; *Drug Resistance, Bacterial ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Genome, Bacterial ; },
abstract = {Serratia marcescens has emerged as an important opportunistic pathogen in intensive care units (ICUs), where critically ill patients, invasive devices, antimicrobial exposure, and complex environmental reservoirs create favorable conditions for colonization, infection, and recurrent outbreaks. This narrative review synthesizes evidence from the past decade regarding the clinical and molecular epidemiology, environmental persistence, device-associated transmission, biofilm-mediated resistance, and infection-control strategies of S. marcescens in ICU settings. The literature was reviewed using an integrative approach informed by Ferrari's narrative review framework, with thematic synthesis across clinical, microbiological, environmental, and genomic domains. Recent evidence indicates that ICU-associated S. marcescens infections frequently involve respiratory tract colonization, ventilator-associated pneumonia, bloodstream infection, urinary tract infection, and device-related transmission. Hospital water systems, sink drains, wet surfaces, ventilator circuits, reusable equipment, and contaminated antiseptic or liquid products may serve as persistent reservoirs, particularly when biofilm formation supports long-term survival and recurrent dissemination. At the molecular level, S. marcescens demonstrates substantial genomic diversity, intrinsic and acquired antimicrobial resistance, inducible AmpC β-lactamase activity, efflux-mediated tolerance, and plasmid-associated resistance gene transfer. This review particularly emphasizes the molecular determinants that enable S. marcescens to persist in ICU ecosystems, including AmpC-mediated β-lactam resistance, efflux-associated tolerance, quorum-sensing-regulated biofilm formation, plasmid-mediated horizontal gene transfer, and WGS-defined clonal transmission. Whole-genome sequencing, rapid molecular diagnostics, active surveillance, environmental sampling, and integrated infection-control bundles have become increasingly important for distinguishing clonal outbreaks from endemic transmission and guiding timely interventions. Emerging perspectives emphasize the need to combine antimicrobial stewardship, environmental engineering, respiratory-care auditing, anti-biofilm strategies, and AI-assisted real-time surveillance into adaptive ICU infection-control frameworks. Overall, S. marcescens should be regarded not merely as an episodic outbreak organism, but as a highly adaptable ICU-associated pathogen requiring multidisciplinary prevention strategies.},
}

*Serratia marcescens/genetics/drug effects/physiology
*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
Humans
*Intensive Care Units
*Serratia Infections/epidemiology/microbiology/drug therapy
Molecular Epidemiology
*Cross Infection/microbiology/epidemiology
*Drug Resistance, Bacterial
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use
Genome, Bacterial

@article {pmid42450022,
year = {2026},
author = {Gong, W and Fadhilatunnur, H and Kanazawa, M and Villena, J and Nishiyama, K and Kitazawa, H},
title = {Lactic Acid Bacteria-Derived Antimicrobial and Anti-Biofilm Strategies: Mechanisms, Functional Molecules, and Emerging Biomaterial Applications.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {13},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27135749},
pmid = {42450022},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {25K23670//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science KAKENHI/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Biocompatible Materials/pharmacology ; *Anti-Infective Agents/pharmacology ; *Lactobacillales/metabolism/chemistry ; Humans ; Quorum Sensing ; Bacteriocins/pharmacology ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Animals ; },
abstract = {Lactic acid bacteria (LAB), particularly members of the genus Lactobacillus, have emerged as promising biological agents with antimicrobial and anti-biofilm properties. While numerous individual studies have reported their inhibitory effects against pathogenic microorganisms, a systematic understanding that integrates their functional components, molecular mechanisms, and material-based applications remains lacking. In this review, we provide a comprehensive and component-oriented overview of LAB-mediated antimicrobial strategies. We first summarize secreted factors, including organic acids, bacteriocins, hydrogen peroxide, and extracellular vesicles, which collectively contribute to direct pathogen inhibition and environmental modulation. We then discuss cell-associated components such as surface-layer proteins and exopolysaccharides, highlighting their roles in adhesion interference and competitive exclusion. In addition, we examine whole-cell effects, including niche competition, quorum sensing disruption, and host immune modulation. Importantly, we place particular emphasis on the anti-biofilm activity of lactobacilli, detailing mechanisms involved in the prevention of the pathogen initial adhesion, disruption of extracellular polymeric substance matrices, and destabilization of mature biofilms. Finally, we explore emerging strategies that integrate lactobacilli with biomaterials, particularly hydrogel-based systems, to achieve controlled delivery, enhanced stability, and sustained antimicrobial activity. These biohybrid approaches represent a promising direction for the development of next-generation antimicrobial materials. These findings support the concept of LAB-based living antimicrobial materials as a next-generation strategy to combat biofilm-associated infections. Overall, this review aims to bridge the gap between molecular functions and translational applications of lactobacilli, providing new insights into its potential as a versatile platform for antimicrobial and anti-biofilm interventions.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Biocompatible Materials/pharmacology
*Anti-Infective Agents/pharmacology
*Lactobacillales/metabolism/chemistry
Humans
Quorum Sensing
Bacteriocins/pharmacology
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Animals

@article {pmid42450280,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, A and Noda, M and Hayashi, I and Danshiitsoodol, N and Sugiyama, M},
title = {Fermentation-Derived 6-Shogaol from Zingiber officinale Rhizome Extract Inhibits Periodontal Biofilm Formation via Modulation of Quorum Sensing-Related Gene Expression.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {13},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27136013},
pmid = {42450280},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {No number//Oshimo Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Zingiber officinale/chemistry ; *Quorum Sensing/drug effects/genetics ; *Catechols/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Plant Extracts/pharmacology/chemistry ; Fermentation ; *Rhizome/chemistry ; *Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial/drug effects ; Fusobacterium nucleatum/drug effects/physiology ; Porphyromonas gingivalis/drug effects ; Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans/drug effects ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Fatty Alcohols/pharmacology ; Carbon-Sulfur Lyases ; },
abstract = {Microbial fermentation of plant-derived materials is increasingly recognized as a strategy to enhance biological activity through phytochemical bioconversion. In this study, we investigated the antibiofilm effects of fermented Zingiber officinale rhizome extract against major periodontal pathogens and examined the underlying mechanisms. Ginger extract fermented with plant-derived lactic acid bacteria showed significantly greater inhibition of biofilm formation by Porphyromonas gingivalis, Fusobacterium nucleatum, and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans than non-fermented extract. The inhibitory activity increased with fermentation time, resulting in approximately 60-70% reduction in biofilm formation at higher concentrations. Chromatographic analysis revealed decreased 6-gingerol and increased 6-shogaol levels after fermentation, suggesting bioconversion of 6-gingerol to 6-shogaol. Direct treatment with 6-shogaol inhibited biofilm formation in a dose-dependent manner in all tested pathogens. Quantitative PCR analysis further showed that 6-shogaol significantly downregulated the quorum sensing-related gene luxS and multiple adhesion- and virulence-associated genes, including flp, fimA, mfa1, radD, fadA, ltxA, and rgpB. These findings indicate that lactic acid bacterial fermentation enhances the antibiofilm activity of ginger extract through increased 6-shogaol production, highlighting its potential as a natural anti-biofilm and anti-virulence agent for periodontal disease prevention and management.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Zingiber officinale/chemistry
*Quorum Sensing/drug effects/genetics
*Catechols/pharmacology/chemistry
*Plant Extracts/pharmacology/chemistry
Fermentation
*Rhizome/chemistry
*Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial/drug effects
Fusobacterium nucleatum/drug effects/physiology
Porphyromonas gingivalis/drug effects
Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans/drug effects
Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Fatty Alcohols/pharmacology
Carbon-Sulfur Lyases

@article {pmid42450451,
year = {2026},
author = {Soares, K and Matos, M and Paiva, J and Santos, M and Saraiva, S and García-Díez, J and Esteves, A and Saraiva, C},
title = {Virulence Determinants, Antimicrobial Resistance, and Biofilm Formation of Staphylococcus aureus Recovered from Ready-to-Eat Foods and Food Handlers in University Food Services.},
journal = {Foods (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {13},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/foods15132331},
pmid = {42450451},
issn = {2304-8158},
support = {UID/00772/2025//Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia/ ; LA/P/0059/2020//Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia/ ; UIDB/04033/2020//Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia/ ; LA/P/0126/2020//Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia/ ; },
abstract = {Staphylococcus aureus is a major food safety concern because of its ability to produce heat-stable enterotoxins, develop antimicrobial resistance, and express virulence factors associated with persistence and pathogenicity. The present study characterised S. aureus isolates recovered from ready-to-eat (RTE) foods and food handlers' hands in university food service establishment in northern Portugal, focusing on virulence-associated genes, antimicrobial resistance profiles, and biofilm production. A total of 261 samples were analysed, including 156 RTE food samples and 105 hand swabs. Twenty-nine coagulase-positive staphylococci isolates were recovered and confirmed as S. aureus by detection of the nuc gene, corresponding to an overall prevalence of 11.11% (29/261). Of these, 20 isolates were obtained from food handlers' hands and 9 from RTE foods. The hla and sei genes were detected in all isolates, while seg and tst were detected in 93.10%; sed was not detected. Biofilm-forming capacity was identified in 44.83% of isolates, with most strains exhibiting weak to moderate biofilm production. Resistance to at least one antimicrobial agent was observed in 31.0% of isolates, and presumptive methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus represented 13.79%, all classified as multidrug-resistant. These findings support the occurrence of handling-related contamination and reinforce the need for strict hygiene practices, temperature control, and continuous monitoring in institutional food service environments.},
}

@article {pmid42450480,
year = {2026},
author = {Makhlouf, A and Elabed, H and Moumni, S and Elaissi, A and Belmamoun, AR and Alarjani, KM and Hila, L and Merghni, A},
title = {Disrupting Pathogenicity in Foodborne Staphylococcus aureus: Biofilm Inhibition and Attenuation of Resistance and Virulence by Tunisian Aromatic Plant Essential Oils.},
journal = {Foods (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {13},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/foods15132361},
pmid = {42450480},
issn = {2304-8158},
abstract = {The proliferation of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in food processing is an escalating public health issue. This circumstance has intensified the quest for ecological alternatives to impede pathogen proliferation and avert food degradation. This study firstly investigated the chemical compositions of three essential oils (EOs) sourced from Eucalyptus, Rosemary and Lavender plants using GC-MS. Subsequently, the antibacterial and antibiofilm activities of the tested EOs were assessed against MRSA strains. The effects of these EOs on the expression of antibiotic resistance-related (mecA), virulence regulatory (agrA and sarA), and enterotoxin (sea) genes in MRSA strains were also evaluated by real-time PCR. Concerning the composition analyses performed on the EOs, our results revealed a total of 82 compounds, which accounted for 99.20, 98.10 and 92.78% of Eucalyptus, Rosemary and Lavender EOs, respectively. The anti-staphylococcal activity showed that Eucalyptus EO had the greatest effect, with diameter of inhibition exceeding 41 mm. Moreover, the association between Rosemary EO and the antibiotic (cefoxitin) highlighted the enhancement of the antibacterial effect against the MRSA reference strain. Additionally, Eucalyptus EO showed the highest inhibitory effect against both strains, with MIC values ranging from 0.781 to 1.563 mg/mL, followed by the Rosemary and Lavender EOs. All the tested EOs displayed a bactericidal effect against the tested MRSA strains. Regarding the antibiofilm activity, Rosemary and Lavender EOs had varying impacts on the pre-formed biofilms, with percentage reduction values ranging from 36% to 73% and 37% to 68%, respectively. Finally, the mRNA expression of the MRSA gene A mecA and virulence genes agrA, sarA and sea declined following EO treatment compared with the control. The findings of this study highlighted the efficacy of locally tested EOs in reducing MRSA biofilm formation and the expression of virulence factors and suggested their potential use in food safety and culinary applications.},
}

@article {pmid42450585,
year = {2026},
author = {Wan, L and Lee, CY and Jung, WC and Zheng, Y and Park, KS},
title = {Periprosthetic Joint Infection: Biofilm Pathogenesis, Immune Dysregulation, and Emerging Prosthetic Interface Strategies.},
journal = {Biology},
volume = {15},
number = {13},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/biology15131037},
pmid = {42450585},
issn = {2079-7737},
abstract = {Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) remains a major clinical challenge after total joint arthroplasty because of its association with prolonged antimicrobial therapy, repeated surgery, implant failure, functional disability, and substantial socioeconomic burden. Current strategies, including systemic antibiotics, debridement with implant retention, staged revision, and antibiotic-loaded cement spacers, remain indispensable but are limited by mature biofilm tolerance, protected microbial reservoirs, insufficient local drug penetration, persistent inflammation, and compromised periprosthetic bone repair. Increasing evidence indicates that PJI is not merely bacterial colonization of an implant surface, but a dynamic prosthetic interface disorder involving biofilm persistence, immune dysregulation, inflammatory osteolysis, and failed osseointegration. This review summarizes recent advances in anti-infective prosthetic interface design, emphasizing the transition from passive antibacterial coatings toward multifunctional immuno-antibacterial osseointegrative systems. The pathogenic basis of PJI is first discussed, including conditioning film formation, bacterial adhesion, biofilm maturation, protected reservoirs, immune evasion, and osteolysis. Current clinical management limitations are then evaluated, followed by emerging biomaterial strategies, including anti-adhesive and contact-killing surfaces, active antimicrobial coatings, mature biofilm disruption, biological antibiofilm therapies, smart infection-responsive delivery systems, and osteoimmunomodulatory interfaces. Particular attention is given to balancing early antibacterial activity with cytocompatibility, immune resolution, angiogenesis, mechanical durability, and long-term osseointegration. Finally, key translational barriers are highlighted, including load-bearing and tribological constraints, insufficiently standardized mature biofilm and animal models, limited clinical evidence for advanced smart materials, manufacturing reproducibility, sterilization compatibility, regulatory complexity, and application-specific clinical readiness. Future anti-PJI interfaces should evolve beyond unidirectional bacterial killing toward stage-specific systems integrating biofilm control, immune restoration, vascularized bone regeneration, and durable mechanical performance.},
}

@article {pmid42450604,
year = {2026},
author = {Grudlewska-Buda, K and Wiktorczyk-Kapischke, N and Sędzicka, A and Soboń, S and Budzyńska, A and Czuba, J and Skowron, K},
title = {Phenotypic and Genotypic Characterization of Enterococcus spp. Isolated from Freshwater Lakes and Rivers: Antimicrobial Resistance, Virulence Determinants and Biofilm Formation.},
journal = {Biology},
volume = {15},
number = {13},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/biology15131056},
pmid = {42450604},
issn = {2079-7737},
abstract = {Enterococci are environmentally persistent bacteria that are relevant to both water quality and the spread of antimicrobial resistance. This study aimed to phenotypically and genotypically characterize Enterococcus spp. isolated from freshwater (lakes and rivers) in north-central Poland, with a focus on antimicrobial susceptibility, virulence genes, and biofilm-forming capacity. Surface water samples were collected during the vegetation seasons of 2022 and 2023. Enterococci were isolated by culture-based methods and confirmed by MALDI-TOF MS. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) was performed using the disk diffusion method, virulence-associated genes were detected by multiplex PCR, and biofilm formation was evaluated using a crystal violet assay. In total, 96 Enterococcus spp. isolates representing 12 species were identified from 328 freshwater samples, with E. faecalis (24.0%) and E. hirae (21.9%) being the most frequently isolated. Thirty-one isolates (32.3%) were resistant to at least one antibiotic, and two isolates were classified as multidrug-resistant. The most prevalent virulence genes were gelE, srtA, and hyl. The ace gene was detected exclusively in E. faecalis. Most isolates were non-biofilm producers, while biofilm formation was confirmed in 8 strains (6 weak and 2 moderate producers), with no strong biofilm-forming strains detected. These findings suggest that freshwater ecosystems may constitute important reservoirs of antimicrobial-resistant and virulence-associated Enterococcus spp., underscoring the importance of continuous surveillance within the One Health framework.},
}

@article {pmid42451997,
year = {2026},
author = {Lisoń-Kubica, J},
title = {Bacterial Biofilm and Titanium Implants: Mechanisms, Clinical Problems, and Surface Modification Strategies.},
journal = {Materials (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {19},
number = {13},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ma19132919},
pmid = {42451997},
issn = {1996-1944},
support = {FESL.10.25-IZ.01-07G5/23//Silesian University of Technology/ ; },
abstract = {Bacterial biofilms represent a major clinical challenge, being responsible for the majority of chronic infections and significantly reducing the effectiveness of antibiotic therapy. Their formation on implant surfaces, particularly those made of titanium and its alloys, is strongly associated not only with antimicrobial tolerance but also with persistent, hard-to-eradicate infections, implant loosening or failure, repeated surgical interventions, prolonged hospitalization, and increased morbidity. These complications contribute substantially to the growing problem of antimicrobial resistance and impose significant economic burdens on healthcare systems. This review discusses the mechanisms of biofilm formation, factors influencing bacterial adhesion, and the clinical implications associated with implant-related infections. Special attention is given to titanium-based biomaterials, including conventional Ti-6Al-4V and next-generation alloys such as Ti-13Nb-13Zr, highlighting their advantages and limitations in the context of biocompatibility and susceptibility to biofilm formation. Various strategies for combating biofilms are presented, including physical, chemical, and biological approaches, with emphasis on surface modification techniques. Advanced methods, particularly atomic layer deposition (ALD), are identified as promising solutions for creating uniform, antibacterial coatings, including those based on tin dioxide (SnO2). Such modifications offer potential for reducing bacterial adhesion, improving osseointegration, and enhancing long-term implant performance.},
}

@article {pmid42454684,
year = {2026},
author = {P, D and K, SPK and Narayanasamy, D},
title = {Stimuli-Responsive Solid Lipid Nanoparticles for Targeted Drug Delivery in Biofilm-Resistant Infections: Advances and Challenges.},
journal = {Drug development and industrial pharmacy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-23},
doi = {10.1080/03639045.2026.2703793},
pmid = {42454684},
issn = {1520-5762},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To explore the design, mechanisms, and therapeutic potential of stimuli-responsive solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) for biofilm-targeted drug delivery, highlighting recent advances and future directions.

SIGNIFICANCE OF REVIEW: Biofilm-associated infections present a significant challenge in healthcare owing to the protective extracellular matrix (EPS), which restricts antibiotic penetration and promotes biofilm resistance. SLNs have emerged as promising drug delivery systems owing to their biocompatibility, drug-loading capacity, and controlled release characteristics. Stimuli-responsive SLNs, which release drugs in response to environmental triggers such as pH, enzymes, temperature, and light, offer enhanced targeting and improved drug delivery efficiency to biofilms. Notable preclinical examples include ciprofloxacin, vancomycin, rifampin and tobramycin - all of which have been formulated in SLNs/NLCs with improved antibiofilm activity versus free drug in vitro and in some in vivo models.

KEY FINDINGS: Preclinical studies have demonstrated that SLN-based formulations significantly reduce biofilm biomass and enhance antibiotic efficacy against biofilm-associated infections. Stimuli-responsive SLNs facilitate deeper penetration of biofilms, thereby improving drug retention and therapeutic outcomes. However, challenges such as limited drug-loading capacity, stability, manufacturability, and clinical translation remain significant barriers to the widespread adoption of SLN-based therapies.

CONCLUSIONS: Stimuli-responsive SLNs represent a promising strategy for overcoming biofilm resistance and enhancing antibiotic delivery. Although preclinical data are promising, addressing formulation challenges and improving scalability are essential for successful clinical translation. Further research on optimizing SLN design and understanding biofilm interactions will be critical for advancing SLN-based therapies for biofilm-associated infections.},
}

@article {pmid42439919,
year = {2026},
author = {Yang, B and Liao, G and Xing, G and Wu, Z and Wu, J},
title = {Biological characteristics of a menadione-dependent Staphylococcus aureus small colony variant (SCV) from bovine mastitis and heme promotion of biofilm formation.},
journal = {Archives of microbiology},
volume = {208},
number = {10},
pages = {},
pmid = {42439919},
issn = {1432-072X},
support = {ELDC202002//Engineering Laboratory of Tarim Animal Disease Diagnosis and Control, Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; Animals ; *Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/genetics/physiology/isolation & purification/growth & development/metabolism ; *Heme/metabolism/pharmacology ; *Vitamin K 3/metabolism/pharmacology ; Female ; *Mastitis, Bovine/microbiology ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Cattle ; *Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology/veterinary ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Hemolysis ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Milk/microbiology ; Gentamicins/pharmacology ; },
abstract = {While small colony variants (SCVs) of Staphylococcus aureus have been extensively documented, little is known about the properties of menadione-dependent SCVs from cow raw milk and how heme affects their ability to form biofilms. In this study, gentamicin-induced SCVs were generated from mastitis-derived Staphylococcus aureus, and the underlying mechanisms were investigated through nutrient dependency assays combined with genomic analysis. A comparative assessment of biological characteristics-including physiological and biochemical properties, antibiotic susceptibility, biofilm formation, and hemolytic activity-was conducted between the SCV and wild-type strains. Additionally, the effects of exogenous heme and menadione on biofilm formation were evaluated. The results revealed a frameshift deletion mutation due to a 95-nucleotide deletion in the menE gene. This mutation altered the corresponding amino acid sequence, correlating with the menadione-dependent SCV phenotype. Contrary to the typical SCV phenotype, the isolated SCV strain not only presented classic traits, such as slow growth and increased resistance to aminoglycoside antibiotics, but also exhibited atypical characteristics, including significantly decreased biofilm formation capacity and increased hemolytic activity. Exogenous supplementation with menadione or heme markedly promoted biofilm formation in the SCV strain. These results suggest that the reduced biofilm-forming ability of the SCV strain may stem from compromised metabolic activity. Furthermore, the SCV strain may be capable of acquiring exogenous heme via unknown pathways, a hypothesis that warrants further investigation, thereby restoring its biofilm formation capacity. In conclusion, this atypical SCV exhibits reduced biofilm formation and increased hemolytic activity, and heme partially restores biofilm via increased EPS and surface hydrophobicity. These findings are derived from a single SCV-parent pair; further isolates are needed to determine generalizability.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
Animals
*Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/genetics/physiology/isolation & purification/growth & development/metabolism
*Heme/metabolism/pharmacology
*Vitamin K 3/metabolism/pharmacology
Female
*Mastitis, Bovine/microbiology
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Cattle
*Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology/veterinary
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Hemolysis
Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Milk/microbiology
Gentamicins/pharmacology

@article {pmid42440570,
year = {2026},
author = {Gahlot, KD},
title = {Glycyrrhizin (GLY) and glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) as potential multi-target antimicrobials: mechanisms, biofilm disruption, and synergy against drug-resistant pathogens.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1861692},
pmid = {42440570},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major global health challenge of the 21 [st] century, driven by multidrug-resistant pathogens, persistent biofilm-associated infections, and a dwindling pipeline of new antibiotics. These limitations have renewed interest in natural products with multi-target antimicrobial activity. Glycyrrhiza glabra, a medicinal herb, produces glycyrrhizin (GLY), a triterpenoid saponin, and its active metabolite, glycyrrhetinic acid (GA), both of which exhibit antibacterial, antiviral, and antibiofilm activity. These compounds act through coordinated mechanisms, including disrupting microbial membranes, inhibiting metabolic pathways, modulating efflux systems, suppressing biofilm structure, and regulating host inflammatory responses. Their ability to enhance antibiotic efficacy further supports their role as adjunctive therapeutic agents. This review critically synthesizes current knowledge on the chemical properties, molecular mechanisms of action, pathogen-specific activity, biofilm interference, pharmacokinetics, safety considerations, and translational potential of these triterpenoids. Collectively, the available data could position G. glabra-derived triterpenoids as promising adjunctive candidates for next-generation multi-target antimicrobials.},
}

@article {pmid42440678,
year = {2026},
author = {Font-Vizcarra, L and Sobrino-Díaz, B},
title = {Electrolytic cleaning as a biofilm control strategy on medical implants: mechanisms, evidence and translational perspectives.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1867507},
pmid = {42440678},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Biofilm formation on medical devices represents a critical challenge in microbiology and clinical practice, as structured bacterial communities embedded in an extracellular polymeric matrix exhibit marked tolerance to antimicrobial agents and host defenses. In orthopedic implant-associated infections, these properties significantly limit the efficacy of conventional strategies based on surgical debridement and systemic antibiotic therapy, particularly when biofilm is established on metallic surfaces. Electrical-based approaches have been investigated as alternative strategies to target biofilm, including the application of electric fields and direct electrical currents. These methods influence bacterial viability and biofilm integrity mainly through electrochemical mechanisms, such as local pH changes and the generation of reactive species. However, their mechanisms remain heterogeneous and clinical translation has been limited. Electrolytic cleaning represents a distinct mechanistic paradigm based on water electrolysis at the solid-liquid interface. Hydrogen evolution at the cathode leads to gas bubble formation, which can exert mechanical forces on the biofilm structure and promote detachment from the underlying surface. This bubble-mediated mechanism provides a complementary physical approach to biofilm disruption. This minireview summarizes the physicochemical basis of water electrolysis and critically analyses the available experimental evidence. Although current data remain largely preclinical, the recent development of medical devices based on this technology suggests that clinical translation may be increasingly feasible. Nevertheless, robust evidence in patients is still lacking, and further studies are required to define safety, efficacy and optimal application parameters in clinically relevant settings.},
}

@article {pmid42442138,
year = {2026},
author = {Mongelli, A and Kruse, JL and Carvalho, T and Subirats, J and Matamoros, V and Bester, K},
title = {Nature-based solution for treating pesticide-contaminated groundwater: performance of a combined two-stage biofilm system.},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {305},
number = {},
pages = {126453},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2026.126453},
pmid = {42442138},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {Biological treatment represents an alternative to conventional adsorption technologies for the removal of pesticides from contaminated groundwater and landfill leachates. A pilot-scale treatment combining moving bed biofilm reactors (MBBRs) and downstream biofilters was operated for two years to evaluate the removal of the chlorophenoxy herbicides mecoprop (MCPP) and dichlorprop (DCPP) under realistic field conditions. After establishing famine operation and aeration, removals were 78 ± 3% (MCPP) and 73 ± 4% (DCPP) in one treatment line, while the other one achieved lower but consistent removal (47-51%). Mass balance analyses demonstrated that decreases in parent compounds were not due to production of known transformation products, indicating effective sequential biodegradation (mineralisation). The upstream MBBR primarily improved iron and particle management to protect the downstream biofilters from clogging, whereas biofilters accounted for most of the removal of both parents and metabolites. Removal was largely independent of hydraulic retention time when varying this between 10 and 25 h but strongly linked to dissolved oxygen concentrations, highlighting aerobic biofilm activity as the key controlling factor. Microbial community analysis revealed biofilms dominated by Pseudomonadota, with higher abundance of putative phenoxyacid degraders and fewer anaerobic taxa in the better-performing line, supporting an oxygen-driven biodegradation mechanism. An in silico full-scale life-cycle cost analysis indicated substantially lower costs and environmental impacts compared to granular activated carbon treatment.},
}

@article {pmid42445587,
year = {2026},
author = {Cristina, ML and Ottria, G and Schinca, E and Piccinini, C and Schito, AM and Boni, S and Cima, S and Carbone, A and Dupont, C and Pontali, E and Sartini, M},
title = {Persistence of Biofilm-Forming and Multidrug-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus on High-Touch Hospital Surfaces Despite Routine Cleaning and Disinfection.},
journal = {Journal of preventive medicine and hygiene},
volume = {67},
number = {1},
pages = {E37-E44},
pmid = {42445587},
issn = {2421-4248},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; Humans ; *Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/isolation & purification/physiology ; *Disinfection/methods ; *Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial ; Cross Infection/prevention & control ; Italy ; Hospitals ; Colony Count, Microbial ; Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/isolation & purification ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Disinfectants ; Equipment Contamination ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Contaminated hospital surfaces play a key role in the transmission of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), particularly those caused by antimicrobial-resistant pathogens. Despite routine cleaning and disinfection, high-touch surfaces may remain reservoirs for multidrug-resistant organisms, including biofilm-forming Staphylococcus aureus.

METHODS: An environmental surveillance study was conducted in a single-bed room of an Internal Medicine ward in a hospital in Northern Italy. High-touch surfaces in the near-patient area and room furniture were sampled twice daily over one week, before and after routine cleaning/disinfection with chlorine-based agents (0.1-0.5% Cl). Cleaning effectiveness was evaluated using aerobic colony count (ACC) and detection of S. aureus as indicators of environmental hygiene, applying accepted microbiological benchmarks (ACC < 5 CFU/cm[2]; S. aureus < 1 CFU/cm[2]). S. aureus isolates were characterized by PFGE, spa typing, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, and biofilm production assays.

RESULTS: Mean ACC decreased significantly after cleaning/disinfection (10.06 ± 15.67 vs 2.89 ± 5.52 CFU/cm[2]; p < 0.001), with a substantial reduction in non-compliant samples. However, residual contamination persisted on high-touch surfaces. S. aureus was detected in 12/238 samples, including post-cleaning samples from the near-patient area. Molecular analysis identified four distinct strains; notably, a spa type t032 (MLST ST22) isolate-methicillin-resistant, multidrug-resistant, and a strong biofilm producer-persisted on the bedside table handle both before and after cleaning.

CONCLUSION: Routine cleaning and disinfection significantly reduce environmental bioburden but may not reliably eliminate biofilm-forming multidrug-resistant S. aureus from critical hand-contact surfaces. These findings highlight the need for continuous microbiological surveillance and targeted IPC interventions to address environmental reservoirs of antimicrobial resistance in healthcare settings.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
Humans
*Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/isolation & purification/physiology
*Disinfection/methods
*Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial
Cross Infection/prevention & control
Italy
Hospitals
Colony Count, Microbial
Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/isolation & purification
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Disinfectants
Equipment Contamination

@article {pmid42446211,
year = {2026},
author = {Dooda, MK and Potapova, A and Piepoli, S and Vinogradov, E and Yildiz, FH and Troutman, JM},
title = {Ordered assembly of the Vibrio cholerae biofilm exopolysaccharide defined by lipid-linked intermediate profiling.},
journal = {mBio},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0109626},
doi = {10.1128/mbio.01096-26},
pmid = {42446211},
issn = {2150-7511},
abstract = {Biofilm formation underlies the environmental persistence and transmission of Vibrio cholerae, the etiological agent of cholera. The Vibrio polysaccharide (VPS) is the principal structural component of the mature biofilm matrix, yet the enzymatic logic governing its assembly has remained incompletely defined. VPS is synthesized as two closely related polymers that share a tetrasaccharide repeat unit but differ at a single monosaccharide position. Here, we systematically define VPS assembly by integrating targeted gene deletions with liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry profiling of lipid-linked intermediates, and comparative structural modeling of biosynthetic enzymes. Our results establish that VPS is produced through an ordered Wzx/Wzy-dependent pathway. VpsL functions as the initiating phosphoglycosyltransferase, generating bactoprenyl diphosphate-linked glucose. A VpsA/VpsB/VpsK module analogous to the enterobacterial common antigen machinery synthesizes and transfers an N-acetyl-mannosaminuronic acid (ManNAcA)-derived residue, after which VpsJ, which we propose as a new class of epimerase, catalyzes C5 epimerization to generate the rare bacterial sugar L-N-acetyl-gulosaminuronic acid (L-GulNAcA). Additional tailoring reactions mediated by VpsH, a previously unidentified protein with few sequence or structural homologs, and VpsG introduce glycine and acetyl modifications that are dispensable for repeat-unit assembly but influence matrix properties. Subsequently, glycosyltransfer reactions by VpsI and VpsD complete the tetrasaccharide repeat unit, with VpsD exhibiting substrate flexibility that accounts for the formation of both major and minor VPS variants. Downstream, VpsE and VpsF act following repeat-unit assembly, consistent with flippase and polymerase functions, respectively. Together, our findings establish a molecular framework for VPS assembly and deepen our understanding of the mechanisms that drive biofilm formation in Vibrio cholerae.IMPORTANCEBiofilm formation is an integral part of Vibrio cholerae's infection cycle, requiring production of the exopolysaccharide Vibrio polysaccharide (VPS). Together, these findings define the sequential enzymatic steps of VPS biosynthesis. This molecular map of VPS production identifies multiple enzymatic nodes as potential anti-biofilm targets and provides a mechanistic foundation for understanding how V. cholerae modulates biofilm architecture to enhance environmental survival and transmission.},
}

@article {pmid42446248,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, Y and Yang, R and Kim, M and Chan, YHT and Zhong, H and Wang, H and Jing, L and Xu, Y and Qureshi, MA and Liu, H and Lu, X and Chen, S and Jiang, Y and Lei, S and Shen, Y and Gu, H and Jiang, N and Hu, W and Li, MG},
title = {Laser-Guided Self-Rolled Magnetic Microrobots for Targeted Biofilm Eradication in Severely Infected Medical Stents.},
journal = {Small (Weinheim an der Bergstrasse, Germany)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e74469},
doi = {10.1002/smll.74469},
pmid = {42446248},
issn = {1613-6829},
support = {//Research Physician Scheme of Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine/ ; C6001-22Y//Hong Kong Research Grants Council/ ; C6053-23G//Hong Kong Research Grants Council/ ; ECS No.26308524//Hong Kong Research Grants Council/ ; JLFS/P-603/24//Hong Kong Research Grants Council/ ; 82370743//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Pathogenic bacterial biofilms on biological interfaces and implanted medical devices are highly resistant to conventional antimicrobial therapies, leading to persistent infections and device failure. Magnetically driven micro/nanomotors (MNMs) offer a promising platform for localized drug delivery and in situ biofilm eradication in complex anatomical environments. However, current MNMs face critical challenges, including the serious risks of retention in vivo and insufficient propulsion within viscoelastic biofilms. Here, a laser-guided self-assembly strategy is developed to assemble tubular magnetic micromotors from high-entropy alloy/polyimide (HEA/PI) bilayers for hydrogel-based drug delivery and biofilm eradication inside implantable medical tubes. Programmable direct laser writing converts PI into laser-induced graphene (LIG) while simultaneously inducing controlled self-rolling of the HEA/LIG bilayers into mechanically robust micro-rolls. Under rotating gradient magnetic fields, these micro-rolls display controllable oscillatory-spiral propulsion in confined microchannels, enabling fast transport and site-specific drug release. When filled with an antibiotic-loaded hydrogel, the HEA/LIG micro-rolls achieve synergistic mechanical biofilm disruption and localized antibiotic release within E. coli-infected pancreatic duct stents, resulting in a 97% sterilization efficiency, 44% higher than that achieved by standard chemical sterilization. This work establishes an unprecedented laser manufacturing paradigm for medical micromotors, providing a minimally invasive approach for targeted biofilm removal from hard-to-reach anatomical sites.},
}

@article {pmid42436457,
year = {2026},
author = {Hemmati, J and Chegini, Z and Sedighi, I and Azizi, M and Shahraki, RZ and Chiani, M and Arabestani, MR},
title = {Development and in vitro evaluation of teicoplanin PEGylated (TEC-PEGylated) niosomes for antimicrobial and anti-biofilm activity against vancomycin-intermediate Staphylococcus aureus (VISA).},
journal = {BMC biotechnology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12896-026-01201-6},
pmid = {42436457},
issn = {1472-6750},
support = {14030204782//The vice chancellor for research and technology, Hamadan university of medical sciences, Hamadan/Iran/ ; },
abstract = {Vancomycin-intermediate Staphylococcus aureus (VISA) is a prominent pathogen in burn wound infections, mainly known for biofilm formation. Recently, infections associated with antibiotic-resistant VISA isolates have increasingly posed life-threatening risks. Accordingly, there is an urgent necessity to investigate and develop efficient strategies against the rapid spread of VISA strains in the healthcare system. In this research, a niosomal drug delivery system was developed using the thin-film hydration method and then surface‑modified with polyethylene glycol (PEG). Teicoplanin (TEC) was further incorporated into PEGylated niosome (TEC-PEGylated niosome), and key physicochemical properties, including encapsulation efficiency (EE %), drug release profile, particle size, surface zeta charge, morphology, polydispersity index (PDI), and 30-day stability were measured. The antimicrobial potential of TEC-PEGylated niosome against five VISA strains isolated from burn wounds was investigated by determining the minimum inhibitory/bactericidal concentrations (MIC, MBC) and the time-kill assay. Furthermore, the anti-biofilm properties of the synthesized niosomal formulation were evaluated with a microtiter-plate (MTP) method and compared to those of free drug. FE-SEM results revealed that the niosomal formulation had spherical morphology with an approximate size of 250 nm. Hydrodynamic size, surface zeta charge, and EE% of the formulated niosomes were found be 278.8 ± 5.0 nm, + 9.5 ± 3.4 mV, and 65.9% ± 1.6, respectively. Also, TEC-PEGylated niosome demonstrated a significantly improved antibacterial ability compared to free drug. Additionally, TEC-PEGylated niosome effectively inhibited the biofilm formation capacity in all VISA strains. It was concluded that synthesized niosomal system could be an effective drug delivery system owing to several advantageous characteristics, including sustained-release profiles, acceptable stability, and other desirable features. These properties enable PEGylated niosomes to effectively deliver a diverse array of antimicrobial agents, including TEC. This capability could present a promising novel strategy for addressing burn infections, particularly those caused by VISA strains.},
}

@article {pmid42436802,
year = {2026},
author = {Jo, Y and Lee, Y and Bang, S and Son, K and Park, K and Kim, D and Kim, SA and Eom, S and Choi, I and Shin, SJ and Koo, KC and Seo, J},
title = {Lubricious anti-adhesive interface prevents friction, biofilm, and encrustation in long-term indwelling ureteral stents.},
journal = {Materials today. Bio},
volume = {39},
number = {},
pages = {103405},
pmid = {42436802},
issn = {2590-0064},
abstract = {Ureteral stents are essential for relieving urinary obstruction and preserving renal function. However, long-term indwelling often induces friction-mediated urothelial irritation, bacterial colonization, and mineral encrustation, which impair urinary drainage and complicate stent removal. Here, we developed a friction-lowering urinary interface for defense against encrustation (FLUID) by integrating a silicone-based primer and lubricant layer into a fully microporous thermoplastic polyurethane framework. Unlike conventional slippery liquid-infused porous surfaces that retain lubricant primarily within surface microstructures, the fully microporous TPU framework serves as an internal lubricant reservoir throughout the stent wall, replenishing the lubricating interface under dynamic urinary conditions. Under sterile conditions the FLUID coating suppressed planktonic bacterial adhesion (E. coli, B. cereus, S. aureus; 72 h adhesion assay) by more than 94% relative to uncoated substrates. In a P. mirabilis-spiked 14-day mature biofilm model, biofilm-associated bacterial recovery from FLUID was modestly lower than from the commercialized comparators (Log R ≈ 0.10 and 0.14; approximately 21% and 28% reduction). In a porcine model, the coated stent reduced inflammatory activity and attenuated mineral accumulation after 4 weeks, with magnesium and calcium deposition decreased by 84.1% and 45.1%, respectively. After 8 weeks, scanning electron microscopy confirmed clean surfaces with patent side holes and minimal debris accumulation. Overall, the FLUID stent establishes a self-replenishing lubricant interface integrated throughout the microporous stent wall, enabling simultaneous mitigation of friction, early biofouling, and mineral deposition, and providing a clinically relevant proof-of-concept strategy for safer long-term urinary drainage that will require further preclinical validation prior to clinical adoption.},
}

@article {pmid42437417,
year = {2026},
author = {Zemaitis, KJ and Zhou, M and Yannarell, SM and Fulcher, JM and Bhattacharjee, A and Veličković, M and Degnan, DJ and Shank, EA and Anderton, CR and Kew, W and Paša-Tolić, L and Veličković, D},
title = {Characterization of the biofilm landscape of Bacillus subtilis by spatial microproteomics.},
journal = {Analytical and bioanalytical chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42437417},
issn = {1618-2650},
support = {51159//Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory/ ; },
abstract = {Bulk proteomics has been demonstrated to differentiate subpopulations based on molecular phenotypes within bacterial colonies, yet advanced analyses by mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) hold even greater promise for the future. This technology can enable high-throughput spatial phenotyping that can directly visualize distinct components of various biomolecular mechanisms with high mass-resolving power in high spatial resolution analyses. Here, we applied MSI for intact protein imaging directly from thin cross-sections of a biofilm of Bacillus subtilis and after minimal preparation we detected more than 285 unique isotopic envelopes corresponding to unique proteoforms. We paired our MSI analyses with bulk top-down proteomics (TDP) to form extensive experimental libraries, which provided us with high confidence MSI annotations based upon isotopic matching to validated post-translational modifications (PTMs) and truncations. This joint application of MSI and TDP allowed us to describe the microscale spatial proteomic landscape within the B. subtilis biofilm. This study further demonstrated the feasibility of detecting differentiated subpopulations of cells through the identification of proteoforms of cannibalistic protein toxins as well as those involved in active sporulation to highly localized areas within the central and outermost periphery of the biofilm.},
}

@article {pmid42437591,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, J and Wu, W and Feng, B and Ning, M and Cai, Z and Zhang, Q and Du, L and Gao, Y},
title = {Formulation development and optimization of sparfloxacin-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles integrated with microneedles for the treatment of biofilm-infected wounds.},
journal = {European journal of pharmaceutics and biopharmaceutics : official journal of Arbeitsgemeinschaft fur Pharmazeutische Verfahrenstechnik e.V},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {115181},
doi = {10.1016/j.ejpb.2026.115181},
pmid = {42437591},
issn = {1873-3441},
abstract = {The efficient management of infected skin wounds is severely limited by the thick bacterial biofilm within the lesion, the intractable stratum corneum barrier of the perilesional skin, and the high toxicities of potent antibiotics. Sparfloxacin (SPFX) was withdrawn from the market due to its severe systemic side effects and UV-induced phototoxicity, while its severe hydrophobicity causes localized crystalline cytotoxicity upon topical application. To safely rejuvenate this potent drug, an integrated transdermal system combining photoshielding, SPFX-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (SPFX-SLNs) with dissolving microneedles (MNs) was developed. This study primarily focuses on the systematic screening, formulation development, and optimization of SPFX-SLNs via Box-Behnken Design-Response Surface Methodology (BBD-RSM). The optimized nanocarriers exhibited a uniform size (86.85 ± 1.89 nm) and a two-fold higher antibacterial potency against Escherichia coli (E. coli) than free SPFX. Mechanistically, the solid lipid core locked SPFX in a safe amorphous state to preclude crystal-induced irritation, while functioning as a physical photoshield against UV activation. By depositing the nanomedicine exclusively into infected dermis, the MN platform minimized systemic drug exposure. In a rat model of E. coli-infected biofilm wounds, the formulated SPFX-SLNs MNs achieved over 50% (58.44%) wound closure within 3 days and near-complete re-epithelialization by day 11, and a 98.61% final closure rate by day 14. Ultimately, this work establishes a comprehensive formulation development strategy for a safety-enhanced, biofilm-penetrable nanomedicine-MN hybrid that successfully repurposes a clinically restricted antibiotic for advanced wound regeneration.},
}

@article {pmid42434857,
year = {2026},
author = {Patil, N},
title = {Mechanical determinants of bacterial collective behavior: from active turbulence to early biofilm organization.},
journal = {Critical reviews in microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-19},
doi = {10.1080/1040841X.2026.2698959},
pmid = {42434857},
issn = {1549-7828},
abstract = {During early colonization, motile bacteria can shift from independent swimming to coordinated collective states shaped by environmental mechanics, with consequences for subsequent biofilm development and tolerance. This critical review integrates active matter physics with biofilm microbiology to evaluate a working model in which viscoelasticity, mechanotransduction, and geometric confinement form a synergistic triad of mechanical determinants that may bias communities toward tolerant states before matrix immobilization dominates. Community mechanics remains underexplored because established non-genetic mechanisms explain only part of the striking gap between planktonic killing and biofilm tolerance. Within this model, viscoelasticity of host fluids and nascent matrix, captured by an effective Deborah number, may extend hydrodynamic coupling between cells. Surface mechanotransduction can convert flagellar or pilus load into rapid cyclic di-GMP signaling, while geometric confinement in tissues and device lumens can restrict collective states available to bacteria. Together, these factors motivate testable links among viscoelasticity, bacterial density, and velocity correlation length. Current evidence derives mainly from simplified in vitro systems, and validation in three-dimensional polymicrobial clinical materials remains limited. The review highlights priorities and translational hypotheses, including motion phenotyping, rheology-modifying adjuvants, and geometry-based disruption as complements to antimicrobial therapy.},
}

@article {pmid42434941,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, K and Sun, P and Liu, J and Xu, Y and Lu, W and Wu, Y and Smith, P},
title = {Substrate Carbon Controls Regional Divergence of Wetland Biofilm Carbon Sinks under Climate Warming.},
journal = {Environmental science & technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acs.est.6c03534},
pmid = {42434941},
issn = {1520-5851},
abstract = {Microbial biofilms at soil-water interfaces mediate carbon exchange between soils and the atmosphere, yet whether substrate state alters their climate sensitivity remains poorly understood. Here, we analyzed 1080 rice-paddy sites across 26 regions of China to test whether soil organic carbon (SOC) regulates periphytic biofilm organic carbon (PB-TOC) responses to warming. SOC emerged as the dominant predictor of PB-TOC and showed a statistically supported threshold at ∼20 g kg[-1]. Below this threshold, PB-TOC increased with SOC and was positively associated with mean annual temperature and precipitation, consistent with a substrate-limited compensatory response. Above the threshold, PB-TOC approached saturation, and climate associations became negative, indicating greater vulnerability of carbon-rich interfaces. CMIP6-based projections suggest that under SSP5-8.5, China's paddy-interface biofilm carbon pool could decline by about 0.70 Tg C by 2100, driven mainly by 4.5-6.8% losses in high-SOC regions that are only partly offset by modest gains in low-SOC regions (0.8-1.5%). These findings indicate that wetland climate responses are state-dependent and that substrate thresholds should be incorporated into carbon-climate assessments.},
}

@article {pmid42435688,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, H and Li, C and Luo, X and Gao, X and Liu, S and Li, S and Wang, X and Zhu, M and Li, J and Cavalca, L},
title = {Biofilm mediated arsenic migration and transformation in groundwater under the influence of dissolved organic matter.},
journal = {Journal of hazardous materials},
volume = {514},
number = {},
pages = {142951},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.142951},
pmid = {42435688},
issn = {1873-3336},
abstract = {Biofilms, ubiquitous in a variety of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, strongly regulate arsenic (As) cycle. Dissolved organic matter (DOM) can stimulate the development and activity of microbial communities, thus enhancing arsenic biogeochemical processes. However, how DOM regulates groundwater biofilms to drive arsenic migration and transformation remains unclear. Incubation experiments were integrated with biofilm characterizations, 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing, qPCR, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to explore the behaviors and potential mechanisms of arsenic under the mediation of biofilms and fulvic acid (FA), a representative molecule of DOM in groundwater. FA induced a 7.5‑fold increase in EPS secretion, characterized by a marked enrichment of α‑configuration polysaccharides, which provided additional binding sites and steric hindrance, thereby enhancing arsenic adsorption by 21.98%. Biofilms enhanced As(III) oxidation potentially via aoxA/B, regardless of FA presence. Subsequent As(V) reduction was mainly driven by FA‑enriched N and S cycling bacteria in biofilms. The reductive products of these bacteria, especially NH4[+], enhanced arrA, thereby promoting arsenate reduction. FA-Ca-As ternary complexes likely further contributed to arsenic sequestration. Additionally, the electron shuttle function of FA potentially accelerated As(V)/As(III) inter-conversion. To the best of our knowledge, this study initially revealed the importance of DOM and biofilms on groundwater arsenic fate, and provided new insights into environmental arsenic cycles.},
}

@article {pmid42427189,
year = {2026},
author = {Jaber, NA and Ghafil, JA},
title = {Molecular insights into sub-inhibitory ceftriaxone-mediated modulation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm architecture, quorum sensing networks, and antibiotic-target docking interactions.},
journal = {Polimery w medycynie},
volume = {56},
number = {1},
pages = {65-74},
doi = {10.17219/pim/224596},
pmid = {42427189},
issn = {0370-0747},
mesh = {*Quorum Sensing/drug effects ; *Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology ; *Biofilms/drug effects ; Molecular Docking Simulation ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Animals ; Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics ; Mice ; Trans-Activators/metabolism/genetics ; *Ceftriaxone/pharmacology ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Bacterial Adhesion/drug effects ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm polymer matrix formation contributes to antibiotic tolerance. The antibiofilm effects of sub-minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of ceftriaxone (CTX), the molecular mechanisms by which these sub-MICs modulate biofilm polymer production and quorum sensing (QS), and the binding interactions of CTX with key biofilm regulatory proteins (LasR and RhlR QS receptors) have not been previously investigated.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the role of sub-MIC CTX in regulating biofilm polymer matrix formation, bacterial adhesion, QS gene expression (rhlR and lasR), and to perform molecular docking analysis of CTX interactions with LasR and RhlR QS receptor proteins and biofilm EPS polymer-associated targets.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: MICs and biofilm formation were determined. The effects of CTX sub-MICs on biofilm formation, adhesion to mouse bladder epithelial cells (BECs), and QS gene expression (rhlR and lasR, by qRT-PCR) were assessed. In silico molecular docking of CTX against the ligand-binding domains of LasR (PDB: 2UV0) and RhlR (PDB: 3T5K) was performed using AutoDock Vina. Interaction fingerprinting with biofilm EPS polymer-associated enzymes (AlgD and PelB) was also performed.

RESULTS: CTX sub-MICs regulated biofilm formation in an isolate-dependent manner, reduced P. aeruginosa adhesion to mouse BECs, and downregulated the rhlR and lasR genes in a concentration-dependent manner. Molecular docking revealed that CTX binds favorably within the ligand-binding pockets of LasR (-8.3 kcal/mol) and RhlR (-7.1 kcal/mol) via hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions, suggesting competitive interference with QS autoinducer binding. CTX also exhibited affinity for AlgD (-7.6 kcal/mol), a key enzyme in alginate polymer biosynthesis.

CONCLUSIONS: CTX sub-MICs modulate biofilm EPS polymer matrix formation and epithelial adhesion by downregulating QS regulatory genes. lasR was more responsive to CTX sub-MIC stress than rhlR. Molecular docking supports a direct molecular interaction mechanism through which CTX may interfere with QS receptor signaling and alginate polymer biosynthesis, providing a structural basis for its antibiofilm activity at sub-inhibitory concentrations.},
}

*Quorum Sensing/drug effects
*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology
*Biofilms/drug effects
Molecular Docking Simulation
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Animals
Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics
Mice
Trans-Activators/metabolism/genetics
*Ceftriaxone/pharmacology
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Bacterial Adhesion/drug effects

@article {pmid42429764,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, K and Zhu, C and Li, K and Hao, H and Zhang, K and Li, Y and Andrews, M and Zhang, J},
title = {Deletion of flgL in Mesorhizobium ciceri USDA 3378 weakened competitive nodulation ability by reducing flagellum formation, biofilm formation, and extracellular polysaccharide secretion.},
journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0093126},
doi = {10.1128/aem.00931-26},
pmid = {42429764},
issn = {1098-5336},
abstract = {Mesorhizobium ciceri USDA 3378 has a competitive advantage over the indigenous Mesorhizobium muleiense CCBAU 83963 in nodulating chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) in newly introduced planting areas in China. The underlying mechanisms for this dominance remain unclear. A comparison of the genomes of USDA 3378 and CCBAU 83963 revealed significantly more genes involved in flagellum production and cell movement in USDA 3378. USDA 3378 produced flagella, but CCBAU 83963 did not and showed lower motility, biofilm production, and extracellular polysaccharide secretion than USDA 3378. Transcriptome analysis of USDA 3378 under simulated symbiotic versus non-symbiotic conditions showed strong induction of nodulation genes and a broader transcriptional response among genes assigned to quorum sensing, chemotaxis, and flagellar assembly, with flgL (encoding a flagellar hook-associated family protein) being the only upregulated flagellar structural gene detected. A flgL mutant strain based on USDA 3378 (ΔflgL-3378) showed similar growth to USDA 3378 but was unable to produce flagella and exhibited concomitant reductions in motility, biofilm production, and extracellular polysaccharide secretion. Nodule occupancy by USDA 3378 was 100% when co-inoculated with CCBAU 83963. In contrast, nodule occupancy by ΔflgL-3378 was significantly reduced to 39.88% when co-inoculated with the wild-type USDA 3378. However, when co-inoculated with the indigenous strain CCBAU 83963, ΔflgL-3378 still showed a dominant occupancy of 82.8%. Transcriptome analysis of ΔflgL-3378 under the same comparison showed continued induction of nodulation genes and several flagellar system genes, an altered quorum-sensing-associated response, and no detectable chemotaxis-related differentially expressed genes. We conclude that flgL and flagella act as important contributors to the superior competitive nodulation ability of M. ciceri USDA 3378 over M. muleiense in chickpea, although other intrinsic genomic advantages likely contribute to its basal competitivenessIMPORTANCEChickpea is an important legume crop that depends on symbiotic rhizobia for biological nitrogen fixation. In newly introduced chickpea-growing regions of China, Mesorhizobium ciceri USDA 3378 shows a strong competitive advantage in nodulating chickpea compared with the indigenous strain Mesorhizobium muleiense CCBAU 83963, but the mechanisms underlying this advantage remain unclear. This study identifies the flagellar hook-associated gene flgL as an important contributor to the competitive nodulation ability of USDA 3378. Deletion of flgL abolished flagellum formation and reduced motility, biofilm formation, extracellular polysaccharide production, and competitive nodulation ability. However, the ΔflgL mutant still retained higher competitiveness than CCBAU 83963, indicating that additional motility-independent traits also contribute to the basal competitiveness of USDA 3378. These findings improve our understanding of the bacterial traits that influence rhizobial competitiveness and may help guide the development of more effective chickpea inoculants for diverse agricultural environments.},
}

@article {pmid42429849,
year = {2026},
author = {Pakhira, P and Ranganathan, S and Parasuraman, P and Lee, JK and Suchiang, K and Ramatchandirane, M and Busi, S},
title = {Gramine disrupts quorum sensing and biofilm formation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa: An integrated experimental and computational analysis.},
journal = {Folia microbiologica},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42429849},
issn = {1874-9356},
abstract = {Bacterial resistance towards antibiotics has become a major problem worldwide. Bacteria become more resistant towards available antibiotics due to quorum sensing and biofilm formation. Alkaloids exhibited potential anti-bacterial activity. In the present study, the anti-quorum sensing and antibiofilm abilities of gramine (GRM) are evaluated. Gramine, an alkaloid already reported for several biological activities includes antiviral, anti-bacterial and antitumor was evaluated for its inhibition of quorum sensing and biofilm mediated virulence in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The anti-infective effect of GRM using Caenorhabditis elegans and Galleria mellonella models was determined. Gramine reduced violacein production by 78% in C. violaceum. GRM inhibit 84% biofilm formation in P. aeruginosa. Notably, GRM inhibits several virulence factors (Pyocyanin, Pyoverdine, HCN, Alginate and several others) of P. aeruginosa. Further validation by qRT-PCR showed that GRM significantly downregulated several virulence associated genes. In silico studies revealed the GRM interaction with the three main quorum sensing signal receptors (LasR, RhlR and PqsR) of P. aeruginosa. In vivo anti-infective experiments suggested GRM's protective effect in C. elegans and G. mellonella infection models. Our results suggests that GRM as an effective anti-biofilm and anti-infective agent.},
}

@article {pmid42430136,
year = {2026},
author = {Aoki, M and Wakui, N and Hayashi, K and Syutsubo, K},
title = {High-quality metagenome-assembled genome sequences of Bacteroidota and Pseudomonadota bacteria, assembled from a manganese(II)-oxidizing biofilm reactor.},
journal = {Microbiology resource announcements},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0058826},
doi = {10.1128/mra.00588-26},
pmid = {42430136},
issn = {2576-098X},
abstract = {We report five high-quality, potentially novel metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) recovered from a manganese(II)-oxidizing biofilm reactor. Affiliated with Bacteroidota and Pseudomonadota, these MAGs provide a genomic basis for understanding the ecology and metabolic potential of Mn(II)-oxidizing systems and represent a valuable resource for future functional studies of biofilm-mediated metal cycling.},
}

@article {pmid42430968,
year = {2026},
author = {He, J and Xu, D and Zhong, L and Liao, H and Wang, J and Wang, Z and Feng, T and Pan, S and Cui, Z},
title = {Characterization of bacteriophage JD929 targeting Staphylococcus aureus from chronic otitis media and its ability to inhibit biofilm.},
journal = {Microbiological research},
volume = {312},
number = {},
pages = {128620},
doi = {10.1016/j.micres.2026.128620},
pmid = {42430968},
issn = {1618-0623},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is a key pathogen involved in chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM). Antibiotic resistance and biofilm formation complicate CSOM treatment. Therefore, alternative therapies are urgently needed. Bacteriophage therapy, which specifically targets and destroys methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and degrades biofilms, presents a promising option.

METHODS: In this study, a lytic bacteriophage targeting S. aureus was isolated and named JD929. Its biological properties were analyzed, including its stability across different pH levels and temperatures, host range, and growth kinetics. Whole-genome sequencing and bioinformatics analyses were performed for taxonomic classification. Additionally, structural prediction and homology analysis of the tail protein (ORF8) were conducted using AlphaFold. The antibiofilm activity of JD929 against CSOM-associated S. aureus was also assessed.

RESULTS: JD929 demonstrated high stability across a broad range of pH levels and temperatures and exhibited a distinct host spectrum from that of phage SLPW. One-step growth analysis showed a latent period of 30 min and a burst size of 156 PFU per cell. Genomic analysis identified JD929 as a member of the Rountreeviridae family. Structural prediction revealed that the tail protein has unique sequence and structural features, indicating a potential role in host recognition. Functionally, JD929 significantly inhibited biofilm formation and disrupted mature biofilms of CSOM-associated S. aureus.

CONCLUSIONS: The newly isolated bacteriophage JD929 exhibits beneficial biological properties and strong, strain-specific antibiofilm activity, highlighting its potential as an alternative treatment for CSOM-associated S. aureus infections.},
}

@article {pmid42431014,
year = {2026},
author = {Sarukhanian, S and Kuttler, C and Maslovskaya, A},
title = {Hybrid cellular automaton-based model for quorum sensing-controlled biofilm evolution.},
journal = {Computers in biology and medicine},
volume = {213},
number = {},
pages = {111852},
doi = {10.1016/j.compbiomed.2026.111852},
pmid = {42431014},
issn = {1879-0534},
abstract = {Computational modeling and in silico studies are critical for understanding how the spatial organization of biofilms contributes to antimicrobial tolerance and persistence. The paper presents a novel hybrid computational framework for the discrete-in-space dynamical modeling of bacterial biofilms. The approach combines a cellular automaton, which generates naturalistic biofilm morphology on a hexagonal lattice, with discrete analogues of reaction-diffusion equations governing the distribution of nutrients and signaling molecules. This design incorporates a quorum sensing feedback mechanism that links local signaling molecule concentration to biofilm spreading. The simulation system was developed in C# on the Unity platform, and the source code together with a Windows executable release was deposited on Zenodo. The biological plausibility of the simulated AHL and population dynamics was assessed through a semi-qualitative comparison with published experimental observations. The results reproduce distinct growth regimes ranging from sparse, branched colonies to compact biofilms with continuous fronts. A two-parameter analysis reveals a curved transition boundary in the nutrient-threshold plane, demonstrating that the effective quorum sensing activation threshold depends on nutrient availability. The qualitative comparison shows that the model can generate a biologically plausible transient AHL profile, including signal accumulation, formation of a maximum, and subsequent decrease, together with saturating population dynamics. This comparison is not intended as quantitative validation of absolute timing, concentration, or the detailed biochemical mechanism of AHL removal. These results support the proposed approach as a mechanistic tool for studying how quorum sensing and nutrient limitation jointly shape biofilm morphology. By providing an interpretable mechanistic simulation framework with explicit state variables, transition operators, and experimentally comparable outputs, the model establishes a basis for future AI-assisted workflows for diffusion-solver acceleration and automated parameter calibration.},
}

@article {pmid42431100,
year = {2026},
author = {Ding, Z and Chen, Z and Wu, J and Jing, Y and Yang, L and Wei, H and Qu, Q and Li, L},
title = {Arginine attenuates microbiologically influenced corrosion of Ti in Candida albicans-Streptococcus oralis cross-kingdom biofilms through pH buffering and biofilm suppression.},
journal = {Bioelectrochemistry (Amsterdam, Netherlands)},
volume = {172},
number = {},
pages = {109378},
doi = {10.1016/j.bioelechem.2026.109378},
pmid = {42431100},
issn = {1878-562X},
abstract = {This study investigates the effect of arginine on Ti corrosion caused by a Candida albicans (C. albicans) and Streptococcus oralis (S. oralis) cross-border biofilm. Electrochemical analyses, surface morphologies and corrosion products analysis were conducted to evaluate the effects of arginine on biofilm-associated corrosion behavior. The results showed that supplementation with 0.25% arginine significantly reduced microbial colonization and biofilm thickness on Ti surfaces, particularly in the cross-border biofilm system. In situ pH analysis further demonstrated that arginine increased both bulk-solution and localized biofilm pH, partially neutralizing the acidic microenvironment at the biofilm-Ti interface. Overall, these findings suggest that arginine mitigates Ti corrosion primarily through regulating biofilm development and the associated acidic microenvironment, providing new insights into ecological strategies for protection.},
}

@article {pmid42431452,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, C and Kong, F and Li, W and Li, B and Xue, T},
title = {The alternative sigma factor SigH modulates biofilm formation and stress tolerance in a raw milk-derived Staphylococcus aureus.},
journal = {Journal of dairy science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3168/jds.2026-28839},
pmid = {42431452},
issn = {1525-3198},
abstract = {Staphylococcus aureus is an important raw milk contaminant that can persist in dairy environments through biofilm formation and adaptation to environmental stresses. Although the alternative sigma factor SigH has been described in S. aureus, its role in raw milk-associated strains remains poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the function of SigH in the raw milk-derived S. aureus strain RMSA24 in biofilm formation, stress tolerance and antibiotic susceptibility. Deletion of sigH did not affect bacterial growth under routine culture conditions but significantly reduced biofilm formation. In contrast, the sigH mutant exhibited enhanced tolerance to osmotic, acid, and heat stresses. Loss of sigH also reduced susceptibility to the glycopeptide antibiotics vancomycin and teicoplanin and was accompanied by pronounced cell wall thickening. Transcriptomic analysis further supported these phenotypes by revealing differential expression of genes associated with biofilm formation, stress tolerance, and cell wall homeostasis. Overall, these findings indicate that SigH contributes to the regulation of persistence-associated phenotypes in a raw milk-derived S. aureus strain and provide new insights into the regulatory mechanisms that may influence survival of this pathogen in dairy-related environments.},
}

@article {pmid42431453,
year = {2026},
author = {He, H and Kong, F and Xuan, X and Shang, F and Xue, T},
title = {The cyclic adenosine monophosphate-ArcRsa signaling axis modulates biofilm formation in dairy-derived Staphylococcus aureus via transcriptional repression of ica operon.},
journal = {Journal of dairy science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3168/jds.2026-28916},
pmid = {42431453},
issn = {1525-3198},
abstract = {Staphylococcus aureus has significantly contributed to the contamination of dairy products and preserved foods, attributed to its ability to colonize a wide range of environments and form biofilms. ArcR, the Crp/Fnr family regulatory protein in S. aureus plays key roles in various biological processes. However, the molecular mechanism underlying biofilm regulation by the cAMP-ArcRsa complex remains poorly defined. In this work, we investigated the biological function of ArcRsa in mediating biofilm formation in dairy-derived S. aureus RMSA49. The results demonstrated that the deletion of arcRsa resulted in a dramatic increase in biofilm formation. An in-depth dissection of the regulatory mechanism of ArcRsa revealed that it negatively regulates the production of the polysaccharide intercellular adhesin (PIA) by directly binding to the promoter of the gene icaA. Further analysis revealed that cAMP-ArcRsa complex support biofilm maintenance of S. aureus RMSA 49 by strengthening its regulation of genes icaA. ArcRsa controls the transcription of its own gene and icaA by attaching to specific sequences at the site arcRsa (5'-ATCACGCGACAA-3') and site arcRsa2 (5'-ATTAAGTTGCAA-3'). Our results demonstrate functional crosstalk between cAMP and ArcRsa through direct regulation at the gene icaA promoter, supporting an essential regulatory role for the cAMP-ArcRsa signaling module in modulating biofilm formation in S. aureus.},
}

@article {pmid42431552,
year = {2026},
author = {Semeshchenko, D and Farinati, A and Huespe, I and Albani-Forneris, AF and Buttaro, MA and Slullitel, PA and Meller, S and , },
title = {Polymicrobial infection requires higher concentration of irrigation solution than monomicrobial infection to eradicate biofilm grown on titanium surface: an in-vitro analysis.},
journal = {The Journal of hospital infection},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhin.2026.06.026},
pmid = {42431552},
issn = {1532-2939},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Polymicrobial periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is associated with poor outcomes after debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention (DAIR). Although irrigation is a critical component of DAIR, the concentrations required to eradicate polymicrobial biofilms remain unclear.

AIM: To evaluate the in-vitro efficacy of four antiseptic irrigation solutions against mono- and polymicrobial biofilms formed on clinically relevant titanium implant surfaces.

METHODS: Biofilms of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans were grown on Ti-6Al-4V screw-hole covers. Povidone iodine (PI), acetic acid (AA), Granudacyn®, and chlorhexidine were tested. Minimal inhibitory, bactericidal, and biofilm eradication concentrations (MIC, MBC, MBEC) were determined. A 3-minute irrigation assay assessed concentrations achieving ≥99.9% biofilm reduction in mono- and polymicrobial models.

FINDINGS: PI demonstrated the greatest relative effectiveness in eradicating both monomicrobial and polymicrobial biofilms among the tested irrigation solutions. AA and chlorhexidine required substantially higher concentrations than their respective MBEC to achieve 99.9% biofilm eradication, whereas Granudacyn showed limited activity and failed to achieve complete eradication in either condition. Higher irrigation solution concentrations were consistently required to eradicate polymicrobial biofilms compared with monomicrobial biofilms across all agents. In particular, PI and AA required two- to fourfold higher concentrations, and chlorhexidine required approximately 10-fold higher concentrations, for polymicrobial biofilm eradication.

CONCLUSIONS: Polymicrobial biofilms demonstrate significantly increased tolerance to antiseptic irrigation compared with monomicrobial biofilms. Irrigation strategies effective against single-species infections may be inadequate in polymicrobial PJI, supporting the need for higher-concentration or optimized antiseptic protocols during DAIR.},
}

@article {pmid42431584,
year = {2026},
author = {Lu, J and Wu, K and He, Y and Xu, Z and Zhu, P and Wang, F and Li, P},
title = {Surface characteristics and initial supragingival biofilm formation on additively manufactured zirconia and resin: An in situ study.},
journal = {Journal of dentistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {106894},
doi = {10.1016/j.jdent.2026.106894},
pmid = {42431584},
issn = {1879-176X},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This in situ study investigated initial supragingival microbial adhesion and biofilm formation on additively manufactured zirconia (AM-ZrO2) and additively manufactured composite resin (AM-RMC) surfaces, using subtractively manufactured zirconia (SM-ZrO2) as a control material.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: AM-ZrO₂ and AM-RMC specimens were fabricated, with subtractively manufactured zirconia (SM-ZrO₂) as a control. Surface characteristics were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), profilometric measurements, and water contact angle assessment. Protein adsorption was evaluated in vitro. As for the in situ study, customized intraoral splints were made and worn by 12 volunteers, and the microbial adhesion was assessed. The adherent bacteria were then examined by live/dead staining for viability and SEM for topography.

RESULTS: Different material compositions and manufacturing technologies lead to distinct surface topographies observed across SM-ZrO2, AM-ZrO2, and AM-RMC. AM-ZrO2 possessed the lowest Sa value (0.53 ± 0.08 μm, p < 0.05), whereas SM-ZrO2 revealed the highest wettability (water contact angle = 92.18 ± 4.96°, p < 0.05). In protein adsorption, AM-RMC showed the highest adsorption capacity (0.64 ± 0.04 μg/cm², p < 0.05). AM-ZrO2 demonstrated the highest level of microbial adhesion, which was significantly greater than that on SM-ZrO2 and AM-RMC (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS: Material type and manufacturing technologies significantly affected surface characteristics and early biofilm formation. Specifically, bacterial adhesion was at its highest level on AM-ZrO₂, surpassing that observed on both AM-RMC and SM-ZrO₂.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: AM-RMC demonstrated acceptable antibiofilm performance, positioning it as a potential material for personalized restorations. Furthermore, AM-ZrO2 required post-processing and surface modification to reduce bacterial adhesion.},
}

@article {pmid42431945,
year = {2026},
author = {Hossam, B and Gabre, RM and Amr, D and Saleh, HH},
title = {Exploratory analysis of biofilm formation and virulence gene expression in Acinetobacter baumannii-Candida albicans co-cultured isolates from urinary tract infections.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42431945},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Candida albicans/genetics/isolation & purification/pathogenicity/physiology ; Humans ; *Acinetobacter baumannii/genetics/isolation & purification/physiology/pathogenicity ; Coculture Techniques ; *Urinary Tract Infections/microbiology ; Virulence/genetics ; *Virulence Factors/genetics ; Gene Expression Regulation, Fungal ; Coinfection/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Polymicrobial infections with Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) and Candida albicans (C. albicans) are increasingly frequent in urinary tract infections (UTIs). However, experimental data describing their interactions in clinical isolates under co-culture conditions remain limited. In this study, three clinical isolates of both A. baumannii and C. albicans were co-isolated from urine samples with UTIs, then mono-cultured and co-cultured at 24, 48, and 72 h for biofilm quantification by crystal violet assay. The expression levels of bacterial (ompA, bap, abaI) and fungal (ALS3, HWP1, ERG11) virulence genes were evaluated by RT-qPCR at 24 and 48 h. Co-culture conditions resulted in increased biofilm biomass compared to monoculture for the tested isolates. In A. baumannii, the virulence genes of bap, abaI, and ompA showed statistically significant increase in expression in co-culture compared to mono-culture after 24 h. In C. albicans, HWP1 is the only virulence gene that shows a statistically significant increase in expression in co-culture compared to monoculture after 48 h. Gene expression patterns varied in patient isolates, suggesting strain heterogeneity. This is an exploratory study that provides evidence of changes in biofilm formation and virulence gene expression in co-culture conditions among clinical isolates of A. baumannii and C. albicans. These findings suggest potential for microbial interactions under polymicrobial conditions, which might affect the diagnosis and treatment of patients with UTIs. Future studies with a larger number of isolates and functional assays are required to clarify the mechanistic regulation and biological relevance of these observations in UTIs.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Candida albicans/genetics/isolation & purification/pathogenicity/physiology
Humans
*Acinetobacter baumannii/genetics/isolation & purification/physiology/pathogenicity
Coculture Techniques
*Urinary Tract Infections/microbiology
Virulence/genetics
*Virulence Factors/genetics
Gene Expression Regulation, Fungal
Coinfection/microbiology

@article {pmid42432108,
year = {2026},
author = {Wörner, J and van Leuven, N and Eimler, J and Odefey, U and Bockmühl, DP and Pein-Hackelbusch, M},
title = {Data-driven exploration of electronic nose technology to differentiate bacteria in blood cultures under biofilm-promoting conditions.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42432108},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Electronic Nose ; *Blood Culture/methods ; Staphylococcus aureus/isolation & purification ; Humans ; *Bacteria/isolation & purification/classification/growth & development ; Machine Learning ; Classification Algorithms ; Pseudomonas aeruginosa/isolation & purification ; Staphylococcus epidermidis/isolation & purification ; },
abstract = {Biofilms are a major cause of delayed wound healing, yet current biofilm identification methods are limited by invasiveness, processing times, or specificity. This study investigates the potential of metal-oxide electronic noses for identifying bacterial cultures of Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterococcus faecium, and Staphylococcus epidermidis grown in blood-based growth medium. We conducted in-vitro experiments to capture volatilome signatures from cultures grown under biofilm-promoting conditions and analyzed data using an interpretable machine learning workflow to disentangle algorithmic limitations from biological variability. This workflow incorporated feature extraction and selection, correlation-based clustering, and Shapley analysis. Six classification models were evaluated using cross-validation. Considering all five classes, classification accuracy reached at most 55.6%, which Shapley-based interpretation attributed mainly to biological factors: E. faecium and S. aureus exhibited high signal similarity to control samples and strong inter-day variability. Accuracy increased to 100.0% for species with distinct volatile signatures, and dimensionality reduction resulted in a model using two constructed features. These findings demonstrate that classification performance in biological sensing cannot be explained solely by algorithmic factors. Interpretable machine learning workflows help for distinguishing biological sources of complexity from algorithmic ones. We provide a proof-of-principle for electronic nose-based identification of bacterial growth under biofilm-promoting conditions.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Electronic Nose
*Blood Culture/methods
Staphylococcus aureus/isolation & purification
Humans
*Bacteria/isolation & purification/classification/growth & development
Machine Learning
Classification Algorithms
Pseudomonas aeruginosa/isolation & purification
Staphylococcus epidermidis/isolation & purification

@article {pmid42432311,
year = {2026},
author = {Kim, T and Tabassum, N and Javaid, A and Khan, F},
title = {Gramicidin D as a Multi-Target Antimicrobial Against Staphylococcus aureus: Biofilm Disruption, Virulence Attenuation, Antibiotic Potentiation, and Protein-Peptide Docking Insight.},
journal = {Probiotics and antimicrobial proteins},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42432311},
issn = {1867-1314},
support = {RS-2023-00241461//Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation (NRF) of Korea grant funded by the Ministry of Education/ ; },
abstract = {Over the past decades, the threat of Staphylococcus aureus and multidrug-resistant S. aureus has escalated, creating an urgent need for novel therapeutic strategies that possess both bactericidal and antivirulence properties. We focused on gramicidin D, a conventional pore-forming antibiotic derived from Bacillus brevis, as a multi-target agent. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) against several Gram-positive pathogens were determined by broth microdilution assay. Furthermore, the combinatorial effect with other conventional antibiotics was also assayed via the checkerboard method. The effects on biofilm formation and mature biofilm were evaluated using the crystal violet staining method, supported by colony-forming unit (CFU) counts. Additionally, inhibition of staphyloxanthin biosynthesis was quantified by methanol extraction, followed by measurement of optical density via a microplate reader. Finally, in silico protein-peptide docking was performed to support and analyze the properties of the peptide. Gramicidin D demonstrated significant antibacterial efficacy against S. aureus and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), with corresponding MIC values of 8 and 0.25 µg/mL, respectively. Moreover, gramicidin exhibited synergistic effects with oxacillin and gentamicin against S. aureus; however, it showed synergy with oxacillin only against MRSA. It inhibited S. aureus biofilm formation at sub-MICs, especially at 0.125 µg/mL, where 80.0% of biofilm was inhibited. Furthermore, it effectively reduced established biofilm at concentrations ranging from 128 to 4 µg/mL. Additional SEM images showed that membrane pore formation by gramicidin D was supported. It also inhibited staphyloxanthin synthesis at all concentrations ≥ 1 µg/mL. HDOCK server-based protein-peptide docking provided structural support for the in vitro experiments. These findings altogether illustrated the potential of gramicidin D as a multi-target agent against S. aureus.},
}

@article {pmid42419610,
year = {2026},
author = {Khan, A and Alzahrani, HA and Alenezi, T and Ali, YH and Saeed, IK and Rehman, ZU and Shakeel, F and Imran, M},
title = {Nanomedicine strategies against multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii: Delivery, biofilm disruption, and translational considerations.},
journal = {Nanomedicine : nanotechnology, biology, and medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {102993},
doi = {10.1016/j.nano.2026.102993},
pmid = {42419610},
issn = {1549-9642},
abstract = {Acinetobacter baumannii has become a high-priority global problem because it causes hospital-acquired infections and ventilator-associated pneumonia, and multidrug resistance, environmental survivability, and biofilm formation severely restrict therapeutic choices. Antimicrobial nanomedicine has become a major focus as a translational approach. This review critically explores nanotechnology-based interventions for A. baumannii. Multimodal antibacterial and antibiofilm activities have been demonstrated in inorganic nanoparticles, such as silver, gold, and copper-based systems, with an emphasis on their translational therapeutic potential and nano-bio interactions. Polymer- and lipid-based nanocarriers focus on optimising pharmacokinetics, controlled release, and targeted delivery, supporting improved bioavailability and site-specific exposure. Carbon nanomaterials offer alternative antibacterial mechanisms but raise concerns regarding biodegradability and safety. Overall, antimicrobial nanomedicine can be considered an exposure- and delivery-focused system with significant potential for treating persistent drug-resistant A. baumannii infections, highlighting the translational, toxicological, and regulatory challenges relevant to clinical adoption.},
}

@article {pmid42420082,
year = {2026},
author = {Deerberg, J and Sasse, C and Kronz, A and Lindner, AS and Abbasi, A and Huynh, TAJ and Wassmann, T and Kurbad, O and Bürgers, R and Bunz, O},
title = {PEEK containing titanium dioxide fillers promotes biofilm formation.},
journal = {Dental materials : official publication of the Academy of Dental Materials},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.dental.2026.07.002},
pmid = {42420082},
issn = {1879-0097},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Polyaryletherketones (PAEKs) are widely used in dentistry due to their high biocompatibility, while their physical and mechanical properties are frequently modified using fillers and additives. Effects of these modifications on biocompatibility and biofilm formation remain unclear. This study investigated the influence of different PAEK compositions on the quantity and composition of biofilms.

METHODS: Five PAEKs (unfilled PEEK, filled PEEK, pressed PEEK, PEKK, and AKP) and reference materials (titanium, zirconium dioxide, PMMA) were polished to Ra values below 0.2 µm to control for topographical effects. Surface morphology and composition were determined by scanning electron microscopy and wavelength-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy on an electron microprobe (WD-EPMA). Surface free energy (SFE) was analyzed by contact angle measurement. Custom-made intraoral splints with mounted material specimens were worn by 20 participants for 24 h. Biofilm formation was analyzed using microscopy and qPCR. Two PEEK types (filled and unfilled) underwent additional 24-hour exposures by six participants and were analyzed for microbial differences. Additionally, filled and unfilled PEEK were compared to titanium in CCK-8 assays using human fibroblasts.

RESULTS: All materials exhibited homogeneous surface morphology. SFE was significantly higher (p < 0.0005) for all materials compared to titanium, except for zirconium dioxide. Filled PEEK showed increased biofilm formation compared with unfilled PEEK in vitro and in vivo (p < 0.0001), while biofilm composition remained unchanged. Only PEEK containing TiO₂ was associated with increased biofilm formation, without improving fibroblast viability.

SIGNIFICANCE: TiO₂ in PEEK increased biofilm formation without enhancing fibroblast viability, indicating that material fillers can affect microbial colonization independently of cellular biocompatibility.},
}

@article {pmid42421793,
year = {2026},
author = {Mayta-Tovalino, F and Espinoza-Carhuancho, F and Mauricio-Vilchez, C and Calderon-Cortez, I and Cabanillas-Lazo, M and V Hernandez, A},
title = {Biodegradable vs. conventional toothbrushes for biofilm control: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials.},
journal = {Frontiers in oral health},
volume = {7},
number = {},
pages = {1846306},
pmid = {42421793},
issn = {2673-4842},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Due to the immense environmental impact of plastic waste, there has been a significant increase in interest for both biodegradable and natural toothbrushes (BT) as sustainable forms of daily oral care. This includes bamboo toothbrushes, as well as plant-based products (i.e., miswak). As such, these two types of products can be considered similar because they are both renewable and biodegradable in nature. However, their effectiveness when compared to traditional plastic toothbrushes at controlling dental biofilm has not been fully established.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of biodegradable and natural oral hygiene tools compared with conventional plastic toothbrushes for controlling dental plaque in children and adults.

METHODS: This systematic review/meta-analysis was reported according to PRISMA guidelines, and its protocol was registered in PROSPERO. All databases were searched using electronic methods from their inception to December 2025: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase. All randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that examined biodegradable/natural oral hygiene products compared to conventional plastic toothbrushes and that had plaque index (PI) as outcome were included. The analyses used random effects model, and certainty of evidence was evaluated using GRADE methodology.

RESULTS: Five RCTs (n = 408) met the criteria for inclusion. There was no clear difference in plaque index between biodegradable/natural oral hygiene tools and conventional plastic toothbrushes [mean difference (MD): -0.09, 95% CI: -0.47 to 0.29]. However, the pooled estimate was characterized by very high statistical heterogeneity (I [2] = 89%) and the certainty of the evidence was rated as very low, which substantially limits confidence in this result. The results of subgroup analyses according to type of oral hygiene tool and population did not show any meaningful differences from those of the pooled analysis. The overall certainty of evidence was rated as very low and had a high risk of bias.

CONCLUSIONS: Biodegradable and natural oral hygiene products may result in little to no difference in plaque control compared with conventional plastic toothbrushes; however, confidence in this estimate was very low. Well-designed, adequately powered RCTs are required to reduce uncertainty and inform evidence-based clinical and sustainability-related recommendations.

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD420251273997, PROSPERO CRD420251273997.},
}

@article {pmid42425641,
year = {2026},
author = {Régnier, A and Chesnais, V and Dumaire, C and Berdous, C and Briandet, R and Debuiche, S and Guéneau, V and Midelet, G and Gay, M and Brauge, T},
title = {New insights into the resistome-mobilome-biofilm relationship in Vibrio parahaemolyticus.},
journal = {Food microbiology},
volume = {140},
number = {},
pages = {105162},
doi = {10.1016/j.fm.2026.105162},
pmid = {42425641},
issn = {1095-9998},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; *Vibrio parahaemolyticus/genetics/drug effects/physiology/isolation & purification ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; *Seafood/microbiology ; Genome, Bacterial ; *Drug Resistance, Bacterial/genetics ; Animals ; Whole Genome Sequencing ; Phylogeny ; Virulence Factors/genetics ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Vibrio parahaemolyticus is a major foodborne pathogen frequently isolated from seafood, notable for its biofilm-forming capacity, which enhances its persistence in environments and increases resistance to disinfection. This study investigated the virulome, the associations between the resistome and mobilome of V. parahaemolyticus and its biofilm forming ability to better understand the genomic determinants of persistence. Among 845 isolates from imported seafood (mainly shrimp), 20.6% showed acquired resistance to at least one clinically important antibiotic class, most commonly tetracycline, sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim, and streptomycin. Thirty-nine representative strains (resistant and susceptible) were selected for confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) observation of biofilms and whole-genome sequencing (WGS). CLSM combined with image analysis revealed significant variability in biofilm formation, with no relation with specific phylogenetic lineage. Hybrid WGS (short and long reads) identified 49 distinct antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) and 44 highly conserved virulence genes. ARGs were found on both chromosomes and plasmids and were strongly associated with mobile genetic elements (MGEs). dfrA8 and blaCARB-3 and several novel ARG-MGE associations were detected by genomic analysis in V. parahaemolyticus genome, including blaCARB-3-IS6 or dfrA8-IS6. Interestingly, several resistome-mobilome associations, notably dfrA23, blaCTX-M-15-IS6, and floR-IS91, were significantly correlated with variations in biofilm height, roughness, substrate coverage, and volume. Moreover, a particularly strong association was observed for tet(A), whose presence was closely linked to reduced biofilm roughness. However, no association was found between phenotypic antibiotic resistance and biofilm formation metrics, except for a significant link between quinolone resistance and increased biofilm height. These findings provide new insights into the genomic factors underlying biofilm-associated persistence in V. parahaemolyticus.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
*Vibrio parahaemolyticus/genetics/drug effects/physiology/isolation & purification
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
*Seafood/microbiology
Genome, Bacterial
*Drug Resistance, Bacterial/genetics
Animals
Whole Genome Sequencing
Phylogeny
Virulence Factors/genetics
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism

@article {pmid42418439,
year = {2026},
author = {Cao, Y and Yang, T and Wang, R and Li, HD and Zhang, XY and Cheng, F and Liu, Y and Wang, JH and Yang, T and Mao, C},
title = {Biofilm-Binding Phages Enhance Biofilm Eradication by Synergistic Photothermal and Photodynamic Therapy.},
journal = {Advanced science (Weinheim, Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e23904},
doi = {10.1002/advs.202523904},
pmid = {42418439},
issn = {2198-3844},
support = {22174011//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 22374014//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 22074011//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; N2405006//Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities/ ; N25QNR010//Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities/ ; 2024JH3/10200011//Natural Science Foundation of Liaoning Province/ ; 2025YFC3408405//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; CRF C4075-24G//Research Grants Council (RGC) of Hong Kong/ ; GRF 14208723//Research Grants Council (RGC) of Hong Kong/ ; GRF 14210225//Research Grants Council (RGC) of Hong Kong/ ; CRS_CUHK401/25//Research Grants Council (RGC) of Hong Kong/ ; },
abstract = {Biofilms, a major cause of chronic bacterial infections, present significant treatment challenges due to their protective extracellular matrix that shields bacteria from both antibiotics and host immune defenses. To treat biofilms more effectively, here we discovered a biofilm-binding peptide from a phage library and verified that it selectively bound the polysaccharides on the biofilm. We then engineered M13 phage into trifunctional nanofibers displaying the biofilm-binding peptide at the tip and carrying gold nanoparticles (AuNPs, as photothermal agents) and tetrakis(4-carboxyphenyl) porphyrin (TCPP, as a photosensitizer) on the sidewall for combined phototherapy. This design enhances binding/anchoring and eradication of biofilms by leveraging the unique properties of each component. The phage nanofibers efficiently bound biofilms and promoted the transfer of heat and penetration of reactive oxygen species (ROS) into the biofilm, leading to cell death. Therefore, under light irradiation, the engineered phage nanofibers effectively eradicated the biofilms by AuNP-induced photothermal therapy (PTT) and TCPP-assisted photodynamic therapy (PDT) in a biofilm-associated skin wound model. Transcriptomic profiling suggests stress-response signatures consistent with oxidative/thermal injury. This study presents a promising ternary synergistic strategy for eradicating biofilms, potentially improving clinical outcomes in wound infection management.},
}

@article {pmid42419532,
year = {2026},
author = {Mahindhan, R and Chauhan, TKS and Bishnoi, S and Upreti, S and Kumar, M and Pandey, S and Kanwar, C and Pamei, J and Chandra, D and Irungbam, K and Qureshi, S and Mahawar, M},
title = {Transcriptomics and functional analysis reveal impaired motility, biofilm formation, invasion and intramacrophage survival of pimt gene-deleted strain of Salmonella Typhimurium.},
journal = {International journal of biological macromolecules},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {153378},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2026.153378},
pmid = {42419532},
issn = {1879-0003},
abstract = {Inside the host, Salmonella suffers but survives various stresses. Proteins are the prime targets of host inflammatory responses. Salmonella encodes two key protein repair enzymes, methionine sulfoxide reductase (Msr) and protein isoaspartate methyltransferase (PIMT), that reactivates damaged proteins without their translational synthesis. Under stress, the accumulation of L-isoaspartate (isoAsp) residues causes defects in protein shape and function, which lead to impaired bacterial survival. The PIMT converts the isoAsp residues into Asp residues. Earlier, we observed hypersensitivity of Δpimt mutant strain to various stresses and defective colonisation in mice and poultry. Here, we show that Δpimt mutant strain accumulates about 1.67-fold more intracellular ROS levels and higher protein aggregations. RNA-seq analysis of the pimt gene-deleted strain of S. typhimurium revealed differential expression of 2676 genes. Most of the downregulated genes are related to flagellar assembly, chemotaxis, fimbria formation, Salmonella pathogenicity island encoding type-3 secretion system, mainly implicated in motility, adhesion, invasion and intracellular survival inside intestinal epithelium, phagocytic cells, etc. These factors are known to be the major contributors for the virulence of S. typhimurium inside the host. The functional analysis revealed that the Δpimt mutant strain shows defective motility, reduced biofilm formation, and defective invasion and intramacrophage survival. Transcomplementation resulted in partial phenotype (like defective motility, biofilm formation and invasion and intramacrophage survival) restoration of Δpimt mutant strain. Interestingly, supplementation of Δpimt mutant strain culture with reduced glutathione (GSH) resulted in neutralization of ROS and rescued the defective motility and biofilm formation of the mutant strain.},
}

@article {pmid42413676,
year = {2026},
author = {Cardoso, LT and Nadalon, AC and Til, BB and Visioli, F and Siqueira, FM and Bussamara, R},
title = {Hydrolases enzymes for oral biofilm reduction: Lipase, lysozyme, and amylase as promising candidates for canine oral health applications.},
journal = {International journal of biological macromolecules},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {153398},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2026.153398},
pmid = {42413676},
issn = {1879-0003},
abstract = {Oral biofilms are common in dogs and are a major cause of periodontal disease with potential systemic effects, largely due to the limited efficacy of conventional oral antiseptics against the extracellular matrix. Enzymatic degradation has emerged as a promising alternative approach that directly targets this structure. This study evaluated the individual and combined activities of four enzymes, lipase from Burkholderia cepacia (BC lipase), lipase from Candida rugosa (CR lipase), α-amylase from Bacillus licheniformis, and egg white lysozyme, against monospecies biofilms formed by eight oral-associated bacterial species (Corynebacterium amycolatum, Corynebacterium ulcerans, Streptococcus canis, Enterococcus faecalis, Pasteurella multocida, Moraxella bovis, Escherichia coli, and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia). Biofilm structural changes were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and cytotoxicity was assessed in HaCaT keratinocytes and gingival fibroblasts. BC lipase (40 U/mL) exhibited the broadest antibiofilm activity among the tested enzymes, achieving up to 96% biofilm reduction in S. maltophilia, 87% in E. faecalis, and over 70% in M. bovis and S. canis. Enzymatic treatments were more effective than chlorhexidine for most species. SEM revealed significant reductions in biofilm density and increased colony dispersion, particularly after treatment with BC lipase (40 U/mL). Enzyme combinations showed species-dependent effects, with additive interactions for lipase and antagonistic effects for amylase-containing mixtures. All enzymes maintained high oral cell viability (>97%), whereas chlorhexidine significantly reduced viability. Overall, the enzymes demonstrated the ability to degrade bacterial biofilms without cytotoxic effects, supporting their potential use as green alternatives for controlling canine oral biofilms.},
}

@article {pmid42413869,
year = {2026},
author = {Leepattarakit, T and Tulyaprawat, O and Mongkudkarn, A and Ngamskulrungroj, P},
title = {Impact of biofilm formation on mortality in Candida tropicalis candidaemia: A retrospective study of ICU and Non-ICU patients.},
journal = {Indian journal of medical microbiology},
volume = {63},
number = {},
pages = {101205},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijmmb.2026.101205},
pmid = {42413869},
issn = {1998-3646},
abstract = {PURPOSE: To investigate the clinical factors associated with biofilm formation in Candida tropicalis bloodstream infections and to evaluate its impact on patient mortality in a high-prevalence setting in Thailand.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively analysed 146 episodes (from 145 patients) of C. tropicalis candidaemia at a Thai referral centre (2015-2019). Biofilm formation was quantified by XTT assay and classified as low, moderate, or high. Clinical predictors of high biofilm formation (HBF) and associations with 30-day mortality were evaluated using regression and Kaplan-Meier analyses.

RESULTS: Forty-nine isolates (33.6%) were HBF. Independent risk factors for HBF included shorter hospital stay prior to candidaemia (OR 0.98; 95% CI 0.96-0.999; P = 0.037) and recent Clostridioides difficile infection (OR 14.55; 95% CI 1.58-133.75; P = 0.018). Overall 30-day mortality was 74.0% and did not differ between HBF and non-HBF isolates (77.6% vs. 72.2%; P = 0.484). However, in non-ICU episodes, HBF was associated with significantly lower survival, whereas outcomes in ICU episodes were similar regardless of biofilm capacity.

CONCLUSIONS: Biofilm formation in C. tropicalis candidaemia was linked to recent C. difficile infection and earlier onset of bloodstream infection, and predicted poorer survival in non-ICU episodes.},
}

@article {pmid42414432,
year = {2026},
author = {Noumi, E and Alabbosh, KF and Alsenani, Q and Alshammari, N and Alshammari, M and Adnan, M and Ceylan, O and Kadri, A and Snoussi, M and De Feo, V},
title = {Therapeutic potential of Citrus medica L. (cv. 'Liscia' and cv. 'Rugosa') phytocompounds targeting biofilm formation, quorum sensing, and antioxidant defense mechanisms.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41598-026-60228-z},
pmid = {42414432},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {<RG-25 095>//This research has been funded by Scientific Research Deanship at University of Ha'il- Saudi Arabia through project number/ ; },
abstract = {Microbial biofilm, quorum sensing (QS)-mediated virulence and oxidative stress-induced inflammation are interrelated pathological processes that play a crucial role in persistent infections and chronic illnesses. Due to the multifactorially of such processes, isolated target-based approaches to therapy usually do not provide long-term effectiveness. A combined network pharmacology and multi-level computational approach was used in order to clarify the molecular mechanisms underlying the antibiofilm, anti-quorum sensing (anti-QS), and antioxidant activities of thirty-three bioactive compounds found in the essential oils (EOs) of Citrus medica cv. Liscia and cv. Rugosa. Human potential protein targets were predicted and intersected with disease-associated genes, and 317 common targets were obtained, which were further viewed in terms of protein-protein interaction network and hub gene. The analysis of the functional enrichment demonstrated that the targets play a large role in oxidative stress response, homeostasis of inflammatory response, signal transduction, apoptosis, and membrane-related processes. Molecular docking analysis reveals strong and consistent binding affinities of aromadendrene, germacrene D, caryophyllene oxide, and carvacrol to major hub proteins such as HSP90AA1, AKT1, TNF, IL6, IL1B, and STAT3. Principal component and secondary structure analysis, and molecular dynamics simulations were used to further assess the HSP90AA1-aromadendrene complex, which was found to be among the most stable complexes. Analysis based on density functional theory was used to support good electronic properties and chemical stability of the lead compound and ADMET profiling revealed acceptable pharmacokinetics and drug-like properties. All these findings indicate a multi-target, multi-pathway therapeutic paradigm and constitute a powerful computational framework of Citrus-based agents against biofilm-associated infections and oxidative stress-related disorders.},
}

@article {pmid42414588,
year = {2026},
author = {Chou, TK and Dau-Martinez, A and Vicens-Figueres, J and Gouttumukkala, A and Galera-Laporta, L and Garcia-Ojalvo, J and Süel, GM},
title = {Self-generated hydrogel ejects bacterial cells for localized biofilm dispersion.},
journal = {Nature microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42414588},
issn = {2058-5276},
support = {T32GM127235//U.S. Department of Health & Human Services | National Institutes of Health (NIH)/ ; R35GM139645//U.S. Department of Health & Human Services | National Institutes of Health (NIH)/ ; W911NF-22-1-0107 and W911NF-1-0361//United States Department of Defense | United States Army | U.S. Army Research, Development and Engineering Command | Army Research Office (ARO)/ ; INV-067331//Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation)/ ; },
abstract = {Bacteria residing in biofilms are embedded in an extracellular matrix. Whereas biofilm formation is well studied, less is known about biofilm dispersion, although enzymatic extracellular matrix degradation is suspected to play a key role. Here we show that Bacillus subtilis biofilms can alternatively eject a specific cell type, locally and anisotropically, using mechanical forces arising from a self-generated hydrogel. Single-cell resolution imaging combined with mathematical modelling, and chemical and genetic perturbations, show that the production of the extracellular poly-γ-glutamic acid (γ-PGA) polymer is necessary to drive this cell ejection. Specifically, osmotic pressure from the γ-PGA hydrogel propels interior cells through the outer layers to break free from the biofilm. We demonstrate control over this process through γ-PGA modulation such that biofilm dispersion can be either inhibited or promoted. Forceful ejection driven by γ-PGA has so far only been described in marine organisms such as jellyfish. Our discovery of biofilm cell ejection via γ-PGA thus reveals not only a previously uncharacterized biofilm dispersion mechanism but also an unexpected mechanistic parallel to evolutionarily distant Cnidaria.},
}

@article {pmid42416019,
year = {2026},
author = {Lee, JH and Yoo, J and Eom, JH and Kim, YY and Kim, HS and Yang, SJ},
title = {Streptococcus thermophilus DM287 and DM294 as candidate oral probiotic strains with anti-biofilm activity against cariogenic pathogens.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1852167},
pmid = {42416019},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus are key contributors to dental caries within a broader polymicrobial biofilm community, driving pathogenicity through biofilm and dental plaque formation rather than direct tissue invasion. Probiotic-based strategies that target colonization rather than viability represent a promising non-antibiotic approach to caries prevention. Streptococcus thermophilus is a food-grade organism with established GRAS status and a long history of safe human consumption, yet it remains largely unexplored as an oral care ingredient. In this study, two S. thermophilus strains - DM287, isolated from a commercially available yogurt product, and DM294, isolated from the tongue coat of healthy adults - were characterized for anti-cariogenic activity through mechanisms independent of major pathogen abundance reduction. Both strains reduced plaque mass by approximately 75%-80% in a wire model assay and suppressed S. mutans and S. sobrinus biofilm biomass to near-baseline levels, while planktonic growth suggested that the observed effects were not primarily driven by bactericidal activity. Adhesion inhibition assays showed 32%-64% reduction in pathogen adhesion under protection conditions and 72%-76% under displacement conditions. Competitive colonization assays demonstrated that both strains increased surface attachment in pathogen-conditioned environments (fold change > 1.0), consistent with competitive displacement behavior. RT-qPCR analysis of S. mutans biofilms co-cultured with either strain revealed significant downregulation of gtfB and gtfC - key glucosyltransferase genes encoding the EPS synthetic machinery central to biofilm structure - with reductions of approximately 34%-63% depending on the strain and time point, suggesting transcriptional suppression of biofilm-associated virulence as a contributing mechanism. EPS quantification by phenol-sulfuric acid assay further demonstrated that both strains reduced EPS production by 80%-90%, a magnitude comparable to chlorhexidine and substantially exceeding that of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG. Taken together, these findings suggest that S. thermophilus DM287 and DM294 are biocompatible candidate strains with promising anti-biofilm potential for oral care applications, pending further validation.},
}

@article {pmid42416706,
year = {2026},
author = {Liao, C and Liao, J and Nie, X and Chang, Q and Chen, K and Zhong, Z and Tang, H and Wang, D},
title = {A biomimetic cascade nanoplatform for synergistic biofilm eradication and immune activation against MRSA.},
journal = {RSC advances},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42416706},
issn = {2046-2069},
abstract = {Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) biofilm-associated infections remain a formidable clinical challenge, owing to limited antibiotic penetration, an immunosuppressive microenvironment, and recurrent biofilm regeneration. Effective long-term immunomodulatory strategies to prevent reinfection are still lacking. To address this issue, we have constructed a biomimetic cascade nanoplatform (MACP@DG@CM) that integrates a photothermal nanozyme core, surface-anchored DNase I-functionalized gold nanoclusters (DNase I-GNCs), and a pre-activated macrophage membrane camouflage. This design enables synergistic biofilm eradication and immune microenvironment modulation. Under an 808 nm near-infrared (NIR) irradiation, the nanoplatform triggers a cascade radical storm, including photothermal hyperthermia, a peroxidase-like hydroxyl radical (·OH) burst, nitric oxide (NO) release, and DNase I-mediated extracellular DNA (eDNA) degradation. Concurrently, it depletes glutathione (GSH), disrupts bacterial redox homeostasis, and causes severe membrane damage. Transcriptomic analysis reveals that the nanoplatform perturbs bacterial two-component systems, d-amino acid metabolism, and antimicrobial peptide resistance pathways. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) further confirms up-regulated pro-inflammatory cytokines and down-regulated anti-inflammatory cytokines, indicating an activated inflammatory response. In an MRSA-infected wound model, it accelerates wound closure, promotes collagen deposition, and modulates inflammation. Collectively, this biomimetic cascade nanoplatform provides a synergistic strategy for biofilm eradication and immune activation against drug-resistant infections.},
}

@article {pmid42406057,
year = {2026},
author = {Panigrahi, S and Roy, DN},
title = {Aloin of Aloe vera disrupts pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm formation: exploring nutritional therapeutics.},
journal = {Archives of microbiology},
volume = {208},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {42406057},
issn = {1432-072X},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology/genetics ; *Aloe/chemistry ; *Emodin/analogs & derivatives/pharmacology/chemistry ; Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics/chemistry ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Molecular Docking Simulation ; },
abstract = {Pseudomonas aeruginosa is responsible for several infections due to its remarkable antibiotic resistance, facilitated by its ability to form biofilms. In this study, Aloin, an anthraquinone present in the plant Aloe vera, was tested for antibiofilm activity against P. aeruginosa PAO1. Aloin demonstrated efficient biofilm-inhibiting capacity at a sub-MIC dose of 4.8 mM, along with/without GEN at 0.002 µg/µL (sub-MIC), in an additive manner, determined by the FICI test. Furthermore, it reduced biofilm-associated carbohydrates by 66.9%, proteins by 66.22%, and extracellular DNA by 69.57%. In silico analysis revealed that Aloin interacts with key P. aeruginosa proteins, such as RhlI (Glide Score: -6.035 kcal/mol; Glide e-model score: -60.414 kcal/mol), LasI (Glide Score: -4.407 kcal/mol; Glide e-model score: -35.286 kcal/mol), LasR (chain A) (Glide Score: -3.764 kcal/mol; Glide e-model score: -36.012 kcal/mol), LasR (chain B) (Glide Score: -5.015 kcal/mol; Glide e-model score: -46.672 kcal/mol), PqsR (Glide Score: -4.701 kcal/mol; Glide e-model score: -25.491 kcal/mol), PelA (Glide Score: -6.097 kcal/mol; Glide e-model score: -53.723 kcal/mol), and PelB (Glide Score: -5.043 kcal/mol; Glide e-model score: -53.128 kcal/mol) by forming strong hydrogen bonds. In silico simulation studies also substantiated the Aloin-protein binding results. The production of virulence factors, such as exoprotease and pyocyanin, was reduced by 71% and 74%, respectively. Furthermore, CLSM and SEM analysis showed a decrease in biofilm thickness from 498 μm to 72 μm and a reduced denser structure in the presence of Aloin. These results suggest that Aloin from Aloe vera has the potential to be an effective biofilm inhibitor without toxicity, with broad applicability.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology/genetics
*Aloe/chemistry
*Emodin/analogs & derivatives/pharmacology/chemistry
Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics/chemistry
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Molecular Docking Simulation

@article {pmid42406614,
year = {2026},
author = {Jewth, R and Elgammal, Y and Lee, HH and Martinez, LR},
title = {Methamphetamine promotes methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus subcutaneous infection through innate immune dysregulation and altered expression of biofilm-associated genes.},
journal = {Microbiology (Reading, England)},
volume = {172},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1099/mic.0.001732},
pmid = {42406614},
issn = {1465-2080},
mesh = {Animals ; *Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/genetics/physiology/immunology/pathogenicity ; *Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Immunity, Innate/drug effects ; Mice, Inbred BALB C ; *Methamphetamine/adverse effects ; Mice ; Disease Models, Animal ; *Staphylococcal Infections/immunology/microbiology ; Abscess/microbiology ; *Staphylococcal Skin Infections/microbiology/immunology ; Female ; },
abstract = {Methamphetamine (METH) use is associated with an elevated risk of skin and soft tissue infections caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), yet its direct effects on MRSA pathogenesis remain poorly characterized. Using a BALB/c murine subcutaneous infection model, we demonstrate that METH significantly increases abscess area and bacterial burden compared to untreated controls. Histological analysis revealed markedly elevated neutrophil infiltration and a concurrent reduction in macrophage recruitment in METH-treated animals, indicating dysregulation of innate immune coordination at the infection site. METH exposure was also associated with increased expression of fga and col1, which are responsible for fibrinogen and collagen I production, respectively, consistent with profibrotic extracellular matrix remodelling that may scaffold bacterial persistence and impair immune effector access. At the molecular level, METH increased the expression of the icaA locus, which is required for polysaccharide intercellular adhesin synthesis and biofilm formation, compared to untreated MRSA-infected controls. Conversely, METH suppressed the sepA locus, suggesting a shift toward localized MRSA persistence within the abscess environment. Together, these results demonstrate that METH exacerbates MRSA subcutaneous infection in vivo through higher profibrotic host transcript levels, enhanced biofilm gene expression and dysregulated innate immunity. These findings provide a framework for future studies investigating how METH exposure shapes MRSA disease severity.},
}

Animals
*Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/genetics/physiology/immunology/pathogenicity
*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Immunity, Innate/drug effects
Mice, Inbred BALB C
*Methamphetamine/adverse effects
Mice
Disease Models, Animal
*Staphylococcal Infections/immunology/microbiology
Abscess/microbiology
*Staphylococcal Skin Infections/microbiology/immunology
Female

@article {pmid42406953,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, S and Mei, Y and Xu, K and Sheng, H and Chen, YA and Teng, M and Xu, B and Jiang, B and Yu, C and Li, H and Zhao, S and Wang, Y and Zhang, X and Zhao, Y and Wang, Y and Wo, Y and Li, Z and Shen, S and Li, Y and Tang, M and Mei, Y and Chen, J and Huang, G and Feng, S},
title = {Magnetically actuated microrobotic system for sequential treatment of biofilm.},
journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America},
volume = {123},
number = {28},
pages = {e2535216123},
doi = {10.1073/pnas.2535216123},
pmid = {42406953},
issn = {1091-6490},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; Animals ; Rabbits ; Humans ; Rats ; *Robotics/instrumentation/methods ; *Prosthesis-Related Infections/microbiology/therapy ; Zinc ; Staphylococcal Infections ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Macrophages/immunology ; },
abstract = {Biofilm-associated infections present a critical therapeutic challenge due to antibiotic resistance and impaired tissue healing. Here, we present a microrobotic system (MZ-8) that integrates real-time human-steered navigation with autonomous, microenvironment-responsive therapy to actively eradicate biofilms and promote tissue regeneration. This microrobotic system features a spine-inspired structure for mechanical biofilm disruption, a pH-responsive ZIF-8 coating for immunomodulatory Zn[2+] release, and closed-loop actuation under second near-infrared fluorescence guidance. In a rat model of periprosthetic joint infection, MZ-8 achieved effective biofilm removal, induced a pro-regenerative immune response by polarizing macrophages toward the M2 phenotype, and significantly enhanced tissue regeneration. Transcriptomic analysis further revealed the activation of immunomodulatory pathways and upregulation of M2-associated genes, confirming the system's sequential shift from eradication to repair. Moreover, validation in a rabbit model and human knee joint confirmed its operational feasibility under clinical imaging guidance and excellent biosafety. This work establishes that integrating physical eradication, biochemical immunomodulation, and interactive control within a single system is essential for advancing from infection clearance to functional tissue restoration. Thus, it provides a therapeutic paradigm for biofilm-associated diseases and lays a foundation for future intelligent, clinically adaptive anti-infective systems.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
Animals
Rabbits
Humans
Rats
*Robotics/instrumentation/methods
*Prosthesis-Related Infections/microbiology/therapy
Zinc
Staphylococcal Infections
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Macrophages/immunology

@article {pmid42410350,
year = {2026},
author = {Moghaddam, AM and Ahmadishoar, S and Aval, SF},
title = {Synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles and their effect on biofilm of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolates.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12866-026-05382-0},
pmid = {42410350},
issn = {1471-2180},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) poses a growing threat in Iranian healthcare settings, and biofilm formation exacerbates treatment challenges. This study assessed the antibacterial and anti-biofilm potential of zinc oxide nanoparticles ZnONPs against 58 clinical MRSA isolates collected from hospitals in Iran.

METHODS: Isolates were identified via microbial and biochemical tests and confirmed by PCR targeting nuc (279 bp) and mecA (310 bp) genes. Antimicrobial susceptibility was evaluated using CLSI disk diffusion guidelines. The ZnONPs were synthesized by chemical precipitation. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of ZnONPs were determined by broth microdilution, and biofilm formation/inhibition was quantified using crystal violet staining.

RESULTS: Of 131 S. aureus isolates, 58 (44.3%) were MRSA, exhibiting high resistance to Penicillin (100%), Erythromycin (91.4%), and Ciprofloxacin (74.1%), but full susceptibility to Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole. ZnONPs displayed potent activity, with MICs ranging from 8 to 1024 µg/mL (MIC₅₀ = 64 µg/mL; MIC₉₀ = 512 µg/mL); 27.6% of isolates were inhibited at ≤ 16 µg/mL. Among MRSA, 15.5% were strong biofilm producers, and sub-MIC (½ MIC) concentrations of ZnONPs reduced biofilm by 82.3 ± 7.6% (P  < 0.001). Dynamic light scattering confirmed nanoparticle stability (size: 29.4 ± 4.2 nm; PDI: 0.19).

CONCLUSIONS: These findings highlight ZnONPs as a promising, low-cost alternative for managing MRSA infections, particularly in biofilm-associated cases, warranting further clinical exploration in resource-limited settings.},
}

@article {pmid42413590,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, N and Liang, D and Zhang, Z and Zhu, Y and He, W and Feng, Y},
title = {Biosynthetic composite iron minerals enhance electroactive biofilm activity and stability by reducing charge transfer resistance and buffering the internal acid inhibition.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {135329},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.135329},
pmid = {42413590},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Electroactive biofilms (EAB) enable organic degradation and energy recovery in microbial electrochemical systems (MES). Nevertheless, internal proton accumulation during microbial metabolism impairs EAB activity, while slow electron transfer between EAB and electrodes further limits MES performance. Efficient in-situ strategies to mitigate acidification and accelerate electron transfer are critically required to stabilize EAB performance. Biosynthetic composite iron minerals (BCIM) consisting of Fe3O4 and FeCO3 was synthesized via microbial reduction of amorphous Fe(III) oxyhydroxide, integrating electrical conductivity and proton buffering function. BCIM-modified carbon cloth anodes (1 and 4 mg/cm[2], group C1 and group C4) were evaluated against bare controls. Results showed that the carbon cloth anode loaded with 1 mg/cm[2] BCIM achieved a maximum power density of 1166 mW/m[2], 28% higher than the control group, and cut the startup period from 8 days to 1.6 days. BCIM reduced charge transfer resistance, boosted the bioelectrochemical activity and increased electroactive sites of EAB. Meanwhile, BCIM dramatically raised the relative abundance of Geobacter sp. from 31.1% in the control group to 48.8% in Group C1, and also upregulated the abundance of functional genes associated with pili and flagellum. The FeCO3 component provided localized pH regulation to relieve biofilm proton accumulation and enhance cell activity. With dual functions of accelerating electron transfer and alleviating acidification, BCIM presents a promising material to optimize EAB performance.},
}

@article {pmid42401614,
year = {2026},
author = {Hou, P and Li, L and Liu, Z and Tao, J and Muhammad, T and Wang, Y and Hu, H and Zang, C and Xiao, Y and Rittmann, BE},
title = {Shear redistribution in confined biofilm systems: decoupling structure and function in engineered water environments.},
journal = {NPJ biofilms and microbiomes},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41522-026-01082-9},
pmid = {42401614},
issn = {2055-5008},
support = {52339004, 52409074, 52209074//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Biofilms in engineered water systems often develop within confined, tortuous flow paths where shear stress is spatially heterogeneous. However, biofilm responses are commonly evaluated using bulk metrics that treat shear as uniform and externally imposed, overlooking how geometric confinement redistributes shear during biofilm growth. Here, we examined how confinement-driven shear redistribution governs biofilm-hydrodynamic interactions in labyrinth microchannels under constant pressure. By integrating time-resolved biofilm-altered geometries with flow simulations, we show that localized biofilm accumulation reorganizes preferential flow pathways, redistributes wall shear stress, and causes a disproportionate decline in discharge. Hydraulic deterioration was increasingly governed by constriction of the remaining effective flow paths rather than by biomass accumulation alone, revealing nonlinear hydraulic sensitivity to spatially localized growth. Controlled-shear experiments further showed that ATP-based physiological indicators remained comparatively stable and peaked at intermediate shear levels, whereas extracellular polymeric substance composition shifted toward higher protein-to-polysaccharide ratios with increasing shear. Together, these results demonstrate a partial decoupling between biofilm structure and activity-related or matrix-compositional indicators under confinement-generated shear redistribution, highlighting the limitations of bulk structural metrics for predicting biofilm behavior and hydraulic performance.},
}

@article {pmid42402036,
year = {2026},
author = {Katrak, C and Bautista, L and Pepe, L and Fairman, J and Abranches, J},
title = {The Streptococcus mutans collagen-binding protein Cnm enhances early biofilm formation with Candida albicans.},
journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0104626},
doi = {10.1128/aem.01046-26},
pmid = {42402036},
issn = {1098-5336},
abstract = {Streptococcus mutans strains expressing the collagen-binding protein Cnm are strongly associated with severe and recurrent dental caries, yet the mechanistic basis for their clinical enrichment alongside Candida albicans remains unclear. Here, we investigated whether Cnm contributes to early cross-kingdom interactions that promote dual-species biofilm development. Using purified proteins, we found that C. albicans binds robustly to Cnm at levels comparable to those of glucosyltransferase B (GtfB) and higher than those of other S. mutans adhesins tested. Preincubation of collagen with Cnm inhibited fungal binding, indicating that Cnm cannot simultaneously engage collagen and C. albicans, and suggesting competition for the same or adjacent binding regions. Cnm expression significantly enhanced coaggregation with C. albicans in both collagen-free and collagen-rich environments. In early attachment assays, Cnm increased S. mutans adherence to collagen-coated surfaces and promoted C. albicans recruitment on uncoated surfaces, consistent with ligand-dependent binding specificity. Pre-coaggregation in saliva further enhanced the ability of Cnm[+] S. mutans to attach to C. albicans. At 24 h, Cnm expression increased biomass and S. mutans CFUs exclusively on collagen-coated surfaces, regardless of sucrose availability. Together, these findings identify Cnm as a dual-binding adhesin that associates with either collagen or C. albicans, depending on environmental context, thereby accelerating coaggregation, early colonization, and biofilm maturation. This mechanism provides a biological explanation for the co-enrichment of Cbp[+] S. mutans and C. albicans seen in dental caries and highlights Cnm as a key mediator of cross-kingdom synergy in early biofilm formation.IMPORTANCEDental caries is a multifactorial and polymicrobial disease in which the consumption of fermentable carbohydrates favors acidogenic and aciduric microorganisms at the expense of beneficial commensal bacteria, creating a dysbiotic environment. Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans establish a synergistic relationship that exacerbates dysbiosis, thereby promoting caries development and progression. The current paradigm of this cross-kingdom synergism centers on increased extracellular polysaccharide production and enhanced biofilm biomass in the presence of sucrose. Here, we show that the collagen-binding protein Cnm, produced by approximately 20% of S. mutans isolates, promotes interspecies co-aggregation with C. albicans, facilitating interspecies attachment and early biofilm formation. Our findings expand the current paradigm by demonstrating that Cnm recruits C. albicans to the developing biofilm. This interaction may play a crucial role in the stability and virulence of early biofilm communities, particularly under low-sucrose conditions.},
}

@article {pmid42402168,
year = {2026},
author = {Moorthy, RK and Casey, E},
title = {Modeling Multiscale Architecture of Biofilm Extracellular Matrix and Its Role in Oxygen Transport.},
journal = {Biotechnology and bioengineering},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/bit.70295},
pmid = {42402168},
issn = {1097-0290},
support = {101052376/ERC_/European Research Council/International ; },
abstract = {The extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) matrix of microbial biofilms exhibits a complex structural heterogeneity that profoundly influences mass transport and metabolic activity. Conventional biofilm models typically assume a homogeneous matrix, thereby neglecting the localized transport resistance introduced by the bacterial capsule, a distinct, low-diffusivity polysaccharide layer surrounding individual cells. In this theoretical study, we develop a multiscale "cell-capsule" continuum model that represents the capsule as a concentric shell enveloping each microbial cell core within the bulk EPS. Utilizing a one-dimensional reaction-diffusion framework coupled with a geometric characterization of capsule spacing and thickness, we quantify how microscale architecture modulates oxygen transport in developing biofilms. Model simulations demonstrate that incorporating a discrete capsular phase introduces a pronounced "resistance-in-series" effect, reducing local oxygen availability by up to 70% compared to conventional homogeneous models. Furthermore, our analysis indicates that capsule thickness and matrix compaction jointly control the effective diffusivity and oxygen effectiveness factor within the biofilm. These results provide critical mechanistic insights into how microscale organization governs macroscale biofilm function, offering a new framework for integrating structural heterogeneity into multiscale biofilm simulations.},
}

@article {pmid42402281,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, J and Gao, J and Wang, H and Zhang, K and Lu, T},
title = {Phenacetin inhibited but acetaminophen stabilized partial nitrification/anammox system: Studies on microbial metabolism and resistance genes in biofilm and plastisphere.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {135317},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.135317},
pmid = {42402281},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Partial nitrification (PN) inhibitors, such as phenacetin (PNCT) and acetaminophen (APAP), ensure a stable nitrite supply for anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox). But the unknown impact of inhibitors on anammox limit the application of inhibitors. In addition to the biofilm carriers used in biological nitrogen removal systems, microplastics (MPs) (a type of emerging contaminants) are the common substrate for microbial colonization, even enriched resistance genes (RGs). This research compared the effects of 0.5, 1 and 5 mg/L PNCT or APAP on partial nitrification-anammox (PN/A) biofilm and plastisphere. 1 mg/L PNCT inhibited the nitrogen removal functional bacteria (Nitrosomonas, Candidatus Kuenenia, Candidatus Brocadia and Nitrospira), resulting in the sharp deteriorated performance of PN/A system. 5 mg/L PNCT inhibited multiple metabolism pathways, resulting in the absence of electrons and energy supply of microorganisms. 0.5-1 mg/L APAP maintained the stable operation of PN/A system. Nitrospira abundances declined from 2.8% to 1.1% after 0.5 mg/L APAP exposure. But 5 mg/L APAP inhibited the abundance of amoA and the production of extracellular polymeric substances, which caused the slight fluctuation of PN/A performance. PN inhibitors did not cause the sharp increase of most RGs in biofilm and water. However, MPs exhibited the huge capacity of enriching RGs, which should be removed. This study proposed that 0.5 mg/L of APAP was suitable for the PN/A system to control dosage for practical application.},
}