@article {pmid40737320,
year = {2025},
author = {Sonani, RR and Liu, Y and Xiang, J and Cvirkaite-Krupovic, V and Du, S and Chen, X and Krupovic, M and Egelman, EH},
title = {Tat-dependent bundling pilus of a halophilic archaeon assembles by a strand donation mechanism and facilitates biofilm formation.},
journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America},
volume = {122},
number = {31},
pages = {e2514980122},
doi = {10.1073/pnas.2514980122},
pmid = {40737320},
issn = {1091-6490},
support = {GM122510//HHS | NIH | National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS)/ ; ANR-21-CE11-0001//Agence Nationale de la Recherche (ANR)/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Archaeal Proteins/metabolism/genetics/chemistry ; *Fimbriae Proteins/metabolism/genetics/chemistry ; *Twin-Arginine-Translocation System/metabolism ; *Halobacteriaceae/metabolism/physiology/genetics ; },
abstract = {Diverse extracellular filaments present on the surface of archaea mediate multiple key processes, such as motility, adhesion, and biofilm formation. Although several archaeal filament types have been characterized in considerable detail, many remain understudied, particularly those utilizing noncanonical secretion systems. Here, we describe the Tafi bundling pilus that facilitates biofilm formation in the haloarchaeon Natrinema sp. J7-2. Unlike previously characterized archaeal pili, Tafi is secreted via the twin-arginine translocation (Tat) pathway, which transports fully folded proteins across the cytoplasmic membrane. Structural analysis reveals that although Tafi pili assemble via a canonical strand-donation mechanism, the pilin subunit (TafE) adopts a distinct structural topology that sets it apart from the previously characterized Sec-dependent pilins that form bundling pili in archaea. Sequence analyses show that TafE homologs are also present in thermophilic archaea from different phyla, but Tat-signal sequences are exclusive to pilins of halophilic archaea. Nevertheless, we find that Tat signal peptides in haloarchaeal TafE-like pili were exchanged back to the Sec signal peptides on multiple independent occasions. These findings expand our understanding of the diversity and evolution of archaeal extracellular filaments and highlight the Tat pathway as a route for pilus assembly in halophilic archaea.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Archaeal Proteins/metabolism/genetics/chemistry
*Fimbriae Proteins/metabolism/genetics/chemistry
*Twin-Arginine-Translocation System/metabolism
*Halobacteriaceae/metabolism/physiology/genetics

@article {pmid40736269,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, Y and Koley, D},
title = {Analytical methods to study the complex dynamics of biofilm-biomaterial interfaces.},
journal = {Biointerphases},
volume = {20},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1116/6.0004613},
pmid = {40736269},
issn = {1559-4106},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Biocompatible Materials/chemistry ; Humans ; Electrochemical Techniques/methods ; *Bacteria ; Surface Properties ; },
abstract = {Biofilm-biomaterial interfaces have an important role in biofilm development and pose a critical challenge in healthcare, contributing to device failures and chronic infections that affect patient outcomes and healthcare economics. This review explores the complex dynamics of these interfaces, from initial protein adsorption through mature biofilm development, highlighting how bacteria and materials are involved in bidirectional interactions that determine both infection progression and material degradation. It also examines different advanced analytical methods for characterizing these dynamic biofilm-biomaterial interactions, with particular emphasis on the recent developments in electrochemical techniques (ion-selective electrodes, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and scanning electrochemical microscopy) that enable real-time monitoring of critical parameters such as pH, oxygen gradients, and metabolic activities, providing unique insights into biofilm heterogeneity and localized chemical changes. In addition, the review explores future developments in sensor technology and standardized protocols needed to accelerate biomaterial innovation, potentially transforming our approach to implant-associated infections through responsive surfaces that adapt to microbial challenges.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Biocompatible Materials/chemistry
Humans
Electrochemical Techniques/methods
*Bacteria
Surface Properties

@article {pmid40736253,
year = {2025},
author = {Holley, CL and Dhulipala, V and Le Van, A and Balthazar, JT and Oliver, VJ and Jerse, AE and Shafer, WM},
title = {Gentamicin induction of the gonococcal hicAB toxin-antitoxin-encoding system and impact on gene expression influencing biofilm formation and in vivo fitness in a strain-specific manner.},
journal = {mBio},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0159525},
doi = {10.1128/mbio.01595-25},
pmid = {40736253},
issn = {2150-7511},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: The continued emergence of Neisseria gonorrhoeae (Ng) isolates resistant to first-line antibiotics has focused efforts on understanding how alternative therapies, such as the expanded use of gentamicin (Gen), might counteract this global public health problem. Focusing on Gen as a viable alternative antibiotic for the treatment of gonorrheal infections, we used RNA-seq to determine if sub-lethal levels of Gen might impact gonococci on a transcriptional level. We found that sub-lethal Gen levels altered the expression of 23 genes in Ng strain FA19. Many of the differentially regulated genes were associated with known stress responses elaborated by Ng under different harmful conditions. We found that the transcripts of the hicAB operon, which encodes a putative HicA-HicB toxin-antitoxin system that is encoded by tandem genes with the prophage Ngo φ3, were increased in response to Gen. Although the loss of hicAB did not impact gonococcal susceptibility to a variety of antimicrobial agents or harmful environmental conditions, it did reduce biofilm formation in Ng strains F62, FA1090, WHO X, and CDC200 but not that of strain FA19. Furthermore, in strain F62, but not FA19, loss of hicAB reduced the in vivo fitness of Ng during experimental lower genital tract infection of female mice. Furthermore, we found that expression of hicAB can influence levels of the norB transcript, which encodes the nitrate reductase shown previously to be upregulated in gonococcal biofilms. We propose that sub-lethal Gen has the capacity to influence gonococcal pathogenesis through the action of the HicAB toxin-antitoxin system.

IMPORTANCE: During antibiotic treatment, bacteria can be exposed to sub-lethal levels that could serve as a stress signal, resulting in changes in gene expression. The continued emergence of multi-drug-resistant strains of Ng has rekindled interest in expanded use of gentamicin (Gen) for the treatment of gonorrheal infections. We report that sub-lethal levels of Gen can influence levels of Ng transcripts, including that of the gonococcal hicAB-encoded toxin-antitoxin (TA) locus, which is embedded within an integrated prophage. Although the loss of this TA locus did not impact Ng susceptibility to Gen, it reduced the biofilm-forming ability of four of five Ng strains. Furthermore, in an examined strain in this group, we found that Ng fitness during experimental infection was negatively impacted. We propose that levels of the hicA-hicB transcripts can be increased by sub-lethal levels of an antibiotic used in the treatment of gonorrhea and that this could influence pathogenicity.},
}

@article {pmid40733297,
year = {2025},
author = {Di Girolamo, D and Badalamenti, N and Castagliuolo, G and Ilardi, V and Varcamonti, M and Bruno, M and Zanfardino, A},
title = {South Tyrol (Italy) Pastinaca sativa L. subsp. sativa Essential Oil: GC-MS Composition, Antimicrobial, Anti-Biofilm, and Antioxidant Properties.},
journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {30},
number = {14},
pages = {},
pmid = {40733297},
issn = {1420-3049},
support = {CUP UNIPA B73C22000790001//- NextGenerationEU; Project code CN_00000033/ ; },
mesh = {*Oils, Volatile/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Antioxidants/pharmacology/chemistry ; Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry ; *Biofilms/drug effects ; *Anti-Infective Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Italy ; *Apiaceae/chemistry ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; },
abstract = {Pastinaca L. is a small genus belonging to the Apiaceae family, traditionally used for both nutritional and medicinal purposes. Pastinaca sativa L. subsp. sativa is a biennial plant widely distributed in Europe and Asia, with recognized ethnopharmacological relevance. In this study, the essential oil (EO) obtained from the aerial parts of P. sativa subsp. sativa, collected in Alto Adige (Italy)-a previously unstudied accession-was analyzed by GC-MS, and the volatile profile has been compared with that of EOs previously studied in Bulgaria and Serbia. The EO was found to be rich in octyl acetate (38.7%) and octyl butanoate (26.7%), confirming that this species biosynthesizes these natural esters. The EO and its main constituents were tested to evaluate their antimicrobial properties. Furthermore, their biological potential was evaluated through antimicrobial, antibiofilm and antioxidant assays. This research work, in addition to evaluating possible chemotaxonomic differences at the geographical level of EOs of Pastinaca sativa subsp. sativa, has been extended to the determination of the biological properties of this accession never investigated before, with the aim of acquiring a broader vision of biofilm and antibacterial properties.},
}

*Oils, Volatile/pharmacology/chemistry
*Antioxidants/pharmacology/chemistry
Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry
*Biofilms/drug effects
*Anti-Infective Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Italy
*Apiaceae/chemistry
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry

@article {pmid40732795,
year = {2025},
author = {Alghuthaymi, MA},
title = {Antifungal Nanocomposites from Honeybee Chitosan and Royal Jelly-Mediated Nanosilver for Suppressing Biofilm and Hyphal Formation of Candida albicans.},
journal = {Polymers},
volume = {17},
number = {14},
pages = {},
pmid = {40732795},
issn = {2073-4360},
abstract = {Candida albicans complications challenged researchers and health overseers to discover effectual agents for suppressing such yeast growth, biofilm formation and conversion to hyphal form. The nanomaterials and their composites provided extraordinary bioactivities and functionalities as antimicrobial preparations. The extraction of chitosan (BCt) from honeybee corpuses was achieved as an innovative biopolymer for nanocomposite formation. The green (bio)synthesis of nanosilver (AgNPs) was promisingly performed using royal jelly (RJ) as a mediator of synthesis. The RJ-synthesized AgNPs had an average diameter of 3.61 nm and were negatively charged (-27.2 mV). The formulated nanocomposites from BCt/RJ/AgNPs at 2:1 (F1), 1:1 (F2), and 1:2 (F3) ratios had average diameters of 63.19, 27.65, and 52.74 nm, where their surface charges were +33.8, +29.3, and -11.5 mV, respectively. The infrared (FTIR) analysis designated molecules' interactions, whereas the transmission microscopy emphasized the homogenous distribution and impedance of AgNPs within the biopolymers' nanocomposites. Challenging C. albicans strains with nanomaterials/composites pinpointed their bioactivity for suppressing yeast growth and biofilm formation; the F2 nanocomposite exhibited superior actions, with the lowest inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 125-175 mg/L, whereas the MIC ranges were 150-200 and 175-225 mg/L for F3 and F1, respectively. The different BCht/RJ/AgNP nanocomposites could entirely suppress the biofilm formation of all C. albicans strains. The scanning microscopy reflected the nanocomposite efficiency for C. albicans cell destruction and the complete suppression of hyphal formation. The application of generated BCht/RJ/AgNP nanocomposites is strongly recommended as they are effectual, natural and advanced materials for combating C. albicans pathogens.},
}

@article {pmid40732790,
year = {2025},
author = {Krivoruchko, A and Nurieva, D and Luppov, V and Kuyukina, M and Ivshina, I},
title = {The Lipid- and Polysaccharide-Rich Extracellular Polymeric Substances of Rhodococcus Support Biofilm Formation and Protection from Toxic Hydrocarbons.},
journal = {Polymers},
volume = {17},
number = {14},
pages = {},
pmid = {40732790},
issn = {2073-4360},
support = {122031400671-1//Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation/ ; 124020500028-4//Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation/ ; FSNF-2025-0013//Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation/ ; },
abstract = {Extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) are multifunctional biopolymers that have significant biotechnological potential. In this study, forty-seven strains of Rhodococcus actinomycetes were screened for EPS production and the content of its main components: carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. The Rhodococcus strains produced lipid-rich EPS (15.6 mg·L[-1] to 71.7 mg·L[-1]) with carbohydrate concentrations varying from 0.6 mg·L[-1] to 58.2 mg·L[-1] and low amounts of proteins and nucleic acids. Biofilms of R. ruber IEGM 231 were grown on nitrocellulose filters in the presence of n-hexane, n-hexadecane, or diesel fuel. The distribution of β-polysaccharides, glycoconjugates, and proteins between cells and the extracellular matrix was examined using fluorescence microscopy. The observed release of β-polysaccharides into the biofilm matrix in the presence of n-hexane and diesel fuel was regarded as an adaptation to the assimilation of these toxic hydrocarbons by Rhodococcus cells. Atomic force microscopy of the dried EPS film revealed adhesion forces between 1.0 and 20.0 nN, while some sites were highly adhesive (Fa ≥ 20.0 nN). EPS biosynthetic genes were identified, with two glycosyltransferases correlating with an increase in carbohydrate production. The production of EPS by Rhodococcus cells exhibited strain-specific rather than species-specific patterns, reflecting a high genetic diversity of these bacteria.},
}

@article {pmid40732751,
year = {2025},
author = {Hegazy, EE and ElNaghy, WS and Shalaby, MM and Shoeib, SM and Abdeen, NSM and Fouda, MH and Elshora, OA and Elnaggar, MH and Elrefaey, W and Hagag, RY and Elhadidy, AA and Elsebaey, MA and Eltomey, MA and El Nakib, AM and Ageez, MN and Elnady, MS},
title = {Study of Class 1, 2, and 3 Integrons, Antibiotic Resistance Patterns, and Biofilm Formation in Clinical Staphylococcus aureus Isolates from Hospital-Acquired Infections.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {40732751},
issn = {2076-0817},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; Humans ; *Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; *Cross Infection/microbiology ; *Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/genetics/isolation & purification/physiology ; *Integrons/genetics ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Drug Resistance, Bacterial/genetics ; Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/genetics/isolation & purification ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics ; Penicillin-Binding Proteins ; },
abstract = {Antibiotic resistance and biofilm formation complicate Staphylococcus aureus infections, raising concerns for global health. Understanding antimicrobial resistance and biofilm formation in these pathogens is essential for effective infection management. The current research aimed to assess antibiotic resistance patterns, biofilm formation, and the occurrence of integron classes 1, 2, and 3 in clinical S. aureus isolates. The disc diffusion method tested antibiotic susceptibility. MRSA strains were identified by cefoxitin disc diffusion, and the mecA gene by PCR. The D-test also assessed macrolide-lincosamide-streptogramin B. A microtiter plate assay assessed biofilm formation. By PCR, integron classes were examined. Of the 63 S. aureus isolates, 25 were MSSA and 38 were MRSA. Pus (39.5%) was the most prevalent clinical source of MRSA isolates, while blood (24%) was the predominant source of MSSA isolates. MRSA isolates were more resistant to clindamycin, ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, levofloxacin, tetracycline, and doxycycline than MSSA isolates. In total, 76.2% of the isolates produced biofilm. Biofilm-producing isolates were more resistant to cefoxitin and clindamycin. The isolates had 33.3% cMLSB resistance. The intI1 gene was found in 21 S. aureus isolates (33.3%), whereas the intI2 or intI3 genes were not detected. Our findings demonstrate the need for strict infection control to prevent the spread of resistant bacteria.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
Humans
*Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
*Cross Infection/microbiology
*Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/genetics/isolation & purification/physiology
*Integrons/genetics
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Drug Resistance, Bacterial/genetics
Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/genetics/isolation & purification
Bacterial Proteins/genetics
Penicillin-Binding Proteins

@article {pmid40732174,
year = {2025},
author = {Austin, KM and Frizzell, JK and Neighmond, AA and Moppel, IJ and Ryno, LM},
title = {L-Arabinose Alters the E. coli Transcriptome to Favor Biofilm Growth and Enhances Survival During Fluoroquinolone Stress.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms13071665},
pmid = {40732174},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {MCB-2226953//U.S. National Science Foundation/ ; DBI-1828041//U.S. National Science Foundation/ ; N/A//Oberlin College/ ; },
abstract = {Environmental conditions, including nutrient composition and temperature, influence biofilm formation and antibiotic resistance in Escherichia coli. Understanding how specific metabolites modulate these processes is critical for improving antimicrobial strategies. Here, we investigated the growth and composition of Escherichia coli in both planktonic and biofilm states in the presence of L-arabinose, with and without exposure to the fluoroquinolone antibiotic levofloxacin, at two temperatures: 28 and 37 °C. At both temperatures, L-arabinose increased the growth rate of planktonic E. coli but resulted in reduced total growth; concurrently, it enhanced biofilm growth at 37 °C. L-arabinose reduced the efficacy of levofloxacin and promoted growth in sub-minimum inhibitory concentrations (25 ng/mL). Transcriptomic analyses provided insight into the molecular basis of arabinose-mediated reduced susceptibility of E. coli to levofloxacin. We found that L-arabinose had a temperature- and state-dependent impact on the transcriptome. Using gene ontology overrepresentation analyses, we found that L-arabinose modulated the expression of many critical antibiotic resistance genes, including efflux pumps (ydeA, mdtH, mdtM), transporters (proVWX), and biofilm-related genes for external structures like pili (fimA) and curli (csgA, csgB). This study demonstrates a previously uncharacterized role for L-arabinose in modulating antibiotic resistance and biofilm-associated gene expression in E. coli and provides a foundation for additional exploration of sugar-mediated antibiotic sensitivity in bacterial biofilms.},
}

@article {pmid40732122,
year = {2025},
author = {Carvalho, PLB and Pessan, JP and do Amaral, B and Troncha, AC and Sousa, SC and Monteiro, DR and Hosida, TY and Delbem, ACB and Sampaio, C},
title = {Impact of Different Regimens of Fluoridated Dentifrice Application on the pH and Inorganic Composition in an Oral Microcosm Biofilm Model.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms13071612},
pmid = {40732122},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {001//Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Education Personnel (CAPES)/ ; },
abstract = {This study evaluated the pH, fluoride (F), and calcium (Ca) concentrations in saliva-derived microcosm biofilms following treatments with dentifrices applied at different amounts and F concentration. Human saliva was inoculated into McBain culture medium, and treatments were applied at 72/78/96 h (1 min). Fluoridated dentifrices containing 550 or 1100 ppm F (550F and 1100F, respectively) were used at the following combinations (intensities): (i-1) 550F/0.08 g or 1100F/0.04 g; (i-2) 550F/0.16 g or 1100F/0.08 g; (i-3) 550F/0.32 g or 1100F/0.16 g. A negative control (fluoride-free dentifrice-PLA) was also included. Biofilm F and Ca were measured with an ion-selective electrode and colorimetrically, respectively, while pH in the culture medium was measured with a pH electrode. Data were subjected to ANOVA and Student-Newman-Keuls' test (p < 0.05). F-dentifrices did not significantly alter pH compared to PLA, except for 1100F at i-3. Biofilm F levels at i-1 and i-2 were comparable, for both 550F and 1100F, while 1100F at i-3 led to the highest biofilm F concentration. All F-groups showed significantly higher Ca levels than PLA, especially at i-2 and i-3. In conclusion, the interplay between dentifrice amount and F concentration was more influential on the biofilm's inorganic composition and pH than either variable alone.},
}

@article {pmid40735245,
year = {2024},
author = {Bhattacharya, R and Cornell, K and Browning, J},
title = {Simulation of a Radio-Frequency Wave Based Bacterial Biofilm Detection Method in Dairy Processing Facilities.},
journal = {Applied sciences (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {11},
pages = {},
pmid = {40735245},
issn = {2076-3417},
support = {P20 GM148321/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; },
abstract = {This paper describes the principles behind the radio-frequency (RF) sensing of bacterial biofilms in pipes and heat exchangers in a dairy processing plant using an electromagnetic simulation. Biofilm formation in dairy processing plants is a common issue where the absence of timely detection and subsequent cleaning can cause serious illness. Biofilms are known for causing health issues and cleaning requires a large volume of water and harsh chemicals. In this work, milk transportation pipes are considered circular waveguides, and pasteurizers/heat exchangers are considered resonant cavities. Simulations were carried out using the CST studio suite high-frequency solver to determine the effectiveness of the real-time RF sensing. The respective dielectric constants and loss tangents were applied to milk and biofilm. In our simulation, it was observed that a 1 μm thick layer of biofilm in a milk-filled pipe shifted the reflection coefficient of a 10.16 cm diameter stainless steel circular waveguide from 0.229 GHz to 0.19 GHz. Further sensitivity analysis revealed a shift in frequency from 0.8 GHz to 1.2 GHz for a film thickness of 5 μm to 10 μm with the highest wave reflection (S11) peak of ≈-120 dB for a 6 μm thick biofilm. A dielectric patch antenna to launch the waves into the waveguide through a dielectric window was also designed and simulated. Simulation using the antenna demonstrated a similar S11 response, where a shift in reflection coefficient from 0.229 GHz to 0.19 GHz was observed for a 1 μm thick biofilm. For the case of the resonant cavity, the same antenna approach was used to excite the modes in a 0.751 m × 0.321 m × 170 m rectangular cavity with heat exchange fins and filled with milk and biofilm. The simulated resonance frequency shifted from 1.52 GHz to 1.54 GHz, for a film thickness varying from 1 μm to 10 μm. This result demonstrated the sensitivity of the microwave detection method. Overall, these results suggest that microwave sensing has promise in the rapid, non-invasive, and real-time detection of biofilm formation in dairy processing plants.},
}

@article {pmid40732107,
year = {2025},
author = {Zheng, J and He, L and Wei, Y and Lu, J and Liu, X and Li, W},
title = {Cold Shock Proteins Balance Biofilm-Associated Antibiotic Resistance and Oxidative Vulnerability in Mycobacteria.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms13071597},
pmid = {40732107},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {32470034//National Natural Science Foundation of China Grants/ ; },
abstract = {Cold Shock Proteins (Csps) are multifunctional regulators critical for bacterial stress adaptation. While Csps are known to regulate biofilm formation and low-temperature growth in some species, their roles in mycobacteria remain unclear. Here, we explored the functions of three Csps (CspA1, CspA2, and CspB) in Mycobacterium smegmatis. We found that CspA1 promotes biofilm formation and isoniazid (INH) resistance but negatively affects oxidative stress resistance. In contrast, CspB promotes biofilm formation, whereas CspA2 appears functionally redundant in this process. Notably, CspB and CspA2 do not contribute redundantly to oxidative stress resistance. Proteomic analysis revealed that CspA1 significantly modulates the expression of key metabolic and stress-response proteins, including WhiB3 and KatG. Our findings establish CspA1 as a key regulatory factor in mycobacteria, linking metabolic adaptation to biofilm-associated drug resistance and oxidative defense.},
}

@article {pmid40732049,
year = {2025},
author = {Peng, W and Xu, H and Zhang, M and Xu, B and Dai, B and Yang, C},
title = {The Effects of Bacillus licheniformis on the Growth, Biofilm, Motility and Quorum Sensing of Salmonella typhimurium.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms13071540},
pmid = {40732049},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {2023YFD1302800//Caimei Yang/ ; },
abstract = {With 80% of bacterial infections occurring as biofilms, biofilm-related infections have evolved into a critical public health concern. Probiotics such as Bacillus licheniformis have emerged as promising alternatives, offering new avenues for effective treatment. This study aimed to evaluate the activity of licheniformis against the growth, biofilm formation, motility, and quorum sensing (QS) of Salmonella typhimurium. Several experiments were conducted: The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of Bacillus licheniformis against Salmonella typhimurium was determined to be 0.5 mg/mL using the broth microdilution method. The inhibition zone of 100 mg/mL of B. licheniformis against Salmonella typhimurium was 19.98 ± 1.38 mm; the time-growth curve showed that B. licheniformis can effectively inhibit the growth of Salmonella typhimurium. In biofilm experiments, at the MIC of B. licheniformis, the inhibition rate of immature biofilm of Salmonella typhimurium was 86.9%, and it significantly reduced the production of biofilm components (EPS, e-DNA, and extracellular proteases) (p < 0.05). The disruption rate of mature biofilm by B. licheniformis at the MIC was 66.89%, and it significantly decreased the levels of biofilm components (EPS and e-DNA) (p < 0.5). Microscopic observation showed that both the MIC and 1/2 MIC of B. licheniformis could reduce the number of bacteria in the Salmonella typhimurium biofilm, which was not conducive to the formation and maintenance of the biofilm structure. Swimming/Swarming assays and QS experiments confirmed that B. licheniformis inhibits the motility of Salmonella typhimurium and the secretion of AI-1-type quorum sensing molecules and downregulates the AI-2 quorum sensing system by upregulating lsr gene expression. These findings suggest that B. licheniformis could be a potential antimicrobial agent and biofilm inhibitor.},
}

@article {pmid40732035,
year = {2025},
author = {Borisova, D and Paunova-Krasteva, T and Strateva, T and Stoitsova, S},
title = {Biofilm Formation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in Cystic Fibrosis: Mechanisms of Persistence, Adaptation, and Pathogenesis.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms13071527},
pmid = {40732035},
issn = {2076-2607},
abstract = {Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a life-limiting autosomal recessive disorder affecting a large number of individuals in Europe. The disease arises from mutations in the CFTR gene encoding the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator, a chloride ion channel crucial for maintaining epithelial ion and fluid homeostasis. Dysfunctional CFTR disrupts mucociliary clearance, particularly in the respiratory tract, resulting in persistent bacterial colonization, chronic inflammation, and progressive pulmonary damage-ultimately leading to respiratory failure, the principal cause of mortality in CF patients. Early diagnosis and advances in therapy have substantially improved both survival and quality of life. A hallmark of CF pathology is the establishment of polymicrobial infections within the thickened airway mucus. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the dominant pathogen in chronic CF lung infections and demonstrates a remarkable capacity for adaptation via biofilm formation, metabolic reprogramming, and immune evasion. Biofilms confer increased tolerance to antimicrobial agents and facilitate long-term persistence in hypoxic, nutrient-limited microenvironments. P. aeruginosa exhibits a wide range of virulence factors, including exotoxins (e.g., ExoU, ExoS), pigments (pyoverdine, pyochelin), and motility structures (flagella and pili), which contribute to tissue invasion, immune modulation, and host damage. During chronic colonization, P. aeruginosa undergoes significant genotypic and phenotypic changes, such as mucoid conversion, downregulation of acute virulence pathways, and emergence of hypermutator phenotypes that facilitate rapid adaptation. Persistent cells, a specialized subpopulation characterized by metabolic dormancy and antibiotic tolerance, further complicate eradication efforts. The dynamic interplay between host environment and microbial evolution underlies the heterogeneity of CF lung infections and presents significant challenges for treatment. Elucidating the molecular mechanisms driving persistence, hypermutability, and biofilm resilience is critical for the development of effective therapeutic strategies targeting chronic P. aeruginosa infections in CF.},
}

@article {pmid40731956,
year = {2025},
author = {Counihan, KL and Tilman, S and Uknalis, J and Mukhopadhyay, S and Niemira, BA and Bermudez-Aguirre, D},
title = {Attachment and Biofilm Formation of Eight Different Salmonella Serotypes on Three Food-Contact Surfaces at Different Temperatures.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms13071446},
pmid = {40731956},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {8072-41420-025//Agricultural Research Service/ ; 0500-00093-001-00-D//Agricultural Research Service/ ; },
abstract = {Salmonella spp. represent a food safety risk in the production chain because of their potential for biofilm development. This study examined the biofilm formation of eight Salmonella serotypes from diverse foodborne outbreaks on three food-contact surfaces, stainless steel, silicone, and nylon, at 10 °C and 37 °C. The effect of temperature was observed in slower biofilm formation at 10 °C with about 5-log (cfu/cm[2]) after 24 h, contrasting with 7-log (cfu/cm[2]) at 37 °C. The material also influenced biofilm formation, with the strongest biofilms on stainless steel at 10 °C and silicone at 37 °C. The serotypes producing the strongest biofilms were S. Enteritidis, S. Saint Paul, and S. Montevideo. The weakest serotypes were S. Senftenberg, S. Anatum, and the avirulent S. Typhimurium. The production of extra-polymeric substances was evident with S. Enteritidis. The biofilm index showed the highest value for low temperature, nylon, and silicone, and for S. Montevideo, S. Enteritidis, and S. Saint Paul. The whole-genome sequencing of each serovar suggested that single nucleotide polymorphisms in the curli (csg) genes may have contributed to the strong biofilm-forming ability of S. Montevideo and S. Saint Paul and the weaker ability of S. Senftenberg. These results can help with the correct development of sanitizing interventions based on the Salmonella strain of concern.},
}

@article {pmid40728744,
year = {2025},
author = {Weng, Y and Li, J and Xie, D and Peng, S and Wen, Y and Wan, J and Ma, D and Li, G and Zhang, W},
title = {ZIF-8-Based Composites for Enhanced Biofilm Penetration and Synergistic Antibacterial Therapy against Periodontal Pathogens.},
journal = {ACS applied materials & interfaces},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acsami.5c06407},
pmid = {40728744},
issn = {1944-8252},
abstract = {Periodontitis is initiated by bacterial biofilms, and the removal of plaque is critical in preventing the onset and progression of periodontal diseases, including gingival inflammation, periodontitis, and even alveolar bone resorption. Clinically, mechanical methods are commonly used to remove plaque and calculus. However, conventional methods struggle to access certain regions, such as deep periodontal pockets, root furcations, and dentinal tubules. In these cases, antimicrobial agents are required to eradicate residual pathogenic microorganisms. This study designed a dextran-coated ZIF-8-based composite material (Ce6@ZIF-8/Dex) to enhance biofilm penetration and photodynamic antibacterial efficacy against periodontal pathogens. The photosensitizer, chlorin e6 (Ce6), synergizes with zinc ions (Zn[2+]) from the zeolitic imidazolate framework 8 (ZIF-8) to achieve a combined antibacterial effect and reduce bacterial resistance to single antimicrobial agents. Dextran modification further improves the biofilm penetration capability of the ZIF-8 composite, enhancing its overall antibacterial efficiency. In vivo, Ce6@ZIF-8/Dex demonstrated excellent biocompatibility and antibacterial activity against Porphyromonas gingivalis and Streptococcus mutans. This study presents a promising antibacterial strategy for the prevention and treatment of periodontitis.},
}

@article {pmid40728229,
year = {2025},
author = {Haridas, A and Alidokht, L and Wang, Y and Mohsin, MS and Butler, C and Lanzarini-Lopes, M},
title = {Wavelength-Specific Biofilm Control from Internally UV-Emitting Glass Surfaces.},
journal = {Environmental science & technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acs.est.5c04103},
pmid = {40728229},
issn = {1520-5851},
abstract = {This study introduces a novel wavelength-specific approach to biofilm inhibition using UV-emitting glass (UEG). Microorganisms rapidly form biofilms on wetted surfaces, posing significant operational and health risks. UEGs offer a consumable-free alternative to traditional antifouling coatings through bottom-up UV irradiance, enhancing both oxidative and direct photolytic inhibition mechanisms. We evaluated UEG effectiveness by comparing log reduction values (LRV) and biofilm structural differences across different wavelengths, while detailing electrical power consumption calculations for comparison with other electrically driven biofilm inhibition technologies. The 265 nm UEG achieved the highest biofilm inhibition performance with >3 LRV and >95% visible biofilm reduction during 8-day submersion at 1.01 ± 0.55 mW/cm[2] power consumption. Notably, 365 and 310 nm UEGs achieved >0.4 and >1.9 LRV despite significantly lower germicidal benefits. The thickness of the established biofilm, however, was the same across all substrates. This research explores UEG's unique characteristics and evaluates energy requirements and biofilm inhibition efficiency across UV spectra. The developed methods significantly impact innovative, low-energy UV-emitting surface technology, which reduces energy use and environmental impact compared to traditional UV sources. These findings are crucial for the marine, water treatment, and healthcare industries where biofouling and infection control are essential.},
}

@article {pmid40727777,
year = {2025},
author = {Melo, WC and Žalytė, E and Abouhagger, A and Lauciu̅tė, G and Straksys, A and Stirke, A},
title = {Photoactive Hydrogel-Based Therapy for Biofilm Disruption in Chronic Wound Infections.},
journal = {ACS omega},
volume = {10},
number = {28},
pages = {30525-30533},
pmid = {40727777},
issn = {2470-1343},
abstract = {This study presents a novel approach for treating chronic biofilm-associated infections by utilizing a gel-like hydrogel (HG1MB1) incorporating methylene blue (MB), a photosensitizer, to enhance photoinactivation of microbial biofilms. The key novelty of this work lies in the gel-like structure of HG1MB1, which significantly improves the penetration of MB into the deeper layers of the biofilm, promoting more effective disruption of the biofilm matrix. This improved uptake and interaction with the extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) of the biofilm leads to a reduction in EPS and breakdown of the biofilm structure. Additionally, the hydrogel's ability to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) upon light activation enhances its antimicrobial efficacy. HG1MB1 also demonstrated broad-spectrum activity against both bacterial and fungal biofilms, suggesting its potential as an effective treatment for chronic infections.},
}

@article {pmid40727079,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhou, Z and Liu, X and Mei, L and Guo, X and Gao, Y and Hao, Y},
title = {Fabrication of N-halamine coatings with long-lasting bacterial inhibition and bacterial biofilm disruption functions for invisible aligner applications.},
journal = {Materials today. Bio},
volume = {33},
number = {},
pages = {102112},
pmid = {40727079},
issn = {2590-0064},
abstract = {Enamel white spot lesions (WSLs) not only compromise the efficacy of orthodontic treatments but also pose risks to dental health. Although clear aligners offer the advantage of facilitating oral hygiene maintenance, their full-coverage crown design impedes the self-cleaning function of saliva, potentially leading to extensive white spot formation. This study pioneers the application of a PA@PEI-Cl coating to transparent aligners. A colloidal polymer formed via electrostatic interactions between phytic acid (PA) and polyethyleneimine (PEI), combined with a broad-spectrum antibacterial N-halamine polymer, enables this coating to achieve synergistic antibacterial efficacy. The preparation protocols and reaction conditions were optimized in detail. Systematic experiments confirmed the stable adhesion of coating to aligners and the long-lasting antibacterial performance, enhancing the safety of orthodontic treatment. This simple and low-cost method is suitable for large-scale industrial production. It provides an innovative solution to enhance aligner functionality and demonstrates a significant clinical potential for preventing orthodontic complications.},
}

@article {pmid40727035,
year = {2025},
author = {Purbo Sejati, B and Kusumaatmaja, A and Widiastuti, MG and Haniastuti, T},
title = {Clinical and microscopic evidence of biofilm formation on titanium miniplates applied in maxillofacial surgery: a case series analysis.},
journal = {Case reports in plastic surgery & hand surgery},
volume = {12},
number = {1},
pages = {2535707},
pmid = {40727035},
issn = {2332-0885},
abstract = {Titanium miniplates, though biocompatible, often require removal due to infections (3-18%), primarily from Staphylococcus aureus. Biofilms, which resist antibiotics, drive persistent infections. We analyzed 10 infected miniplates via SEM, revealing dense polymicrobial biofilms, especially near screw holes. These structured microbial communities underscore the need for biofilm-targeted treatments to improve outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid40726828,
year = {2025},
author = {Manoharan, A and Whiteley, G and Kuppusamy, R and Jensen, S and Glasbey, T and Chen, Z and Moshkanbaryans, L and Moore, KH and Das, T and Manos, J},
title = {Combating biofilm formation and bacterial killing: N-acetylcysteine's efficacy against Pseudomonas aeruginosa in urinary catheters.},
journal = {Biofilm},
volume = {10},
number = {},
pages = {100296},
pmid = {40726828},
issn = {2590-2075},
abstract = {Uropathogenic Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a significant contributor to catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CA-UTIs), distinguished by its unique biofilm-forming properties compared to other strains. Despite its clinical significance, optimized strategies for biofilm eradication in the bladder and on catheters remain limited. Thus, the aim of this study was to highlight the potent antibacterial and biofilm-inhibitory effects of N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) against uropathogenic P. aeruginosa. Additionally, we sought to investigate its effect against catheter obstruction caused by P. aeruginosa in a patient, and whether this phenomenon can be replicated in vitro to underscore the urgency of addressing this critical challenge. We demonstrated that uropathogenic P. aeruginosa form thick, mucoid biofilms in vitro that can heavily occlude catheters, with bacterial titres of between 10[8] and 10[11] CFU/cm, thus impairing catheter functionality. Furthermore, treatment with NAC significantly reduced viable bacteria by > 4log10 (p < 0.01), and inhibited biofilm formation and associated obstruction till experiment endpoint (96h). NAC also displayed significant bactericidal activity (p < 0.001) against P. aeruginosa and significantly impeded bacterial attachment and aggregation through modulation of colloidal forces and change in the structure of the bacterial cell surface, thus impairing the bacterium's ability to initiate biofilm development. Mechanistically, NAC alters the bacterial surface structure, disrupting biofilm-associated virulence. Hence our study found that NAC treatment physically disrupts uropathogenic P. aeruginosa biofilms and significantly alters its virulence. Our novel findings highlight the dual bactericidal and anti-biofilm properties of NAC in vitro, offering valuable insights into its potential application for preventing P. aeruginosa biofilm formation and catheter blockage in CA-UTI management.},
}

@article {pmid40726827,
year = {2025},
author = {Dodia, H and Ojha, S and Chatterjee, P and Beuria, TK},
title = {10058-F4 Mediated inhibition of the biofilm formation in multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.},
journal = {Biofilm},
volume = {10},
number = {},
pages = {100307},
pmid = {40726827},
issn = {2590-2075},
abstract = {Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global concern that undermines microbial disease treatment and prevention. WHO and World Bank's EcoAMR report predicts that AMR could cause 39 million deaths and $3.4 trillion in annual GDP losses by the year 2050. This is particularly critical with S. aureus, a cause of diverse infections like skin abscesses and pneumonia, where antibiotic resistance increases mortality and hinders treatment. Biofilms are one of the major causes of multi-drug resistance in S. aureus, and their inhibition can restore antibiotic sensitivity. In this study, through screening of the LOPAC drug library, we identified several compounds that exhibit biofilm inhibitory properties against multi-drug-resistant S. aureus without affecting its growth. The compound 10058-F4 was found to have the strongest anti-biofilm activity (>70 % inhibition) with minimal antibacterial effects (MIC 256 μg/mL); however, it showed no inhibitory effects on pre-existing biofilm. Further, the 10058-F4 treatment suppressed the expression of sarA, the biofilm master regulator, along with biofilm genes, such as icaA, fnb, nuc, and sspA. Additionally, the results showed that 10058-F4 synergistically enhanced the antibacterial activity of norfloxacin and tetracycline, indicating its potential use as an adjunct to the existing antibiotic treatments. While these findings suggest the potential of 10058-F4 for clinical use, further investigations are necessary to elucidate its mechanism of action and optimize its application in combination therapies.},
}

@article {pmid40726795,
year = {2025},
author = {Schulte, AM and Schoenmakers, JWA and van Oosten, M and Jutte, PC and van Dijl, JM and Szymanski, W and Feringa, BL},
title = {Green-Light-Activatable Penicillin for Light-Dependent Spatial Control of Bacterial Growth, Biofilm Formation, and In Vivo Infection Treatment.},
journal = {ACS central science},
volume = {11},
number = {7},
pages = {1083-1093},
pmid = {40726795},
issn = {2374-7943},
abstract = {Our ability to prevent, treat, and cure bacterial infections is nowadays seriously threatened by the rise of (multidrug) antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and novel molecular approaches in the antibacterial arsenal are urgently needed. To fight the development of AMR, the field of photopharmacology aims to develop photoresponsive antimicrobials allowing for noninvasive activation of the drug only at the site needed, with spatiotemporal precision, reducing the bacterial exposure to the active antimicrobial in the environment. This study reports the development and application for the first time of a green-light-activatable variant of penicillin (Penicillin-PPG), designed through the incorporation of a photocleavable protecting group. Here, we demonstrate that Penicillin-PPG shows no antimicrobial activity in the dark, while it can be precisely activated through irradiation with green light. Furthermore, we show Penicillin-PPG's utility to spatially control bacterial growth, achieve light-dependent inhibition of biofilm formation, and showcase the unprecedented usage of a photoactivatable antimicrobial in vivo in a small animal infection model. Furthermore, we apply Penicillin-PPG in combination with a λ-orthogonally photocaged bioactive compound to achieve photocontrol over antimicrobial activity dependent on two distinct colors of light.},
}

@article {pmid40726005,
year = {2025},
author = {Pereira da Silva, PDSL and Teixeira, MDS and de Araújo Rocha, A and Barros, RR and Gonçalves, LS and Tostes, MA},
title = {Evaluation of Streptococcus mutans biofilm formation on fluoride-releasing materials used as pit and fissure sealants.},
journal = {European journal of oral sciences},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e70034},
doi = {10.1111/eos.70034},
pmid = {40726005},
issn = {1600-0722},
support = {//National Council for Scientific and Technological Development of Brazil (CNPq)/ ; },
abstract = {This in vitro study evaluated fluoride release and Streptococcus mutans biofilm formation on four types of dental sealants: a giomer, resin-modified glass ionomer, compomer, and a fluoride-free composite (control). Discs were prepared as per the manufacturers' instructions, and they were placed in tubes containing ultrapure water. Fluoride release was measured after 2, 7, and 30 days using ion chromatography, and biofilm formation was analyzed via scanning electron microscopy (SEM). A repeated-measures linear mixed model with log transformation and Bonferroni-corrected post-hoc tests was applied. The resin-modified glass ionomer showed the highest fluoride release, followed by the giomer, with increasing values over time. Compomer and the fluoride-free composite exhibited low, stable fluoride levels. SEM confirmed S. mutans biofilm on all materials. These findings highlight distinct fluoride release profiles and suggest that materials with higher fluoride release may offer improved long-term protection against cariogenic biofilm formation.},
}

@article {pmid40725195,
year = {2025},
author = {Ziental, D and Giuntini, F and Wysocki, M and Talarska-Kulczyk, P and Kubicka, A and Dlugaszewska, J and Sobotta, L},
title = {N-Methylpyridinium Porphyrin Complexes as Sensitizers for Sonodynamic Therapy Against Planktonic and Biofilm-Forming Multidrug-Resistant Microbes.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {14},
pages = {},
pmid = {40725195},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {FENG.02.02-IP.05-0257/23//Foundation for Polish Science/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Porphyrins/chemistry/pharmacology ; Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism ; *Photosensitizing Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Plankton/drug effects ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/drug effects ; *Ultrasonic Therapy ; Photochemotherapy ; },
abstract = {Porphyrins play an extremely important role in both photodynamic (PDT) and sonodynamic therapy (SDT). These techniques, which have a lot in common, are largely based on the interaction between the sensitizer and light or ultrasounds (US), respectively, resulting in the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that have the ability to destroy target cells. SDT requires the use of an appropriate frequency of US waves that are able to excite the chemical compound used. In this study, five porphyrin complexes were used: free-base meso-tetra(N-methyl-pyridinium-4-yl)porphyrin (TMPyP) and its transition metal complexes containing zinc(II), palladium(II), copper(II), and chloride-iron(II). The sonodynamic activity of these compounds was studied in vitro. The obtained results confirm the significant relationship between the chemical structure of the macrocycle and its stability and ability to generate ROS. The highest efficiency in ROS generation and high stability were demonstrated by non-metalated compound and its complex with zinc(II), while complex with copper(II), although less stable, were equally effective in terms of ROS production. Antibacterial activity tests showed the unique properties of the tested compounds, including a reduction in the number of both planktonic and biofilm antibiotic-resistant microorganisms above 5 log, which is rare among sonosensitizers.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Porphyrins/chemistry/pharmacology
Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism
*Photosensitizing Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
*Plankton/drug effects
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
*Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/drug effects
*Ultrasonic Therapy
Photochemotherapy

@article {pmid40725050,
year = {2025},
author = {Dervisbegovic, S and Bloch, S and Maierhofer, V and Behm, C and Rausch-Fan, X and Moritz, A and Schäffer, C and Andrukhov, O},
title = {Effect of Low-Level Laser Therapy on Periodontal Host Cells and a Seven-Species Periodontitis Model Biofilm.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {14},
pages = {},
pmid = {40725050},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {*Biofilms/radiation effects/growth & development ; Humans ; *Low-Level Light Therapy/methods ; Fibroblasts/radiation effects/microbiology/metabolism ; Gingiva/cytology/microbiology/radiation effects ; *Periodontitis/microbiology/radiotherapy/pathology ; Periodontal Ligament/cytology/radiation effects/microbiology ; Cells, Cultured ; Lasers, Semiconductor ; Cytokines/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is gaining attention as an effective adjunct to non-surgical periodontal treatment. This study evaluates the potential of LLLT to reduce bacterial load in a clinically relevant in vitro subgingival biofilm model and its impact on the inflammatory response. A subgingival biofilm model consisting of seven bacterial species was established. Primary human gingival fibroblasts (GFs) and periodontal ligament cells (PDLs) were cultured. Both biofilms and host cells were treated with the DenLase Diode Laser (980 nm) under various clinically relevant settings. The composition and structure of the seven-species biofilms were evaluated using quantitative PCR and fluorescence microscopy, respectively. The inflammatory response in host cells was analyzed by measuring the gene and protein expression levels of various inflammatory mediators. Laser treatment at power outputs ranging from 0.3 to 2 W had no significant effect on biofilm composition or architecture. LLLT, particularly at higher power settings, reduced the viability in both GFs and PDLs up to 70%. Gene expression levels of inflammatory mediators were only minimally influenced by laser treatment. However, LLLT significantly decreased the secretion of all examined cytokines. These findings suggest that LLLT with a 980 nm diode laser, under clinically relevant conditions, exerts anti-inflammatory rather than antimicrobial effects.},
}

*Biofilms/radiation effects/growth & development
Humans
*Low-Level Light Therapy/methods
Fibroblasts/radiation effects/microbiology/metabolism
Gingiva/cytology/microbiology/radiation effects
*Periodontitis/microbiology/radiotherapy/pathology
Periodontal Ligament/cytology/radiation effects/microbiology
Cells, Cultured
Lasers, Semiconductor
Cytokines/metabolism

@article {pmid40724036,
year = {2025},
author = {Honegger, AL and Schweizer, TA and Achermann, Y and Bosshard, PP},
title = {Correction: Honegger et al. Antimicrobial Efficacy of Five Wound Irrigation Solutions in the Biofilm Microenvironment In Vitro and Ex Vivo. Antibiotics 2025, 14, 25.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {40724036},
issn = {2079-6382},
abstract = {There was an error in the original publication [...].},
}

@article {pmid40724019,
year = {2025},
author = {Giammarino, A and Verdolini, L and Simonetti, G and Angiolella, L},
title = {Fungal Biofilm: An Overview of the Latest Nano-Strategies.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics14070718},
pmid = {40724019},
issn = {2079-6382},
abstract = {Background/Objectives: There is an increasing incidence of fungal infections in conjunction with the rise in resistance to medical treatment. Antimicrobial resistance is frequently associated with virulence factors such as adherence and the capacity of biofilm formation, which facilitates the evasion of the host immune response and resistance to drug action. Novel therapeutic strategies have been developed to overcome antimicrobial resistance, including the use of different type of nanomaterials: metallic (Au, Ag, Fe3O4 and ZnO), organic (e.g., chitosan, liposomes and lactic acid) or carbon-based (e.g., quantum dots, nanotubes and graphene) materials. The objective of this study was to evaluate the action of nanoparticles of different synthesis and with different coatings on fungi of medical interest. Methods: Literature research was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar databases, and the following terms were employed in articles published up to June 2025: 'nanoparticles' in combination with 'fungal biofilm', 'Candida biofilm', 'Aspergillus biofilm', 'Cryptococcus biofilm', 'Fusarium biofilm' and 'dermatophytes biofilm'. Results: The utilization of nanoparticles was found to exert a substantial impact on the reduction in fungal biofilm, despite the presence of substantial variability in minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values attributable to variations in nanoparticle type and the presence of capping agents. It was observed that the MIC values were lower for metallic nanoparticles, particularly silver, and for those synthesized with polylactic acid compared to the others. Conclusions: Despite the limited availability of data concerning the stability and biocompatibility of nanoparticles employed in the treatment of fungal biofilms, it can be posited that these results constitute a significant initial step.},
}

@article {pmid40724001,
year = {2025},
author = {Fontanot, A and Croughs, PD and Cortese, C and de Bruijn, ACJM and Falciani, C and Pini, A and Ellinger, I and Unger, WWJ and Hays, JP},
title = {Antimicrobial Peptides SET-M33L and SET-M33L-PEG Are Promising Agents Against Strong Biofilm-Forming P. aeruginosa, Including Multidrug-Resistant Isolates.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics14070699},
pmid = {40724001},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {101073263//Horizon Europe MSCA/ ; },
abstract = {Background: The antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) SET-M33L and SET-M33L-PEG were investigated against 10 clinical isolates of P. aeruginosa. Methods: Their minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs), minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs), and minimum biofilm inhibitory concentrations (MBICs) were evaluated against tobramycin, ceftazidime, and polymyxin B. Results: MICs and MBCs were 7- to 100-fold lower than tobramycin, and 10- to 300-fold lower than ceftazidime. Fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC) indices showed an additive effect, while fractional bactericidal concentration (FBC) indices showed synergistic effects (FBC < 0.5) for most isolates. Conclusion: SET-M33L and SET-M33L-PEG are promising antimicrobial agents against strong biofilm-forming P. aeruginosa, including MDR isolates.},
}

@article {pmid40723971,
year = {2025},
author = {Tomusiak-Plebanek, A and Kozień, Ł and Gallienne, E and Florczyk, M and Ciesielski, S and Heczko, P and Strus, M},
title = {Transcriptomic Analysis of Biofilm Formation Inhibition by PDIA Iminosugar in Staphylococcus aureus.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics14070668},
pmid = {40723971},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {2018/31/B/NZ6/02443//Polish National Science Center/ ; },
abstract = {Background: Iminosugars are natural or synthetic sugar analogues with a very broad spectrum of activities, including those against the most prominent bacterial pathogens, like P. aeruginosa or S. aureus. In a series of studies, we have demonstrated that one of the synthetic iminosugars, PDIA (beta-1-C-propyl-1,4-dideoxy-1,4-imino-L-arabinitol), possesses the ability to suppress biofilm production by different pathogenic bacteria without inhibiting their growth. Thereby, PDIA is able to influence experimental skin infection caused by S. aureus. Methods: To elucidate molecular mechanisms by which PDIA impedes biofilm formation by S. aureus, a transcriptomic study was performed in which a biofilm-producing S. aureus strain was grown in the presence of PDIA for 24 and 48 h in comparison to a control without the iminosugar. The RNA was then isolated, converted into cDNA, sequenced, and data analysis was performed. Results: It appeared that PDIA caused the down-regulation of many bacteriophage genes responsible for the processes of bacterial cell lysis, and some genes responsible for cell wall degradation were also down-regulated. Among the 25 most upregulated genes were those representing the phosphotransferase system (PTS), which is required for carbohydrate uptake and control of carbon metabolism. The ranking of the most significant down-regulated genes after 24 h exposure to PDIA shows that they predominantly coded for both the synthesis and lysis of the peptidoglycan. Conclusions: We have shown here that the influence of PDIA on the expression of S. aureus genes is broad and affects many genes encoding metabolism and ribosomes.},
}

@article {pmid40723943,
year = {2025},
author = {Bai, E and Tan, Q and Yi, X and Yao, J and Duan, Y and Huang, Y},
title = {Dual Redox Targeting by Pyrroloformamide A and Silver Ions Enhances Antibacterial and Anti-Biofilm Activity Against Carbapenem-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics14070640},
pmid = {40723943},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {82173688//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2023SK2071//The science and technology innovation Program of Hunan Province/ ; BP0820034//Chinese Ministry of Education 111 Project/ ; },
abstract = {Background: Dithiolopyrrolones (DTPs), such as holomycin and thiolutin, exhibit potent antibacterial activities. DTPs contain a disulfide within a unique bicyclic scaffold, which may chelate metal ions and disrupt metal-dependent cellular processes once the disulfide is reductively transformed to thiols. However, the contribution of the intrinsic redox mechanism of DTPs to their antibacterial activity remains unclear. Herein we used pyrroloformamide (Pyf) A, a DTP with a unique formyl substituent, as a prototype to study the antibacterial potential and mechanism against ESKAPE pathogens, in particular carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP). Methods: The antibacterial and anti-biofilm activities of Pyf A were mainly assessed against clinical CRKP isolates. Propidium iodide staining, scanning electron microscopy, glutathione (GSH) quantification, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) analysis were utilized to infer its anti-CRKP mechanism. The synergistic antibacterial effects of Pyf A and AgNO3 were evaluated through checkerboard and time-kill assays, as well as in vivo murine wound and catheter biofilm infection models. Results: Pyf A exhibited broad-spectrum antibacterial activity against ESKAPE pathogens with minimum inhibitory concentrations ranging from 0.25 to 4 μg/mL. It also showed potent anti-biofilm effects against CRKP. Pyf A disrupted the cell membranes of CRKP and markedly depleted intracellular GSH without triggering ROS accumulation. Pyf A and AgNO3 showed synergistic anti-CRKP activities in vitro and in vivo, by disrupting both GSH- and thioredoxin-mediated redox homeostasis. Conclusions: Pyf A acts as a GSH-depleting agent and, when combined with AgNO3, achieves dual-targeted disruption of bacterial thiol redox systems. This dual-targeting strategy enhances antibacterial efficacy of Pyf A and represents a promising therapeutic approach to combat CRKP infections.},
}

@article {pmid40723942,
year = {2025},
author = {Rajeev, R and Kannan, P and Sundaram, S and Mohan, SB and Radjendirane, S and Harnathbhai, CJ and Subbaiyan, A and Naveenkumar, V and Mohanadasse, NQ and Savariraj, WR and Cull, CA and Amachawadi, RG},
title = {First Report of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia from Canine Dermatological Infections: Unravelling Its Antimicrobial Resistance, Biofilm Formation, and Virulence Traits.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics14070639},
pmid = {40723942},
issn = {2079-6382},
abstract = {Background/Objectives: The present study was aimed at documenting S. maltophilia occurrence in dogs with skin ailments, investigating its virulence, biofilm-forming ability, antimicrobial susceptibility, and zoonotic potential to inform preventive and therapeutic strategies against multidrug resistant S. maltophilia infections. Methods: Skin swabs (n = 300) were collected from dogs with dermatological ailments. Isolation was performed using selective media and confirmed with molecular methods, validated by MALDI Biotyper. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing and efflux activity assessment were conducted. Resistance genes related to sulfonamides, quinolones, and β-lactams were screened. Virulence was assessed by biofilm formation, motility, and virulence gene profiling. Results: In total, 15 S. maltophilia (5%) isolates were identified. All 15 isolates were susceptible to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, enrofloxacin, gatifloxacin, levofloxacin, minocycline, and tigecycline, but resistant to cefpodoxime and aztreonam. The following resistance genes qnr (93.3%), blaOXA-48 (46.7%), blaKPC (33.3%), blaNDM (33.3%), blaCTX-M (20%), blaSHV (20%), and blaTEM (6.7%) were detected. All 15 isolates displayed high efflux activity. Overall, 9 isolates (60%) were strong biofilm producers, and 6 (40%) were moderate. Virulence genes such as virB, motA, rmlA, and fliC were present in all 15 isolates, with others varying in frequency. All isolates exhibited swimming motility. Heat map clustering showed diverse profiles, with no identical isolate patterns. Correlation analysis indicated positive associations between several antimicrobial resistance and virulence genes. Conclusions: This study underscores the zoonotic potential of S. maltophilia from dogs, advocating for a One Health approach to mitigate infection risks and limit the spread of virulent multidrug resistant pathogens.},
}

@article {pmid40723940,
year = {2025},
author = {Oh, DK and Jo, DM and Kim, M and Jo, JB and Choi, JH and Choi, JM and Jeong, GJ and Jeong, SY and Khan, F and Kim, YM},
title = {Biofilm-Forming Lactic Acid Bacteria in Sausages: Isolation, Characterization, and Inhibition Using Eisenia bicyclis-Based Nanoparticles.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics14070637},
pmid = {40723940},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {2024 Postdoctoral support project//Pukyong National University Industry-University Cooperation Foundation's/ ; RS-2025-00555808//National Research Foundation of Korea/ ; RS-2025-02373103//Korea Institute of Marine Science & Technology Promotion/ ; },
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Lactic acid bacteria produce biofilms in meat products that contribute to the products' deterioration, reduction in quality, and shortened shelf life. Although LAB are generally considered benign, certain strains create slime and cause significant drops in pH. The study's goal was to identify and characterize LAB strains from sausage products that are capable of biofilm formation, and to evaluate the inhibitory effects of E. bicyclis methanol extract, its ethyl acetate fraction, and phloroglucinol, as well as to synthesize AuNPs, and assess their efficacy in controlling biofilm formation. Methods: Slime or biofilm-producing LAB bacteria were isolated from commercial sausages and identified using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Lactobacillus sakei S10, which can tolerate high salt concentrations and cold temperatures, was chosen as a representative strain. The isolates were subsequently tested for hemolytic activity, salt and temperature tolerance, and carbohydrate consumption patterns. To evaluate antibiofilm potential, marine-derived compounds from Eisenia bicyclis, such as phloroglucinol (PG), crude methanolic extracts, ethyl acetate fractions, and gold nanoparticle (AuNP) formulations, were tested in situ on sausage surfaces against L. sakei S10 and common pathogens (Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus). The biofilm-inhibitory effects of the extracts, PG, and PG-AuNPs were estimated using the colony-counting method. Results: The PG-AuNPs had an average particle size of 98.74 nm and a zeta potential of -29.82 mV, indicating nanoscale dimensions and considerable colloidal stability. Structural analysis confirmed their spherical form and crystalline structure, as well as the presence of phenolic groups in both reduction and stabilization processes. Among the studied treatments, the PG and PG-AuNPs had the strongest antibiofilm activities, dramatically lowering biofilm biomass, particularly for P. aeruginosa and L. sakei S10. However, the inhibitory effects were less prominent in in situ conditions than in in vitro testing, highlighting the complexity of real food matrices. Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that polyphenolic compounds obtained from marine sources, particularly in nano-formulated forms, have a great deal of potential as natural antibiofilm products. Enhancing the microbiological safety of processed meat products and extending their shelf life could be accomplished through the application of these polyphenolic compounds in food packaging or surface treatments.},
}

@article {pmid40723931,
year = {2025},
author = {Dimitrova, L and Zaharieva, MM and Tserovska, L and Popova, M and Bankova, V and Najdenski, H},
title = {Inhibition of the MRSA Biofilm Formation and Skin Antineoplastic Activity of Ethyl Acetate Roots and Aerial Parts Extracts from Geum urbanum L.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics14070627},
pmid = {40723931},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {№80-10-19/17.04.2018//Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski"/ ; },
abstract = {Background: The opportunistic pathogen Staphylococcus aureus causes skin and soft tissue infections that are associated with biofilm formation, and in immunocompromised patients can progress to surgical site infections, pneumonia, bacteremia, sepsis, and even death. Most antibiotics actively damage living, dividing cells on the surface of the biofilm, where there is a high concentration of nutrients and oxygen, while in the depths, where these factors are scarce, slowly growing cells remain. Objectives: The aim of our study was to evaluate the antibiofilm potential of ethyl acetate roots (EtOAcR) and aerial parts (EtOAcAP) extracts from the perennial Bulgarian plant Geum urbanum L. against methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) NBIMCC 8327. Methods: The effects of both extracts on the expression of biofilm-related genes, icaA and icaD, were investigated. The cytotoxicity of EtOAcR and EtOAcAP on A-375 (human melanoma), A-431 (epidermoid skin cancer) and HaCaT (normal keratinocytes) cell lines, and the induction of apoptosis were determined. Finally, the in vivo skin irritation potential of the most active extract was studied. Results: Both tested extracts inhibited biofilm formation at concentrations that did not affect bacterial growth. Interestingly, the expression of icaA and icaD was upregulated, although the biofilm development was inhibited 72.4-90.5% by EtOAcAP and 18.9-20.4% by EtOAcR at sub-MICs. EtOAcAP extract showed a more favorable cytotoxic profile on non-tumorigenic cells and stronger antineoplastic activity (IC50 = 6.7-14.68 µg/mL) as compared to EtOAcR extract (IC50 = 8.73-23.67 µg/mL). Therefore, a skin irritation test was performed with the EtOAcAP extract at ten-times higher concentrations than the minimum inhibitory one, and, resultantly, the primary irritation index was equal to zero (no skin irritation observed). Conclusions: The EtOAcAP extract was proven to be an effective antistaphylococcal agent with favorable skin tolerance. The extract showed strong antineoplastic activity and antibiofilm effect at sub-MICs, which outlines new prospects for its development as a natural product for specific skin applications in medical practice.},
}

@article {pmid40723417,
year = {2025},
author = {Zeng, D and Jiao, F and Yang, Y and Dou, S and Yu, J and Yu, X and Zhou, Y and Xue, J and Li, X and Duan, H and Zhang, Y and Guo, J and Yang, W},
title = {Myricetin Potentiates Antibiotics Against Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa by Disrupting Biofilm Formation and Inhibiting Motility Through FimX-Mediated c-di-GMP Signaling Interference.},
journal = {Biology},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/biology14070859},
pmid = {40723417},
issn = {2079-7737},
support = {82460811//Yan Zhang/ ; 82160772//Wude Yang/ ; [QKHF-ZK(2021)G539]//Yan Zhang/ ; [QKHF-ZK(2023)G426]//Yan Zhang/ ; [QKHF-ZK(2022)G501]//Yuqi Yang/ ; [Gui Ke He Xue Shu Xin Miao [2023]-10]//Yan Zhang/ ; RP/CAI-01/2022//Jingjing Guo/ ; },
abstract = {Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm formation is critical to antibiotic resistance and persistence. Targeting cyclic di-GMP (c-di-GMP) signaling, a master biofilm formation and virulence regulator, presents a promising strategy to combat resistant bacterial infections. Myricetin, a natural polyphenolic flavonoid with documented antimicrobial and anti-biofilm activities, may enhance antibiotic efficacy against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This study evaluated the synergistic effects of myricetin combined with azithromycin, ciprofloxacin, or cefdinir against both standard and drug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains. Antibacterial activity, biofilm disruption, and motility inhibition were experimentally assessed, while molecular dynamic (MD) simulations elucidated myricetin's molecular mechanism of action. Our results suggested that myricetin synergistically potentiated all three antibiotics, reducing c-di-GMP synthesis by 28% (azithromycin), 57% (ciprofloxacin), and 30% (cefdinir). It enhanced bactericidal effects, suppressed biofilm formation, and impaired swimming, swarming, and twitching motility. Computational analyses revealed that myricetin binds allosterically to FimX very well, a key regulator in the c-di-GMP signaling pathway. Hence, myricetin may act as a c-di-GMP inhibitor, reversing biofilm-mediated resistance in Pseudomonas aeruginosa and augmenting antibiotic efficacy. This integrated experimental and computational approach provides a framework for developing anti-virulence and antibiotic combination therapies against recalcitrant Gram-negative pathogens.},
}

@article {pmid40722953,
year = {2025},
author = {Athanasopoulou, S and Panagiotidou, E and Spanidi, E and Gkika, M and Georgiou, D and Anagnostopoulos, AK and Ganos, C and Chinou, I and Beletsiotis, E and Gardikis, K},
title = {Propolis Extract with Activity Against Cutibacterium acnes Biofilm Targeting the Expression of Virulence Genes.},
journal = {Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antiox14070849},
pmid = {40722953},
issn = {2076-3921},
abstract = {Acne is a highly prevalent skin condition with multifactorial pathophysiology, where Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) overgrowths generate inflammation. C. acnes can grow and adhere, through the formation of biofilms, to almost any surface, which enables chronic infections. Acne treatment with antibiotics can induce topical antimicrobial resistance, impair microbiome biodiversity and cause cutaneous dysbiosis. In this study, we assess the effect of a standardized propolis extract (PE) from Greece against C. acnes, whilst maintaining skin's microbiome biodiversity, and we investigate its effect against genes related to the attachment and colonization of C. acnes, as well as against biofilm formation. The extract has been chemically characterized by GC-MS and was additionally tested for its antioxidant properties by the Folin-Ciocalteu method and the 2,2-Diphenyl-1-Picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay and its regulatory activity on the expression of antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory genes in normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEKs). The suggested efficacy of PE in targeting pathogenic C. acnes biofilm, via downregulation of virulence genes, represents an alternative strategy to modulate the behavior of skin microbiota in acne, paving the way for next-generation acne-targeting products.},
}

@article {pmid40721921,
year = {2025},
author = {Stindlova, M and Peroutka, V and Zdenkova, K and Lencova, S},
title = {Assessing metabolic activity of yeast biofilm-forming cells on nanofibrous materials using MTT assay.},
journal = {Folia microbiologica},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40721921},
issn = {1874-9356},
support = {23-05154S//Grantová Agentura České Republiky/ ; A2_FPBT_2024_023//Vysoká Škola Chemicko-technologická v Praze/ ; },
abstract = {Nanofibrous materials (NMs), widely used in medical and food industry applications, are highly susceptible to colonisation by microorganisms, including yeasts. Although yeasts can form dense biofilms, methods for studying their metabolic activity remain limited. This study is the first to apply the MTT assay, a standardised method for assessing cell metabolic activity, to evaluate the metabolic activity of yeast biofilm-forming cells on electrospun NMs. First, the biofilm formation of Candida albicans and Saccharomyces cerevisiae on NMs electrospun from polycaprolactone (PCL), polylactic acid (PLA), and polyamide (PA) was examined. Then, key parameters of the MTT assay were systematically evaluated: (i) the addition of glucose to the MTT solution, (ii) the presence of menadione in the MTT solution, and (iii) the incubation time with the MTT solution. The addition of glucose was not proven necessary; however, in some cases, it may help distinguish the number of metabolically active cells. Based on this study, we recommend incubation with an MTT solution containing menadione for 2 h. To verify the protocol, colony-forming unit (CFU) enumeration was employed as a reference method. As differences between the results of these two methods were observed, the MTT assay should be complemented by other standardised methods. Nevertheless, the refined protocol offers a solid basis for investigating interactions between NMs and yeasts.},
}

@article {pmid40716557,
year = {2025},
author = {Kandaswamy, K and Balasubramanian, S and Panda, SP and Chaitanya, MVNL and Marisetti, AL and Nadeem, A and Shazly, GA and Pugazh, S and Deepak, P and Thiyagarajulu, N and Guru, A and Subramaniyan, J and Arockiaraj, J},
title = {Thermo Stable ZnO NPs/Asiatic Acid Nanocomposites for Acidogenic Neutralization, Anti-biofilm, and Enamel Protection in Dental Enamel Reinforcement.},
journal = {Journal of dentistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {106001},
doi = {10.1016/j.jdent.2025.106001},
pmid = {40716557},
issn = {1879-176X},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Dental caries, a pervasive oral health issue, is driven by Streptococcus mutans-mediated biofilm formation and acidogenesis, culminating in enamel demineralization and structural degradation. This study evaluates the efficacy of thermostable ZnO NPs/AA nanocomposites in suppressing S.mutans acid production, disrupting its biofilm matrix, and strengthening enamel integrity, with an emphasis on its potential as a novel dental healthcare material.

METHODS: This study encompassed the synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles functionalized with Asiatic acid (ZnO NPs/AA) using a co-precipitation method. The physicochemical properties of ZnO NPs/AA were characterized using FE-SEM with EDS, XRD, FT-IR, and UV-DRS, confirming structural integrity and functional modifications. Thermal stability was assessed via TGA and DSC, demonstrating robust performance suitable for biomedical applications. The antibacterial activity, anti-biofilm efficacy of ZnO NPs/AA including, extracellular polymeric substance inhibition, and acidogenic activity modulation were evaluated through microdilution methods, biofilm biomass quantification assays, Congo red binding studies, and pH analysis. In ex-vivo studies, ZnO NPs/AA treated sectioned tooth enamel was exposed to S. mutans to evaluate its effects. The mechanical properties, including microhardness and surface morphology, were analyzed using Vickers microhardness testing and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). Additionally, the controlled release kinetics of Asiatic acid were analyzed under physiological (pH 7.4) and acidic (pH 5.0) conditions to elucidate its pH-responsive drug delivery potential.

RESULTS: A precisely synthesized ZnO NPs/AA with a sheet-assembled flower-like structure was observed through SEM analysis, while its composition and functionalization were further confirmed by FTIR and UV-DRS. Thermal stability was validated through TGA and DSC analyses, establishing ZnO NPs/AA as a highly thermally stable material for biomedical applications. ZnO NPs/AA exhibited remarkable multi-functional properties, including potent antibacterial activity, leading to an 85.25% reduction in S. mutans biofilm biomass and an 81% inhibition of EPS production. pH modulation studies demonstrated effective neutralization of acidogenic activity, maintaining a near-neutral pH (7.01 at 48 hours), significantly outperforming ZnO NPs and the untreated control. Enamel treated with ZnO NPs/AA following exposure to S.mutans showed a 72.6% increase in microhardness and a 80.93% reduction in surface roughness, highlighting its ability to combat S.mutans induced demineralization and acid formation, thereby preserving the enamel integrity.

CONCLUSION: This study establishes ZnO NPs/AA as a promising biomaterial with potent antibacterial, anti-biofilm, and enamel-protective properties. These findings highlight ZnO NPs/AA as a promising and innovative approach for mitigating enamel demineralization and combating biofilm-associated dental challenges.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: ZnO NPs/AA is a promising therapeutic option for protecting enamel, combating S. mutans biofilm damage, and improving dental health due to its stability, durability, and pH-responsive drug release.},
}

@article {pmid40715914,
year = {2025},
author = {Khongrin, K and Aiamsung, M and Rasri, N and Tien-Iam-Arnan, P and Chirasavinuprapand, P and Poonsawat, N and Kitnak, S and Choowongkomon, K and Tabtimmai, L},
title = {Domain antibody-displayed phages as a novel biofilm-targeted therapy for Staphylococcus aureus.},
journal = {International microbiology : the official journal of the Spanish Society for Microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1007/s10123-025-00698-9},
pmid = {40715914},
issn = {1618-1905},
support = {KURDI (FF (KU) 16.66)//KURDI (FF (KU) 16.66)/ ; KURDI (FF (KU) 16.66)//KURDI (FF (KU) 16.66)/ ; grant number B36G660005//the NSRF via the Program Management Unit for Human Resources & Institutional Development, Research and Innovation/ ; grant number B36G660005//the NSRF via the Program Management Unit for Human Resources & Institutional Development, Research and Innovation/ ; },
abstract = {Chronic hyperglycemia in diabetic patients promotes Staphylococcus aureus colonization and biofilm formation, contributing to persistent infection and poor wound healing in diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). Biofilms hinder antibiotic penetration and promote resistance, highlighting the need for targeted anti-biofilm strategies. In this study, domain antibody-displaying M13 phages were developed to selectively target S. aureus biofilms. Among the selected clones, A7-displayed phage showed the strongest binding to S. aureus based on indirect ELISA and exhibited potent, dose-dependent inhibition of biofilm formation without affecting bacterial viability. This non-bactericidal, anti-virulence effect was associated with a significant reduction in staphyloxanthin production, a pigment linked to oxidative stress resistance. Quantitative RT-PCR analysis further revealed that A7 and C1 downregulated the expression of icaA, a key gene involved in biofilm matrix synthesis. Despite its efficacy, checkerboard synergy testing showed that combining A7-displayed phage with ampicillin resulted in an antagonistic interaction (FICI > 4), suggesting that A7 is most effective as a standalone anti-biofilm agent. Target identification using far-western blotting and MS/MS analysis revealed that A7 binds specifically to a cadmium-transporting ATPase, and molecular docking analysis showed A7 interaction with the C-terminal helical domain of CadA, potentially affecting cadmium efflux and oxidative stress homeostasis. This disruption may underlie the observed biofilm inhibition. These findings establish A7-displayed phage as a promising, non-cytotoxic biotherapeutic targeting S. aureus biofilms, offering a novel strategy for DFU management and other chronic infections where conventional antibiotics fall short.},
}

@article {pmid40720462,
year = {2025},
author = {Kainat, S and Sohail, M and Rafique, S and Mustafa, M and Ejaz, U},
title = {Prevalence of multidrug-resistant biofilm-forming pathogens in diabetic foot ulcers and antimicrobial activity of nanoparticles.},
journal = {Journal of infection in developing countries},
volume = {19},
number = {7},
pages = {1055-1065},
doi = {10.3855/jidc.21000},
pmid = {40720462},
issn = {1972-2680},
mesh = {Humans ; *Diabetic Foot/microbiology/drug therapy/epidemiology ; *Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Female ; Adult ; *Nanoparticles ; Aged ; *Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Prevalence ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Anti-Infective Agents/pharmacology ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) are the main devastating complications for diabetic patients. The involvement of multidrug-resistant microorganisms with the ability to produce biofilms in DFUs renders them difficult to treat. Nanotechnology has emerged as an innovative and promising technology in the therapy of diabetic foot lesions. Therefore, this study was designed to assess the prevalence of drug resistance and biofilm-forming pathogens in DFU and the antimicrobial activity of nanoparticles against these pathogens.

METHODOLOGY: A total of 111 adults with diabetic foot ulcers were randomly included. The clinical parameters and data of the classification and grading of the wound, along with microbiological factors, were analyzed.

RESULTS: Nanoparticles were synthesized from Withania coagulans and Fagonia cretica. The results showed that the majority of patients were male (76%), with an average age of 54 years. The majority of ulcers were polymicrobial (56%), while Staphylococcus aureus (21.2%) was the predominant pathogen. A significant increase in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (76.5%), extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) producers (55.8%), carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (46%), and vancomycin-resistant Enterococci (18.1%) was observed. Gram-negative isolates (31%), particularly Pseudomonas aeruginosa, exhibited strong biofilm formation activity compared to gram-positive (6%) and fungal isolates (24%).

CONCLUSIONS: The tested nanoparticles showed significant antimicrobial activity against strong biofilm forming bacterial and fungal isolates. Controlling certain extrinsic and metabolic parameters and comprehensively evaluating nanoparticle-based therapeutics can serve as powerful tools in curing chronic diabetic wounds.},
}

Humans
*Diabetic Foot/microbiology/drug therapy/epidemiology
*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
Male
Middle Aged
Female
Adult
*Nanoparticles
Aged
*Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Prevalence
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Anti-Infective Agents/pharmacology

@article {pmid40720392,
year = {2025},
author = {Solis, AJ and Zucchi, P and Romo, JA},
title = {Biofilm Assay for Clostridioides difficile with Applications for Drug Discovery.},
journal = {Journal of visualized experiments : JoVE},
volume = {},
number = {221},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3791/67913},
pmid = {40720392},
issn = {1940-087X},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Clostridioides difficile/drug effects/physiology ; *Drug Discovery/methods ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Humans ; Clostridium Infections/microbiology/drug therapy ; },
abstract = {Clostridioides difficile is a gastrointestinal bacterial pathogen able to take advantage of a dysbiotic microbiota environment to proliferate, secrete toxins, and damage the intestinal epithelium. A subset of C. difficile infection (CDI) patients will experience antibiotic (15%-30%) or fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) (<10%) treatment failure. Therefore, the development of additional therapeutic interventions is of critical importance. The role of C. difficile biofilms in recurrence is unclear. However, biofilms in other organisms are responsible for chronic and relapsing disease, suggesting this could also be the case in recurrent CDI. We hypothesize that biofilms of C. difficile present a valuable therapeutic target. The goal of the protocol presented here is to adapt a biofilm formation assay for the identification of repositionable compounds with activity against established C. difficile biofilms. The protocol refines a robust and reproducible assay for forming biofilms, couples it to a metabolic assay, and applies it to drug discovery. This protocol outlines the biofilm formation assay, biomass and metabolic activity readouts, drug susceptibility testing, drug screening of a repositioning library, and representative results.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Clostridioides difficile/drug effects/physiology
*Drug Discovery/methods
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Humans
Clostridium Infections/microbiology/drug therapy

@article {pmid40720043,
year = {2025},
author = {Alharbi, YR and Srivastava, S and Alsalhi, H and Almohimeed, K and Alduraibi, M and Nabil, A},
title = {Antimicrobial efficacy of blueM gel and calcium hydroxide against F. nucleatum and E. faecalis biofilm: an ex-vivo study.},
journal = {The Saudi dental journal},
volume = {37},
number = {7-9},
pages = {34},
pmid = {40720043},
issn = {1013-9052},
abstract = {Endodontic treatment failure can result from persistent bacteria, inadequate cleaning and sealing of root canals, and missed canals. The resilience of bacteria such as F. nucleatum and E. faecalis within the root canal system is a significant cause of failed endodontic treatment. Calcium hydroxide (CaOH), a widely utilized intracanal medicament, has demonstrated antimicrobial properties. However, its ability to consistently achieve culture-negative root canals after chemo-mechanical procedures remains inconsistent. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the antimicrobial efficacy of CaOH and BlueM gel against F. nucleatum and E. faecalis biofilms using dentin discs. Sterilized dentin discs were prepared from extracted human teeth. F. nucleatum and E. faecalis were grown on these discs and then treated with either CaOH or BlueM gel. Antimicrobial efficacy was assessed by quantifying colony-forming unit counts. BlueM gel demonstrated significantly greater antimicrobial efficacy than CaOH against both F. nucleatum and E. faecalis biofilms. Both agents exhibited substantial antimicrobial activity against the biofilms. BlueM gel showed superior antimicrobial effectiveness against endodontic pathogens such as F. nucleatum and E. faecalis compared to CaOH.},
}

@article {pmid40719899,
year = {2025},
author = {Cokgor, E and Soylu, D and Ozyildiz, G and Topuz, E and Zengin, GE and Güven, D and Pala-Ozkok, I and Insel, G},
title = {Evaluation of Nutrient and Anti-Inflammatory Drugs Removal Using a Pilot-Scale Novel Hybrid Biofilm Process.},
journal = {Environmental management},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1007/s00267-025-02237-8},
pmid = {40719899},
issn = {1432-1009},
support = {117Y087//TÜBİTAK, Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey/ ; 117Y087//TÜBİTAK, Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey/ ; 117Y087//TÜBİTAK, Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey/ ; 117Y087//TÜBİTAK, Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey/ ; 117Y087//TÜBİTAK, Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey/ ; 117Y087//TÜBİTAK, Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey/ ; 117Y087//TÜBİTAK, Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey/ ; 117Y087//TÜBİTAK, Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey/ ; },
abstract = {Moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) is a promising and cost-effective treatment technology for efficient nutrient removal. In this study, a pilot-scale novel MBBR-based hybrid biofilm system, integrating suspended and attached growth biomass, was operated to treat real domestic wastewater. The system included a reactive primary sedimentation step designed to capture particulate organic matter and redirect both sludge and effluent through distinct treatment pathways to enhance overall nutrient and micropollutant removal. The patented hybrid system was operated for 6 months, and 79, 84, and 90% removal efficiencies were achieved for chemical oxygen demand (COD), total nitrogen (TN), and total phosphorus (TP), respectively. Except diclofenac (32%), naproxen, ibuprofen, ketoprofen, and mefenamic acid (70%, 96%, 70% and 75%) were efficiently removed. Specifically, ketoprofen and mefenamic acid removals were markedly improved in the hybrid biofilm system compared to the full-scale conventional Biological Nutrient Removal (BNR) plant. The population dynamics were also monitored via molecular analysis on the sludge samples, differentiating the microbial community in MBBR and conventional BNR. Results showed that an abundance shift in the community structure at the species level between the two sludge structures of MBBR and conventional BNR. Acinetobacter sp. (35%) and uncultured Arcobacteraceae sp (22%) were found to be the dominant species in the hybrid system.},
}

@article {pmid40719575,
year = {2025},
author = {Mphande, K and LaSarre, B and Gleason, ML and Beattie, GA},
title = {Type I Fimbriae Promote the Virulence of Serratia ureilytica Strains That Cause Cucurbit Yellow Vine Disease While Impeding Biofilm Formation In Vitro.},
journal = {Phytopathology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1094/PHYTO-05-25-0165-R},
pmid = {40719575},
issn = {0031-949X},
abstract = {Cucurbit yellow vine disease (CYVD) is an emerging phloem disease in the United States that causes yield losses of up to 100% in squash, pumpkin and watermelon. CYVD is caused by a group of closely related strains of Serratia ureilytica, a species comprising entomopathogenic, phytopathogenic, clinical, and environmental strains. One genomic trait distinguishing CYVD-causing S. ureilytica strains from non-CYVD S. ureilytica strains is the presence of a specific type I fimbrial locus, which we found to be uniquely plasmid-borne in CYVD strains. We investigated the contribution of this fim locus to CYVD by comparing the virulence of the wild-type CYVD strain Z07 to a deletion mutant Z07Δfim that lacked the entire seven-gene fim locus. Infection assays with these strains showed that this locus contributes to virulence on squash (Cucurbita pepo) and does so by contributing to a higher probability of developing large populations in planta. Moreover, the Z07Δfim mutant formed larger biofilms than the wild type in vitro, suggesting that these type I fimbriae interfere with biofilm formation. These results support a model in which biofilm development following S. ureilytica plant infection negatively impacts virulence, such as by restricting the number of sites accessed in the phloem tissue, thereby impeding spread and limiting colonization.},
}

@article {pmid40719318,
year = {2025},
author = {Gomes, BPFA and Lopes, ABS and Aveiro, E and Louzada, LM and Godoi-Junior, EP and Fagundes, PIG and Alves-Silva, EG and Moura-Filho, AAL and Arruda-Vasconcelos, R and Bronzato, JD},
title = {Effectiveness of the iVac System Compared to Conventional Irrigation and Ultrasonic Activation in Reducing Microbial Biofilm, Lipopolysaccharides and Apical Extrusion.},
journal = {Australian endodontic journal : the journal of the Australian Society of Endodontology Inc},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/aej.12973},
pmid = {40719318},
issn = {1747-4477},
support = {15/23479-5//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo/ ; 17/25242-8//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo/ ; 19/19300-0//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo/ ; 21/13871-6//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo/ ; 17/25090-3//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo/ ; 303852/2019-4//Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico/ ; 421801/2021-2//Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico/ ; 164905/2020-0//Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico/ ; 2036/17//Fundo de Apoio ao Ensino, à Pesquisa e Extensão, Universidade Estadual de Campinas/ ; 001//Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior/ ; },
abstract = {This in vitro study evaluated the effectiveness of irrigation techniques (IT)-conventional irrigation (CI), ultrasonic activation (UA), and iVac system (IA)- using 2.5% NaOCl and saline in reducing Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli and Candida albicans in root canals and intratubular dentine. It also assessed the reduction of lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and apical extrusion. Lower premolar roots were contaminated and divided based on IT and irrigants, with saline as control. Microbiological and LPS samples were collected before and after IT. The apical extrusion volume was determined. Results showed that when NaOCl was used, there was no statistical difference between the ITs regarding CFU reduction and between UA and IA regarding LPS reduction. When saline was used, IA was the most effective technique in reducing CFU and LPS. Regarding apical extrusion, IA caused the lowest irrigant extrusion. In conclusion, IA reduced the levels of LPS, microorganisms and apical extrusion.},
}

@article {pmid40718444,
year = {2025},
author = {Majidi Fard, Z and Irani Mavi, N and Akbari, S and Erfani, Y and Eghtedari, S},
title = {Investigation of Peppermint (Mentha piperita) Extract on the Inhibition of Biofilm Formation by Acinetobacter baumannii Strains Isolated from Clinical Samples.},
journal = {Iranian journal of pharmaceutical research : IJPR},
volume = {24},
number = {1},
pages = {e160772},
pmid = {40718444},
issn = {1726-6890},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Acinetobacter baumannii is a hospital-acquired opportunistic pathogen, with biofilm formation playing a crucial role in its multidrug resistance. Given the rise in antibiotic resistance, herbal medicines, including peppermint (Mentha piperita), have gained attention for their potential antibacterial properties.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the inhibitory effects of peppermint extract on biofilm formation in A. baumannii strains isolated from clinical samples.

METHODS: A total of 25 A. baumannii strains were isolated from clinical samples at the Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Tehran. Their biofilm-forming ability and antibiotic susceptibility against nine antibiotics were assessed using the disk diffusion method. The antibacterial activity of peppermint extract was evaluated by well diffusion, with its minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) compared to ciprofloxacin. Synergistic effects between the extract and ciprofloxacin were analyzed, followed by a time-kill assay. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect the presence of PgaA and AbaI genes linked to biofilm formation.

RESULTS: The study found that 88% of A. baumannii strains exhibited strong biofilm formation. Peppermint extract effectively inhibited biofilm formation, with MIC values ranging from 1.5 to 6 mg/mL (mean MIC: 3.75 ± 1.38 mg/mL) and MBC values equivalent to their respective MIC concentrations. For ciprofloxacin, the MIC for all samples was greater than 2048 mg/mL. No significant synergistic effect was observed between peppermint extract and ciprofloxacin. Both PgaA (involved in biofilm matrix synthesis) and AbaI (quorum sensing-related autoinducer synthase) genes were present in all tested strains.

CONCLUSIONS: Peppermint extract demonstrates biofilm-inhibitory properties against A. baumannii, suggesting its potential as an alternative therapeutic approach for combating biofilm-associated infections.},
}

@article {pmid40717689,
year = {2025},
author = {Rios de Oliveira, J and Rodero, CF and Nunes, GP and Sales, LS and Delbem, ACB and Chorilli, M and Brighenti, FL and Giro, EMA},
title = {Bioadhesive liquid crystal system containing citral: effect against cariogenic biofilm and on dental enamel.},
journal = {Biofouling},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-18},
doi = {10.1080/08927014.2025.2536605},
pmid = {40717689},
issn = {1029-2454},
abstract = {This study evaluated the effects of a bioadhesive liquid crystal system containing citral on cariogenic biofilm and enamel demineralisation. Citral (C) at 10× and 15× the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was incorporated into the formulation (F) (30% oleic acid, 50% alkoxylated cetyl alcohol, and 20% aqueous dispersion of poloxamer 1%), FC1 and FC2, respectively. Both formulations underwent physicochemical characterisation, including polarised light microscopy, rheology, adhesive strength, and citral release. For biofilm and enamel demineralisation analyses, polymicrobial biofilms were cultivated for 4 days on bovine enamel blocks and treated with the formulations (n = 14/group). Analyses included pH measurement, total bacteria, aciduric bacteria, and mutans streptococci quantification. Enamel demineralisation was assessed via surface hardness loss (SH%) and integrated hardness loss (KHN × µm). Data were analyzed using appropriate statistical tests, with significance set at 5%. FC1 and FC2 exhibited Newtonian fluid characteristics, releasing 22.9% and 40.7% of citral, respectively, over 24 h. FC2 released citral near the MIC between 1-3 h. FC2 treatment showed antimicrobial activity in biofilms, maintained pH levels closer to neutrality for longer periods, and reduced SH% and KHN × µm values. Thus, FC2 demonstrated adequate physicochemical properties, antimicrobial efficacy, and the ability to reduce enamel mineral loss under cariogenic conditions.},
}

@article {pmid40715142,
year = {2025},
author = {Brandquist, ND and Kielian, T},
title = {Immune dysfunction during S. aureus biofilm-associated implant infections: opportunities for novel therapeutic strategies.},
journal = {NPJ biofilms and microbiomes},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {144},
pmid = {40715142},
issn = {2055-5008},
support = {R01AI169788//National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; Humans ; *Staphylococcus aureus/immunology/physiology/genetics ; *Staphylococcal Infections/immunology/microbiology/drug therapy ; *Prosthesis-Related Infections/immunology/microbiology ; Animals ; Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells/immunology ; Host-Pathogen Interactions/immunology ; },
abstract = {Staphylococcus aureus is a common cause of biofilm infections, particularly on implanted medical devices. Biofilms are heterogeneous bacterial communities contained in a self-produced matrix that are poorly cleared by the immune system. This review discusses mechanisms employed by the biofilm, such as alterations in bacterial metabolism and toxin production, to induce immune dysfunction by highlighting recent bacterial single-cell sequencing studies. Additionally, the role of immune recognition and metabolism in biofilm containment is examined with an emphasis on the role of granulocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells and how responses are tailored to distinct tissue niches. We also address emerging evidence revealing the importance of the infection microenvironment, host genetic variability, and bacterial heterogeneity in shaping immune responses during S. aureus biofilm infections.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
Humans
*Staphylococcus aureus/immunology/physiology/genetics
*Staphylococcal Infections/immunology/microbiology/drug therapy
*Prosthesis-Related Infections/immunology/microbiology
Animals
Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells/immunology
Host-Pathogen Interactions/immunology

@article {pmid40713092,
year = {2025},
author = {Roy, D and Gagnon, M},
title = {Biofilm Formation in Dairy: A Food Safety Concern-Introduction.},
journal = {Journal of dairy science},
volume = {108},
number = {8},
pages = {8098-8100},
doi = {10.3168/jds.2025-27015},
pmid = {40713092},
issn = {1525-3198},
}

@article {pmid40712960,
year = {2025},
author = {Qi, R and Chen, S and Wang, C and Fan, X and Wang, Y},
title = {Effects of particle size and biofilm pre-coating on phosphorus adsorption and capping performance by ZnAlLa-NO3-LDHs@quartz sand for internal phosphorus control in three lake sediments.},
journal = {Environmental research},
volume = {285},
number = {Pt 2},
pages = {122420},
doi = {10.1016/j.envres.2025.122420},
pmid = {40712960},
issn = {1096-0953},
abstract = {This study systematically evaluates phosphorus (P) adsorption and capping performance of core-shell ZnAlLa-NO3-layered double hydroxides (LDHs)@quartz sand (QS) materials, focusing on the influence of particle size and biofilm pre-coating in their practical application for lake management. In 24 h adsorption experiments (adsorbent dosage: 1.0 g/L), 200 mesh LDHs@QS (QSL) exhibited a significantly higher P adsorption capacity (Qm, 9.58 mg/g) than 20 mesh QSL (2.31 mg/g), as derived from the Langmuir model. Fourier transform infrared spectra (FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) confirmed that phosphate adsorption by LDHs involved inner-sphere complexation, ion exchange, and chemical adsorption. In a 14 d capping experiment, P release reduction was primarily determined by material type rather than particle size or initial sediment P levels. Specifically, LDH-based materials, with or without biofilm (QSLB: 88.3% and QSL: 91.3%), significantly outperformed the original QS (70.4%). Total P flux even reversed to negative values, particularly in the QSLB treatments, which exhibited the lowest proportion of loosely bound P (1.8%), compared to 3.5% for QSL and 13.1% for QS. Principal component analysis revealed that QSLB had minimal disturbance to overlying water and sediment properties relative to the blank control, highlighting its environmental compatibility. Moreover, nitrate-intercalated LDHs functioned as a slow-release oxidant, enhancing the oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) of overlying water, demonstrating their multifunctional potential for long-term internal P control. This study lays a groundwork for customizing core-shell LDH-based capping materials for efficient and environmentally friendly remediation of eutrophic water bodies.},
}

@article {pmid40712941,
year = {2025},
author = {Yu, S and Zhang, X and Guo, T and Li, H and Liu, W and Chen, Z and Wang, X and Ren, B and Guo, J},
title = {Engineered iron-sulfur carriers for efficient mixotrophic and sulfur autotrophic denitrification in low carbon to nitrogen ratio municipal wastewater: Mechanisms of biofilm enhancement and electron transfer promotion.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {133020},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2025.133020},
pmid = {40712941},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Sulfur autotrophic denitrification (SAD) offers a sustainable solution for nitrogen removal in low carbon to nitrogen ratio (C/N) municipal wastewater, yet its efficiency and startup time pose significant challenges. To overcome these, we developed iron-sulfur-modified carriers (FeS@MC) and integrated them into an in-situ sequencing batch reactor (S-Fe-SBR), which successfully achieved rapid startup (16 days) of SAD under low C/N conditions. The mechanisms revealed that FeS@MC's hierarchical porous structure promoted biofilm colonization and selective enrichment of sulfur-oxidizing bacteria (e.g.,Thiobacillus). FeS@MC stimulated extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) secretion to amplify sulfur oxidation gene expression (soxA: 126 % enrichment). Moreover, FeS@MC enhanced microbial electron transfer capacity, nitrate reductase activity and synergistically boosted denitrification kinetics, establishing a robust mixotrophic denitrification pathway for high total nitrogen removal efficiency. Our findings propose a novel carrier design paradigm by leveraging iron-sulfur carriers' dual role to optimize biofilm functionality and redox balance, promoting sustainable SAD application in carbon-constrained wastewater treatment.},
}

@article {pmid40712341,
year = {2025},
author = {Wackernagel, LM and Kikhney, J and Kruis, T and Menzel, P and Schneider-Reigbert, M and Grubitzsch, H and Gogolok, J and Sander, LE and Kurth, F and Moter, A and Lingscheid, T},
title = {Biofilm-associated Achromobacter xylosoxidans prosthetic valve infective endocarditis.},
journal = {International journal of medical microbiology : IJMM},
volume = {320},
number = {},
pages = {151664},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijmm.2025.151664},
pmid = {40712341},
issn = {1618-0607},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Infective endocarditis (IE) caused by Gram-negative bacteria is a rare but increasingly recognized emerging infectious disease. Achromobacter xylosoxidans, a Gram-negative non-fermenting opportunistic bacterium, has rarely been associated with IE and its biofilm potential in vivo is unknown.

METHODS: Specimens from a patient with A. xylosoxidans IE were obtained during cardiac surgery. Fluorescence in situ hybridization was used for visualization of microorganisms within heart valve tissues in combination with 16S rRNA gene PCR and sequencing (FISHseq) for correlation with prior blood culture isolates and to establish a definite diagnosis. The infected prosthetic valve had been implanted six months before. Following implantation, the patient developed relapsing bacteremia with A. xylosoxidans over three months, despite repeated adequate antibiotic treatment.

RESULTS: Conventional microbiological analysis of the explanted valve yielded no bacterial growth and prior imaging by repeated positron emission tomography and transesophageal echocardiography did not reveal evidence of infective endocarditis. FISHseq detected A. xylosoxidans in the heart valve samples and demonstrated numerous microorganisms, including FISH-positive, metabolically active bacteria, within in-vivo-grown biofilms. The genomic profile of A. xylosoxidans LB-23-519-25 confirmed the presence of resistance genes commonly found in this intrinsically multidrug-resistant species, which, together with biofilm formation, explains the observed therapeutic failure.

CONCLUSION: Valve culture and imaging failed to identify this case of Gram-negative bacteria IE correctly, but diagnosis of definite IE was eventually established via FISHseq according to the 2023 Duke-ISCVID Criteria. The biofilm-forming potential of A. xylosoxidans and its implications for the efficacy of antimicrobial therapy should be considered in future patients.},
}

@article {pmid40711350,
year = {2025},
author = {Fan, L and Liu, K and Yang, J and Kandegama, WMWW and Wang, P},
title = {From Spiropyran to a Circadian-Responsive Photochromic Supramolecular System for Sustainable Crop Protection: Enhanced Photostability, Biofilm Disintegration, and Foliar Adhesion.},
journal = {Angewandte Chemie (International ed. in English)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e202507179},
doi = {10.1002/anie.202507179},
pmid = {40711350},
issn = {1521-3773},
support = {2022YFD1700300//National Key Research and Development Program/ ; GCC[2023]008//Innovation Program for High-level Talents of Guizhou Province/ ; ZK[2022]017//Guizhou Provincial S&T Project/ ; Guidakechuangtuan[2023]03//Research and Innovation Team of Guizhou University/ ; Guidazhuanjihe[2024]02//Natural Science Special Project of Guizhou University/ ; 82404431//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 22467025//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Biofilms establish protective sanctuaries that shield resident bacteria, facilitating resistance. Despite extensive efforts, current chemicals for biofilm eradication remain insufficient, with the reliance on single-structure antimicrobials further exacerbating resistance. Photoisomerizable spiropyran derivatives reversibly transition between conformational states, alternately exerting antimicrobial activity against pathogens and potentially mitigating resistance. However, the biofilm-eradicating potential of spiropyran derivatives remains unverified, while their application is hindered by limited fatigue resistance, suboptimal foliar affinity, and reliance on UV-induced isomerization, all of which are incompatible with sustainable agriculture. Herein, we present a supramolecular strategy to fabricate SpA6(MC)⊂CB[8], a self-assembled complex of the spiropyran derivative SpA6 and cucurbit[8]uril, offering day-night cycle isomerization, enhanced photostability, potent biofilm disruption, improved foliar adhesion, and high antibacterial activity. Notably, neither ambient light nor darkness attenuates its potency, enabling persistent antibacterial activity across diverse molecular configurations. In vivo studies demonstrate its superior dual protective/curative efficacy (54.73%/49.60%) at 200 µg mL[-1] against bacterial leaf blight, surpassing thiazole copper (37.63%/33.58%) and bismerthiazol (31.20%/25.59%) without compromising safety, while extended indications reveal its enhanced efficacy (78.99%/63.50%) against citrus canker, outperforming thiazole copper (59.50%/41.42%). This work establishes a paradigm for developing light-responsive supramolecular agrochemicals that combine structural dynamism with enhanced functionality, offering sustainable solutions against plant pathogens.},
}

@article {pmid40711288,
year = {2025},
author = {Xue, Y and Shi, F and Zhou, B and Shi, Y and Luo, W and Zhu, J and Yang, Y and Chen, S and Qin, T and Peng, D and Yin, Y},
title = {Biofilm Formation, Antibiotic Resistance, and Virulence Analysis of Human and Avian Origin Klebsiella pneumoniae from Jiangsu, China.},
journal = {Veterinary sciences},
volume = {12},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {40711288},
issn = {2306-7381},
support = {32172942//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; BE2022774//Key Research and Development Program of Social Development of Jiangsu Province/ ; CX(23)3071//Agricultural Science and Technology Independent Innovation Fund of Jiangsu Province/ ; BK20240045//Jiangsu Provincial Natural Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars/ ; LYKJ[2024]16//Forestry Science and Technology Innovation and Promotion Project of Jiangsu Province/ ; yzuxk202004//Yangzhou University Interdisciplinary Research Foundation for Veterinary Medicine Discipline of Targeted Support/ ; D18007//111 Project/ ; PAPD//a Project Funded by the Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions/ ; },
abstract = {Klebsiella pneumoniae, a zoonotic pathogen of global concern, poses significant threats to both veterinary and public health. Here, a comparative study characterized 14 clinical isolates (7 avian-derived, 7 human-derived) from Jiangsu, China, through integrated genomic and phenotypic analyses. Firstly, multilocus sequence typing (MLST) revealed distinct epidemiological patterns: the same ST type in avian isolates was circulating between different species and different regions, whereas it was not found in human isolates. In addition, hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae (hvKP) phenotypes confirmed by string test were exclusive to two human isolates (KP15, KP20). Secondly, biofilm detection demonstrated 78.6% (11/14) of isolates possessed biofilm-forming capacity, with cellulose but not curli as the predominant matrix component. Human-derived KP15 and KP20 had the strongest biofilm formation ability in all isolates. Antimicrobial susceptibility profiling identified serious multidrug resistance in both avian and human isolates. Virulence gene analysis revealed striking disparities, with human isolates harboring 10-20 virulence factors (median 15) versus 6-7 (median 6.5) in avian counterparts. Finally, functional pathogenesis assessments demonstrated human-derived strains exhibited stronger epithelial cell adhesion (2-fold higher) and invasion (1.97-fold higher) in Calu-3 cell models and paradoxically showed reduced macrophage phagocytosis (2.85-fold lower at 2 h) for immune escape. In vivo models confirmed dose-dependent mortality, with human isolates demonstrating higher lethality in both Galleria mellonella and mice. Virulence gene burden positively correlated with mortality outcomes. These findings delineate critical host adaptation differences in Klebsiella pneumoniae populations and provide empirical evidence for pathogen transmission dynamics at the human-animal interface.},
}

@article {pmid40710169,
year = {2025},
author = {Strenge, JT and Smeets, R and Geffken, M and Beikler, T and Stuermer, EK},
title = {Effect of Mouth Rinsing and Antiseptic Solutions on Periodontitis Bacteria in an In Vitro Oral Human Biofilm Model.},
journal = {Dentistry journal},
volume = {13},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {40710169},
issn = {2304-6767},
abstract = {Background/Objectives: The formation of oral biofilms in periodontal pockets and around dental implants with induction of periodontitis or peri-implantitis is an increasing problem in dental health. The intelligent design of a biofilm makes the bacteria embedded in the biofilm matrix highly tolerant to antiseptic therapy, often resulting in tooth or implant loss. The question therefore arises as to which mouthwashes have eradication potential against oral biofilm. Methods: A human oral biofilm model was developed based on donated blood plasma combined with buffy coats, inoculated with oral pathogenic bacterial species found in periodontal disease (Actinomyces naeslundii, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Streptococcus mitis, and Porphyromonas gingivalis). Over a span of 7 days, we tested different mouth rinsing and antiseptic solutions (Chlorhexidine, Listerine[®], NaOCl, Octenisept[®], and Octenident[®]) covering the matured biofilm with 24 h renewal. Phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) was used as a control. Bacterial growth patterns were detected via quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) after 2, 4, and 7 days of treatment. Results: While all groups showed initial bacterial reduction, the control group demonstrated strong regrowth from day 2 to 4. Listerine showed a near-significant trend toward bacterial suppression. Additionally, strain-specific efficacy was observed, with Octenisept[®] being most effective against Streptococcus mitis, Octenident[®] and NaOCl showing superior suppression of Actinomyces naeslundii, and Listerine[®] outperforming other solutions in reducing Fusobacterium nucleatum. Donor-specific, individual variability further influenced treatment outcomes, with distinct trends in bacterial suppression and regrowth observed across donors. Conclusions: These findings underscore the complexity of biofilm-associated infections and highlight the importance of targeted therapeutic approaches for managing bacterial biofilms. In this experiment, the donor-specific outcomes of the antimicrobial effects of the solutions may indicate that genetic predisposition/tolerance to oral infections appears to play a critical role in the control of oral biofilms.},
}

@article {pmid40708751,
year = {2025},
author = {Cheng, P and Li, Z and Liu, L and Li, R and Zhou, J and Luo, X and Mu, X and Sun, J and Ma, J and A, X},
title = {Characterization and antimicrobial activity of a novel lytic phage vB_SmaS_QH16 against Stenotrophomonas maltophilia: in vitro, in vivo, and biofilm studies.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1610857},
pmid = {40708751},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {*Stenotrophomonas maltophilia/virology/physiology ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; Animals ; Mice ; *Bacteriophages/physiology/isolation & purification/ultrastructure/genetics/classification ; Host Specificity ; Genome, Viral ; *Gram-Negative Bacterial Infections/therapy/microbiology ; Disease Models, Animal ; Sewage/virology ; Phage Therapy ; Bacteriolysis ; Open Reading Frames ; Moths/microbiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, an important opportunistic pathogen resistant to multiple antibiotics, necessitates alternative therapies. Phages, with their high specificity and bacteriolytic ability, are emerging as promising antibiotic alternatives. This study aimed to isolate and characterize a novel lytic phage targeting S. maltophilia and to evaluate its antibacterial potential.

METHODS: A novel lytic phage, vB_SmaS_QH16, was isolated from hospital sewage using S. maltophilia no.981 as the host. Phage morphology was analyzed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and genome sequencing and annotation were performed. Host range, efficiency of lysis (EOP), optimal multiplicity of infection (MOI), one-step growth curves, and physicochemical stability were also determined. Biofilm inhibition and eradication were assessed using crystal violet staining, MTT assays, and acridine orange fluorescence microscopy. Using Galleria mellonella and mouse infection models, the in vivo anti-infective effects of phages were evaluated.

RESULTS: Phage vB_SmaS_QH16, a member of the class Caudoviricetes, has a 43,500 bp genome with 64 open reading frames (ORFs) and no virulence, antibiotic resistance, or lysogeny-related genes. It exhibits a broad host range, lysing 47.95% (35/73) of tested S. maltophilia strains. The optimal MOI was 0.01, with an average burst size of 37.69 PFU/cell. The phage is stable at 4-50 °C and pH 3.0-11.0 but is highly sensitive to UV light. It effectively inhibits biofilm formation and eradicates mature biofilms in a concentration-dependent manner. In vitro, the phage significantly suppresses bacterial growth, though resistant mutants emerge over time. In vivo, vB_SmaS_QH16 increases the survival rates of larvae and mice, with a higher MOI offering better protection.

CONCLUSIONS: Phage vB_SmaS_QH16 shows therapeutic potential against S. maltophilia infections, characterized by a broad host range, efficient lytic capability, and biofilm-disrupting activity. Its stability and safety further support its clinical application potential. Future research should explore its biofilm disruption mechanisms and monitor resistance development. Additionally, since its efficacy has been validated in mammalian models, further studies can focus on advancing its clinical translation.},
}

*Stenotrophomonas maltophilia/virology/physiology
*Biofilms/growth & development
Animals
Mice
*Bacteriophages/physiology/isolation & purification/ultrastructure/genetics/classification
Host Specificity
Genome, Viral
*Gram-Negative Bacterial Infections/therapy/microbiology
Disease Models, Animal
Sewage/virology
Phage Therapy
Bacteriolysis
Open Reading Frames
Moths/microbiology

@article {pmid40708560,
year = {2025},
author = {Yu, J and An, N and Zhang, L and Duan, Z and Li, J},
title = {The effect of the biofilm-forming Lactiplantibacillus plantarum F3-2 on improving lipid accumulation in vitro.},
journal = {Food & function},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1039/d5fo02121a},
pmid = {40708560},
issn = {2042-650X},
abstract = {Obesity correlates with gut microbiota dysbiosis, with beneficial microbial intervention emerging as a promising therapeutic strategy for obesity-associated metabolic disorders. In previous studies, we screened Lactiplantibacillus plantarum F3-2 (L. plantarum F3-2) with the ability to inhibit lipid accumulation, but its biofilm-forming capacity and consequent impacts on probiotic functionality remain uncharacterized. Based on this, this study characterized the biofilm formation capacity of L. plantarum F3-2, analyzing its structural organization along with extracellular matrix composition. Comparative evaluation between planktonic and biofilm-states was performed using in vitro models to assess differential responses in gastrointestinal tolerance and probiotic functionality. Results revealed L. plantarum F3-2 as a robust biofilm-forming strain, developing biofilms approximately 11 μm thick after 24 h of cultivation, with extracellular polysaccharides identified as the primary extracellular matrix component. In vitro assays showed that biofilm-state L. plantarum F3-2 exhibited superior gastrointestinal tolerance, HT-29 cell adhesion, and 3T3-L1 adipocyte lipid accumulation inhibition compared to planktonic cells. These results provide a foundation for developing high-efficacy L. plantarum F3-2 probiotic products targeting adipogenesis suppression.},
}

@article {pmid40708487,
year = {2025},
author = {Yang, L and Sriram, G and Chew, RJJ and Tan, KS},
title = {Limosilactobacillus reuteri-Fusobacterium nucleatum Interactions Modulate Biofilm Composition and Immunogenicity.},
journal = {Journal of periodontal research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/jre.70021},
pmid = {40708487},
issn = {1600-0765},
support = {A-0002964-00-00//BioGaia/ ; },
abstract = {AIM: The interactions between Limosilactobacillus reuteri and oral bacteria are poorly understood. This study seeks to characterize how two strains of L. reuteri coaggregate with Fusobacterium nucleatum, determining the impact on the biofilm composition and immunogenicity.

METHODS: A series of in vitro experiments was conducted using L. reuteri DSM 17938 and ATCC PTA 5289, Fusobacterium nucleatum ATCC 25586, and Porphyromonas gingivalis W50. The coaggregation between individual strains of L. reuteri, F. nucleatum, and P. gingivalis was evaluated using the tube coaggregation assay and confocal microscopy. Biofilm compositions were determined by confocal microscopy and culture. The effect of coaggregation on the immunogenicity of L. reuteri-F. nucleatum aggregates were evaluated using periodontal ligament fibroblasts, oral epithelial cells, and monocytes.

RESULTS: Both L. reuteri DSM and PTA strains demonstrated coaggregation with F. nucleatum. This interaction reduced the amount of F. nucleatum in biofilm by 1000-fold. Additionally, the coaggregation between L. reuteri and F. nucleatum lowered its immunogenicity. Furthermore, the coaggregation of L. reuteri with F. nucleatum led to a 50% reduction in the amount of P. gingivalis present in the biofilm.

CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates novel mechanisms through which L. reuteri can exert its effects as a probiotic. The coaggregation with L. reuteri modulates the immunogenicity of F. nucleatum and impairs its ability to serve as the bridging species, altering the biofilm composition, thus limiting the extent of dysbiosis.},
}

@article {pmid40707616,
year = {2025},
author = {Ravindran, S and Radha, R and Terro, T and Diab, R and Khodja, A and Al-Sayah, MH},
title = {Photoactivated carbon dots immobilized on cellulose for antibacterial activity and biofilm inhibition.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {27020},
pmid = {40707616},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {Khodja_A_CAS-URG23//American University of Sharjah,United Arab Emirates/ ; Khodja_A_CAS-URG23//American University of Sharjah,United Arab Emirates/ ; Khodja_A_CAS-URG23//American University of Sharjah,United Arab Emirates/ ; FRG23-C-S64//American University of Sharjah/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Cellulose/chemistry ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Carbon/chemistry/pharmacology ; *Quantum Dots/chemistry ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Humans ; Animals ; },
abstract = {Pathogenic bacterial infections represent a major threat to human health, which is worsened by the rise of antibiotic resistance stemming from misuse. Carbon dots (CCM-PBA-NH2) were synthesized and examined for their potential as photo-activated antimicrobial agents to address this issue. Various characterization methods were employed to investigate the structure and morphology of the CCM-PBA-NH2 carbon dots (CDs). Techniques including UV-VIS and fluorescence spectroscopy, FTIR, zeta potential analysis, Raman spectroscopy, XRD, SEM and TEM were utilized to assess their physicochemical properties, such as size, shape, surface functionalities and charge distribution. These carbon dots exhibited strong antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. They effectively prevented biofilm formation and disrupted preformed biofilms while displaying low cytotoxicity toward mammalian cells at concentrations of 0.1 mg/mL. The antibacterial properties of carbon dots were also evaluated on cellulose and oxidized cellulose fiber surfaces, where a significant reduction in bacterial growth was noted. CD-modified oxidized cellulose displayed strong adhesion, positioning carbon dots as a promising candidate for use in antimicrobial materials, including wound dressings and sterilization tools. Combining carbon dots with biocompatible carriers, like cellulose, presents a versatile and effective strategy for fighting bacterial infections.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Cellulose/chemistry
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
*Carbon/chemistry/pharmacology
*Quantum Dots/chemistry
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Humans
Animals

@article {pmid40707565,
year = {2025},
author = {Sivakumar, L and John Durai Kumar, JV and Madhavan, S and Mina Parvesh, KU and Arunagiri, SK and Rajadesingu, S and Sugumar, S and Jayaraman, N and Leela, KV and Karthik, A and Malik, T and Punniyakotti, P},
title = {Isolation and identification of bacteriophage against Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 and their biofilm Inhibition studies.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {26964},
pmid = {40707565},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Escherichia coli/virology/physiology ; *Bacteriophages/isolation & purification/physiology/ultrastructure ; Sewage/virology ; Microscopy, Electron, Transmission ; *Myoviridae/isolation & purification/physiology ; },
abstract = {Bacterial biofilm development plays a crucial role in causing serious health concerns in the medical sector. The adhesion of germs on living and non-living surfaces can lead to damage as well as diseases in humans, and other animals. To address this problem, researchers focus exclusively on bacteriophage therapy. In the present study, lytic phage with 10[10] PFU/mL was isolated from hospital sewage samples by targeting Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922). The morphological study of the isolated phage was examined under high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) by using 2% of uranyl acetate as a negative staining, which revealed that the isolated phage belonged to the Myoviridae family. Bacterial turbidity assay showed reduced optical density (OD) in 0.01 multiplicity of infection (MOI) and no growth in 0.1 and 1.0 MOI phage concentration which was compared with control (without phage-treated E. coli cells). The phage-host interaction was investigated using an HR-TEM after treating the phage for 30 min, which showed the lytic cycle of the phage. Further, the E. coli biofilm was assessed using a microplate reader after 24 and 48 h on 96 titer plates with crystal violet staining to confirm the inhibition efficiency of phage-treated biofilm quantitatively (83%). Then the compound and fluorescence microscopy were used for qualitative measurement of inhibition activity. Further, the biofilm formation of E. coli on a coverslip surface was analysed using scanning electron microscopy, comparing samples treated with 0.1 MOI of phage to untreated controls. About 10% of countable cells only present over the phage-treated surface (90% of biofilm inhibition). The outcome of this study revealed that phage treatment effectively suppressed the E. coli biofilm development, and it can be used as a sustainable and eco-friendly approach for the control of biofilm formation on surfaces specifically in hospital environments.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Escherichia coli/virology/physiology
*Bacteriophages/isolation & purification/physiology/ultrastructure
Sewage/virology
Microscopy, Electron, Transmission
*Myoviridae/isolation & purification/physiology

@article {pmid40706838,
year = {2025},
author = {Cui, S and Yang, R and Zhu, Y and Hou, J and Shi, Y and Xu, M and Yang, L and Chen, X},
title = {Comammox-based simultaneous nitrification and denitrification in mainstream membrane-aerated biofilm reactor - A modeling study.},
journal = {Environmental research},
volume = {285},
number = {Pt 2},
pages = {122423},
doi = {10.1016/j.envres.2025.122423},
pmid = {40706838},
issn = {1096-0953},
abstract = {This study applied a novel complete ammonium oxidation (comammox)-inclusive biological nitrogen removal (BNR) model to simulate total nitrogen (TN) removal and nitrous oxide (N2O) production in mainstream membrane-aerated biofilm reactor (MABR) performing simultaneous nitrification and denitrification (SND). The results were compared with those from a conventional comammox-exclusive BNR model under the same operational conditions. The findings revealed that the MABR involving the functionality of comammox bacteria capable of two-step nitrification demonstrated superior TN removal performance compared to the MABR performing the conventional ammonium-oxidizing bacteria (AOB)-based SND. Although comammox bacteria cannot produce N2O directly, the unexpected functional shift of heterotrophic denitrifying bacteria from an N2O sink in the MABR with AOB-based SND to an N2O source in the MABR with comammox-based SND resulted in even higher N2O production factors in the latter driven by the abundant nitrite/nitrate supply provided by comammox bacteria performing two-step nitrification under specific conditions (e.g., O2 surface loading ≥ 3.53 g-O2/m[2]/d and hydraulic retention time (HRT) ≥ 0.7 d). By precisely regulating operational conditions (e.g., O2 surface loading = 3.16 g-O2/m[2]/d, influent C/N ratio = 6, HRT = 0.60 d, and steady-state biofilm thickness = 300 μm), the MABR performing comammox-based SND could achieve efficient TN removal (e.g., 81.3 %) with minimal N2O production/emissions (e.g., 0.06 %). This study demonstrated the feasibility of establishing comammox-based SND in MABR and provided critical insights for advancing further research and design/control of sustainable BNR systems.},
}

@article {pmid40706793,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, K and Chen, Z and Hao, W},
title = {Electrochemical-oxidative dualism: Decoupling the acute effects of lake water-aged tire wear particles on periphytic biofilm-mediated denitrification.},
journal = {Environmental pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987)},
volume = {383},
number = {},
pages = {126876},
doi = {10.1016/j.envpol.2025.126876},
pmid = {40706793},
issn = {1873-6424},
abstract = {As emerging microplastic pollutants, tire wear particles (TWPs) have unclear photochemical impacts on aquatic nitrogen cycles. This study investigated how three types of TWPs-mechanically generated via rolling (R-TWPs), sliding (S-TWPs), and low-temperature crushing (C-TWPs)-and their aged counterparts (AC-, AR-, AS-TWPs) influenced nitrate reduction in periphytic biofilms. Aging in lake water altered the surface properties of TWPs: AC- and AR-TWPs accumulated inorganic ions and organic coatings, while AS-TWPs facilitated microbial colonization. Aged TWPs exhibited enhanced electron exchange capacity (EEC) and elevated levels of environmentally persistent free radicals (EPFRs). However, neither fresh nor aged TWPs altered nitrate removal, denitrification gene abundance (nirK, nirS), or microbial community structure in a dose-dependent manner; their impacts showed no simple correlation with EEC or EPFRs. Under illumination, TWPs acted as electron shuttles, transferring photogenerated electrons. Quenching hydroxyl radicals (·OH) revealed a strong positive correlation between EEC (specifically, electron donating and accepting capacities) and nitrate removal rates (r = 0.928-0.957, p < 0.01). Variance partitioning analysis identified EPFRs as promoters (contribution: 0.16) and ·OH as inhibitors (contribution: -0.18) of denitrification. At concentrations of 1.0-50.0 mg L[-1] over 7 days, TWPs exerted paradoxical effects on urban river nitrogen cycling. This paradox arose from synergistic interactions between surface-active components (e.g., carbon black, zinc oxide) and photosensitive moieties (e.g., EPFRs, redox functional groups). This work highlights the dual role of photoactive TWPs in modulating aquatic nitrogen cycles and underscores the necessity of evaluating their photochemical reactivity and oxidative stress effects when assessing microplastic pollution in urban water systems.},
}

@article {pmid40706551,
year = {2025},
author = {Das, RP and Pradhan, AK},
title = {Unveiling key hub genes in E. coli biofilm formation: An in silico approach integrating differential gene expression, biosurfactant targeting, MD simulation and MM-PBSA free energy calculations.},
journal = {Computational biology and chemistry},
volume = {119},
number = {},
pages = {108596},
doi = {10.1016/j.compbiolchem.2025.108596},
pmid = {40706551},
issn = {1476-928X},
abstract = {Biofilm formation by Escherichia coli is a critical factor in antibiotic resistance and persistent infections, posing significant challenges to public health. In this study, we evaluated the biofilm inhibition potential of two novel biosurfactants, BG2A and BG2B, targeting differentially expressed genes (DEGs) during the maturation stages of biofilm development. Differential gene expression (DGE) analysis revealed significant transcriptional changes in biofilm-associated pathways, with pathway enrichment and Gene Ontology (GO) analyses identifying key biological processes. Protein-protein interaction (PPi) network analysis and hub gene identification pinpointed critical regulatory nodes, such as ibpA, ybeD, and ycjF, which play pivotal roles in biofilm maturation and stability. Molecular docking studies demonstrated strong binding affinities, due to its higher binding energy and stable hydrogen bonding networks. These findings were further corroborated by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, which demonstrated complex stability through low RMSD and RMSF values. Binding free energy calculations using the Molecular Mechanics Poisson-Boltzmann Surface Area (MM-PBSA) approach highlighted substantial van der Waals and electrostatic contributions to binding. Additionally, principal component analysis (PCA) and free energy landscape (FEL) analyses provided insights into the conformational dynamics of the ligand-protein complexes. Taken together, this in silico study suggests that BG2A and BG2B hold promise as potential inhibitors of E. coli biofilm maturation. However, further in vitro and in vivo studies are necessary to experimentally validate their therapeutic potential and establish their efficacy in clinical settings.},
}

@article {pmid40705114,
year = {2025},
author = {Joshi, SR and Bhattacharjee, K},
title = {Purification and Characterization of Antimicrobial Peptide from an Epilithic Bacterium Streptomyces sp. AL50 with Activity Against Biofilm Forming Coagulase-Negative Staphylococci.},
journal = {Current microbiology},
volume = {82},
number = {9},
pages = {407},
pmid = {40705114},
issn = {1432-0991},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Streptomyces/chemistry/metabolism/genetics ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/isolation & purification/chemistry ; *Staphylococcus/drug effects/physiology/enzymology ; *Antimicrobial Peptides/pharmacology/isolation & purification/chemistry ; Coagulase/metabolism ; Molecular Weight ; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration ; },
abstract = {Antimicrobial peptide (AMP) is increasingly recognized as a promising new avenue in addressing the challenge of antibiotic resistance, offering a notable alternative to traditional antibiotic molecules. The current research focuses on extracting and characterizing AMP named as AMP1 from epilithic bacterial isolate Streptomyces sp. AL50, an area that has so far remained underexplored. The AMP1 was purified by ammonium sulfate precipitation, dialysis, and sephadex G-100 column chromatography. Subsequent analysis using Tricine-sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis revealed major band with molecular mass of approximately 10.83 kDa. The peptide demonstrated potent activity against Staphylococcus epidermis MTCC3615, with MIC value of 4 μg/mL. Remarkably, the peptide retained its activity up to 70 °C temperature and within a pH range of 6.0-8.0. However, its activity was abolished by proteinase K, trypsin, and papain, while pepsin, lipase, and α-amylase had no effect. Furthermore, AMP1 displayed notable capabilities in inhibiting and eradicating biofilms. These results indicate that AMP1 hold significant potential as antibiotic candidates for treating multidrug-resistant bacterial infections.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Streptomyces/chemistry/metabolism/genetics
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/isolation & purification/chemistry
*Staphylococcus/drug effects/physiology/enzymology
*Antimicrobial Peptides/pharmacology/isolation & purification/chemistry
Coagulase/metabolism
Molecular Weight
Hydrogen-Ion Concentration

@article {pmid40675481,
year = {2025},
author = {Gagnon, M and Jean, S and de Toro-Martín, J and LaPointe, G and Guévremont, É and Dufour, S and Roy, D},
title = {Biofilm Formation in Dairy: A Food Safety Concern-Insights into the prevalence of Pseudomonadota and yeasts on milking system surface biofilms.},
journal = {Journal of dairy science},
volume = {108},
number = {8},
pages = {8141-8156},
doi = {10.3168/jds.2024-26016},
pmid = {40675481},
issn = {1525-3198},
mesh = {*Biofilms ; Animals ; Milk/microbiology ; Dairying ; *Yeasts ; Food Safety ; Cattle ; Food Microbiology ; },
abstract = {Biofilms pose major challenges to milk quality and safety, yet their composition in the dairy environment remains under-characterized. This study investigated the prevalence and composition of biofilms on milking system surfaces in commercial dairy farms, focusing on Pseudomonadota, a dominant phylum in raw milk. We sampled bulk tank raw milk (BTRM), tap water, and milking equipment surfaces after cleaning from 20 dairy farms in Québec, Canada, using S1 milk agar, specifically designed to target Pseudomonadota through a culturomics approach. A total of 474 colonies were selected and identified by MALDI-TOF MS. Results demonstrated the presence of multispecies biofilms, within the phylum of Pseudomonadota, including potential spoilage and pathogenic bacteria, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Furthermore, the study revealed a significant presence of yeasts (42% of the isolates), predominantly Candida parapsilosis. Biofilms were predominantly detected in milk pipelines and milking machines (milk pipeline: 5.42 log gene copy number/swab; milking machine: 5.16 log gene copy number/swab), with greater bacterial loads quantified by quantitative PCR in fall than spring or summer. Partial least squares discriminant analysis revealed that the microbial composition of biofilms differed from that of BTRM (classification error rate: 0.23 and area under the curve: 0.95), although several species were shared, such as Candida parapsilosis and P. aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli. Tap water was not identified as a major contamination source of Pseudomonadota for dairy biofilms as only 2 species were shared across water, BTRM, and biofilm samples (Pantoea agglomerans and Serratia liquefaciens). The presence of these biofilms, harboring potentially pathogenic and spoilage microorganisms, poses a challenge to milk quality and safety. These findings provide data on the diversity of culturable Pseudomonadota and yeasts in biofilms on dairy farms and highlight the need for improved sanitation practices to mitigate microbial contamination in milk production.},
}

*Biofilms
Animals
Milk/microbiology
Dairying
*Yeasts
Food Safety
Cattle
Food Microbiology

@article {pmid40049401,
year = {2025},
author = {Desmousseaux, C and Guilbaud, M and Jard, G and Tormo, H and Oulahal, N and Hanin, A and Bourdonnais, E and Jha, PK and Laithier, C},
title = {Biofilm Formation in Dairy: A Food Safety Concern-Biofilms in the milking machine, from laboratory scale to on-farm results.},
journal = {Journal of dairy science},
volume = {108},
number = {8},
pages = {8120-8140},
doi = {10.3168/jds.2024-25352},
pmid = {40049401},
issn = {1525-3198},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; Animals ; *Dairying/instrumentation ; Milk/microbiology ; Food Safety ; Cattle ; Food Microbiology ; },
abstract = {Raw milk is known to harbor a complex microbial community, including microorganisms of technological and human health interest. However, it can also be a source of pathogenic and spoilage bacteria, such as spore-forming bacteria and Pseudomonas spp. Despite cleaning and disinfection procedures, biofilms in milking machines are difficult to remove and represent a major source of milk contamination. This work aims to describe biofilms in milking machines at both the laboratory and farm scales. Encouraging studies on the microbiota of milking machine biofilms, the parameters influencing changes in biofilm composition, and the methods used to characterize them are essential for managing the formation and composition of these biofilms. Enhancing such knowledge will help improve the understanding of milking machine biofilms and their impact on the quality of milk and dairy products.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
Animals
*Dairying/instrumentation
Milk/microbiology
Food Safety
Cattle
Food Microbiology

@article {pmid39603496,
year = {2025},
author = {Goetz, C and Sanschagrin, L and Jubinville, E and Jacques, M and Jean, J},
title = {Biofilm Formation in Dairy: A Food Safety Concern-Recent progress in antibiofilm strategies in the dairy industry.},
journal = {Journal of dairy science},
volume = {108},
number = {8},
pages = {8157-8175},
doi = {10.3168/jds.2024-25554},
pmid = {39603496},
issn = {1525-3198},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; Animals ; *Dairying/methods ; Cattle ; Disinfectants/pharmacology ; *Food Safety ; Milk/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Biofilm formation allows microorganisms including bacteria to persist on abiotic or biotic surfaces, to resist treatments with biocides (disinfectants and antibiotics), and to evade the immune response in animal hosts much more than they do in the planktonic form. Bacteria able to form biofilm can be troublesome in the dairy industry, both by causing clinical symptoms in livestock and by colonizing milking devices and milk processing equipment, resulting in dairy products of lower quality and sometimes raising serious food safety issues. In fact, most of the bacterial species isolated frequently in the dairy chain have the ability to form biofilm. Common examples include Staphylococcus aureus and other staphylococci that frequently infect mammary glands but also Bacillus spp., Listeria monocytogenes, and Pseudomonas spp., which cause spoilage of dairy products and sometimes foodborne illnesses. The economic losses due to biofilm formation in the dairy industry are considerable, and scientists are constantly solicited to develop new antibiofilm strategies, especially using biocides of natural origin. Although the number of studies in this subject area has exploded in recent years, the in vivo efficacy of most novel approaches remains to be explored. Used alone or to increase the efficacy of disinfectants or antibiotics, they could allow the implementation of strategies having less impact on the environment. Their use is expected to lead to less reliance on antibiotics to treat intramammary infections in dairy farms and the use of lower concentrations of chemical disinfectants in dairy processing plants.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
Animals
*Dairying/methods
Cattle
Disinfectants/pharmacology
*Food Safety
Milk/microbiology

@article {pmid40702692,
year = {2025},
author = {Kriechbaumer, LK and Deininger, C and Planitzer, A and Mitterer, M and Happak, W and Nürnberger, S and Marko, P and Filipp, S and Thalhammer, G and Frenzel, S and Hruby, L and Korn, G},
title = {Laser Disinfection Acts as Biofilm-Disrupter in Periprosthetic Joint Infection (PJI).},
journal = {Journal of orthopaedic research : official publication of the Orthopaedic Research Society},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/jor.70035},
pmid = {40702692},
issn = {1554-527X},
abstract = {Infections after joint arthroplasties represent a devastating and progressively escalating complication with increased morbidity and mortality. The eradication of biofilms from infected implants is still an unsolved challenge. The erbium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Er:YAG) laser, which delivers high-energy light for rapid tissue ablation, may offer an advancement. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of this laser in removing biofilms from infected implant surfaces. In this prospective study, 31 patients with 33 early postoperative or acute hematogenous periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs) were treated with our modified procedure of debridement, antibiotics, laser irradiation and implant retention (DALIR). Biofilm removal was compared between mechanical cleansing alone and the additional use of Er:YAG laser light. Therefore, swab cultures from the implants were taken at three distinct occasions: post-arthrotomy, after mechanical cleansing with a fluid disinfectant (LavaSurge), and after additional Er:YAG laser irradiation. The success rate of the DALIR procedure was compared with a prior group (n = 34) that underwent DAIR procedures without the Er:YAG laser at our clinic. The implementation of the laser system in our DAIR procedure was uncomplicated. The additional Er:YAG laser therapy significantly reduced viable microorganisms on implant surfaces (9.1%) compared to mechanical cleaning alone (42.4%; p < 0.01). The healing rate in our cohort was 78.1%, a substantial improvement over the previous rate of 44.1% (p < 0.01). Therefore, we recommend the use of Er:YAG laser irradiation as an additional tool for surface disinfection of metal implants in PJIs whenever a DAIR procedure seems to be beneficial. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT06440564. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 2B.},
}

@article {pmid40702445,
year = {2025},
author = {Hamed, SM and Abdel-Daim, A and Tadros, SA and Zafer, MM},
title = {Filamentous prophages in the genomes of Acinetobacter baumannii from egypt: impact on biofilm formation and the potential to induce enterotoxicity.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {449},
pmid = {40702445},
issn = {1471-2180},
mesh = {*Acinetobacter baumannii/virology/genetics/isolation & purification/pathogenicity/physiology ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; Humans ; *Prophages/genetics/isolation & purification/physiology ; Animals ; Egypt ; Acinetobacter Infections/microbiology ; Genome, Bacterial ; Virulence ; Mice ; Caco-2 Cells ; Genome, Viral ; },
abstract = {Filamentous phages (FPs) have been recently isolated from Acinetobacter baumannii. While FPs are known to modulate the virulence of some Gram-negative pathogens, their role in A. baumannii has not been fully explored. This study analyzed 18 clinical isolates of A. baumannii from global clones (GC), with draft genomes generated by Illumina sequencing. All isolates were screened for filamentous prophage (FPP) genomes using the Zonula occludens toxin (Zot)-coding gene as a marker. Nine out of the 18 isolates were found to carry zot genes. The complete sequences of four FPPs were predicted. FPPs were exclusively found within GC1, GC7, and GC9 strains. Among the A. baumannii genomes deposited in the NCBI genomic database, FPPs were found to be disseminated in 42 Pasteur STs spanning at least six GCs, most commonly GC1. The impact of FPs on biofilm formation in A. baumannii was investigated using crystal violet assay. None of the zot-negative isolates formed strong biofilms, while six (66.6%) zot-positive isolates did. The biofilm indices of zot-positive isolates were significantly higher compared to zot-negative isolates. The potential enterotoxicity of the zot-positive strains was also assessed using in silico and experimental methods. The cytotoxic effect of cell-free supernatants (CFSs) on Caco-2 cells was measured by the MTT assay. Cells treated with CFSs from zot-positive strains exhibited significantly higher cytotoxicity than those treated with CFSs from zot-negative strains. Upon injecting the CFS of a zot-positive strain intraperitoneally into BALB/c mice, severe diarrhea was observed within 6 h. Histological examination of the intestinal tissue 24 h post-injection revealed significant changes. In conclusion, this study suggests that FPPs are widely disseminated in A. baumannii GCs and may enhance biofilm formation and enterotoxicity, potentially contributing to the pathogen's virulence.},
}

*Acinetobacter baumannii/virology/genetics/isolation & purification/pathogenicity/physiology
*Biofilms/growth & development
Humans
*Prophages/genetics/isolation & purification/physiology
Animals
Egypt
Acinetobacter Infections/microbiology
Genome, Bacterial
Virulence
Mice
Caco-2 Cells
Genome, Viral

@article {pmid40701417,
year = {2025},
author = {Qin, L and Lin, Z and Kong, W and Xu, Y and Xie, J and Chen, S and Xiong, J and Wang, Y and Zhu, H and Wang, S},
title = {Resilience of microalgal-bacterial biofilm for saline wastewater treatment under sulfamethoxazole stress: Insights from microbial physiological and ecological responses.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {436},
number = {},
pages = {133019},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2025.133019},
pmid = {40701417},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {The emerging antibiotics in mariculture wastewater has challenged conventional biological treatment processes, but the impact of sulfamethoxazole (SMX) on saline microalgal-bacterial symbiotic systems and the underlying microbial response mechanisms remain unclear. This study investigated the resilience of a microalgal-bacterial symbiotic moving bed biofilm reactor (MBS-MBBR) treating saline wastewater under SMX stress, focusing on nitrogen removal performance, microbial physiological activities, and ecological interactions. The ammonia removal efficiency remained stable (>99.0%) at 0.1-1 mg/L SMX but decreased to 62.3% at 5 mg/L SMX. Elevated SMX inhibited microbial respiration, but enhanced extracellular polymer substances synthesis and intracellular antioxidant activities. Microbial community analysis revealed that 0.1-1 mg/L SMX promoted the enrichment of denitrifer (Denitromonas), while 5 mg/L SMX suppressed nitrifiers (Nitrosomonas, Nitrospira). SMX exhibited differential impacts to distinct nitrogen metabolic functions. Furthermore, microalgal-bacterial consortia exhibited enhanced cooperative interactions under SMX stress. This study provides theoretical support to stabilize engineering mariculture wastewater treatment processes.},
}

@article {pmid40701414,
year = {2025},
author = {Yuan, CY and Yu-Xia, and Huo, JH and Nie, CL and Zhang, KX and Liang-Feng, and Su, XL and Song, Z and Yi, GP and Sun, FY},
title = {Integrating methane conversion with multi-pathway nitrogen removal for wastewater in membrane-enabled stratified biofilm: System development and microbial dynamics.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {133021},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2025.133021},
pmid = {40701414},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Global demands for energy-neutral wastewater treatment drive innovation in sustainable nitrogen removal. A single-biofilm membrane biofilm reactor (MBfR) was constructed for efficient aerobic methane oxidation coupled with simultaneous ammonia oxidation and denitrification (AME-AOD). Through meticulous refinement in aspects such as membrane materials and gas-to-feed ratios, the best-performing biofilm achieved a high total nitrogen (TN) removal efficiency of 97 % ± 2 %. The system ultimately reduced TN from 51.6 ± 0.7 mg l[-1] to approximately 5 mg l[-1] within 16 h with a methane conversion efficiency of 30.0 ± 0.9 mg-CH4/mg-N. From startup, the biofilm supported stable coexistence of aerobic and anoxic processes, with gene abundances related to nitrification and denitrification increasing by 1.6-fold and 1.2-fold, respectively. After long-term operation, ecological niche differentiation enabled coexistence and synergistic interaction of methanotrophs, anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox), denitrifiers, and nitrifiers within each layer of the biofilm. Overall, this study offers a new strategy to advance sustainable mainstream nitrogen removal in wastewater.},
}

@article {pmid40701385,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, J and Ma, J and Li, Z and Xie, J and Zhang, Y and Yu, M and Xia, Y and Gong, W and Zhang, K and Wang, G and Zhong, Q and Tian, J and Li, H and Xie, W},
title = {C4-HSL drives rapid biofilm formation in low-temperature aquaculture effluent: strengthening structural stability of biofilm and improving nitrogen removal efficiency.},
journal = {Environmental research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {122408},
doi = {10.1016/j.envres.2025.122408},
pmid = {40701385},
issn = {1096-0953},
abstract = {During the centralized discharge of winter aquaculture wastewater, low temperature (≤15°C) and low C/N ratio (≤5) result in delayed initiation of the biofilm process and decreased nitrogen removal efficiency.The quorum sensing (QS) communication system serves as the core mechanism regulating biofilm formation. This study examined how adding N-butyyl-L-homo-serine lactone (C4-HSL) affects the start-up and nitrogen removal in sequential batch biofilm reactors (SBBR) operated at 14°C with a C/N≤5. Biofilm adhesion tests showed that C4-HSL levels between 400-1200 ng/L notably boosted initial adhesion, peaking at 700 ng/L with a 57.5% increase over the control. The SBBR results indicated that a high concentration of C4-HSL (700-1000 ng/L) effectively removed TN and COD, achieving a TN removal rate of 91.62%, which was three times that of the control. C4-HSL enhances low-temperature biofilm nitrogen removal by remodeling the structure of functional microbial communities and enriching bacteria along with functional genes involved in biofilm formation and nitrification-denitrification. Additionally, C4-HSL specifically upregulated the abundance of flagella assembly and biofilm matrix synthesis genes (such as virD4, yegE) and quorum sensing-related genes (such as rpfB, bapA), promoting the secretion of extracellular polymeric substances. This drove the transition of biofilm structure from a loose state to a highly organized one, accelerating the maturation of biofilm adhesion and prolonging the stabilization period of the biofilm by 15-20 days. This study revealed the influence of C4-HSL on the initiation mechanism of low-temperature biofilm process from the perspective of quorum sensing regulation, providing a theoretical basis and technical pathway for developing aquaculture effluent treatment technologies based on quorum sensing regulation.},
}

@article {pmid40700432,
year = {2025},
author = {Hope, JA and Kleinteich, J and Gerbersdorf, SU},
title = {Benthic biofilm structure and function under abrupt flow changes.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {20},
number = {7},
pages = {e0327216},
doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0327216},
pmid = {40700432},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Geologic Sediments/microbiology ; Bacteria ; Biomass ; Hydrodynamics ; },
abstract = {Sediment accumulation reduces the capacity of dammed systems worldwide, therefore understanding sediment stability and transport within a reservoir is fundamental for sustainable management. Fluctuating hydrodynamics can alter the physical disturbance exerted on the sediment bed and can lead to substantial resuspension of bottom sediments and benthic biofilms. Removal of the biofilm can drastically alter the biochemical environment in the bed, and its ability to stabilize underlying sediments as microphytobenthic and bacteria communities are removed. In this experiment, an 8-week long hydraulic flume experiment was conducted to examine the response, adaptation and functionality of biofilms exposed to abrupt increases in flow typical of flow managed systems. Water and resuspended sediment from an oligotrophic reservoir in Germany, were used to develop biofilms on inserted flume cartridges. Developed biofilms were haphazardly distributed across two flow treatments: high bed shear stress (0.7 Pa) or low bead shear stress (0.1 Pa) for 28 days. Biochemical changes and biostabilization potential (adhesiveness) were examined over this period. Microphytobenthic biomass and composition, bacterial community diversity and extracellular polymeric carbohydrates/proteins were all initially altered by the abrupt increase in flow as the biofilm was stripped away. Biochemical properties largely recovered by the end of the experimental period (28-days) with recovery time and the degree of re-establishment dependent on the initial biofilm condition. However, sediment beds exposed to higher flows remained less stable, suggesting this functional role of the biofilm may take longer to reestablish itself after periods of higher flow. Findings suggest flow management has the potential to alter biofilm development and highlight the importance of protein content and microphytobenthic biomass in the recovery of biostabilization, Microphytobenthic diversity and carbohydrate content had less influence in the recovery of biostabilization. The findings may be useful to reservoir managers to manipulate flow to allow stable benthic biofilms to improve water quality and/or reduce infilling.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Geologic Sediments/microbiology
Bacteria
Biomass
Hydrodynamics

@article {pmid40699552,
year = {2025},
author = {Sasoon, A and Nikkhahi, F and Javadi, A and Sabzi, S and Deilamani, MO and Kiaheyrati, N and Karampour, A and Peymani, A and Fardsanei, F},
title = {Biofilm Formation and Antibiotic Resistance Genes of Escherichia coli From Poultry Farms and Clinical Samples.},
journal = {Veterinary medicine and science},
volume = {11},
number = {5},
pages = {e70510},
pmid = {40699552},
issn = {2053-1095},
support = {IR.QUMS.REC.1400.439//Medical Microbiology Research Center,Qazvin university of Medical Sciences/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; Animals ; *Poultry Diseases/microbiology ; *Escherichia coli/drug effects/physiology/genetics ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; *Escherichia coli Infections/veterinary/microbiology ; *Drug Resistance, Bacterial/genetics ; *Chickens ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests/veterinary ; Poultry ; Farms ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Escherichia coli affects human health through intestinal and extraintestinal infections. Avian pathogenic E. coli (APEC) contributes to colibacillosis in poultry and can develop public health risks. Antibiotic resistance and biofilm-producer strains are challenges in infection control options.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to characterize phenotypic and genotypic antibiotic resistance profiles as well as biofilm formation assay in E. coli isolates from clinical and poultry samples.

METHODS: In the study, 42 E. coli isolates were collected and confirmed from clinical and poultry sources. The isolates were evaluated for pathotypes using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Antibiotic resistance was evaluated using the disk diffusion technique and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) tests. PCR was utilized to identify antimicrobial resistance genes associated with fluoroquinolones, sulphonamides, tetracyclines and beta-lactams. Biofilm formation was evaluated using a 96-well microtiter plate.

RESULTS: Three clinical isolates, including enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC), enteroaggregative E. coli (EAEC) and enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC), were identified as pathogenic strains. The highest rates of resistance were recorded against tylosin (100%), neomycin (92.85%), tetracycline (85.7%), ampicillin (73.8%), doxycycline (71.4%), ciprofloxacin (64.28%), trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (64.28%) and enrofloxacin (57.1%). The most prevalent resistance genes detected as blaTEM and gyrA/B (97.6% and 76.1%, respectively). The overall prevalence of blaCTX, sul1, sul2, tetA and tetB genes were 21.4%, 45.2%, 11.9%, 33.3% and 7.1%, respectively. The qnrB, qnrB4 and qnrS genes were absent in the clinical samples, whereas present in poultry isolates. All isolates were biofilm producers, and 96.4% of poultry isolates had strong biofilm formation capacity.

CONCLUSION: The alarming levels of resistance genes and biofilm formation of isolates in the present study emphasize the need for antibiotic management practices and further research on resistance transmission dynamics in the food industry.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
Animals
*Poultry Diseases/microbiology
*Escherichia coli/drug effects/physiology/genetics
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
*Escherichia coli Infections/veterinary/microbiology
*Drug Resistance, Bacterial/genetics
*Chickens
Microbial Sensitivity Tests/veterinary
Poultry
Farms

@article {pmid40698934,
year = {2025},
author = {Adams, CO and Campbell, JA and Zhang, B and Cleaver, L and Bier, SB and Mayoral, J and White, RC and Garnett, JA and Cianciotto, NP},
title = {Erratum for Adams et al., "Legionella pneumophila type II secretome reveals a polysaccharide deacetylase that impacts intracellular infection, biofilm formation, and resistance to polymyxin- and serum-mediated killing".},
journal = {mBio},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0203425},
doi = {10.1128/mbio.02034-25},
pmid = {40698934},
issn = {2150-7511},
}

@article {pmid40698813,
year = {2025},
author = {Hidrosollo, JH and Liao, H-W and Yap, CH and James, JJ and Lu, J-J and Tai, Y-H and Wei, C and Thuy, TTD and Chin, SP and Tay, ST and Chee, CF and Kao, CY},
title = {Indolenine-substituted pyrazole derivative 4e inhibits planktonic Staphylococcus lugdunensis growth and biofilm formation by disrupting purine biosynthesis and compromising cell wall and membrane integrity.},
journal = {Antimicrobial agents and chemotherapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0019925},
doi = {10.1128/aac.00199-25},
pmid = {40698813},
issn = {1098-6596},
abstract = {Staphylococcus lugdunensis is an emerging nosocomial pathogen responsible for biofilm-related infections. Here, we explored the antibacterial and antibiofilm properties of the novel indolenine derivative 4e against S. lugdunensis and investigated its mechanisms of action. Its antibacterial and antibiofilm activities were assessed against oxacillin-resistant S. lugdunensis CGMH-SL131 using in vitro and in vivo models, including human cell lines, Galleria mellonella larvae, and mice. Mechanistic insights were explored via untargeted metabolomics. 4e exhibited bacteriostatic activity against a panel of gram-positive bacteria, with a 1× minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 62.5 µg/mL. Scanning electron microscope observations of cells treated with 0.5% SDS and 1× MIC 4e displayed signs of cell shape distortion, including complete shrinkage and bursting. 4e effectively inhibited biofilm formation by 54.3% at 1.56 µg/mL, and the minimum biofilm inhibition concentration 80% (MBIC80) was 3.125 µg/mL. In addition, 70.3% of 1-day preformed biofilms were dispersed at 1× MBIC80. 4e exhibited low cytotoxicity (>85% survival) in HaCaT, H10975, and Caco-2 cells at 1× MIC. When administered 1 hour post-infection, 4e (3.125 mg/kg) improved larval survival to 90%, matching tigecycline (2 mg/kg), whereas untreated larvae had only 20% survival after 7 days. In C57BL/6 mice, 4e (2.5 mg/kg) reduced kidney bacterial loads from 10[7] to 5.3 × 10[4] CFU. Untargeted metabolomics suggests that 4e's antibacterial and antibiofilm effects result from disrupting purine biosynthesis and compromising cell wall and membrane integrity. These findings highlight 4e as a promising new antibiofilm agent and potential alternative treatment for biofilm-related infections caused by S. lugdunensis and multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus species.},
}

@article {pmid40698666,
year = {2025},
author = {Ellepola, K and Bhatt, L and Chen, L and Han, C and Jahanbazi, F and Klie, RF and Lagunas Vargas, F and Mao, Y and Novakovsky, K and Sapkota, B and Pesavento, RP},
title = {Correction to "Nanoceria Aggregate Formulation Promotes Buffer Stability, Cell Clustering, and Reduction of Adherent Biofilm in Streptococcus mutans".},
journal = {ACS biomaterials science & engineering},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acsbiomaterials.5c01014},
pmid = {40698666},
issn = {2373-9878},
}

@article {pmid40697940,
year = {2025},
author = {Nemchenko, UМ and Belkova, NL and Klimenko, ES and Smurova, NE and Zugeeva, RE and Sinkov, VV and Savilov, ED},
title = {Genetic potential for biofilm formation of clinical strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa.},
journal = {Vavilovskii zhurnal genetiki i selektsii},
volume = {29},
number = {4},
pages = {594-599},
doi = {10.18699/vjgb-25-62},
pmid = {40697940},
issn = {2500-0462},
abstract = {Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the leading causes of nosocomial respiratory tract infections and plays an important role in lower respiratory tract infection in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). Biofilms, which are organized cell clusters, ensure the survival of microorganisms in unfavorable environmental conditions and contribute to the chronicity of infection and the formation of persistent forms. The aim of this study was to determine the phenotypic ability and genetic potential for biofilm formation in clinical strains of P. aeruginosa persisting in patients with CF against the background of constant intake of antimicrobial drugs. Bacteriological, genetic, and bioinformatic methods were used to characterize five P. aeruginosa strains obtained from patients with CF. Phenotypically, all strains were classified as moderately biofilm-forming, while the biofilm formation coefficient varied from 2.10 to 3.15. Analysis of draft genomes revealed differences in the representation of some genes or individual loci of three of the four known signaling pathways (cAMP/Vfr, Gac/Rsm, and c-di-GMP) that have been described in P. aeruginosa genomes and are related to the regulation of biofilm formation. In addition, differences in the representation of genes such as frzE, tcpE, and rcsC are shown. Of undoubted interest is the analysis of genes such as pppA, icmF, clpV1, trpE, trpG, and stp1, which are used for extended multilocus typing PubMLST and differed in the structure of loci in all analyzed strains. These genes can be used to identify clinical strains of P. aeruginosa and to characterize their biofilm-forming properties. Thus, genes potentially participating in both biofilm formation and regulation have been characterized in the genomes of clinical P. aeruginosa strains that persist for a long time in patients receiving continuous antibiotic therapy. Characterization of the genetic potential for biofilm formation makes it possible to search for reliable genetic markers of this process in order to monitor the evolution of the pathogen as a result of long-term persistence in the host organism.},
}

@article {pmid40697188,
year = {2025},
author = {Asensio, NC and Rendón, JM and González López, JJ and Tizzano, SG and Martín Gómez, MT and Burgas, MT},
title = {Time-resolved dual transcriptomics of Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm formation in cystic fibrosis.},
journal = {Biofilm},
volume = {10},
number = {},
pages = {100301},
pmid = {40697188},
issn = {2590-2075},
abstract = {Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms cause severe infections in the airways of patients suffering from cystic fibrosis (CF) that are difficult to eradicate, even with intensive antibiotic therapy. The main goal of this study was to define the dual transcriptional response associated with the formation of P. aeruginosa biofilms in a polarized lung epithelium monolayer. We analyzed the dual response of healthy and CF epithelium after infection with P. aeruginosa isolates from acute and chronic infections. Our results show that strains of P. aeruginosa isolated from chronic infections specifically increase the expression of secretion systems of type I, III and VI to hijack the host response. Conversely, strains associated with acute illness use ABC transporters to counteract the antimicrobial response. In return, a distinctive expression pattern in the CF epithelium, including a high degree of cytokine secretion and keratinization, is largely observed in acute infections. Our results show that both host and pathogen genomic backgrounds contribute to the outcome of infection and specific transcriptional signatures could be used in the diagnosis, particularly in CF patients.},
}

@article {pmid40696645,
year = {2025},
author = {Alharbi, NK and Elmanakhly, AR and Alhomrani, M and Alamri, AS and Mosbah, RA and AbdElrahman, M and El-Tarabili, RM and Alshehri, F and Bendary, MM},
title = {A cross-sectional molecular epidemiological study of biofilm-producing methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.},
journal = {Medicine},
volume = {104},
number = {29},
pages = {e43346},
doi = {10.1097/MD.0000000000043346},
pmid = {40696645},
issn = {1536-5964},
mesh = {*Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/genetics/isolation & purification/drug effects/physiology ; Humans ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Staphylococcal Infections/epidemiology/microbiology ; Egypt/epidemiology ; Molecular Epidemiology ; Male ; Female ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Multilocus Sequence Typing ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Cross Infection/epidemiology/microbiology ; Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial ; Adult ; Middle Aged ; },
abstract = {There is growing concern regarding biofilm-producing methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) due to the sudden rise in infection rates and associated morbidity and mortality. Therefore, epidemiological studies, including molecular typing and correlation analysis, are essential for understanding this pathogen. This cross-sectional study investigated epidemiological factors and correlations in MRSA isolates. A total of 300 clinical samples were collected between January and March 2023 from 2 healthcare facilities, including various sample types such as sputum, blood, urine, pus, wound swabs, and other body fluids. This study employed various phenotypic and genotypic methodologies, including adherence assays using standard microtiter plates, the Congo red agar method, antimicrobial resistance and virulence profiling, and multi-locus sequence typing. Among 300 clinical samples from 2 healthcare facilities in Egypt, 94 MRSA isolates were confirmed as biofilm producers. Phylogenetic analysis revealed 8 distinct sequence types (ST8, ST80, ST239, ST15, ST22, ST113, ST398, ST984), found in surgical unit samples across both facilities. Notably, ST22-MRSA was present in all departments, indicating its widespread nature and potential for cross-departmental transmission. ST239-MRSA, the most prevalent strain (22.3%), was found in all departments except burn units. Alarmingly, 95.7% of isolates exhibited multidrug-resistant patterns. However, resistance to vancomycin and imipenem was low among biofilm-producing isolates. The high diversity of MRSA strains suggests multiple sources of infection rather than a single origin. Although most isolates were unrelated, the presence of 2 ST80 isolates in sputum samples from the same unit underscores the importance of targeted infection control within and between hospital areas. ST8-MRSA strains carrying the vanA gene were predominantly identified in body fluid samples, highlighting the need for regular testing in such cases. The diversity of MRSA strains across hospital departments indicates a complex infection landscape with no single source. Although certain genetic markers are linked to specific sequence types, they are not reliable indicators of MRSA clonality. These findings emphasize the need for strict infection control measures and regular testing, particularly for ST8-MRSA in body fluids.},
}

*Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/genetics/isolation & purification/drug effects/physiology
Humans
*Biofilms/growth & development
Cross-Sectional Studies
*Staphylococcal Infections/epidemiology/microbiology
Egypt/epidemiology
Molecular Epidemiology
Male
Female
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Multilocus Sequence Typing
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Cross Infection/epidemiology/microbiology
Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial
Adult
Middle Aged

@article {pmid40695750,
year = {2025},
author = {Driscoll, DA and Khilnani, T and Coates, T and Premkumar, A and Nishtala, SN and Bostrom, MPG and Carli, AV},
title = {The Majority of Studies Investigating Biofilm in Orthopedics Score Poorly Using a Standardized Measure of Quality: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Journal of orthopaedic research : official publication of the Orthopaedic Research Society},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/jor.70034},
pmid = {40695750},
issn = {1554-527X},
abstract = {The development of bacterial biofilm is central to the pathogenesis of periprosthetic joint infections following arthroplasty. Consequently, biofilm research in orthopedic surgery has expanded. This study assessed the quality of current orthopedic literature pertaining to the study of biofilm and identified the most commonly used study designs and techniques. A literature search was conducted in PubMed and adapted for Embase and the Cochrane Library. Studies were stratified into in vitro, in vivo (animal), and clinical (human) studies. Studies were included if they evaluated biofilm in an orthopedic context. Clinical studies were included if biofilm was confirmed by a quantification or visualization. Studies were assessed based on study design, biofilm quantification and visualization techniques and quality using the MIABiE score, a standardized tool in appraising biofilm studies. Of 258 studies identified; 65 studies were included after screening. There were 35 studies (50.7%) that evaluated techniques for biofilm treatment, 14 studies (20.3%) evaluated materials for prevention of biofilm formation, and 20 studies (29.0%) investigated descriptive biofilm properties unrelated to treatment or prevention. In vitro studies were most common (62.3%, n = 43). Biofilm quantification techniques were used in 83.0% of studies (n = 57), while only 29 studies (42.0%) used visualization techniques. Most studies (n = 55, 84.6%) were classified as low-quality based on MIABiE.},
}

@article {pmid40695646,
year = {2025},
author = {Ghezzi, B and Artesani, L and Giovati, L and Croci, S and Valotti, F and Mergoni, G and Manfredi, M},
title = {Biological behavior of human gingival fibroblasts and formation of microbial biofilm on 3D-printed dental resin restorations.},
journal = {Dental materials : official publication of the Academy of Dental Materials},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.dental.2025.07.012},
pmid = {40695646},
issn = {1879-0097},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to investigate the interaction dynamics among two commercially available 3D printed resins (V and R) presenting different surface topographies and human gingival fibroblasts, as well as oral microorganisms.

METHODS: 3D-printed samples of two commercial resins underwent various polishing treatments. Surfaces characteristics and biological interactions were analyzed with contact angle measurements, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM), cellular viability assays, and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). The formation of mono- and polymicrobial biofilms of Streptococcus sanguinis and Candida albicans on the resins was evaluated through SEM and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM).

RESULTS: AFM and SEM analyses revealed significant differences in surface roughness and hydrophilicity among the treatments. Both the resins demonstrated good biocompatibility, however one altered fibroblastic morphology, a finding supported by the differential expression of ITα-6 and IL-6 genes. Variations in the total biomass of S. sanguinis and C. albicans were observed between untreated controls and treated surfaces.

SIGNIFICANCE: The V resin exhibited superior performance in reducing microbial adhesion and promoting favorable interactions with human gingival fibroblasts in its commercial form, outperforming R resin.},
}

@article {pmid40692686,
year = {2025},
author = {Fabrizio, G and Cavallo, I and Sivori, F and Truglio, M and Kovacs, D and Francalancia, M and D'Agosto, G and Trento, E and Prignano, G and Mastrofrancesco, A and Ruzič-Sabljič, E and Pimpinelli, F and Di Domenico, EG},
title = {Genomic characterization and antibiotic susceptibility of biofilm-forming Borrelia afzelii and Borrelia garinii from patients with erythema migrans.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1619660},
pmid = {40692686},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Borrelia burgdorferi Group/drug effects/genetics/isolation & purification/physiology/classification ; Humans ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Phylogeny ; Genome, Bacterial ; Whole Genome Sequencing ; Lyme Disease/microbiology ; Drug Resistance, Bacterial/genetics ; Azithromycin/pharmacology ; *Erythema Chronicum Migrans/microbiology ; Ceftriaxone/pharmacology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Borrelia afzelii and Borrelia garinii are the leading causes of Lyme borreliosis (LB) in Europe. Persistent LB forms may involve biofilms, potentially contributing to antibiotic tolerance.

METHODS: Whole genome sequencing (WGS) was conducted on 7 B. afzelii and 5 B. garinii isolates from erythema migrans skin biopsies. Biofilms were analyzed for extracellular DNA (eDNA) content and biomass. A phenol red metabolic assay assessed the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum biofilm inhibitory concentration (MBIC) of amoxicillin, azithromycin, ceftriaxone, and doxycycline.

RESULTS: Phylogenetic analysis revealed B. afzelii and B. garinii formed distinct clades, while B. burgdorferi B31 clustered separately. Core genome analysis showed 38.9% of genes were shared between B. afzelii and B. garinii, decreasing to 26.1% with B. burgdorferi. The cloud genome expanded from 34.4% to 53.4% with the addition of B. burgdorferi. No antimicrobial resistance genes were detected. Surface adhesion gene profiles exhibited significant variation across species, suggesting potential functional differences in host adaptation. B. afzelii and B. garinii species exhibited biofilms, with biomass correlating significantly with eDNA production. MIC values were 0.25 μg/mL (amoxicillin, ceftriaxone), 0.125 μg/mL (azithromycin), and 0.5 μg/mL (doxycycline), with no significant interspecies differences. However, MBIC values were considerably higher: 2 μg/mL (amoxicillin, azithromycin), 16 μg/mL (ceftriaxone), and 32 μg/mL (doxycycline).

CONCLUSIONS: Biofilms in B. afzelii and B. garinii significantly reduce antibiotic efficacy, particularly ceftriaxone and doxycycline. These in vitro findings highlight the need for targeted therapeutic strategies and suggest biofilms may impact treatment outcomes in LB.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Borrelia burgdorferi Group/drug effects/genetics/isolation & purification/physiology/classification
Humans
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Phylogeny
Genome, Bacterial
Whole Genome Sequencing
Lyme Disease/microbiology
Drug Resistance, Bacterial/genetics
Azithromycin/pharmacology
*Erythema Chronicum Migrans/microbiology
Ceftriaxone/pharmacology

@article {pmid40691778,
year = {2025},
author = {Sudheer, A and Taj, Z and Nidhin, IK and Chattopadhyay, I},
title = {Unraveling the Transcriptomic Adaptations of Streptococcus mutans Biofilm to the Post-Biotic Impact of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum.},
journal = {APMIS : acta pathologica, microbiologica, et immunologica Scandinavica},
volume = {133},
number = {7},
pages = {e70054},
doi = {10.1111/apm.70054},
pmid = {40691778},
issn = {1600-0463},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Streptococcus mutans/genetics/drug effects/physiology ; Humans ; *Transcriptome ; Molecular Docking Simulation ; *Lactobacillus plantarum/metabolism ; Virulence Factors/genetics/metabolism ; Bacterial Adhesion/drug effects ; Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial ; Mouth Neoplasms/microbiology ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Antimicrobial Peptides/pharmacology ; Carcinoma, Squamous Cell/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a multifactorial disease influenced by microbial dysbiosis and biofilm-induced chronic inflammation. Streptococcus mutans, a principal pathogen, aggravates OSCC by fostering an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment via biofilm development and virulence-related metabolic alterations. This work investigated the post-biotic effects of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum in reducing S. mutans-related OSCC by obstructing bacterial adhesion, biofilm integrity, and virulence gene expression. GC-MS research revealed that the cell-free supernatant (CFS) of L. plantarum contains the bioactive metabolite 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol (DTP), which demonstrates significant antibacterial and anti-tumor activities. The new antimicrobial peptide Plpl_18 exhibited substantial biofilm inhibition and reduction of bacterial viability. Transcriptomic research indicated that S. mutans 890 treatment with DTP and Plpl_18 downregulated essential biofilm-associated genes (gtfB, gtfC), disturbed carbohydrate metabolism, and initiated a metabolic transition towards lactose utilization. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations (MDS) validated persistent interactions between DTP and Plpl_18 with bacterial virulence factors and OSCC-related proteins (p38, NF-κB), underscoring their therapeutic potential. This research offers innovative perspectives on probiotic biofilm suppression methods and identifies DTP and Plpl_18 as potential options for targeted treatments against S. mutans-induced OSCC. Subsequent investigations into clinical applications may facilitate the development of novel antibacterial interventions and cancer treatment methodologies.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Streptococcus mutans/genetics/drug effects/physiology
Humans
*Transcriptome
Molecular Docking Simulation
*Lactobacillus plantarum/metabolism
Virulence Factors/genetics/metabolism
Bacterial Adhesion/drug effects
Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial
Mouth Neoplasms/microbiology
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Antimicrobial Peptides/pharmacology
Carcinoma, Squamous Cell/microbiology

@article {pmid40691756,
year = {2025},
author = {Yousef, A and Abu-Elghait, M and Rizk, MS and Abdel-Hamid, MS and Salem, SS and El-Sherbiny, GM},
title = {Combatting biofilm formation of Klebsiella pneumoniae and Bacillus subtilis clinical strains from the oral cavity using biogenic Se-NPs: molecular docking simulation and cytotoxic effects on HepG2 cancer cells.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {446},
pmid = {40691756},
issn = {1471-2180},
mesh = {*Klebsiella pneumoniae/drug effects/physiology/isolation & purification/genetics ; *Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Bacillus subtilis/drug effects/physiology/isolation & purification/genetics ; Humans ; *Mouth/microbiology ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Molecular Docking Simulation ; Hep G2 Cells ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Nanoparticles/chemistry ; },
abstract = {Bacterial biofilms are one of the primary causes of pathogenic activity in the oral environment; they adhere to both natural and artificial oral surfaces, causing cariogenic processes that result in dental decay and significantly reducing the lifespan of dental restoratives and prostheses; they can also affect the tissues surrounding teeth, causing gingival inflammation; persistent biofilms can cause damage to the alveolar bone, which in extreme cases may result in tooth loss; our study aims to isolate clinical isolates that are resistant to multiple drugs, before disarming them by suppressing the formation of biofilms. Klebsiella pneumoniae A11(K. pneumoniae) and Bacillus subtilis A33 (B. subtilis) clinical isolates were determined, and the most potent clinical isolates were identified as the most virulent strains for further investigations using 16 S rDNA PCR sequencing, with accession numbers PP995146 and PP995148 respectively. Synthesized selenium nanoparticles (Se-NPs) were analyzed using FTIR Spectroscopy, UV-Vis Spectroscopy, zeta potential, dynamic light scattering (DLS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) of the [Se-NPs] solution revealed that it contained 88.49% selenium and 11.51% carbon, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). According to TEM images, the average size of Se-NPs was 45.4 nm, and their shape was nearly spherical. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MICs) of biogenic Se-NPs were 0.25 mg/mL for K. pneumoniaeA11 and 0.125 mg/mL for B. subtilisA33, with inhibition zones of 11-14 mm. Se-NPs significantly reduced biofilm formation at 0.125 and 0.25 mg/mL (p < 0.05), by 85.08% in K. pneumoniae A11 and 75.45% in B. subtilis A33. A synergistic effect with azithromycin was observed, with fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC) values of 0.502 and 0.253, respectively. Molecular interactions showed Se-NPs forming hydrophobic contacts in K. pneumoniae LuxS Synthase (Asp52, Asp132; binding energy - 3.9020 kcal/mol) and B. subtilis AbbA (His3, Met4, Arg5; -4.2489 kcal/mol). Se-NPs had an IC50 of 2.12 ± 0.02 µg/mL on HepG2 cells.},
}

*Klebsiella pneumoniae/drug effects/physiology/isolation & purification/genetics
*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Bacillus subtilis/drug effects/physiology/isolation & purification/genetics
Humans
*Mouth/microbiology
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Molecular Docking Simulation
Hep G2 Cells
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Nanoparticles/chemistry

@article {pmid40691687,
year = {2025},
author = {Dashtizadeh, Z and Jookar Kashi, F},
title = {Comparison of anti-biofilm and cytotoxic activity of Ag/AgO, Ag/Ag2O, and Ag/AgCl nanocomposites synthesized using stem, leaf, and fruit pericarp of Prunus mahaleb L.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {26450},
pmid = {40691687},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Nanocomposites/chemistry/ultrastructure ; *Silver/chemistry/pharmacology ; Plant Leaves/chemistry ; *Silver Compounds/chemistry/pharmacology ; *Prunus/chemistry ; Fruit/chemistry ; Animals ; Plant Extracts/chemistry ; Plant Stems/chemistry ; Metal Nanoparticles/chemistry ; Artemia/drug effects ; Green Chemistry Technology ; Oxides/chemistry/pharmacology ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; },
abstract = {The green synthesis of nanoparticles using plant-derived biomolecules provides an eco-friendly, cost-effective, and scalable approach with minimal environmental impact. The present study investigates the green synthesis of silver-based nanocomposites (AgNPs) using aqueous extracts from various anatomical parts of the stem, leaf, and fruit pericarp of Prunus mahaleb L., to assess their physicochemical properties, antibiofilm performance, and cytotoxic potential. Unlike conventional single-part plant synthesis, our multi-part approach introduces a diverse array of phytoconstituents, enhancing nanoparticle stability, morphological homogeneity, and functional bioactivity. UV-Vis spectroscopy revealed surface plasmon resonance (SPR) peaks at 426.00 nm, 414.00 nm, and 426.50 nm for Ag/AgO, Ag/Ag2O, and Ag/AgCl nanocomposites, respectively, indicating successful nanoparticle formation. FT-IR confirmed the presence of functional groups involved in reduction and stabilization. XRD patterns validated the crystalline nature of the nanocomposites, with Ag/AgO displaying the smallest crystallite size. SEM analyses showed spherical morphologies with average sizes of 43.55 nm (stem), 45.44 nm (leaf), and 61.66 nm (fruit pericarp), consistent with EDX-determined silver contents of 9.01%, 42.34%, and 18.25%, respectively. In bioactivity assays, Ag/AgO and Ag/Ag2O nanocomposites demonstrated moderate biofilm inhibition and exhibited pronounced cytotoxicity in brine shrimp lethality assay (LC50 = 28 ± 0.42 µg/ml and 28 ± 0.40 µg/ml, respectively). In contrast, the Ag/AgCl nanocomposite synthesized from the fruit pericarp extract showed strong anti-biofilm activity, with inhibition percentages reaching up to 145.71%, though it exhibited lower cytotoxicity (LC50 > 300 µg/ml). These results demonstrate the potential of P. mahaleb-mediated nanocomposites as promising candidates for biomedical applications, particularly in the development of novel antimicrobial and anticancer agents.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Nanocomposites/chemistry/ultrastructure
*Silver/chemistry/pharmacology
Plant Leaves/chemistry
*Silver Compounds/chemistry/pharmacology
*Prunus/chemistry
Fruit/chemistry
Animals
Plant Extracts/chemistry
Plant Stems/chemistry
Metal Nanoparticles/chemistry
Artemia/drug effects
Green Chemistry Technology
Oxides/chemistry/pharmacology
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry

@article {pmid40690841,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, ZY and Li, M and Zhang, XN and Zheng, K and Xiao, HB and Wang, AJ and Sun, YL},
title = {Mechanisms linking triclocarban biotransformation to functional response in sulfur-metabolism biofilm.},
journal = {Journal of hazardous materials},
volume = {496},
number = {},
pages = {139255},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhazmat.2025.139255},
pmid = {40690841},
issn = {1873-3336},
abstract = {Triclocarban (TCC), a persistent antimicrobial compound widely present in municipal wastewater, poses potential risks to biological nitrogen removal processes. However, the potential risks posed by TCC to advanced treatment processes-particularly sulfur-metabolism biofilm reactor-remain poorly understood and require further elucidation. This study investigated the impact of TCC on sulfur-metabolism biofilm base on sulfur-metabolism biofilm reactor, focusing on nitrogen removal performance, TCC transformation pathways, and microbial community dynamics. The results showed that sulfur-metabolism biofilm maintained stable nitrogen removal efficiency under trace TCC (≤ 25 μg/L) stress with nitrate removal improved from 93 % to 98 %, whereas performance declined significantly at 100 μg/L, reducing nitrate removal to 81.8 ± 3.9 % and increasing effluent NO2[-]-N and N2O-N by 6.0- and 28.0-fold, respectively. Functional predictions via FAPROTAX suggested TCC-induced alterations in sulfur and nitrogen metabolic pathways. In addition, TCC and its transformation intermediates (MCC, DCC, NCC, 3,4-DCA, 4-CA) accumulated in the biofilm. Network analysis revealed syntrophic interactions between sulfur-oxidizing bacteria (e.g., Sulfurisoma and Sulfuritalea) and hydrogenase-rich TCC degraders (e.g., Unclassified Chloroflexi). These findings highlight the potential of sulfur-metabolism biofilm to achieve simultaneous nitrogen removal and micropollutant transformation in low-carbon, sulfur-rich wastewater environments, offering a sustainable solution for advanced wastewater treatment systems.},
}

@article {pmid40690791,
year = {2025},
author = {David, H and Nithya, K and Shankar Salian, L and Dandela, R and Suresh, D and Amali, AJ and Solomon, AP},
title = {Exploring the Potential of Covalent Organic Frameworks to Combat Candida albicans Biofilm Formation and Persistence.},
journal = {ACS applied bio materials},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acsabm.5c00559},
pmid = {40690791},
issn = {2576-6422},
abstract = {The recent advancements in nanotechnology have brought about significant improvements and transformations in the field of biomedicine, particularly in the areas of biodetection, drug delivery, and diagnostic imaging. Among the various materials being developed, porous crystalline polymers have shown great promise for these applications. Covalent Organic Frameworks (COFs) have been attractive because of their very high porosity, extended surface area, and thermal stability, making them very promising in the development of antimicrobial and antifungal therapies. In the present study, we successfully synthesized and characterized the Covalent Triazine Framework (CTF) to examine its potential as an antifungal agent against Candida albicans. The synthesized CTF-III has very low levels of toxicity and demonstrates antifungal activity with MIC values ranging between 0.2 and 0.4 mg/mL against various strains of C. albicans. Furthermore, CTF-III effectively eliminates established biofilms at concentrations as low as 0.2 mg/mL. Moreover, CTF-III exhibits impressive efficacy in targeting persister cells within the biofilms, which are highly resistant to conventional antifungal treatments available in the market. CTF-III is a promising material for improving biological applications, such as coatings for medical devices and drug delivery systems, due to its stability, biocompatibility, and mechanical properties. Additionally, this material has the potential to lead to the development of antifungal agents and help address the challenges posed by emerging resistance to antifungals.},
}

@article {pmid40690260,
year = {2025},
author = {Liu, J and Wu, J and Zheng, T and Zhang, D and Lin, J},
title = {Sanguinarine Hydrogel Accelerates Wound Healing in Staphylococcus pseudintermedius Infections by Suppressing Biofilm Formation.},
journal = {Journal of applied microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jambio/lxaf184},
pmid = {40690260},
issn = {1365-2672},
abstract = {AIMS: Skin and ear infections are common in small animals, primarily caused by the opportunistic pathogen Staphylococcus pseudintermedius. S. pseudintermedius biofilms are associated with poor prognosis, and rising antibiotic resistance threatens public health, making the development of new antibacterial agents imperative. Sanguinarine (SAN) is a plant-derived alkaloid with a wide range of pharmacological activities, including antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antitumor effects. The antibacterial potential of SAN against S. pseudintermedius merits further investigation.

METHODS AND RESULTS: The MIC and MBC of SAN hydrogel against clinically isolated S. pseudintermedius were determined as 1.25 mg mL-1 and 5 mg mL-1, respectively. Phenol-sulfuric acid and XTT assays demonstrated that SAN hydrogel significantly delayed biofilm formation (P < 0.05) by suppressing exopolysaccharide (EPS) synthesis and biofilm metabolic activity. Live/dead fluorescent staining and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed its potent disruptive effects on mature biofilms, inducing bacterial lysis and death, while reducing biofilm thickness and extracellular matrix. In a murine skin infection model, SAN hydrogel (2.5/5 mg mL-1) exhibited significant antibacterial efficacy (P < 0.001), accelerated wound healing, and reduced bacterial load (P < 0.001) and IL-6 levels (P < 0.0001) in skin tissues. No significant hepatorenal toxicity was observed within the tested concentration range.

CONCLUSION: The SAN hydrogel demonstrates antimicrobial and bactericidal activities against S. pseudintermedius, effectively suppressing biofilm formation and holding promise as a therapeutic candidate for skin infections caused by this pathogen.},
}

@article {pmid40689791,
year = {2025},
author = {Zeng, T and Wang, Y and Zhu, Q and Xi, H and Liu, M-f and Liu, P and Bai, Y and Yuan, L and Zhao, R and Sheng, Y-y and Dai, Q},
title = {Sub-inhibitory concentrations of fosfomycin enhance Staphylococcus aureus biofilm formation by a sarA-dependent mechanism.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0152125},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.01521-25},
pmid = {40689791},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {Staphylococcus aureus readily forms biofilms, which contribute to antimicrobial resistance and the persistence of chronic infections. This study investigates the effects of sub-inhibitory concentrations of fosfomycin on S. aureus biofilm formation and elucidates the underlying molecular mechanisms. Using crystal violet staining and confocal laser scanning microscopy, we demonstrated that fosfomycin at 1 µg/mL significantly enhanced biofilm biomass by 1.82- to 4.27-fold and led to denser biofilm structures. Adhesion assays further revealed that fosfomycin significantly promoted the initial attachment of S. aureus to solid surfaces, a critical early step in biofilm development. Phenotypic analyses showed increased production of polysaccharide intercellular adhesin, enhanced bacterial aggregation, and accelerated autolysis, resulting in elevated extracellular DNA release. Enzymatic disruption experiments indicated that, in addition to PIA and eDNA, proteins also play an important role in fosfomycin-enhanced biofilm formation. RT-qPCR revealed significant upregulation of key biofilm-associated genes, including icaA, icaB, fnbA, fnbB, emp, cidA, and the global regulator sarA. Notably, deletion of sarA abolished fosfomycin-induced promotion of both adhesion and biofilm formation, while complementation restored the phenotype, confirming a sarA-dependent mechanism underlying the fosfomycin-mediated enhancement of biofilm formation. These findings suggest that sub-inhibitory concentrations of fosfomycin promote S. aureus biofilm formation via sarA-mediated regulation, involving increased PIA synthesis, eDNA release, and protein-dependent matrix components. This mechanism may contribute to treatment failure and the development of persistent, antibiotic-resistant infections.IMPORTANCEBiofilm formation is a major factor in the persistence and antibiotic resistance of Staphylococcus aureus infections. Although fosfomycin is increasingly used to treat multidrug-resistant bacterial infections, its sub-inhibitory effects on biofilm formation have not been fully elucidated. Our study reveals that low-dose fosfomycin can significantly enhance S. aureus biofilm formation through a sarA-dependent mechanism. This finding raises concerns about the potential risks of sub-optimal dosing and highlights the need for careful evaluation of treatment strategies to avoid promoting persistent infections and resistance.},
}

@article {pmid40688374,
year = {2025},
author = {Shah, F and Muhammad, N and Haq, IU and Rehman, A and Rahman, H and Allahyani, M and Almehmadi, M and Alshamrani, MA and Qasim, M},
title = {Ciprofloxacin resistance and bile-induced biofilm enhancement in Salmonella paratyphi A isolates.},
journal = {New microbes and new infections},
volume = {66},
number = {},
pages = {101602},
pmid = {40688374},
issn = {2052-2975},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Salmonella paratyphi A is a significant human pathogen responsible for paratyphoid fever which affects millions globally, particularly in regions with limited clean water and sanitation access.

METHODOLOGY: The blood samples were cultured on MacConkey agar and identified by biochemical tests and an API 20E kit. Antimicrobial susceptibility was performed according to CLSI guidelines using different antibiotics and minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) for ciprofloxacin were determined using agar dilution. The biofilm-forming ability of isolates was performed, and the effect of bile salts on biofilm production was also tested. Extracellular polysaccharides from select isolates were extracted and analyzed via Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy to characterize their chemical properties.

RESULTS: The highly infected age group with S. paratyphi A was 21-40 and showed 42 % prevalence. All the isolates showed resistance to nalixidic acid and 22 % isolates to ciprofloxacin. The isolates dose-dependent inhibition with different MIC values for ciprofloxacin in the range of 8 μg/ml to 1024 μg/ml. The isolates showed variations in biofilm formation, most of them were moderate biofilm producers, around 32 % and 28 % of the isolates were strong biofilm producers. Additionally, we observed that bile salts treatment increase the biofilm forming ability of isolates.

CONCLUSION: The study highlighted the prevalence and alarming rate of ciprofloxacin resistance among clinical Salmonella paratyphi A isolates. The biofilm formation analysis revealed that a significant proportion of S. paratyphi A isolates produced biofilms, which may contribute to their resistance and pathogenicity.},
}

@article {pmid40686839,
year = {2025},
author = {Wiradiputra, MRD and Khuntayaporn, P and Thirapanmethee, K and Wanapaisan, P and Chomnawang, MT},
title = {Genomic insights into biofilm-associated virulence in extensively drug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii.},
journal = {Current research in microbial sciences},
volume = {9},
number = {},
pages = {100434},
pmid = {40686839},
issn = {2666-5174},
abstract = {Acinetobacter baumannii is a notorious nosocomial pathogen known for its resistance to multiple antimicrobials, with biofilm formation contributing to its persistence in hospital environments. This study characterized biofilm-associated virulence genes in extensively drug-resistant (XDR) A. baumannii isolates from two distinct lineages, ST2 and ST25, to understand their roles in biofilm formation and antimicrobial resistance. From 135 non-repetitive multidrug-resistant (MDR) clinical isolates collected across Thailand, 15 XDR isolates (14 ST2 and 1 ST25) were selected for further analysis. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) was performed to identify biofilm-associated genes and sequence polymorphisms. Biofilm formation and motility phenotypes were assessed, and gene expression analysis was evaluated by qRT-PCR. Most isolates (66.7 %) were moderate biofilm formers, and 80 % exhibiting higher biofilm biomass than the reference strain ATCC 19606. Notably, isolates with lower antimicrobial resistance profiles (i.e., relatively more susceptible among XDRs) tended to produce stronger biofilms. Significant variations in key biofilm genes were observed. Specifically, the abaIR quorum-sensing system was absent in 33.3 % of isolates. All ST2 strains carried bap type-2 with 4-11 BC repeats, while ST25 harboured bap type-3. ompA variants also showed lineage specificity (variant V1 in ST2 and V3 in ST25). All isolates harboured type 1 secretion system (T1SS) operon, however an ISAba1 insertion in the tolC in ST25 may impair protein secretion. Additionally, a nonsense mutation at codon 57 (TTA→TAA) in pilA was identified in all ST2 isolates, potentially accounting for the lack of twitching motility. These findings highlight the substantial genetic and phenotypic variability in biofilm-associated genes among XDR A. baumannii, providing insights into their persistence in healthcare settings.},
}

@article {pmid40684587,
year = {2025},
author = {Chen, J and Xu, Y and Zhang, X and Lan, F and Cao, Y and Liu, Y and Wang, R and Yang, Y},
title = {Degradation of thiamphenicol by electroactive biofilm coupled with N-MnO2 modified layer double hydroxides as cathode in microbial fuel cell.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {391},
number = {},
pages = {126649},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.126649},
pmid = {40684587},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {N-doped MnO2 composite NiAl-Layer double hydroxides (N-MnO2@NiAl-LDH) with a ping-pong chrysanthemum like structure was prepared by hydrothermal method as a cathode catalyst in microbial fuel cells (MFCs) in previous study, which demonstrating excellent catalytic performance. This study investigated the power generation performance and the degradation of thiamphenicol (TAP) in N-MnO2@NiAl-LDH-cathode MFC. After the addition of TAP, the maximum power density generated by N-MnO2@NiAl-LDH-cathode MFC was 537.83 mW/m[2], which was 5.1 times higher than control MFC. The degradation rate of TAP by N-MnO2@NiAl-LDH-cathode was 81.62 %, which was 2.7 times higher than that of unmodified MFC, the degradation efficiency was significantly improved. Microorganisms were significantly affected by TAP, the abundance of electroactive bacteria (Pseudomonas) decreased, while bacteria related to the biodegradation of TAP (Sphingopyxis, Aridibacter, Norank_ Minicenantales, Petrimonas, etc.) were enriched. The modification of N-MnO2@NiAl-LDH reduced the internal resistance of MFC and accelerated the electron transfer rate, the large specific surface area provided more active sites for electrons, allowing more electrons to be transferred to the cathode. Under the reduction effect of electrons, chlorine atoms of TAP were gradually removed. Meanwhile, a large number of degrading bacteria were attached to the cathode, the dechlorination products underwent C-C bond cleavage and benzene ring opening under the biodegradation of degrading bacteria. The combined effect of electron reduction and microbial oxidation promoted the efficient degradation of TAP.},
}

@article {pmid40684128,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, Y and Huang, S and Du, J and Huang, J and Huang, X},
title = {In vitro evaluation of tolerance ability of cross-kingdom biofilm towards oral dynamic fluctuations.},
journal = {BMC oral health},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {1216},
pmid = {40684128},
issn = {1472-6831},
support = {2021J01802//Natural Science Foundation of Fujian Province of China/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Streptococcus mutans/physiology/growth & development/genetics ; *Candida albicans/physiology/growth & development/genetics ; Coculture Techniques ; Colony Count, Microbial ; Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction ; Oxidative Stress ; Stress, Physiological ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to investigate the resilience of Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) and Candida albicans (C. albicans) cross-kingdom biofilms in response to environmental stresses.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: The growth kinetics of S. mutans, C. albicans, and their co-culture in planktonic form were assessed using a BioScreen system. Biofilms were established on 96-well plates for a duration of 48 h, after which microbial counts were determined. The biofilms were then subjected to different stress conditions, including oxidative, acid, osmotic, and heat stress, for 2 h. The survival and structural integrity of the biofilms were evaluated through colony-forming unit (CFU) counting and fluorescence microscopy, respectively. Additionally, the transcriptional levels of genes concerning matrix formation, acid tolerance, oxidative tolerance were determined by quantitative real-time PCR (RT-PCR). The data was analyzed by one-way ANOVA, and post hoc Tukey's test (α = 0.05).

RESULTS: Co-culturing S. mutans and C. albicans resulted in an extended logarithmic growth phase compared to monocultures. Dual-species biofilm had higher microorganism counts after biofilm formation, displayed higher surviving cells, and a more complex structure after exposure to various stresses when compared to monospecies biofilm (p<0.05). The transcriptional levels of genes concerning matrix formation (gtfB, gtfC, ftf, bcr1, hwp1), acid tolerance (atpD, fabM, phr1), oxidative tolerance (nox, sodA, sod1, and trx1) were upregulated in dual-species biofilm (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS: Dual-species biofilm present higher tolerance to various stresses in the oral cavity. The upregulation of genes involved in matrix formation and stress tolerance may partially account for this increased resilience.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Streptococcus mutans/physiology/growth & development/genetics
*Candida albicans/physiology/growth & development/genetics
Coculture Techniques
Colony Count, Microbial
Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction
Oxidative Stress
Stress, Physiological

@article {pmid40683738,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, Y and Xiao, L and Ji, J and Hassani, D and Wu, Y and Niu, H and Dong, Q},
title = {Transcriptomic analysis of mature biofilm and planktonic cells of Listeria monocytogenes under nutritional stress.},
journal = {Food microbiology},
volume = {132},
number = {},
pages = {104859},
doi = {10.1016/j.fm.2025.104859},
pmid = {40683738},
issn = {1095-9998},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Listeria monocytogenes/genetics/physiology/metabolism/growth & development ; Gene Expression Profiling ; *Plankton/genetics/metabolism/growth & development/physiology ; Stress, Physiological ; Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; *Transcriptome ; },
abstract = {Listeria monocytogenes can adhere to various surfaces and form biofilms under environments with reduced nutrients, resulting in persistent contamination of products. In the present study, RNA sequencing was utilized to establish complete transcriptome profiles of L. monocytogenes in both the planktonic state (TF) and the biofilm state (TB), cultured in TSB-YE, as well as in the planktonic (dTF) and biofilm (dTB) states, cultured in a 10-fold dilution of TSB-YE (dTSB-YE). In our lab, MRL300083 (Lm83) was identified as the strain with the highest biofilm formation in dTSB-YE. There were 1, 6, and 3 significantly enriched pathways in TF vs. dTF, TB vs. dTB, TF vs. TB, respectively (padj < 0.05), indicating that these pathways or genes might be critical for bacterial survival. However, no significantly enriched pathway was found in dTF vs dTB. Interestingly, in both planktonic and biofilm states, the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) involved in flagellar assembly were exclusively up-regulated (padj < 0.05), indicating that flagellar synthesis was increased under nutritional stress. In biofilm-associated cells cultured in dTSB-YE, the DEGs involved in pathways including flagellar assembly, bacterial chemotaxis, fructose and mannose metabolism, and the phosphotransferase system (PTS) were significantly up-regulated (padj < 0.05). Compared to the planktonic state, bacteria in the biofilm state can mobilize various programs to resist adverse environments. RNA-Seq results were confirmed by RT-qPCR. This study has initially explored the underlying mechanisms of enhanced biofilm formation and environmental resistance of L. monocytogenes in biofilms under nutrient stress, which may help reveal or resolve L. monocytogenes persistence in food processing environments.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Listeria monocytogenes/genetics/physiology/metabolism/growth & development
Gene Expression Profiling
*Plankton/genetics/metabolism/growth & development/physiology
Stress, Physiological
Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial
Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism
*Transcriptome

@article {pmid40683732,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, M and Man, Y and Yang, R and Wang, Y and Yan, D and Mei, L and Qi, J and Dai, R and Xiong, G and Shao, L},
title = {The effect and mechanism of sublethal injury by lactic acid on Salmonella Typhimurium planktonic and biofilm cells.},
journal = {Food microbiology},
volume = {132},
number = {},
pages = {104852},
doi = {10.1016/j.fm.2025.104852},
pmid = {40683732},
issn = {1095-9998},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Salmonella typhimurium/drug effects/physiology/growth & development ; *Lactic Acid/pharmacology ; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration ; *Plankton/drug effects/growth & development ; Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism ; Extracellular Polymeric Substance Matrix/metabolism/chemistry ; Wastewater/microbiology ; Cell Membrane/drug effects ; Microbial Viability/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Salmonella is a zoonotic pathogen present in the food and environment, which could survive as sublethally injured form during treatment. The effects of sublethal injury by lactic acid (LA) on S. Typhimurium planktonic and biofilm cells in broth, food manufacturing wastewater, and aqueous solution were investigated in this study. Meanwhile, the changes of physiological properties including intracellular pH, enzyme activity, and membrane integrity were also determined to elucidate the formation mechanism of sublethally injured cells. The sublethal injury was examined using dual plate count method, and further verified with laser scanning confocal microscopy analysis. A higher injury ratio was observed for planktonic cells compared to biofilm cells, while the addition of glucose and whey protein remarkably decreased the injury ratio of planktonic S. Typhimurium, which revealed that extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) offered a protective effect against the damage from LA. Polysaccharides and proteins in EPS decreased after exposure to LA. The intracellular pH reduced during the formation of sublethally injured cells, which depressed the activity of intracellular enzymes and promoted the accumulation of reactive oxygen species. The damage to cytoplasmic membrane during the formation of injured cells was assessed with morphological observation, membrane potential and integrity assays, which demonstrated that LA exerted more severe injuries to planktonic cells compared to biofilm cells.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Salmonella typhimurium/drug effects/physiology/growth & development
*Lactic Acid/pharmacology
Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
*Plankton/drug effects/growth & development
Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism
Extracellular Polymeric Substance Matrix/metabolism/chemistry
Wastewater/microbiology
Cell Membrane/drug effects
Microbial Viability/drug effects

@article {pmid40683729,
year = {2025},
author = {Pegueros-Valencia, CA and Lucero-Mejía, JE and Hernández-Iturriaga, M and Godínez-Oviedo, A},
title = {Assessing Salmonella enterica biofilm formation in frequent scenarios of chicken handling in domestic kitchen environments.},
journal = {Food microbiology},
volume = {132},
number = {},
pages = {104849},
doi = {10.1016/j.fm.2025.104849},
pmid = {40683729},
issn = {1095-9998},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; Animals ; Chickens/microbiology ; *Salmonella enterica/physiology/growth & development ; Food Handling/instrumentation ; Food Microbiology ; *Meat/microbiology ; Food Contamination/analysis ; Bacterial Adhesion ; Cooking ; Cooking and Eating Utensils ; },
abstract = {Home kitchens are major sources of foodborne illnesses. This study evaluated Salmonella enterica biofilm formation (BF) in common chicken handling scenarios in domestic kitchens (CHSDK). An online survey identified the most frequent CHSDK. Based on the results, three S.enterica (Anatum, Saintpaul, and Typhimurium) were assessed for their attachment on plastic, glass, and stainless-steel surfaces with chicken residues, with or without raw chicken microbiota (RCM), at 25 °C. BF was evaluated by measuring pathogen growth and biopolymer production over three days. Survey results showed plastic was the predominant material for cutting boards (47.8 %), and cookware was used for raw (40.3 %) and cooked (59.6 %) chicken, followed by glass,21.5 %, and 31.2 %, respectively. Knives (79.1 %) were the main utensils for cutting raw chicken. Regarding the attachment, S.enterica strains were significantly lower in the presence of RCM (2.3 ± 0.7 logCFU/cm[2]) compared to its absence (5.4 ± 0.4logCFU/cm[2]) (p < 0.05). A full-factorial ANOVA showed that strain, surface, RCM, and the RCM-surface interaction significantly affected both, pathogen growth within biofilms and biopolymer production (p < 0.05). The interaction showed that the greatest difference in pathogen growth occurred on stainless steel, with 1.31 ± 0.73logCFU/cm[2] in the absence and 0.23 ± 0.76 logCFU/cm[2] in the presence of RCM. For biopolymer, the largest difference was on glass, 0.52 ± 0.26 and 0.37 ± 0.15 OD595nm. Anatum had the highest attachment, Typhimurium the greatest growth, and Saintpaul the highest biopolymer production, regardless of the surface and presence/absence of RCM. These findings suggest that S.enterica can persist in biofilms under CHSDK, highlighting the risk of cross-contamination not only through immediate contact, but also through BF over time.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
Animals
Chickens/microbiology
*Salmonella enterica/physiology/growth & development
Food Handling/instrumentation
Food Microbiology
*Meat/microbiology
Food Contamination/analysis
Bacterial Adhesion
Cooking
Cooking and Eating Utensils

@article {pmid40683499,
year = {2025},
author = {Xiu, L and Li, Q and Tian, Q and Li, Y and Pengsakul, T and Lin, G and Yan, Q and Huang, L},
title = {sRNA-enriched outer membrane vesicles of Vibrio alginolyticus: Decisive architects of biofilm assembly.},
journal = {International journal of biological macromolecules},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {146102},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2025.146102},
pmid = {40683499},
issn = {1879-0003},
abstract = {Biofilms robustly defend bacteria by impeding antimicrobial entry, and protecting against environmental stress and immune responses, thereby enhancing host colonization. Overcoming the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges of biofilm infections is critical, given their clinical significance and resistance to standard treatments. Recent investigations have illuminated the pivotal role of outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) in biofilm formation. This study delves into the OMVs secreted by Vibrio alginolyticus, a zoonotic species and the second largest class of pathogenic Vibrio. We successfully extracted, purified, and characterized OMVs from V. alginolyticus. Our data reveal that these OMVs not only facilitate biofilm formation but are also enriched with small RNAs (sRNAs). Bioinformatics analyses suggest that these sRNAs, characterized by distinct secondary structures and targeting various regulatory genes, may be integral to the biofilm formation process. To verify this, we constructed sRNA-deficient mutants and OMVs, then evaluated their effects on bacterial physiology, including growth, motility, extracellular matrix production, and biofilm development. Our findings demonstrate that sRNA cargos play a crucial role in these processes and modulate gene expression associated with biofilm formation. This study highlights the significant role of OMVs delivering sRNAs in regulating bacterial biofilm formation, offering new insights into bacterial pathogenesis and resistance mechanisms.},
}

@article {pmid40683475,
year = {2025},
author = {Zheng, P and Li, Y and Cheng, Y and Wang, J and Wang, Y and Mu, Y and Shen, J},
title = {Mechanistic insights into enhanced volatile pyridine biodegradation through shortcut pyridine-N transformation in counter-diffusion biofilms by regulating biofilm stratification and microbial spatial interactions.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {133010},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2025.133010},
pmid = {40683475},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Air pollution and nitrogen contamination residues remain challenges in the conventional biological treatment of industrial wastewater containing volatile organic compounds. In this study, counter-diffusion biofilms were integrated with shortcut nitrification-denitrification technology to enhance pyridine biodegradation through shortcut pyridine-N transformation (EPB-SPNT), with emphasis on biofilm stratification and microbial spatial interactions. Results showed that the removal efficiency of pyridine and total nitrogen reached 100 % and 91.24 ± 0.75 %, respectively. Fluorescence in situ hybridization and metagenomic analysis revealed that aerobic pyridine-degrading bacteria (APDB, Alicycliphilus) and ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB, Nitrosomonas) were located in the aerobic layer, while anoxic pyridine degrading-denitrifying bacteria (APD-DB, Paracoccus) were enriched in the anoxic layer. Biofilm stability was mainly attributed to the lower hydrophilicity of protein secondary structure. The EPB-SPNT process was driven by the spatial cooperation among APDB, AOB, and APD-DB. These findings demonstrate the feasibility of implementing the EPB-SPNT in counter-diffusion biofilms through the regulation of microbial stratification and interactions.},
}

@article {pmid40683408,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhou, J and Zhou, C and Jiang, G and Wang, Y and Pan, L and Jia, X and Tu, X and Li, W and Wang, C},
title = {Engineering an Escherichia coli with Performance-Enhanced Switch Utilizing CRISPR-Cas9 System as Living Quorum Quencher for Biofilm Formation Inhibition.},
journal = {Environmental research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {122383},
doi = {10.1016/j.envres.2025.122383},
pmid = {40683408},
issn = {1096-0953},
abstract = {Quorum quenching (QQ) of signal molecules plays a critical role in disrupting bacterial communication, thereby suppressing biofilm formation. However, the wild-type QQ bacteria lacks the regulatory capacity to modulate gene expression levels. In this study, the QQ gene aiiO and reporter gene GFP were chromosomally integrated into Escherichia coli BW25113 using the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats-CRISPR associated protein 9 (CRISPR-Cas9) system. The performance-enhanced switch in the engineering bacteria (EB) allowed it to express aiiO weakly without the inducer isopropyl-beta-D-thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG) and express aiiO strongly with IPTG, and 1.00 mM IPTG induction enhanced EB's QQ activity by 2.34-fold. In activated sludge systems, the inoculation of EB reduced biofilm formation by 18.56% versus controls after 168 h, with the performance-enhanced switch enhancing inhibition to 24.72%. EB reduced biofilm thickness by 22.96%, total microbial biomass by 57.68%, and significantly decreased extracellular polymeric substances secretion and adhesion strength of the biofilm (maximum reductions: 29.88% and 34.31%, respectively) across all sampling points versus controls. 1.00 mM IPTG addition sustainedly intensified these biofilm-inhibitory effects by EB, demonstrating the genetic switch's persistent functionality under environmentally relevant conditions. Furthermore, the genetically modified strain exhibited minimal environmental impact according to standardized assessments. Therefore, this study successfully constructed an implementable strategy for engineering bacteria-mediated biofilm control, with demonstrated applicability in complex environmental systems.},
}

@article {pmid40682093,
year = {2025},
author = {Muguerza-Guevara, K and Cortés-Acha, B and García-García, M and Figueiredo, R and Soler-Ollé, A and Blanc, V and Valmaseda-Castellón, E},
title = {In vivo analysis of early biofilm development and cell viability on implant-mimicking abutments at 24 h, 48 h, and 7 days.},
journal = {BMC oral health},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {1201},
pmid = {40682093},
issn = {1472-6831},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; Humans ; *Dental Abutments/microbiology ; Female ; Male ; *Dental Implants/microbiology ; Middle Aged ; Adult ; Time Factors ; Surface Properties ; Microbial Viability ; Cell Survival ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The microbiota associated with peri-implant diseases has been described, though information about biofilm formation and development on dental implants remains scarce.

OBJECTIVES: To analyze and compare biofilm formation and distribution at 24 h, 48 h and 7 days on experimental abutments simulating dental implants in peri-implant healthy patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: Experimental abutments with micro-threads and a modified rough surface were placed in healthy dental implants of 10 patients. Instructions were given not to clean the abutments for the duration of the study. Exclusion criteria included the use of antiseptics or antibiotics 30 days prior to recruitment or during the study period. After 24 h, 48 h and 7 days, the abutments were removed and stained using LIVE/DEAD stain, and two sides (buccal and palatal/lingual) and two areas (supragingival and subgingival) were assessed, with measurement of the mean biofilm covering area.

RESULTS: Twenty-nine experimental abutments placed in 10 patients were assessed. The total mean biomass coverage areas were 9.3%, 16.2% and 16.8% at 24 h, 48 h and 7 days, respectively, with significant differences being observed between 24 h and the subsequent timepoints (p < 0.05). Significantly greater supragingival biofilm coverage was observed at 7 days in comparison with the subgingival zone (21.85% versus 11.7%; p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS: Biofilm coverage on healthy dental implants increases progressively during the first 48 h and then stabilizes. The biofilm is mainly composed of live cells in the supragingival and subgingival areas. After 7 days, the supragingival areas show significantly greater biofilm coverage.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
Humans
*Dental Abutments/microbiology
Female
Male
*Dental Implants/microbiology
Middle Aged
Adult
Time Factors
Surface Properties
Microbial Viability
Cell Survival