@article {pmid41922697,
year = {2026},
author = {Manandhar, S and Karn, D and Shrestha, MR and Shakya, J and Singh, A},
title = {Biofilm producing and antibiotic resistant coagulase negative staphylococci in clinical samples isolated from tertiary care hospital of Nepal.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41598-026-46831-0},
pmid = {41922697},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {FRC 076/077//University Grants Commission- Nepal (University Grants Commission, Nepal)/ ; },
abstract = {This study investigated the phenotypic and genotypic characteristics of biofilm-producing coagulase negative staphylococci (CNS) isolated from clinical samples of a tertiary care hospital in Nepal. A total of 69 non duplicate CNS isolates were collected between August 2022 to February 2023. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was conducted using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. Biofilm formation was quantified by Tissue culture plate method (TCP) and the presence of icaA and mecA genes was detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Among 69 CNS isolates, majority were resistant to penicillin (92.8%) and cefixime (89.9%). Methicillin resistance was observed among 63.8% isolates phenotypically while mecA gene was detected only in 75% isolates. Multidrug resistance was identified in 73.9% isolates and 91.3% demonstrated a MAR index of > 0.2. Majority of CNS (91.3%) were biofilm producers. TCP method revealed 31.9%, 17.4% and 42% CNS as strong, moderate and weak biofilm producers respectively. However, only 18.8% isolates showed the presence of icaA gene. No significant association was found between biofilm production, methicillin resistance and multidrug resistance. The combined phenotypic/molecular approach highlights the clinical relevance of multidrug resistant, biofilm forming CNS in clinical samples, underscoring the need for strengthened infection control and antimicrobial stewardship strategies.},
}

@article {pmid41923298,
year = {2026},
author = {de Oliveira Rabelo, H and de Andrade Cunha, L and Pereira, HMD and da Silva Ryal, EPF and Wada, LGTT and Ferreira, EB and Gimenes, F and Tognim, MCB},
title = {Adhesion and Formation of Bacterial Biofilm on Polydioxanone (PDO) Thread Cannulas: An In Vitro Evaluation.},
journal = {Journal of cosmetic dermatology},
volume = {25},
number = {4},
pages = {e70829},
doi = {10.1111/jocd.70829},
pmid = {41923298},
issn = {1473-2165},
}

@article {pmid41924422,
year = {2026},
author = {Nazarova, V and Kamzayeva, N and Ukybassova, T and Kozhakhmetov, S and Kushugulova, A},
title = {Systems analysis of the HPV-microbiome-biofilm triad.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1767224},
pmid = {41924422},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; Humans ; *Microbiota ; Female ; *Papillomavirus Infections/microbiology/virology/immunology ; Dysbiosis/microbiology ; *Papillomaviridae/physiology ; Vagina/microbiology/virology ; Uterine Cervical Neoplasms/virology/microbiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Human papillomavirus (HPV) remains the leading cause of cervical cancer worldwide, however, its pathogenesis cannot be sufficiently explained by viral factors alone. Accumulating evidence highlights the critical role of cervicovaginal microbiome composition and biofilm formation in shaping viral persistence, epithelial barrier disruption and carcinogenic progression.

METHODS: This systems-based integrative synthesis analyzed peer-reviewed literature published between January 2000 and July 2025, retrieved from PubMed and Google Scholar with additional records identified through backward citation screening. The collected data were synthesized to construct a conceptual model of the HPV-microbiome-biofilm triad and to evaluate its clinical and biological implications.

RESULTS: The analysis indicates that depletion of Lactobacillus-dominated communities and expansion of anaerobic taxa, particularly Gardnerella vaginalis, are associated with biofilm development, chronic inflammation and immune modulation. These interrelated processes form self-reinforcing feedback loops that promote HPV persistence and reduce therapeutic efficacy. Microbiome dysbiosis and biofilm formation were further linked to impaired epithelial integrity, altered cytokine signaling pathways and clinically relevant phenotypes including immune escape, metabolic shifts and treatment non-responsiveness.

DISCUSSION: This systems perspective challenges reductionist pathogen-centered models and emphasizes the importance of integrating microbiome profiling and biofilm dynamics into cervical cancer risk stratification and therapeutic strategies. The coupled interactions between microbial communities, host immunity and viral persistence underscore the cervicovaginal ecosystem as an active regulator of disease progression rather than a passive bystander. Incorporating ecosystem-based parameters into clinical decision-making may enhance prognostic assessment and improve treatment outcomes, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where high HPV prevalence coincides with increased microbiome vulnerability.

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier CRD420251208178.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
Humans
*Microbiota
Female
*Papillomavirus Infections/microbiology/virology/immunology
Dysbiosis/microbiology
*Papillomaviridae/physiology
Vagina/microbiology/virology
Uterine Cervical Neoplasms/virology/microbiology

@article {pmid41924770,
year = {2026},
author = {Du, J and Zhang, Q and Wang, Z and Jin, Y and Gao, F and Kong, Y and Bianco, A and Ge, S and Ma, B},
title = {A pH/ROS dual-responsive metal-polyphenol-antibiotic nano-assembly for combating persistent infection by overcoming biofilm and cell membrane barriers.},
journal = {Biomaterials},
volume = {333},
number = {},
pages = {124168},
doi = {10.1016/j.biomaterials.2026.124168},
pmid = {41924770},
issn = {1878-5905},
abstract = {Persistent infections are notoriously difficult to eradicate, mainly due to biofilm formation and intracellular colonization, which barrier pathogens from antimicrobials, reduce efficacy, and drive recurrence. Infection-induced inflammation further disrupts tissue homeostasis and impairs healing. To address these issues, we designed a multifunctional nanoplatform by one-step self-assembly of Zn[2+], tannic acid (TA), and minocycline (MC), yielding biocompatible ZTM nanoparticles (ZTM NPs). Distinct from conventional carriers, this co-assembly strategy enables high drug loading through metal-phenolic coordination, hydrogen bonding, and π-π stacking interactions, thereby integrating MC directly into the dynamic Zn[2+]-TA network. Notably, the constructed ZTM NPs exhibit dual-responsive properties to the acidic pH and elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels commonly present in infectious microenvironments. Functionally, ZTM NPs effectively disrupt the extracellular polymeric substance (EPS), penetrate the biofilm barrier, and eliminate embedded bacteria. Furthermore, they are capable of crossing the cell membrane barrier, facilitating efficient cellular uptake. Once internalized, the nanoparticles promote lysosomal escape, allowing the delivery of active components into the cytoplasm and contributing to the effective elimination of intracellular bacteria. Beyond antibacterial action, ZTM NPs modulate immunity by scavenging ROS, suppressing NF-κB signaling, and inhibiting M1 macrophage polarization, thereby mitigating inflammation and restoring tissue homeostasis. In vivo, they exhibit potent antibacterial and immunoregulatory efficacy, promoting periodontal regeneration. Overall, ZTM NPs represent a clinically translatable nanoplatform integrating biofilm disruption, intracellular bacterial clearance, and immune modulation.},
}

@article {pmid41925148,
year = {2026},
author = {Mu, W and Yao, L and Wang, F and Ma, Y and Kadier, K and Hu, J and Cao, L and Yang, J},
title = {Synergistic Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound-Activated Vancomycin-Loaded Microbubbles for MRSA Biofilm Eradication and Bone Regeneration in Periprosthetic Joint Infection.},
journal = {ACS biomaterials science & engineering},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acsbiomaterials.5c02018},
pmid = {41925148},
issn = {2373-9878},
abstract = {Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI), sustained by antibiotic-tolerant biofilms, hinders infection control and impairs bone healing. To address this, we developed a dual-action strategy combining low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) with vancomycin-loaded microbubbles (MBs@V) designed to concurrently eliminate methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) biofilms and enhance bone regeneration. In vitro, LIPUS activation of MBs@V generated cavitation that effectively disrupted mature biofilm architecture, significantly enhancing intrabiofilm vancomycin penetration and bactericidal efficacy. In vivo, using a rat model of PJI with infected titanium implants, the MBs@V + LIPUS therapy demonstrated synergistic effects: it markedly reduced bacterial burden and inflammation while remodeling the immune microenvironment through polarization of macrophages toward the reparative M2 phenotype and enhancing osteogenic activity. This immunomodulation and pro-osteogenic transition fostered a reparative environment, which simultaneously enhanced peri-implant bone mineralization and improved trabecular quality. Collectively, this integrated ultrasound-mediated approach provides a multifunctional platform for effective PJI management by synergistically targeting biofilm elimination and promoting bone regeneration.},
}

@article {pmid41925812,
year = {2026},
author = {Jouhar, R and Halim, MS and Quadri, SA and Ahmed, MA},
title = {Evaluation of biofilm disruption on root dentin following conventional and nanoparticle-enhanced photodynamic therapies using scanning electron microscopy and FIJI-based image analysis.},
journal = {Discover nano},
volume = {21},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41925812},
issn = {2731-9229},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Enterococcus faecalis biofilm is a major contributor to persistent root canal infections due to its high resistance to conventional irrigants. This study aimed to evaluate and compare different disinfection protocols, including sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), photodynamic therapy (PDT) with methylene blue (MB), and MB functionalized with reduced graphene oxide (MB-rGO) nanoparticles with or without sonic activation, in disrupting E. faecalis biofilm on root canal dentin using SEM and quantitative FIJI-based image analysis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eighty root dentin specimens were obtained from forty extracted single-rooted human teeth. Following canal preparation and instrumentation, thirty-five teeth were inoculated with Enterococcus faecalis and incubated for 21 days to develop mature biofilms, while five teeth served as negative controls. Each tooth was longitudinally sectioned to yield two standardized dentin specimens, which were randomly allocated to six experimental groups (n = 10 specimens per group) according to the disinfection protocol. Groups 1-2 received 5% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), Groups 3-4 underwent photodynamic therapy (PDT) using methylene blue (MB), and Groups 5-6 received PDT with methylene blue functionalized with reduced graphene oxide (MB-rGO). Sonic activation was applied in Groups 2, 4, and 6. Biofilm removal was assessed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and quantified with FIJI software employing the Trainable Weka Segmentation plugin. A 6-point visual scoring scale was additionally applied. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA with Tukey's post hoc test and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test (p < 0.05).

RESULTS: The positive control showed extensive biofilm coverage (73.36 ± 6.36%). NaOCl-treated groups showed moderate reduction (Group 1: 35.57 ± 3.11%; Group 2: 31.67 ± 2.09%). PDT with MB exhibited greater reduction (Group 3: 21.68 ± 2.65%; Group 4: 19.11 ± 1.78%). The MB-rGO groups presented the highest efficacy (Group 5: 17.71 ± 2.66%; Group 6: 10.46 ± 1.92%), with Group 6 significantly outperforming all others (p < 0.001). Semi-quantitative scores reflected similar trends, with Group 6 showing the lowest score (1.20 ± 0.63, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION: MB-rGO combined with sonic and laser activation demonstrated the highest efficacy against E. faecalis biofilm, indicating a promising approach for enhanced endodontic disinfection.},
}

@article {pmid41925945,
year = {2026},
author = {Karthikeyan, J and Kannan, P and Sundaram, S and Rajalakshmi, S and Anbazhagan, S and Savariraj, WR and Sudhakaran, PN and Dhanalakshmi, P and Quintoil, MN and Sivachandiran, R and Bairi, NS and Amachawadi, RG},
title = {Isolation, characterization and genomic insights of the lytic bacteriophage TANUVAS_MVC-VPH-AB targeting Acinetobacter spp. with antibacterial and anti-biofilm activity.},
journal = {Molecular biology reports},
volume = {53},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41925945},
issn = {1573-4978},
}

@article {pmid41917117,
year = {2026},
author = {Ferro, AC and de Oliveira, JS and Scabelo, L and Araújo, LV and Mota, C and Baker, MB and Jorge, JH},
title = {Effect of surface polishing on roughness, biofilm formation, and biocompatibility of LCD-printed denture base polymer.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41598-026-45942-y},
pmid = {41917117},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {2021/09555-1//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo/ ; 2021/09624-3//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41917700,
year = {2026},
author = {Rahman, MA and Akter, S and Ashrafudoulla, M and Lee, HR and Lee, G and Ghimire, A and Jung, SJ and Yoon, HJ and Ha, SD},
title = {AI-Driven Farm-To-Fork Biofilm Detection and Control in Aquatic Foods: From Industry 4.0 to Industry 5.0.},
journal = {Comprehensive reviews in food science and food safety},
volume = {25},
number = {3},
pages = {e70462},
doi = {10.1111/1541-4337.70462},
pmid = {41917700},
issn = {1541-4337},
support = {//Ministry of Science and Technology, Bangladesh/ ; //Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, Republic of Korea/ ; //Chung-Ang University/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms ; *Artificial Intelligence ; *Seafood/microbiology ; Aquaculture ; Food Microbiology ; Food Contamination/prevention & control ; Animals ; },
abstract = {Aquatic foods are essential sources of protein and micronutrients and play a critical role in global nutrition, trade, and livelihoods. However, their safety and sustainability are frequently compromised by microbial contamination and biofilm formation during farming, processing, storage, and retail. Biofilms persist on moist surfaces, resist conventional cleaning practices, and contribute to spoilage, cross-contamination, and economic loss. This article reviews emerging applications of artificial intelligence and Industry 4.0 technologies for biofilm prevention and control in aquaculture and seafood systems. Particular emphasis is placed on the use of continuous water quality sensing, imaging platforms for early detection and cleaning verification, genomic and omics tools for microbial trait-level insight, and digital twin frameworks for virtual simulation of sanitation strategies. Recent advances demonstrate that sensor telemetry can predict biofilm-favorable conditions, imaging can verify removal in real time, and genomic data can identify persistence traits and tolerance mechanisms. When integrated, these approaches enable facility-specific digital twins that anticipate surface-specific risks and recommend optimized interventions before implementation. The convergence of AI, sensor networks, imaging, and omics offers a shift from reactive to proactive biofilm management in aquatic food systems. Positioned within the transition to Industry 5.0, these innovations support earlier detection, targeted interventions, and measurable improvements in food safety, quality, sustainability, and resilience, while aligning production systems with human-centric goals.},
}

*Biofilms
*Artificial Intelligence
*Seafood/microbiology
Aquaculture
Food Microbiology
Food Contamination/prevention & control
Animals

@article {pmid41918013,
year = {2026},
author = {Jug, B and Šikić Pogačar, M and Berlec, A and Klančnik, A},
title = {Lactococcus cremoris decreases virulence‑associated properties, and modifies the protein profile of foodborne pathogen Campylobacter jejuni in biofilm.},
journal = {Gut pathogens},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s13099-026-00827-3},
pmid = {41918013},
issn = {1757-4749},
support = {J7-4420//The Slovenian Research and Innovation Agency/ ; J4-4548, J4-3088, and P4-0116//The Slovenian Research and Innovation Agency/ ; },
abstract = {Campylobacter jejuni, the most common foodborne pathogen, relies on adhesion, invasion, and biofilm formation for successful virulence and persistence in the food-processing environments. In this study, we investigated the effects of the transient bacterium with probiotic properties Lactococcus cremoris on C. jejuni virulence via an adhesion and invasion assay using human colon adenocarcinoma Caco-2 cells, culturability via colony-forming units, and proteomic adaptation in co-culture via label-free quantitative mass spectrometry. Caco-2 cell adhesion and invasion assay revealed that L. cremoris decreases C. jejuni adhesion (by 50%) and invasion (by 92%), particularly when inoculated prior to the pathogen. In mature (48 h old) dual-species biofilms, C. jejuni culturability decreased by 88%, while L. cremoris culturability remained unaffected, compared to single-species biofilms. Proteomic analysis of biofilm cells showed metabolic reprogramming in C. jejuni, with increased levels of proteins related to the TCA cycle, stress response, amino acid and nucleotide metabolism, chemotaxis, and energy production. The most upregulated proteins included the tungsten transporter TupA, LuxS, Dps, and hydrogenase subunits HydAB, indicating adaptations to nutrient limitation and oxidative stress. Nevertheless, the decreased culturability of C. jejuni suggests it is overwhelmed under the competitive conditions of dual-species biofilms. Our findings demonstrate that L. cremoris exerts strong antagonistic effects on C. jejuni, restricting its virulence, and triggering significant metabolic shifts in dual-species biofilms. These results highlight the potential of L. cremoris as a preventative strategy against C. jejuni adhesion, colonisation, and transmission.},
}

@article {pmid41920586,
year = {2026},
author = {Anderson, GG and Kovvali, S and Dang, FW and Singh, RM and Vishwakarma, A and Weeks, JW and Pandey, R},
title = {Identifying markers of biofilm formation on medical-grade stainless steel as a representative medical device material.},
journal = {Microbiology (Reading, England)},
volume = {172},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1099/mic.0.001684},
pmid = {41920586},
issn = {1465-2080},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Stainless Steel ; *Equipment and Supplies/microbiology ; Equipment Contamination ; },
abstract = {Reusable medical devices are reprocessed between uses, including cleaning and, as necessary, disinfection or sterilization. Healthcare-associated infections have been attributed to reusable medical devices and linked to inadequate reprocessing, which can result in residual soil on the device, insufficient disinfection, microbial resistance to used disinfectants and biofilm-related contamination. These factors can lead to microbial proliferation on and biofouling of reusable medical devices, increasing the risk of patient infection. While there are FDA-recognized standards for cleaning validation (including artificial test soils), there is a lack of standards or guidance documents available to advise on determining whether biofilm has been adequately cleaned off reusable devices after reprocessing. Additionally, relatively few studies report reproducible models of biofilm formation on medical devices or device materials; such models are necessary to begin the identification of the microbial biofilm burden present before and after reprocessing. Moreover, appropriate analytes to quantify that biofilm burden, and the endpoints of those analytes after reprocessing, need to be determined. The study described herein utilized a drip flow reactor (DFR) to develop single-species biofilms of two Gram-negative (Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae) and two Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis) bacterial species that are prone to contaminate medical devices as biofilms. Biofilm was extracted at early and late biofilm stages and then tested for several analytes, including protein, ATP, endotoxin, peptidoglycan and total organic carbon. The levels of these analytes were compared to c.f.u. and metabolic activity to qualitatively compare analyte levels with biofilm burden. The results presented demonstrate that the DFR can be used to model biofilm formation of several medically relevant micro-organisms on stainless steel. Furthermore, the analytical data obtained with this study indicate that the analytes used can be a good starting point for informing the selection of endpoints in future studies that evaluate the efficacy of cleaning and disinfection within the context of biofilm reduction.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Stainless Steel
*Equipment and Supplies/microbiology
Equipment Contamination

@article {pmid41921326,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, X and Li, C and Zhao, Y and Li, X and Zhang, Q and Zhang, L and Peng, Y},
title = {A novel approach for achieving high enrichment of anammox and nitrogen removal rate in municipal wastewater treatment: A pure biofilm process.},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {298},
number = {},
pages = {125838},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2026.125838},
pmid = {41921326},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {Against the backdrop of global carbon neutrality goals and increasingly stringent pollutant discharge standards, the anammox nitrogen removal process has gained significant attention due to its high efficiency, energy-saving, and environmentally friendly characteristics. The current mainstream wastewater treatment technologies still encounter challenges in enriching anaerobic ammonium-oxidizing bacteria (AnAOB) and managing the disposal of substantial amounts of residual sludge. The pure biofilm process has garnered significant attention as the primary focus for autotrophic nitrogen removal transformation in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), owing to its ability to efficiently enrich AnAOB and produce low amounts of sludge. This study innovatively proposed a novel pure biofilm process and explored the self-enrichment mechanism of AnAOB in this system. Over 200 days of municipal wastewater treatment under a low C/N ratio (average of 3), the effluent ammonia nitrogen removal efficiency (ARE) and total nitrogen removal efficiency (NRE) achieved 97.72 ± 1.50 % and 94.27 ± 2.92 %, respectively. Long-term operation and batch experiments revealed that carbon source regulation is crucial for the performance of pure biofilm systems. Furthermore, the pure biofilm system demonstrates greater resilience to organic loading shocks compared to floc sludge and hybrid systems. QPCR and 16S rRNA sequencing confirmed the successful enrichment of AnAOB (pre-anoxic:8.94 %, post-anoxic:8.61 %), with anammox contributing to an impressive 81.10 % of nitrogen removal. Additionally, fluorescence in situ hybridization combined with confocal laser scanning microscopy (FISH-CLAM) technology demonstrated a spatially uniform distribution of AnAOB within the system, in contrast to hybrid systems. Metagenomic sequencing revealed the carbon and nitrogen metabolic pathways of functional bacteria in the pure biofilm system, showing that AnAOB's metabolic diversity and ecological niche adaptation within the biofilm structure drove their self-enrichment. Finally, microelectrode measurements of N2O production in the pure biofilm system confirmed its substantial potential for emission reduction. This work offers a practical solution for WWTPs aiming to reduce energy consumption and transition from heterotrophic to autotrophic nitrogen removal processes.},
}

@article {pmid41921408,
year = {2026},
author = {Hao, X and Abdali, Z and Arenas Garcia, MA and Saldanha, DJ and Jabra Khabbaz, C and Dorval Courchesne, NM},
title = {Engineered biofilm-based living hydrogel for bioprinting.},
journal = {Colloids and surfaces. B, Biointerfaces},
volume = {264},
number = {},
pages = {115666},
doi = {10.1016/j.colsurfb.2026.115666},
pmid = {41921408},
issn = {1873-4367},
abstract = {Incorporating genetically modifiable microbial biomass with polymeric hydrogel matrices offers a simple strategy for both bottom-up and top-down approaches in functional living hydrogel materials design. In this work, we designed a two-part living hydrogel, consisting of a non-living hydrogel matrix and engineered living biofilms. We used polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), gelatin, and agar to make a composite polymeric hydrogel matrix. Then we incorporated genetically engineered functional Escherichia coli (E. coli) biofilms containing cells and curli fibers into the hydrogel matrix. We investigated the physical and mechanical properties of the living hydrogel material with various formulations. The results showed that this viscoelastic living hydrogel with shear-thinning properties and storage modulus in the range between a few hundred and thousand Pa was suitable for extrusion-base bioprinting. The living hydrogel can absorb water about 5 times its dry weight and disintegrate quickly by 50% within 8 h of water immersion. We also demonstrated that the incorporated cells maintained their viability and ability to express recombinant curli fusion proteins after printing. The incorporated genetically engineered biofilms also maintained their fluorescence and pH response. This work provides a promising foundation for the development of functional living materials and can serve as a useful reference for environmental sensing applications requiring responsive and biologically active hydrogel systems.},
}

@article {pmid41910196,
year = {2026},
author = {Holt, JD and Miller, KA and Hunter, OF and Zhang, E and Hinbest, AJ and Gerace, E and Olson, R and Kadouri, DE and Nadell, CD},
title = {Predator-prey dynamics of Vibrio cholerae on chitin suggest an alternative mode of biofilm formation in marine snow conditions.},
journal = {The ISME journal},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/ismejo/wrag072},
pmid = {41910196},
issn = {1751-7370},
abstract = {Vibrio cholerae is a ubiquitous marine bacterium that solubilizes and consumes chitin in the marine water column. In both the marine environment and the intestinal track, V. cholerae forms biofilms: how do the diverse surfaces that V. cholerae encounters influence its biofilm formation and, in turn, shape its ecological interactions with other microbes? Here, we use the interaction between the predator Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus and V. cholerae as a model to explore how the environmental chitin substrate alters V. cholerae biofilm formation and predator-prey dynamics. We find that glass-bound biofilm growth provides strong protection for V. cholerae against predation while also allowing a population of predatory B. bacteriovorus to remain in place among prey cells. In contrast, chitin-bound biofilm structure offers less protection against B. bacteriovorus predation and does not maintain as stable a population of B. bacteriovorus. Using percolation and population dynamics models, we predict that these changes in predator-prey dynamics can be explained largely by alterations in V. cholerae biofilm architecture between the two conditions, which changes the fraction of prey available to B. bacteriovorus. Using targeted biofilm matrix gene deletions, we confirm this prediction by recapitulating key features of the chitin predator-prey interactions on glass surfaces. Following on this observation, we show that V. cholerae biofilms grown on chitin produce much less of the canonical biofilm matrix components and instead rely on other extracellular structures. Overall, our experiments detail how growth substrate can alter biofilm matrix composition and how these changes in biofilm architecture impact higher-order ecological interactions.},
}

@article {pmid41914507,
year = {2026},
author = {Lee, JH and Ahn, Y and Markowicz, AA and Monroy, GL and Hurd, C and Lee, J and Park, J and Park, EJ and Rogers, SA and Boppart, SA and Kong, H},
title = {Surface versus Nanocatalyst-Induced Matrix Bubbles Govern Temperature-Dependent Biofilm Removal.},
journal = {ACS applied materials & interfaces},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acsami.6c00615},
pmid = {41914507},
issn = {1944-8252},
abstract = {Bacterial biofilms protected by viscoelastic extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) are highly resistant to chemical disinfectants and rapidly regenerate after treatment. While bubble-mediated mechanical disruption has emerged as an eco-friendly antifouling strategy, bubbles generated by conventional tools act on biofilm surfaces and fail to disrupt three-dimensional biofilms. Here, we demonstrate that generating bubbles within biofilms, referred to as matrix bubbles, and controlling their dynamics with temperature, enables effective matrix disruption and biofilm removal. Using P. aeruginosa biofilms as a model system, we compared H2O2 alone with MnO2 nanocatalyst-doped biosilica microparticles (MnO2-biosilica) across a range of temperatures. H2O2 alone produced catalase-driven O2 bubbles localized on the biofilm surface with minimal temperature dependence, resulting in limited biofilm removal. In contrast, MnO2-biosilica generated temperature-amplified matrix bubbles that formed swarms, penetrated biofilms, disrupted EPS, and suppressed regrowth at elevated temperatures (25 and 40 °C). Kinetic and imaging analyses revealed that this temperature-dependent behavior arises from accelerated MnO2-catalyzed H2O2 decomposition coupled with enhanced bubble expansion and rupture, which deliver strong mechanical perturbation within the biofilm matrix. Importantly, nanocatalyst-induced matrix bubbles effectively removed biofilm from complex surgical instrument geometries and acted synergistically with autoclaving. This study therefore establishes temperature-controlled, nanocatalyst-mediated matrix bubble dynamics as a physical strategy for overcoming biofilm resistance in clinical and industrial settings.},
}

@article {pmid41915000,
year = {2026},
author = {Ambachew, S and Ramezanpour, M and Cooksley, CM and Barry, EF and Durr, L and Fenix, KA and Wormald, PJ and Psaltis, AJ and Vreugde, S},
title = {Biofilm Exoproteins From Staphylococcus Species Impede Re-Epithelialization of Nasal Epithelial Cells During Wound Healing and Cease Ciliary Beat Frequency.},
journal = {International forum of allergy & rhinology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/alr.70146},
pmid = {41915000},
issn = {2042-6984},
support = {0006008606//Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC)/ ; //University of Adelaide Research Scholarship/ ; //Passe and Williams Foundation Senior Fellowship/ ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is an inflammatory disease with many different contributing factors, including bacterial infection. CRS patients are typically managed with medical therapies; however, these treatments frequently fail, leaving surgery as the only viable option. Despite surgical intervention, patients may experience ongoing clinical manifestations of inflammation and infection, frequently associated with Staphylococcus species colonization. This study explored the influence of Staphylococcus on the wound healing process and ciliary function in vitro.

METHODS: Exoproteins were extracted from biofilm forms of 15 Staphylococcus isolates obtained from five patients (4 CRS and 1 control patient), each colonized by Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Staphylococcus lugdunensis. Human nasal epithelial cells (HNECs) were cultured in monolayers for wound healing assays and at an air-liquid interface (ALI) for ciliary beat frequency measurements. Wound closure, cytotoxicity, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) release were measured after 30 h post-wound creation.

RESULTS: Biofilm exoproteins from all three Staphylococcus species hindered the re-epithelialization of HNECs at 5 and 10 µg/mL with S. aureus exoproteins having significantly stronger effects on impairing wound closure compared to S. lugdunensis exoproteins. S. aureus exerted the most pronounced cytotoxic effect compared to the control. Furthermore, all Staphylococcus species reduced ROS release by HNECs while S. epidermidis and S. lugdunensis induced higher IL-6 levels compared to control. In HNEC-ALI cultures, ciliary beat frequency was significantly reduced by all staphylococci 5 h after application of exoproteins.

CONCLUSION: Staphylococcal biofilm exoproteins hindered mucociliary function and re-epithelialization of the nasal epithelium, caused cytotoxicity, elicited inflammation, and concurrently reduced ROS release.},
}

@article {pmid41915005,
year = {2026},
author = {McManus, TG and Fort, MW and Barrack, KE and Ray, GS and Sparks, MB and McGuire, KJ and O'Toole, GAO},
title = {Combating orthopedic implant biofilms - SABER (Study on Agitation for Biofilm Eradication and Reduction) evaluates mechanical, sonication, and radiofrequency approaches: a preclinical in vitro study.},
journal = {Acta orthopaedica},
volume = {97},
number = {},
pages = {209-216},
doi = {10.2340/17453674.2026.45569},
pmid = {41915005},
issn = {1745-3682},
mesh = {*Biofilms/radiation effects/growth & development ; *Sonication/methods ; *Prosthesis-Related Infections/prevention & control/microbiology ; Stainless Steel ; *Prostheses and Implants/microbiology ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning ; Titanium ; In Vitro Techniques ; Therapeutic Irrigation ; Chromium Alloys ; Humans ; Radio Waves ; Equipment Contamination/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Medical devices commonly employed in orthopedic surgery continue to be susceptible to challenging and costly biofilm bacterial infections. We aimed to evaluate the impact of mechanical brushing with sonication and radiofrequency on biofilms grown on 3 metallic alloys commonly utilized in orthopedic implants: titanium, stainless steel, and cobalt-chromium.

METHODS:  Biofilms of 4 common bacteria encountered in orthopedic infections were grown on 540 metal chips for 3 metal alloy cohorts. The biofilms were treated with sterile saline irrigation, sonication brushing, or radiofrequency sonication brushing to compare against untreated control. Biofilm burden was evaluated both qualitatively and quantitatively with scanning electron microscopy imaging and crystal violet (CV) staining optical density or colony-forming unit measurements, respectively. Parametric, nonparametric, and linear regression analyses for quantitative data were performed.

RESULTS:  Qualitatively and quantitatively, all interventions showed a strong reduction in biofilm burden of all microbes on all metals. There was a significant decrease in CV-stained biofilms for brushing interventions compared with irrigation alone and controls. Biofilm burden was significantly reduced in all experiments. The untreated control represented 100% biofilm. Irrigation alone reduced biofilm to 44%, while sonication further decreased biofilm to 25%. The most effective method, sonication with radiofrequency, reduced biofilm to 20%.

CONCLUSION:  Our data shows consistent qualitative and quantitative reduction in biofilm burden with brushing interventions compared with irrigation and control. While further study is warranted, our data suggest that mechanical brushing with sonication and radiofrequency may be beneficial tools in reducing biofilm burden on orthopedic metal implants.},
}

*Biofilms/radiation effects/growth & development
*Sonication/methods
*Prosthesis-Related Infections/prevention & control/microbiology
Stainless Steel
*Prostheses and Implants/microbiology
Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
Titanium
In Vitro Techniques
Therapeutic Irrigation
Chromium Alloys
Humans
Radio Waves
Equipment Contamination/prevention & control

@article {pmid41915017,
year = {2026},
author = {Ambachew, S and Ramezanpour, M and Cooksley, CM and Feizi, S and Awad, M and Fenix, KA and Wormald, PJ and Psaltis, AJ and Vreugde, S},
title = {Interspecies Biofilm Dynamics Among Staphylococci: Inflammatory Contributions to Chronic Rhinosinusitis.},
journal = {International forum of allergy & rhinology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/alr.70148},
pmid = {41915017},
issn = {2042-6984},
support = {0006008606//Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC)/ ; //University of Adelaide Research Scholarship/ ; //Passe and Williams Foundation Senior Fellowship/ ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Staphylococcus species are frequently isolated from the sinonasal niche of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) patients. While Staphylococcus aureus is often associated with recalcitrant CRS, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus lugdunensis are largely deemed commensal. The purpose of this study was to investigate interspecies interactions and how those might influence inflammation and susceptibility to antibiotics.

METHODS: Twelve staphylococcal isolates were harvested from six CRS patients, each infected with S. aureus and S. epidermidis, or with S. aureus and S. lugdunensis. Bacteria were cultured to allow biofilm formation in direct and indirect interspecies interactions, followed by measuring their biofilm biomass, antibiotic sensitivity, and toxicity and inflammatory potential when applied to human nasal epithelial cells (HNECs).

RESULTS: S. epidermidis produced up to 7.4-fold higher biomass than S. aureus in monocultures, with a reduction in S. epidermidis biomass under indirect coculture conditions with S. aureus biofilm (p < 0.05). In contrast, the biofilm biomass values of both S. lugdunensis and S. aureus were higher under indirect coculture conditions compared to monocultures for 2/3 paired isolates (p < 0.05). S. epidermidis monocultures and S. aureus/S. epidermidis cocultures were less toxic to HNECs than S. aureus monocultures. S. aureus and S. lugdunensis monocultures and S. aureus/S. lugdunensis cocultures induced interleukin-6 (IL-6) and toxicity to a similar extent versus controls. An increased tolerance to amoxicillin was observed for 2/3 S. epidermidis biofilm and for 3/3 S. lugdunensis biofilm when in indirect contact with S. aureus biofilm (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION: Overall, staphylococcal interactions were highly strain specific, with S. aureus influencing the biofilm-forming capacity and increasing the tolerance to amoxicillin of both S. epidermidis and S. lugdunensis. S. epidermidis but not S. lugdunensis could mitigate S. aureus induced epithelial cytotoxicity. These findings support the complex nature of interactions among staphylococci with S. aureus and potentially S. lugdunensis having a pathogenic role and S. epidermidis a protective role within polymicrobial biofilms. Our findings have implications for the inflammatory potential and response to therapy of mixed biofilms.},
}

@article {pmid41915686,
year = {2026},
author = {Winans, JB and Nadell, CD},
title = {Biofilm spatial structure and superinfection immunity modulate inter-phage competition.},
journal = {PLoS biology},
volume = {24},
number = {3},
pages = {e3003737},
doi = {10.1371/journal.pbio.3003737},
pmid = {41915686},
issn = {1545-7885},
abstract = {Obligately lytic (virulent) phages always lyse host cells to release progeny viruses, while temperate phages can either lyse their hosts or integrate into host genomes as prophages, forming lysogens. There is a rich history of work studying the relative advantages and disadvantages of these two phage life history strategies, but little of this work has addressed the spatial constraints common to biofilm environments. We developed a live imaging system to track lytic infections, lysogenic infections, and uninfected cells at single-cell resolution within three-dimensional Escherichia coli biofilms. We find that biofilm structure substantially impacts the ecological success of different phage infection strategies. Temperate phages have the unique capacity to release phages from lysogens that have undergone lytic induction from within the interior of mature biofilms. When this occurs in biofilm contexts that do not limit phage diffusion, lytic infections expand rapidly, but lysogenic infections are favored as phage mobility declines in densely packed biofilm architectures. In matrix-replete biofilms that do limit phage mobility, lytic phage infection is more limited, favoring lysogenic growth. Direct competition assays between lysogenized host bacteria and obligately lytic phages-with or without the ability to superinfect lysogens-revealed that spatial structure and superinfection potential together greatly impact phage competition outcomes during co-invasion into pre-existing, phage-susceptible biofilm populations. Highly packed, phage diffusion-impeding biofilms disproportionately favored temperate phages in the lysogenic cycle over obligate lytic phages, highlighting how biofilm architecture can constrain lytic phage infection and promote vertical phage genome transmission strategies.},
}

@article {pmid41916862,
year = {2026},
author = {Huang, CM and Yin, IX and Niu, JY and Yu, OY and Hung, CC},
title = {Synthetic antimicrobial polymers in dentistry: Cationic and zwitterionic strategies for biofilm resistant.},
journal = {Dental materials : official publication of the Academy of Dental Materials},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.dental.2026.03.159},
pmid = {41916862},
issn = {1879-0097},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Synthetic antimicrobial polymers (SAPs) are durable, biocompatible, and tunable solutions for biofilm-mediated oral infections in dental care. This review aims to explore the types, mechanisms, and clinical applications of SAPs, emphasizing their dual role in both preventive and therapeutic strategies.

SOURCES AND STUDY SELECTION: Relevant English-language publications were reviewed, with search terms for each subject category entered into Medline, Web of Science and Scopus.

DATA: The search identified 2752 publications, with 994 duplicate records removed, and 222 publications were included in this review. SAPs are broadly categorized as cationic or zwitterionic. Cationic polymers, such as polymeric quaternary ammonium compounds and polybiguanides, exert antimicrobial effects by electrostatically disrupting negatively charged microbial membranes, leading to pathogen lysis. In contrast, zwitterionic polymers such as poly(methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine) and poly(carboxybetaine methacrylate) resist biofilm formation by forming a hydration layer that repels microbial adhesion and protein deposition. These polymers demonstrate transformative potential in dentistry. Incorporating cationic polymers into restorative materials imparts long-lasting, contact-active antimicrobial properties, effectively preventing secondary caries. Coating removable dentures with zwitterionic polymers modifies the prosthesis surface to inhibit biofilm formation, thereby reducing the risk of stomatitis. By combining bactericidal action with biofilm resistance, SAPs are promising to enhance the efficacy of dental treatments and improve clinical outcomes.

CONCLUSION: Synthetic cationic and zwitterionic polymers represent a promising frontier in oral healthcare, offering versatile integration into dental materials to address biofilm-related diseases. Their tailored design and multifunctionality position them as critical tools for advancing preventive care and ensuring treatment longevity.},
}

@article {pmid41905896,
year = {2026},
author = {Tsilingaridis, G and Tewari, N and Seremidi, K and Papaioannou, W and López, R},
title = {Dental Biofilm-Induced Gingivitis in Children and Adolescents Without Known Systemic Involvement: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Journal of clinical periodontology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/jcpe.70122},
pmid = {41905896},
issn = {1600-051X},
abstract = {AIM: To synthesize evidence on gingival diseases and conditions in children and adolescents (< 18 years) without known systemic disorder involvement, focusing on their distribution, aetiology, diagnosis, management and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL).

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A systematic review was carried out following PRISMA guidelines, including PubMed Central, Scopus, EMBASE and LILACS, up to January 2025. Clinical trials and observational studies addressing gingival diseases or conditions in healthy individuals under 18 years were included.

RESULTS: The search identified 33,180 studies. Title and abstract screening narrowed these to 2264, of which 433 were full-text-reviewed. Ultimately, 269 studies, all restricted to biofilm-induced gingivitis, were included. Considerable heterogeneity was observed in diagnostic criteria and study quality. Dental biofilm-induced gingivitis was common (52%) and associated with poorer OHRQoL. Key determinants for gingival inflammation included socioeconomic status, oral hygiene behaviours, pubertal changes and malocclusion. Based on current evidence, effective management of gingivitis in children should combine supervised toothbrushing with a fluoridated toothpaste and school- or caregiver-based oral health education. Adjunctive use of chlorhexidine may provide additional benefit in certain clinical situations.

CONCLUSION: Dental biofilm-induced gingivitis is frequent among children and adolescents and influenced by numerous determinants. Prevention and treatment should emphasise accessible, behaviour-focused and education-based strategies for biofilm control.},
}

@article {pmid41906647,
year = {2026},
author = {Erdoğmuş, SF and Isitez, N and Ertuş, EB and Sarikurkcu, C},
title = {Onosma armenum Extract Loaded Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles for the Prevention of Biofilm-Associated Infections.},
journal = {ChemistryOpen},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {e202500554},
doi = {10.1002/open.202500554},
pmid = {41906647},
issn = {2191-1363},
support = {33972//TÜSEB/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Silicon Dioxide/chemistry ; *Nanoparticles/chemistry ; *Plant Extracts/chemistry/pharmacology ; *Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Porosity ; },
abstract = {In this study, bioactive mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNPs) loaded with Onosma armenum extract were developed to evaluate their antibiofilm activity against biofilm-forming Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923. The phytochemical content of the extract was analyzed via liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry. MSNPs were synthesized using modified MCM-41 method and characterized by N2 adsorption-desorption tests, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The antibiofilm activity was assessed using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide reduction assay. The most abundant compounds were hesperidin (14201 µg/g extract), chlorogenic acid (4390 µg/g extract), and rosmarinic acid (830 µg/g extract). Biofilm inhibition rates were determined as 31.97 ± 0.68% (extract), 72.78 ± 0.79% (MSNPs), and 76.49 ± 0.39% (extract-loaded nanoparticles) at 2× MIC concentration, while biofilm eradication rates were 23.66 ± 0.44%, 36.33 ± 0.40%), and 42.27 ± 0.44%, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy analyses revealed the morphological effects of nanoparticles on biofilm structures. The nanoparticles exhibited effective loading and controlled release of plant extract. The extract-loaded MSNPs demonstrated significant antibiofilm activity and controlled release in acidic environments, indicating potential for targeted therapeutic applications. The synergy between phytochemicals and nanocarriers supports their use as promising agents against biofilm-associated infections.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Silicon Dioxide/chemistry
*Nanoparticles/chemistry
*Plant Extracts/chemistry/pharmacology
*Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Porosity

@article {pmid41907712,
year = {2024},
author = {Kushwaha, M and Nukala, V and Singh, AK and Makharia, GK and Mohan, A and Kumar, A and Dalal, N},
title = {Emerging implications of bacterial biofilm in cancer biology: Recent updates and major perspectives.},
journal = {Gut microbes reports},
volume = {1},
number = {1},
pages = {2339270},
pmid = {41907712},
issn = {2993-3935},
abstract = {Recent insights have unveiled exciting opportunities to explore the intricate interplay among bacterial biofilms, tumor cells, and the immune system, thus offering new perspectives in cancer biology. The implications of bacterial biofilms in this context are remarkably multifaceted. Biofilms can promote tumor growth and invasiveness by inducing chronic inflammation, remodeling the extracellular matrix, and modulating the immune response, which promotes cancer development. Recent findings have demonstrated the involvement of distinct bacteria, like Salmonella typhi in gall bladder cancer, Helicobacter pylori in gastric cancer, and Fusobacterium nucleatum in oral cancer. These investigations indicate higher prevalence of these bacteria in individuals with cancer as compared to those who are healthy. Additionally, these bacteria create biofilms and display resistance to cancer treatments.In this review, we highlighted the recent advancements pertaining to influences of bacterial biofilm in cancer progression and potential molecular mechanisms by which bacterial biofilms contribute to cancer development.},
}

@article {pmid41909638,
year = {2026},
author = {Visvalingam, J and Muzaleva, A and Sailer, M and Logsetty, S and Huizinga, RB},
title = {Efficacy of a novel thermo-reversible wound gel against antibiotic tolerant biofilm.},
journal = {Frontiers in antibiotics},
volume = {5},
number = {},
pages = {1773630},
pmid = {41909638},
issn = {2813-2467},
abstract = {Chronic wounds are frequently colonized by biofilm-forming bacteria, and one of the defining characteristics of these infections is the resulting tolerance to antibiotics. A novel thermo-reversible antimicrobial wound gel (revyve[®] Antimicrobial Wound Gel, TRG), formulated to target biofilms, was evaluated for its ability to inactivate antibiotic-tolerant biofilms using both a colony biofilm model and a porcine skin explant biofilm model. Mature biofilms of Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were grown on nitrocellulose membranes or porcine skin explants for 72 hours at 37 °C. Before any treatment, viable numbers of S. aureus and P. aeruginosa were ≥ 9.7 log CFU in the colony biofilm model, and 8.3 and 6.6 log CFU, respectively, in the porcine skin explant model. Biofilms were then washed and treated with defined concentrations of antibiotics for 24 hours to select for antibiotic-tolerant cells, followed by up to 7 days of TRG treatment. Antibiotic treatment caused a significant (P ≤ 0.05) reduction in viable numbers of both organisms in both models, resulting in survival of ≥ 5 log CFU of tolerant biofilm cells. Subsequent treatment with TRG reduced viable numbers of S. aureus to below detection limits, causing a 7.9 log CFU reduction at 24 hours in the colony biofilm model and a 5.5 log CFU reduction at 72 hours in the porcine skin explant model. In the colony biofilm model, viable numbers of P. aeruginosa were reduced to below the detection limit, corresponding to a 6.1 log CFU reduction at 24 hours, while in the porcine skin explant model, TRG caused a 3.5 log CFU reduction at 72 hours, with no further changes observed up to 7 days. These results indicate that TRG was effective at inactivating antibiotic-tolerant biofilms and may serve as a valuable tool in combating biofilms in chronic wounds.},
}

@article {pmid41909643,
year = {2026},
author = {Yao, Y and Hu, X and Li, R and Tan, Z and Yu, H and Lin, Z and Zhang, T and Habimana, O},
title = {Probiotic yeast engineers a protective biofilm environment to enhance bioremediation and seahorse health in aquaculture.},
journal = {Biofilm},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {100357},
pmid = {41909643},
issn = {2590-2075},
abstract = {Sustainable animal farming via intensive aquaculture relies on a balanced microbial ecosystem that promotes animal well-being. This research explored the use of the probiotic yeast Saccharomyces boulardii to influence tank biofilm microbiomes for improving the health of lined seahorses, Hippocampus erectus. Following a severe mortality event at week 6 that affected both groups, the control group demonstrated partial recovery to 71.4% survival, whereas the probiotic group achieved a higher survival, with a final rate of 88.9% after a disease challenge. This recovery led to a notable reduction in enteritis occurrences with a significant increase in average body weight and a 3.9-fold increase in activity compared to control conditions. Shotgun metagenomic analysis indicated that the enhancements were significantly supported by a marked reorganization of the tank's biofilm community. Probiotic supplementation significantly reduced microbial diversity and selected for a beneficial consortium enriched in taxa with recognized roles in nutrient cycling, including Rhodobacterales (involved in sulfur cycling and pathogen antagonism) and Pirellulaceae (key in polysaccharide breakdown). This engineered biofilm has greater genetic potential for energy generation, glucose degradation, and inorganic ion transfer. Crucially, virulence factor genes and pathogen-associated sequences were substantially suppressed in probiotic-treated biofilms. Our research shows that S. boulardii acts as a crucial modulator, creating a protective biofilm that boosts bioremediation while decreasing pathogenic threats. This ecological approach to the application of probiotics (targeting the environmental rather than host-associated microbiome) may offer a sustainable means to promote health and resilience within aquaculture systems.},
}

@article {pmid41909848,
year = {2026},
author = {Duda-Madej, A and Tabor, W and Viscardi, S and Oleksy-Wawrzyniak, M and Kozłowska, J and Gagat, P and Grabowiecka, A},
title = {Gut-derived biofilm-forming bacteria as a source of catheter-associated infections: inhibitory effects of O-alkyl naringenin derivatives.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1768480},
pmid = {41909848},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Flavanones/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Escherichia coli/drug effects/physiology ; *Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Catheter-Related Infections/microbiology ; Humans ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects ; },
abstract = {The capacity for biofilm formation is a fundamental defense mechanism among antimicrobial-resistant pathogenic strains. In addition, its persistence may result in chronic colonization of host systems, and uncontrolled growth may lead to dangerous flow blockages, particularly in catheter-associated urinary tract infections. This warrants the search for novel anti-biofilm compounds to combat these pathogens. Naringenin is an example of such a structure, widely known for its multifunctional activity, targeting the synthesis of exopolysaccharide, the expression of biofilm-relevant genes, or efflux pump activity. In this study, we present a series of O-alkyl derivatives of naringenin and its oximes, that exhibited antimicrobial and biofilm-reducing activity against clinical strains of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, which are often the cause of urinary tract infections. Most of the derivatives were highly active against the planktonic form of bacteria, the most potent of them being 7-O-methylnaringenin oxime, diminishing the growth of E. coli and S. aureus by 43.2% and 74.6%, respectively. The initial screening of the antibiofilm capabilities of the derivatives was performed in static conditions in a gravimetric method utilizing quartz tuning forks. While most of them were significantly less active than against the planktonic form, the oximes of 7-O-methylnaringenin and 7-O-isopropylnaringenin were found to impair the growth of biofilm in case of both strains. Therefore, the observed reduction in biofilm mass under static conditions may reflect not only antimicrobial activity but also biofilm-specific mechanisms, as indicated by the use of flow conditions with catheters simulating urine flux. These studies confirmed the activity of 7-O-methylnaringenin oxime, which reduced E. coli CCM 5712 population.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Flavanones/pharmacology/chemistry
*Escherichia coli/drug effects/physiology
*Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Catheter-Related Infections/microbiology
Humans
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects

@article {pmid41909852,
year = {2026},
author = {Yoon, SG and Lee, SW and Lee, HI and Cho, HD and Yoon, JH},
title = {Biofilm formation, cell hydrophobicity, cytotoxic potential, genetic diversity, resistance to antimicrobials, and toxigenic profile properties among Bacillus cereus groups isolated from kitchen sponges in the Republic of Korea.},
journal = {Food science and biotechnology},
volume = {35},
number = {5},
pages = {1339-1353},
pmid = {41909852},
issn = {2092-6456},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: This study aimed to characterize Bacillus cereus isolates recovered from the kitchen sponges used in domestic environments, the Republic of Korea, with a particular focus on analyzing antibiotic susceptibility, biofilm formation, cell surface hydrophobicity (CSH), cytotoxic potential, genetic diversity, and toxigenic profile properties. B. cereus isolates displayed moderate or weak biofilm-forming capabilities, and CSH levels greatly differed among the isolates. Several isolates displayed strong cytotoxic effects despite lacking key toxin-encoding genes. All 26 B. cereus isolates were clustered into eight distinct groups and survived at ClO2, NaClO, ethanol, acetic acid, and lactic acid, while being highly sensitive to H2O2. Additionally, 7 (26.9%) and 11 (42.3%) B. cereus isolates possessed enterotoxin genes and the cereulide-encoding gene ces, respectively. Our findings highlight kitchen sponges as potential reservoirs of disinfectant/sanitizer-tolerant and toxigenic B. cereus strains, underscoring a cross contamination risk in domestic environments, emphasizing the need for optimized hygiene management strategies.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10068-026-02095-y.},
}

@article {pmid41910104,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, N and Fang, Q and Wang, Y and Wang, Q},
title = {Microbial mechanisms of rapid startup in a sequencing batch biofilm reactor treating high-ammonia slaughterhouse wastewater.},
journal = {Water science and technology : a journal of the International Association on Water Pollution Research},
volume = {93},
number = {6},
pages = {804-816},
pmid = {41910104},
issn = {0273-1223},
mesh = {*Biofilms ; *Bioreactors/microbiology ; *Abattoirs ; *Wastewater/chemistry ; *Ammonia/metabolism ; *Waste Disposal, Fluid/methods ; Biological Oxygen Demand Analysis ; Bacteria/metabolism/genetics ; Nitrification ; },
abstract = {Traditional processes for treating high-ammonia slaughterhouse wastewater face challenges of long start-up periods and poor shock load resistance. This study established a sequencing batch biofilm reactor (SBBR) to achieve rapid start-up and elucidate the underlying microbial mechanisms. Through integrated analysis of reactor performance, microbial community succession, and functional gene dynamics, the system achieved stable removal of ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N) (>90%) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) within 20 days, marking a rapid functional start-up. After 50 days, the system demonstrated excellent resistance to influent fluctuations. Full biofilm maturation and microbial specialization were accomplished within 80 days, yielding high mean removal efficiencies of 93.04% for NH3-N, 79.38% for COD, and 58.47% for total nitrogen. Microbial analysis revealed a distinct ecological succession from initial Proteobacteria dominance to mature-phase specialization, characterized by significant enrichment of Thermomonas (11.06%) and Flavobacterium (10.16%) capable of heterotrophic nitrification and aerobic denitrification. Functional gene annotation showed marked upregulation of energy metabolism, lipid metabolism, and glycan biosynthesis pathways in the mature biofilm, enabling efficient degradation of complex organics and robust biofilm structure. These findings demonstrate that SBBR achieves rapid start-up through directed microbial succession and metabolic specialization, providing important insights for the optimization of high-ammonia wastewater treatment systems.},
}

*Biofilms
*Bioreactors/microbiology
*Abattoirs
*Wastewater/chemistry
*Ammonia/metabolism
*Waste Disposal, Fluid/methods
Biological Oxygen Demand Analysis
Bacteria/metabolism/genetics
Nitrification

@article {pmid41901895,
year = {2026},
author = {Hartono, A and Palupi, KS and Putranto, RA and Santini, A and Nurkolis, F},
title = {Kombucha SCOBY as a Fermentation-Derived Biofilm Matrix: Species-Resolved Microbial Communities and Multidimensional In Vitro Bioactivities.},
journal = {Polymers},
volume = {18},
number = {6},
pages = {},
pmid = {41901895},
issn = {2073-4360},
abstract = {Kombucha fermentation is driven by a Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast (SCOBY), a cellulose-rich biofilm that hosts a complex microbial consortium. While most kombucha studies focus on the liquid beverage, the SCOBY pellicle itself remains underexplored, particularly with respect to species-level microbial resolution and its intrinsic biological activities. In this study, a commercial kombucha SCOBY was characterized using full-length 16S rRNA gene and ITS amplicon sequencing based on Oxford Nanopore Technology, enabling species-level taxonomic resolution. In parallel, hydroalcoholic and aqueous extracts of dried SCOBY biomass were evaluated for in vitro antioxidant activity (DPPH and ABTS assays), antidiabetic-related enzyme inhibition (α-glucosidase and dipeptidyl peptidase-4, DPP4), and anti-aging-related enzyme inhibition (tyrosinase and elastase). The SCOBY bacterial community was strongly dominated by acetic acid bacteria, with Komagataeibacter saccharivorans and Acetobacter tropicalis accounting for more than 60% of total reads, reflecting a biofilm structure optimized for cellulose production and oxidative metabolism. The yeast community showed marked unevenness, with Brettanomyces bruxellensis representing over 80% of reads, consistent with its known role in ethanol production and stress tolerance within kombucha systems. In vitro assays revealed that hydroalcoholic SCOBY extracts consistently exhibited higher biological activity than aqueous extracts across all tested assays. However, both extracts showed substantially lower potency than purified reference compounds, indicating moderate but measurable bioactivity typical of complex fermented matrices. These findings support the potential valorization of SCOBY as a fermentation-derived biomaterial and functional ingredient while underscoring the need for further chemical characterization, mechanistic studies, and biological validation beyond enzyme-based assays.},
}

@article {pmid41902729,
year = {2026},
author = {Sun, Y and Gao, Q and Meng, H and Zhang, C and Rui, X and Chen, X and Zhang, Q},
title = {Enhancement of LuxS/AI-2 quorum sensing promotes biofilm formation and cryotolerance in Lactiplantibacillus plantarum.},
journal = {Journal of the science of food and agriculture},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/jsfa.70613},
pmid = {41902729},
issn = {1097-0010},
support = {32272350//the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32060547//Science and Technology Research Program in Key Areas of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, China/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Industrial processing of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) frequently exposes cells to acute low-temperature stress during frozen handling, cold-chain transport, and pre-lyophilization stabilization. These short-term freezing events disrupt membrane integrity and reduce the viability of LAB, including Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, compromising product quality and functional performance. This study evaluated whether activating the endogenous quorum sensing pathway could enhance biofilm development and improve tolerance to acute freezing stress (-20 °C, 2 days) in L. plantarum JB1.

RESULTS: Compared with the wild type, the activity of the signaling molecule AI-2 in the dual-plasmid strain increased by 2.31- to 3.40-fold from 4 to 24 h, peaking at 8 h, while the expression level of the luxS gene increased by 50.83-fold. Biofilm formation reached its peak at 24 h, maximum biofilm formation increased by 2.47-fold relative to the wild type, and the expression level of the luxS gene increased by 27.64-fold compared with the wild type. Hydrophobicity increased 1.88-fold, from 38.6% (wild type) to 72.4%. After freezing, the viable cell counts of the dual-plasmid strain increased by 15.02-fold compared to the wild type. Live/dead fluorescence staining further confirmed enhanced cryotolerance, with the quorum sensing (QS)-activated strain exhibiting a higher live cell proportion and reduced membrane-damaged cells relative to the wild type across all sampling points, with the live/dead ratio increasing 1.95- to 10.67-fold.

CONCLUSION: Activation of the LuxS/AI-2 QS pathway increased AI-2 activity, surface hydrophobicity, and biofilm biomass in L. plantarum JB1. These enhancements translated into improved tolerance to acute freezing, with higher viable counts and superior membrane integrity. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.},
}

@article {pmid41902943,
year = {2026},
author = {Omilowo, H and Stanley, M and Timlick, L and Peters, L and Findlay, D and Higgins, S and Hanson, M and Palace, V},
title = {Remediation of Simulated Heavy Crude Oil Spills in a Boreal Lake Using Enhanced Monitored Natural Recovery (eMNR): Impacts on Phytoplankton and Biofilm Communities.},
journal = {Bulletin of environmental contamination and toxicology},
volume = {116},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {41902943},
issn = {1432-0800},
support = {GAPP R13-6336//Genome Canada/ ; IT29908//Mitacs/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms ; *Phytoplankton/drug effects ; Lakes/chemistry ; *Petroleum Pollution/analysis ; *Water Pollutants, Chemical/analysis/toxicity ; *Petroleum/analysis ; *Environmental Restoration and Remediation/methods ; Biodegradation, Environmental ; Environmental Monitoring ; },
abstract = {A lake littoral enclosure study was conducted to evaluate the effects of a minimally invasive secondary remediation method (enhanced Monitored Natural Recovery eMNR) on phytoplankton and biofilm communities following a model heavy crude oil spill. Enclosures (n = 3; ~ 27,000 L) received 1.5 kg of weathered conventional heavy crude and underwent primary remediation by freshwater shoreline flushing and oil recovery using oleophilic sorbent pads, followed by nutrient addition to stimulate microbial degradation (eMNR). Reference enclosures (n = 3) received shoreline flushing only. Phytoplankton chlorophyll-a and biofilm ash-free dry mass were monitored over 400 days, while biofilm community composition was sampled at the end of the study. No statistically significant differences were detected between eMNR and reference enclosures for any measured endpoint. Under the single nutrient-addition regime tested and the specific oligotrophic conditions of this boreal lake, eMNR did not measurably affect primary producer biomass or community structure. However, alternative formulations, nutrient doses, or environmental conditions may yield different outcomes, and caution is warranted when generalizing these results to other systems.},
}

*Biofilms
*Phytoplankton/drug effects
Lakes/chemistry
*Petroleum Pollution/analysis
*Water Pollutants, Chemical/analysis/toxicity
*Petroleum/analysis
*Environmental Restoration and Remediation/methods
Biodegradation, Environmental
Environmental Monitoring

@article {pmid41903100,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, M and Su, X and Ma, T and Liu, L and Xu, J and Liu, X and Bai, Y and Li, S and Guo, Y},
title = {The mechanism of LuxS/AI-2 QS system regulating the biofilm formation of Lactobacillus plantarum SDJ09.},
journal = {Probiotics and antimicrobial proteins},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41903100},
issn = {1867-1314},
support = {32160558//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2019GXNSFDA245008//Key Projects in Guangxi/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41904466,
year = {2026},
author = {Lan, X and Wang, H and Ma, K and Bai, Y and Zang, Q and Huang, Y and Jin, W and Wang, M and Su, Z and Zhang, M and Aishan, G and Xie, J and Tong, P},
title = {Convergence of multidrug resistance, virulence, and biofilm formation in Salmonella isolates from humans, animals, and food in Xinjiang, China.},
journal = {BMC veterinary research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12917-026-05437-4},
pmid = {41904466},
issn = {1746-6148},
support = {2024NC034//Technology Action Project for Rural Revitalization Industry Development in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41895928,
year = {2026},
author = {Movsesijan, T and Alcañiz, AJ and Roch, FF and Chaughtai, MS and Dzieciol, M and Stessl, B and Thalguter, S and Strachan, CR and Raindl, M and Wagner, M and Selberherr, E and Quijada, NM},
title = {Biofilm capacity of the psychrophilic bacteria triggers their persistence in the equipment and their spread to beef products throughout processing.},
journal = {Food research international (Ottawa, Ont.)},
volume = {232},
number = {},
pages = {118808},
doi = {10.1016/j.foodres.2026.118808},
pmid = {41895928},
issn = {1873-7145},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; Animals ; Cattle ; *Red Meat/microbiology ; *Food Handling/instrumentation ; *Food Microbiology ; *Psychrobacter/genetics/isolation & purification/physiology ; *Equipment Contamination ; Pseudomonas/genetics/isolation & purification/physiology ; Abattoirs ; *Food Contamination/analysis ; *Meat Products/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Microbial contamination in food processing remains a persistent and complex challenge. Understanding the sources, contributing factors, and control measures is essential for effective mitigation. In this study we employed a combination of metagenomic sequencing, targeted culturomics, and whole-genome sequencing of key isolates to gain a comprehensive view of bacterial dynamics and functional capabilities throughout a working shift in a beef slaughter and cutting facility. This allowed us to identify which bacteria are i) most prevalent in the clean facility before the start of the work, ii) able to establish themselves over time, and iii) detectable in the final product. We further generated a functional profile of the microbial community within the facility, with a particular focus on antimicrobial resistance and biofilm formation genes, and the presence of specific pathogens and spoilage organisms. Both culture-based and sequencing data showed that Psychrobacter and Pseudomonas strains present in the final product were also detected on the membrane skinner, a machine used to remove all the excess tissues from meat, and in the drains even after cleaning. We found a high number of genes involved in biofilm formation in Psychrobacter immobilis, a characteristic that may explain their biofilm capacity and the survival of this species during the cleaning process and persistence throughout the facility. Taken together, our findings suggest potential sources of contamination and highlight the advantages of integrating culture-dependent methods with high-throughput sequencing technologies to enhance microbial monitoring and control strategies in food production environments.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
Animals
Cattle
*Red Meat/microbiology
*Food Handling/instrumentation
*Food Microbiology
*Psychrobacter/genetics/isolation & purification/physiology
*Equipment Contamination
Pseudomonas/genetics/isolation & purification/physiology
Abattoirs
*Food Contamination/analysis
*Meat Products/microbiology

@article {pmid41896501,
year = {2026},
author = {Rybkin, I and Zakharova, O and Gusev, A and Lapanje, A},
title = {Functional synergistic effects of graphene nanoribbons and surfactant stabilizers on inhibition of growth of biofilm-forming and biofilm non-forming bacteria.},
journal = {Environmental science and pollution research international},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41896501},
issn = {1614-7499},
abstract = {In this study, we investigated the antimicrobial properties of graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) synthesized via a bottom-up approach. Due to their tendency to aggregate in aqueous solutions, various surfactants were used as stabilizers. We examined the effects of GNRs in combination with commonly used surfactants-including the cationic CTAB, anionic TWEEN, and non-ionic TRITON-to evaluate their impact on GNR toxicity. A range of GNR-surfactant concentrations was tested against biofilm-forming (Escherichia coli MG1655 and Staphylococcus epidermidis DSM 20044) and non-biofilm-forming (E. coli TOP10 and S. epidermidis BH1) bacterial strains under short-term (acute) and long-term (continuous) exposure conditions. CTAB alone exhibited antibacterial effects, but a synergistic interaction between CTAB and GNRs was observed during continuous exposure, particularly against Gram-positive bacteria. The capability to form biofilms did not significantly contribute to bacterial resistance, except in E. coli MG1655, which survived at the highest concentrations of GNR-CTAB during short-term exposure. In contrast to GNR-CTAB, GNR-TWEEN, and GNR-TRITON suspensions showed no inhibitory effects on bacterial growth and, in some cases, even promoted bacterial growth. Microscopic analysis revealed bacterial cell aggregation exclusively in GNR-CTAB suspensions. These findings highlight the critical role of surfactant selection in modulating GNR toxicity and provide insights into optimizing GNRs as antibacterial agents or minimizing their environmental impact.},
}

@article {pmid41896865,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, W and Zhou, Y and Li, Z and Wang, Z and Zhu, F and Zou, Y and Li, N and He, C and Lu, N and Wang, X and Zhu, Y},
title = {Self-actuated probiotic-nanozyme hybrid system with mucus penetration, biofilm eradication and microbiota regulation for Helicobacter pylori infection.},
journal = {Journal of nanobiotechnology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12951-026-04316-2},
pmid = {41896865},
issn = {1477-3155},
support = {82400780//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32560229//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 82170580//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 20242BAB20432//Natural Science Foundation of Jiangxi Province/ ; 20242BAB26117//Natural Science Foundation of Jiangxi Province/ ; GZB20230283//Postdoctoral Fellowship Program of CPSF/ ; 2024SSY07061//Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Drugs in Jiangxi Province/ ; PYJX20230001//Interdiscipline Innovation Foundation of Nanchang University/ ; 2025ZD0545302//Noncommunicable Chronic Diseases-National Science and Technology Major Project of China/ ; 2024SSY06101//Key Laboratory Project of Digestive Diseases in Jiangxi Province/ ; 20223BCG74011//Jiangxi Clinical Research Center for Gastroenterology/ ; },
abstract = {Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection has emerged as a serious risk factor for global human health. Current antibiotic-based clinical eradication therapies still have many challenges, including inadequate drug permeability across the gastric mucus barrier, H. pylori biofilm-induced antibiotic resistance and recurrent infections, as well as gut dysbacteriosis. Herein, we report a probiotic-nanozyme hybrid system (LP@FeTA/CuPt), which is formed by coupling polyphenol-coated Lactobacillus plantarum (LP@FeTA) and CuPt nanozymes. LP@FeTA effectively penetrates the gastric mucus barrier via autokinetic movement, and facilitates the targeted delivery of CuPt nanozymes within H. pylori biofilms by "eating" extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). CuPt nanozymes respond to the acidic and H2O2-rich biofilm microenvironment to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) and release Cu ions, thereby achieving multi-target eradication of biofilms by interfering with H. pylori flagellar self-assembly, urease activity, outer membrane function and energy metabolism. Importantly, LP@FeTA/CuPt can be degraded by transferrin at the infection site, allowing the released CuPt nanozymes to reactivate the antibacterial immune functions of macrophage, thus eliminating biofilm-escaped bacterioplankton to prevent recurrent infections. Notably, LP@FeTA/CuPt also modulates gut microbiota homeostasis. This study provides a promising non-antibiotic therapeutic strategy for H. pylori infection.},
}

@article {pmid41897764,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, H and Liu, Q and Jiang, H and Cao, J and Kou, J and Liu, J and Zhao, J and Wang, J},
title = {Global Proteomic Analysis Reveals the Roles of MicX in Biofilm Formation and Quorum Sensing in Vibrio alginolyticus.},
journal = {Foods (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {6},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/foods15061042},
pmid = {41897764},
issn = {2304-8158},
support = {32070129//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 22JHQ065//Shaanxi Fundamental Science Research Project for Chemistry & Biology/ ; },
abstract = {Vibrio alginolyticus is a foodborne pathogen commonly found in seafood and freshwater products, causing human illness through the consumption of tainted seafood. Small non-coding RNAs (sRNAs) take effect on the stability and translation of their target mRNAs by base-pairing, thereby quickly altering bacterial physiology and pathogenicity at the post-transcriptional level. This work constructed a label-free in-frame deletion mutant and a complement strain of micX, a cell-density-associated sRNA in V. alginolyticus. The ΔmicX mutant exhibited reduced growth and a reduction in the synthesis of exopolysaccharides, biofilm, and alkaline serine protease. A TMT-based quantitative proteomic analysis comparing ΔmicX with the wild-type strain identified 900 differentially expressed proteins, comprising 376 that were upregulated and 524 that were downregulated. The upregulated proteins are primarily associated with porin activity, transmembrane signaling receptor function, and the two-component system. The downregulated proteins are mainly engaged in processes including biofilm formation, cellular communication, and transmembrane transport activity. Of note, the expression levels of proteins involved in the type VI secretion system, exopolysaccharide synthesis, mannose-sensitive hemagglutinin type IV pili (MSHA), and biofilm formation were significantly reduced in the absence of micX. Furthermore, the expression levels of proteins associated with quorum sensing (particularly LuxR and AphA) changed significantly in the ΔmicX vs. WT comparison. These findings strengthened comprehension of the novel sRNA regulatory network and established a theoretical foundation for additional investigations into the virulence of V. alginolyticus.},
}

@article {pmid41898406,
year = {2026},
author = {He, Y and Dykes, G and Koppenhöfer, H and Capobianco, J and Chen, CY},
title = {Comparative Genomics Reveals Unique Genetic Determinants of Biofilm Formation in Campylobacter.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {6},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27062543},
pmid = {41898406},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {8072-42000-093&094//U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS), National Program 108, Current Research Information System/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; Phylogeny ; *Genomics/methods ; *Genome, Bacterial ; *Campylobacter jejuni/genetics/physiology ; *Campylobacter/genetics/physiology ; Whole Genome Sequencing ; *Campylobacter coli/genetics/physiology ; Humans ; Bacterial Adhesion/genetics ; },
abstract = {A biofilm is a complex microbial community that protects bacterial cells from various stressors, including harsh environmental conditions, antimicrobial treatments, and host immune responses. This protective capability enhances Campylobacter survival during food processing and storage and facilitates transmission to humans. Despite their importance, the molecular mechanisms underlying Campylobacter biofilm formation and its impact on pathogen persistence remain poorly understood. In this study, we characterized the biofilm-forming ability of 18 C. jejuni and C. coli strains isolated from retail meat and performed whole-genome sequencing and comparative genomic analysis to identify strain-specific genes contributing to biofilm formation and maintenance. Phenotypic analysis revealed that C. jejuni strains YH001 and YH027 exhibited the strongest biofilm-forming capacity, producing the highest biomass among all isolates. Phylogenetic analysis indicated a close genetic relationship between these two strains, while pangenome analysis identified 19 unique genes/proteins specific to these strains. Functional annotation indicated their critical roles in adhesion, extracellular matrix production, and stress response. These findings demonstrate strain-specific biofilm formation in Campylobacter and highlight genetic determinants that may serve as targets for novel therapeutic approaches and intervention strategies to disrupt biofilms, improve food safety, and reduce persistent infections.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
Phylogeny
*Genomics/methods
*Genome, Bacterial
*Campylobacter jejuni/genetics/physiology
*Campylobacter/genetics/physiology
Whole Genome Sequencing
*Campylobacter coli/genetics/physiology
Humans
Bacterial Adhesion/genetics

@article {pmid41899417,
year = {2026},
author = {Zeng, D and Zhang, Y and Guo, J and Yu, J and Dou, S and Yang, Y and Yu, X and Zhou, Y and Xue, J and Wang, Z and Yang, W},
title = {n-Butanol Extract of Polygonum capitatum Targets Biofilm Formation, Motility, and Adhesion Attenuation to Combat Uropathogenic Escherichia coli.},
journal = {Current issues in molecular biology},
volume = {48},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/cimb48030265},
pmid = {41899417},
issn = {1467-3045},
support = {82460811//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 82160773//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; QKHF-ZK(2023)G426//Science and Technology Program of Guizhou Province/ ; [QKHF-ZK(2023)G420//Science and Technology Program of Guizhou Province/ ; Qiankehe Support [2023] No.487//Guizhou Province Science and Technology Support Project/ ; Gui Ke He Xue Shu Xin Miao [2023]-10//Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine/ ; 2024YJSKYJJ372//Postgraduate Education Innovation Program Project of Guizhou Province/ ; gzwkj2023-229//Science and Technology Foundation Program of Guizhou Provincial Health Commission/ ; 82460727//National Natural Science Foundation of ChinaNational Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) that form biofilms exhibit high-level antibiotic resistance, which poses substantial challenges to current therapeutic strategies for urinary tract infection (UTI). There is an urgent need for strategies specifically targeting UPEC biofilms. This study investigated the effects of the n-butanol extract of Polygonum capitatum (BPC) on UPEC strains, focusing on its antibacterial activity, biofilm formation, bacterial motility, adhesion capacity, and cell membrane integrity. The disk diffusion method, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) assays demonstrated that BPC exhibited potent antibacterial activity against both reference and clinically isolated UPEC strains. Time-kill curve assays further confirmed that BPC inhibits bacterial growth in a time-dependent manner. BPC inhibited UPEC biofilm formation in a dose-dependent manner, significantly reducing biofilm formation in both reference and clinical UPEC strains. Furthermore, BPC disrupted cell membrane integrity in UPEC strain CFT073, resulting in the leakage of alkaline phosphatase (AKP), β-galactosidase, and intracellular proteins. BPC treatment also significantly reduced bacterial surface hydrophobicity, impaired swimming and swarming motility, and diminished adhesion and invasion capabilities. A total of 32 active compounds, predominantly flavonoids, were identified in BPC by UHPLC-Q-orbitrap MS/MS. Molecular docking studies revealed that several compounds in BPC, such as quercetin-3,4'-O-di-beta-glucoside, exhibited strong binding affinity to AKP and β-galactosidase, further supporting its potential to disrupt membrane integrity and inhibit biofilm formation. Thus, BPC exerts anti-UPEC effects through biofilm disruption and multi-targeted anti-virulence mechanisms, highlighting its potential as a novel therapeutic or adjunctive agent for UTI, particularly against recalcitrant biofilm-associated infections. The mode of action of BPC provides a scientific basis for developing new anti-infective strategies as alternatives to conventional antibiotics.},
}

@article {pmid41899487,
year = {2026},
author = {Zawiła, T and Swolana, D and Zawiła, M and Rzepka, Z and Wojtyczka, RD},
title = {Anti-Biofilm Activity of Combinations of Cinnamic Acid and Its Derivatives with Cloxacillin Against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis.},
journal = {Current issues in molecular biology},
volume = {48},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/cimb48030336},
pmid = {41899487},
issn = {1467-3045},
support = {BNW-2-075/K/3/I//Medical University of Silesia/ ; BNW-1-084/N/4/I//Medical University of Silesia/ ; },
abstract = {Staphylococcus epidermidis (S. epidermidis) poses a significant clinical challenge, particularly in the context of biofilm-associated infections, with increasing antibiotic resistance further complicating infection eradication. In the present study, the effects of cinnamic acid and its derivatives (ferulic acid, p-coumaric acid, and sinapic acid), alone and in combination with the β-lactam antibiotic cloxacillin, on biofilm formation by a single methicillin-resistant S. epidermidis (MRSE) clinical strain were explored. The expression of the biofilm-associated icaADBC operon genes and the icaR repressor gene was assessed using Real-Time PCR as an exploratory analysis under sub-minimal inhibitory concentrations (sub-MICs) of the tested compounds. Furthermore, confocal microscopy was used to qualitatively assess selected structural changes in the biofilm. Their occurrence was demonstrated depending on the fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC) levels used. The results revealed variable and nonlinear patterns of gene expression in response to the tested concentrations. Additionally, compound-dependent differences in anti-biofilm-related responses were observed. Overall, the findings provide insight into the potential influence of cinnamic acid derivatives combined with cloxacillin on biofilm-associated processes in S. epidermidis.},
}

@article {pmid41900121,
year = {2026},
author = {Sohail, N and Martienssen, M},
title = {Mechanistic Insights into Quorum Quenching-Mediated Control of EPS and Biofilm Formation in Submerged MBR.},
journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {31},
number = {6},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/molecules31061022},
pmid = {41900121},
issn = {1420-3049},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Quorum Sensing ; *Extracellular Polymeric Substance Matrix/metabolism ; *Bioreactors/microbiology ; Membranes, Artificial ; Polyvinyls/chemistry ; Biofouling/prevention & control ; Sewage/microbiology ; Polymers/chemistry ; Sulfones/chemistry ; Polytetrafluoroethylene/chemistry ; Fluorocarbon Polymers ; },
abstract = {Quorum quenching (QQ) is a promising biological approach that has the potential to control membrane biofouling. However, the implementation of the QQ membrane bioreactor still requires a more systematic and comprehensive understanding, including the selection of membrane materials, the determination of the optimal QQ bacterial dosage, and the use of appropriate media for the immobilization of QQ bacteria, all of which are important to ensure long-term operation. The present study investigated the impact of QQ bacteria on biofilm formation across different polymeric membranes. These include flat sheet membranes, Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), Polysulfones (PSs), and hollow-fibre polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) membranes. It also evaluated biofilm development, membrane filtration performance, extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) production, and sludge floc properties, which were characterized using fluorescence microscopy. The results revealed that QQ intervention markedly suppressed quorum sensing (QS), leading to a pronounced, dose-dependent reduction in biofilm thickness, membrane fouling, EPS production and sludge floc size. Biofilm thickness was reduced by 63.5% on PTFE and 55.4% on PS membranes, accompanied by a notable reduction in EPS protein and polysaccharides, thereby weakening the biofilm formation and enhancing membrane filterability. Therefore, the permeability performance of the PVDF membrane improved by 338.2%. Furthermore, sludge settleability was enhanced, and floc size was reduced, resulting in the mitigation of biofilm formation without impacting pollutant degradation. These findings elucidate the material-dependent and dose-responsive mechanism by which QQ regulates EPS synthesis and biofilm formation in MBR.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Quorum Sensing
*Extracellular Polymeric Substance Matrix/metabolism
*Bioreactors/microbiology
Membranes, Artificial
Polyvinyls/chemistry
Biofouling/prevention & control
Sewage/microbiology
Polymers/chemistry
Sulfones/chemistry
Polytetrafluoroethylene/chemistry
Fluorocarbon Polymers

@article {pmid41900298,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, W and Ma, X and Jin, R and Wang, Y and Ren, L and Zhang, S and Shan, L and Cai, K and Li, Y},
title = {Electrochemically Generated ROS Water for Rapid Disinfection and Biofilm Control in Real Waters.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14030538},
pmid = {41900298},
issn = {2076-2607},
abstract = {The intensifying global challenges of water scarcity and widespread microbial contamination underscore the urgent need for the development of efficient, chemical-free disinfection technologies. Here, we developed a compact boron-doped diamond (BDD)-based electrochemical water treatment system that generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) in situ and evaluated its antimicrobial performance using ROS-on/off controls. Bactericidal efficacy was assessed against representative Gram-negative Escherichia coli (E. coli), Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa), a clinically relevant Gram-negative pathogen with biofilm-forming and stress-resistant properties. Under ROS-on operation, viable counts were reduced from ~10[6] CFU/mL to near the detection limit, corresponding to 5-6 log10 reductions across all tested species, whereas ROS-off treatment showed negligible effects. The system retained strong disinfection activity in complex real water matrices, including hand-washing water, laboratory wastewater, and pond wastewater. ROS-treated water also disrupted pre-formed mono-species biofilms in a time-dependent manner, as assessed by crystal violet staining and semi-quantitative biomass analysis. A preliminary mouse exposure assessment did not reveal obvious histopathological abnormalities or hematological changes under the tested conditions. These results demonstrate that BDD-enabled electrochemical ROS water provides a rapid, reagent-free approach for bacterial inactivation and biofilm control, with potential applicability across diverse water-related settings, while acknowledging that further studies on complex natural microbial communities are warranted.},
}

@article {pmid41900317,
year = {2026},
author = {Liao, S and Yang, S and Gong, G and Liu, Z and Zhang, J and Li, H and Sun, Q and Mo, H and Hu, L and Tian, L},
title = {Mechanistic Insights into the Inhibition of Yersinia enterocolitica Biofilm Formation by Lipoic Acid.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14030558},
pmid = {41900317},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {2022YFD1600700//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; 2024NC-YBXM-141//Key Research and Development Projects of Shaanxi Province/ ; 2024NC-YBXM-160//Key Research and Development Projects of Shaanxi Province/ ; L2024-CXNL-KJRCTD-DWJS-0023//Construction of Qin Chuangyuan's "Scientists+Engineers" Project/ ; 2024QCY-KXJ-070//Construction of Qin Chuangyuan's "Scientists+Engineers" Project/ ; },
abstract = {Yersinia enterocolitica is a foodborne pathogen that forms biofilms on surfaces, enhancing its survivability and increasing bacterial resistance, which poses a significant challenge to public health. Therefore, developing effective strategies to inhibit biofilm formation is crucial. Lipoic acid (LA) is a compound with antibiofilm properties. This study investigates the effects of LA on biofilm formation by Y. enterocolitica BNCC 108930 (a standard strain from the BeNa Culture Collection). Biofilm formation, maturation, removal, and cell viability were evaluated by crystal violet staining, extracellular polysaccharide assay, Methylthiazolyldiphenyl-tetrazolium bromide assays, motility, and quorum sensing (QS) assays. The results indicate that LA interferes with the early stages of biofilm formation by compromising cell membrane integrity and reducing cellular adhesion. Furthermore, 2.5 mg/mL of LA reduced biofilm biomass (with a 48 h treatment inhibition rate of 51.46 ± 1.29%) and extracellular polysaccharide production (with a relative inhibition rate of 30.09 ± 1.8%), while significantly reducing the metabolic activity of bacteria within the biofilm (inhibition rate over 85%) compared to the untreated group. Confocal laser scanning microscopy and field emission gun scanning electron microscopy confirm that LA induces a sparse biofilm structure, reduced aggregation, and decreased biofilm thickness to 21.33 ± 2.27 μm. Motility and QS assays demonstrate that LA affects flagellar motility and the secretion of N-acyl homoserine lactones. Transcriptome analysis revealed downregulation of genes involved in the QS system and biofilm formation (e.g., lsrA, lsrC, lsrD, lsrR, and oppA), as well as upregulation of genes related to bacterial chemotaxis and flagellar assembly (e.g., RS19655, RS15590, fliE, fliJ, fliP, fliA, and fliK). These alterations suggest that LA inhibits Y. enterocolitica biofilm formation by affecting intercellular communication and flagellar motility. This study highlights the antibiofilm properties of LA, providing a theoretical basis for potential applications in microbial and biofilm control.},
}

@article {pmid41900334,
year = {2026},
author = {Jia, D and Zhang, J and Zhang, X and Gao, P and Zhan, H and Dong, Z and Li, H and Meng, F and Cai, N and Zhang, D},
title = {Design, Synthesis, and Anti-Biofilm Activity of C-28 Modified Betulinic Acid Derivatives Targeting SarA in Drug-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14030574},
pmid = {41900334},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {2025-BS-0858//the Natural Science Foundation of Liaoning Province/ ; 2024-MS-226//the Project of the Science and Technology Department of Liaoning Province/ ; },
abstract = {To address the urgent challenge of antimicrobial resistance, a series of twenty novel C-28 modified betulinic acid derivatives was designed and synthesized. Several derivatives, particularly 3b, 3d, 3e, and 3o, displayed notable antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and vancomycin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (VRSA). The most active compound, 3d, was subjected to further mechanistic evaluation: it produced concentration-dependent inhibition zones in Oxford cup assays, exhibited bactericidal kinetics in time-kill studies, and significantly suppressed biofilm formation. Molecular docking suggested that the anti-biofilm activity of 3d may be mediated through binding to the staphylococcal accessory regulator A (SarA), a key transcriptional regulator of biofilm formation. The molecular dynamics study provided additional confirmation of the effective binding between 3d and SarA. These results highlight compound 3d as a promising lead for the development of novel anti-biofilm agents targeting drug-resistant Gram-positive infections.},
}

@article {pmid41900340,
year = {2026},
author = {Iungin, O and Potters, G and Kalinichenko, O and Prekrasna-Kviatkovska, Y and Moshynets, O and Kazakov-Kravchenko, O and Sidorenko, M and Okhmat, O and Mickevičius, S},
title = {Temperature-Dependent Biofilm Development in Antarctic Endophytic Microbial Communities.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14030580},
pmid = {41900340},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {0124U003829//National Antarctic Scientific Center of Ukraine/ ; 0125U003135//National Antarctic Scientific Center of Ukraine/ ; 984834//NATO SPS/ ; },
abstract = {Climate change is reshaping Antarctic ecosystems, where the resilience of Deschampsia antarctica and Colobanthus quitensis is mediated by endophytic microbial communities assembled under strong abiotic drivers. This study explores the temperature-dependent biofilm development in two Antarctic endophytic microbial communities (ALS and LS). Multivariate analysis revealed a fundamental trade-off between planktonic expansion and biofilm matrix investment as a function of thermal cues. While moderate warming (15-25 °C) optimized cell viability and turbidity, extreme thermal stress at 37-42 °C in nutrient-rich conditions triggered a significant shift toward a matrix-rich signature, characterized by a synergistic increase in total DNA and cellulose. Crucially, at the thermal extreme of 42 °C, we observed a decoupling of optical density from culturable biomass, where high turbidity did not translate into viable cells, signaling a state of severe environmental stress. These results identify 25 °C as the quantitative threshold for optimal growth, while temperatures of 37-42 °C act as a specific trigger for protective matrix production. Such thermal plasticity suggests that Antarctic endophytes are evolutionarily primed for persistence not only in cold native niches but also during bird-mediated dispersal at endothermic host temperatures.},
}

@article {pmid41900460,
year = {2026},
author = {Karnjana, K and Thala, S and Wongprasert, K},
title = {Ethanolic Gracilaria fisheri Extract and Purified N-Benzylcinnamamide Inhibit Staphylococcus epidermidis Adhesion and Biofilm Formation on Device-Relevant Surfaces.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14030700},
pmid = {41900460},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {RGNS 65-182//Thailand Science Research and Innovation (TSRI)/ ; },
abstract = {Staphylococcus epidermidis is a leading opportunistic pathogen in medical device-associated infections due to its ability to adhere to abiotic materials and develop biofilms that are difficult to eradicate. This study investigated the antibiofilm potential of an ethanolic extract of the red seaweed Gracilaria fisheri and its purified constituent, N-benzylcinnamamide, against S. epidermidis. Antibacterial activity was determined, and antibiofilm effects were assessed using the crystal violet assay and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Early bacterial adhesion on glass and polyurethane (PU) surfaces was measured. The effect on catheter-associated biofilms was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Transcripts of biofilm- and quorum-sensing-associated genes (icaA and luxS) were assessed by semi-quantitative RT-PCR. Cytotoxicity was evaluated by MTT assay. At 200 µg/mL, biofilm biomass decreased to 48.21 ± 5.52% with the extract and to 36.65 ± 6.82% with N-benzylcinnamamide. CLSM time-course imaging showed delayed biofilm maturation and less consolidated, discontinuous structures. Surface exposure to the extract markedly reduced early attachment on both materials. On PU catheter segments, SEM demonstrated that N-benzylcinnamamide markedly reduced surface coverage and disrupted three-dimensional biofilm architecture. At the molecular level, transcription of icaA and luxS was reduced. Both the extract and N-benzylcinnamamide showed minimal cytotoxicity in HeLa cells. These findings support further evaluation of these marine-derived agents as candidates for antibiofilm surface treatments to reduce early medical device colonization.},
}

@article {pmid41901079,
year = {2026},
author = {Cirio, S and Mantegazza, G and Salerno, C and Guglielmetti, S and Allam, A and Campus, G and Cagetti, MG},
title = {Assessing the Impact of Heyndrickxia coagulans Administered Through Sugar-Free Chewing Gum on Dental Biofilm: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial.},
journal = {Nutrients},
volume = {18},
number = {6},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/nu18060904},
pmid = {41901079},
issn = {2072-6643},
mesh = {Humans ; *Chewing Gum ; Double-Blind Method ; *Biofilms/drug effects ; Male ; Female ; Adult ; *Dental Plaque/microbiology ; *Probiotics/administration & dosage ; Middle Aged ; Young Adult ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; },
abstract = {Background:Heyndrickxia coagulans has emerged as a candidate for oral health applications, and chewing gum offers a promising delivery method. This study evaluates whether H. coagulans delivered via sugar-free chewing gum can induce detectable changes in plaque microbial ecology. Methods: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted on 52 healthy adults. Participants consumed probiotic or control gum for 4 weeks. Dental plaque was collected at baseline (T0), mid-intervention (T1), end of intervention (T2), and one week post-intervention (T3). qPCR quantified H. coagulans, while 16S rRNA gene profiling assessed microbial diversity and taxonomic composition. Statistical analyses included rank-based difference-in-differences models, Wilcoxon and Mann-Whitney tests, and differential abundance inference based on negative binomial modeling. Results: Forty-four subjects completed the study. In the Intervention group, the strain was detected in 71.4% of participants at T1 and 61.9% at T2, and it persisted in 9.5% at T3. Differential abundance analysis revealed a broad depletion of taxa linked to oral dysbiosis at T2 with partial persistence at T3, along with selective enrichment of beneficial strains. Conclusions:H. coagulans delivered via chewing gum can reach the dental biofilm and induce modest, transient shifts in microbial composition. However, these biofilm ecology findings should be interpreted in the context of clinical outcomes.},
}

Humans
*Chewing Gum
Double-Blind Method
*Biofilms/drug effects
Male
Female
Adult
*Dental Plaque/microbiology
*Probiotics/administration & dosage
Middle Aged
Young Adult
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics

@article {pmid41901766,
year = {2026},
author = {Brands, B and van Leuven, N and Bockmühl, D},
title = {We Are Family: Comparative Study of Candida Species and Candidozyma auris in Laundry (EN 17658) and Surface (Biofilm) Disinfection.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/pathogens15030313},
pmid = {41901766},
issn = {2076-0817},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Disinfectants/pharmacology ; *Disinfection/methods ; *Candida auris/drug effects/physiology ; *Candida/drug effects/physiology ; Candida albicans/drug effects/physiology ; *Candida parapsilosis/drug effects/physiology ; *Saccharomycetales/drug effects/physiology ; },
abstract = {The rising prevalence of Candidozyma auris and Candida parapsilosis, characterized by high surface persistence and biofilm-forming capabilities, challenges the efficacy of standard laundry and surface disinfection protocols. This study evaluated the effectiveness of laundry processes according to EN 17658 at 20 °C, 30 °C and 40 °C and two surface disinfectants (bead assay for biofilms) against two Candida albicans strains, C. parapsilosis, and C. auris. Results indicated that C. auris is more resilient than other strains, surviving laundry treatment with activated oxygen bleach at 40 °C; maximum efficacy required a colour powder detergent supplemented with a bleach-releasing additive at 40 °C. While alcohol- and aldehyde-based surface disinfectants were effective per EN 13697 criteria, their efficacy against biofilms-tested on glass, stainless steel, polypropylene, and PTFE-was highly dependent on both the strain and the surface material. These findings demonstrate the reduced susceptibility of C. auris to standard laundry disinfection and highlight that biofilm eradication is a complex process influenced by strain-specific attributes and surface characteristics.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Disinfectants/pharmacology
*Disinfection/methods
*Candida auris/drug effects/physiology
*Candida/drug effects/physiology
Candida albicans/drug effects/physiology
*Candida parapsilosis/drug effects/physiology
*Saccharomycetales/drug effects/physiology

@article {pmid41886449,
year = {2026},
author = {Telford, MS and Mikesh, M and Parker, JK and Beckman, RL and Newberry, RW and Fleeman, RM and Davies, BW},
title = {Antibacterial microcins self-assemble to promote biofilm formation in Acinetobacter baumannii.},
journal = {Cell reports},
volume = {45},
number = {4},
pages = {117156},
doi = {10.1016/j.celrep.2026.117156},
pmid = {41886449},
issn = {2211-1247},
support = {R01 AI182365/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R56 AI179799/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; },
abstract = {The bacterial pathogen Acinetobacter baumannii forms a resilient biofilm, enhancing bacterial survival in hostile environments. Although biofilm structure is primarily built from polysaccharides and nucleic acids, specific proteins are often essential for its development and integrity. Here, we identify microcins as a driver of biofilm formation in A. baumannii. Microcins are small (<10 kDa), secreted, antimicrobial proteins that typically mediate bacterial competition, yet their function beyond the antibacterial is unclear. We demonstrate that A. baumannii microcins use conserved sequence motifs to self-assemble into amyloid fibers, promoting biofilm formation. Scanning electron microscopy reveals microcin fibers extending from A. baumannii, suggesting a structural role as a biofilm scaffold. We also identify proteins required for microcin's antibacterial function that are dispensable for biofilm formation, further distinguishing these two activities. Our findings show that microcins directly promote biofilm development and broaden understanding of the diverse functions of these understudied proteins.},
}

@article {pmid41888586,
year = {2026},
author = {Rilstone, V and Filion, Y and Champagne, P},
title = {Fate of the resistance profile of drinking water biofilm exposed to a sub-minimum inhibitory concentration of ciprofloxacin.},
journal = {npj antimicrobials and resistance},
volume = {4},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41888586},
issn = {2731-8745},
support = {RE010-095//Ontario Research Fund/ ; RGPIN-2019-04084//Natural Science and Engineering Research Council/ ; },
abstract = {Early research has found that biofilms adhered to treatment filtration beds and the inside of drinking water pipes help promote antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in drinking water systems. This study investigates the impact of a sub-minimum inhibitory concentration of ciprofloxacin (10 µg L[-1]) on AMR and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in multi-species biofilms formed on polyvinyl chloride pipe using a novel bench-scale water distribution reactor. The biofilm was grown from drinking water and contained a highly diverse composition consisting of, but not limited to, Dechloromonas, Pseudomonas, Pseudoxanthomonas, Acidovorax, and Allorhizobium-Neorhizobium-Pararhizobium-Rhizobium. It was found that when the biofilm was exposed to ciprofloxacin, the total cell counts significantly increased, suggesting a potential AMR response. IntI1 and sul1 showed a significant inverse correlation with several genera as well as with increased diversity. Asinibacterium, found at a lower abundance in the biofilms, had a significant positive correlation with intI1, indicating its potential role in ARG promotion and the enhanced risk of a less diverse biofilm. This study highlights the need for targeted control strategies against AMR development in the context of drinking water distribution systems, emphasizing the role of biofilm community composition and residual antibiotic exposure.},
}

@article {pmid41888665,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, B and Zou, L and Liu, X},
title = {Retrieving of diguanylate cyclases responsible for biofilm formation and antibiotic resistance in Acinetobacter baumannii.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12866-026-05003-w},
pmid = {41888665},
issn = {1471-2180},
support = {32370105 and 32570139//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41889124,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, J and Chen, C and Booth, JL and Lanza, M and Sun, D and Allcock, HR and Siedlecki, CA and Xu, LC},
title = {Anti-Biofilm Properties of Polyurethane Biomaterials Tethered With Small Molecules via Polyethylene Glycol Linker.},
journal = {Journal of biomedical materials research. Part A},
volume = {114},
number = {4},
pages = {e70069},
doi = {10.1002/jbm.a.70069},
pmid = {41889124},
issn = {1552-4965},
support = {R01AI185093/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; //Penn State College of Medicine's Comprehensive Health Studies Program/ ; },
mesh = {*Polyurethanes/chemistry/pharmacology ; *Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Polyethylene Glycols/chemistry/pharmacology ; Animals ; *Biocompatible Materials/chemistry/pharmacology ; Rats ; Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology ; Staphylococcus epidermidis/drug effects/physiology ; *Pyrazoles/pharmacology/chemistry ; Rats, Sprague-Dawley ; },
abstract = {Biofilm-associated microbial infection is one of the main complications for long-term use of biomaterials in implantable medical devices. Bacterial intracellular nucleotide second messenger signaling is widely recognized to be involved in biofilm formation and assists bacteria in monitoring and responding appropriately to changing environments. Interference with the nucleotide signaling mechanisms by small molecules to interrupt biofilm formation provides a novel way to control microbial infection on biomaterial surfaces. This study reports an approach to tether small molecule derivatives of 4-arylazo-3,5-diamino-1 H-pyrazole (termed as SP02 and SP03) on polyurethane biomaterial surfaces using a polyethylene glycol (PEG) linker. Compared to our previous approach to tether small molecules on surfaces using a short hexamethylene diisocyanate (HMDI) linker, the new modification resulted in surfaces enriched with a higher density of small molecules, SP02 and SP03. Studies of S. epidermidis and P. aeruginosa biofilm formation on surfaces demonstrated that PEG-linked surfaces were more resistant to biofilm formation than the HMDI-linked surfaces. The analysis of intracellular nucleotides in biofilm cells showed that the PEG-linked surfaces significantly reduced c-di-AMP levels in S. epidermidis cells and c-di-GMP levels in P. aeruginosa cells. In vivo experiments with a 7-day subcutaneous rat model suggest that the new small molecule tethered surfaces by the extended PEG linkers show increased resistance to microbial infection and are biocompatible to tissues. Overall, the results suggest that the PEG long linker can be used to tether small molecules on polyurethane biomaterial surfaces and retain the activity of small molecules, providing a new approach to combat microbial infections.},
}

*Polyurethanes/chemistry/pharmacology
*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Polyethylene Glycols/chemistry/pharmacology
Animals
*Biocompatible Materials/chemistry/pharmacology
Rats
Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology
Staphylococcus epidermidis/drug effects/physiology
*Pyrazoles/pharmacology/chemistry
Rats, Sprague-Dawley

@article {pmid41889641,
year = {2026},
author = {Rehman, AU and Abbott, K and Karet Frankl, FE and Zarkan, A and Williams, TL},
title = {Human urinary extracellular vesicle preparations inhibit in vitro biofilm formation against several uropathogens.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1782549},
pmid = {41889641},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) rank as one of the most frequent bacterial infections globally, with multiple bacterial species such as uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC), Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa being significant causative agents that can develop biofilms associated with antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and recurrence. Urinary extracellular vesicles (UEVs) are nanosized particles secreted by cells lining the urinary tract which carry nucleic acid and protein cargo, including antibacterial proteins, and high concentrations of UEVs exert antibacterial activity against UPEC in vitro. This study investigated the antibiofilm potential of UEVs against biofilm-forming uropathogens.

METHODS: UEV preparations from healthy human volunteers were added to bacteria, and biofilm formation was assessed using safranin-based biofilm quantification.

RESULTS: UEV preparations from the majority of volunteers significantly inhibited biofilm formation of multiple uropathogens, including UPEC (66.2% [34.8%-85.6%] inhibition vs. control), P. aeruginosa (37.2% [5.8%-42.6%]), and K. pneumoniae (31.8% [18.0%-60.4%]), an effect evident at physiologically relevant concentrations. UEV concentrations that exhibited antibiofilm activity were also not sufficient to inhibit bacterial growth.

DISCUSSION: These findings highlight the potential role of UEVs as innate modulators of uropathogen biofilms and lay the groundwork for future exploration of the relevance of host-derived UEVs in determining risks of recurrent UTIs.},
}

@article {pmid41889776,
year = {2026},
author = {Odyniec, ML and Bell, DJ and Gallant, BM and Firdaus, R and Ball, G and Hughes, L and Oxtoby, R and Hewitt, BJ and Williams, CM and Muguruza, AR and Overton, TW and Tsai, HJ and Chiu, YL and Kubicki, DJ and Walmsley, AD and Kuehne, SA and Pikramenou, Z},
title = {Ultrasound-Responsive Nanoparticles Enable Hydrophobic Antibiotic Release and Deep Penetration for Biofilm Treatment.},
journal = {JACS Au},
volume = {6},
number = {3},
pages = {1847-1859},
pmid = {41889776},
issn = {2691-3704},
abstract = {Localized delivery of antibiotics is a promising strategy that leads to transformative treatment pathways of bacterial biofilms and increases the effectiveness of their administration in contrast to traditional delivery methods requiring high antibiotic doses. Hydrophobic antibiotics have poor activity against bacterial biofilms due to their limited penetration and are particularly challenging to deliver. Nanoparticles are ideal drug delivery agents to achieve spatially controlled delivery, but commonly their designs are either soft or porous, which limits temporally triggered release, with the result that most of the antibiotic does not reach deeply into the biofilm. In this study, we present designs of nonporous silica nanoparticles that encapsulate a lipophilic antibiotic, rifampicin, with noncovalent interactions and enable controlled release triggered by Low-Frequency Ultrasound (LFUS). Staphylococcus aureus biofilms treated with the nonporous, core@shell, rifampicin-encapsulated nanoparticles, RIF⊂PhSiO 2 @SiO 2 , combined with LFUS, achieved 90% biofilm eradication, compared to 20% without ultrasound; treatment with free rifampicin and LFUS resulted only in a 10% reduction. Nanoparticle penetration into biofilm layers was visualized using fluorescent nanoparticles prepared with coencapsulation of the Nile red fluorophore, RIF+NR⊂PhSiO 2 @SiO 2 . Confocal fluorescence imaging of the biofilms demonstrated penetration of the nanoparticles throughout all the layers of the biofilm upon LFUS application, in sharp contrast to their presence in only the top few biofilm layers without LFUS. Scanning Electron Microscopy of the biofilms confirmed the presence of nanoparticles and the dual role of LFUS in promoting penetration and facilitating drug release by disrupting molecular interactions within the nanoparticle. This work introduces a design paradigm for nonporous nanoparticle agents combined with ultrasound, enabling both temporal and spatial control of drug release in bacterial biofilms. This will open transformative therapeutic approaches for effective localized delivery of drugs that have previously been challenging to deliver.},
}

@article {pmid41891724,
year = {2026},
author = {Goerlich, K and Mitchell, AP},
title = {Impact of Candida albicans NDT80 and UME6 on biofilm formation and fluconazole susceptibility.},
journal = {mSphere},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0001426},
doi = {10.1128/msphere.00014-26},
pmid = {41891724},
issn = {2379-5042},
abstract = {The microbiome-associated fungus Candida albicans is an opportunistic pathogen. Virulence traits include its ability to produce biofilm, a surface-associated growth form that persists on mucosae and implanted medical devices. C. albicans clinical isolates vary in ability to produce biofilm and the constituent filamentous cell types. Here, we focus on two transcription factors that promote filamentation and biofilm formation, Ndt80 and Ume6. We address two questions. First, how variable is the impact of Ndt80 among C. albicans strains? Second, what is the genetic interaction between NDT80 and UME6? We find that Ndt80 is required for filamentation and biofilm formation in five clinical isolates in addition to the reference strain SC5314, where Ndt80 function has been well established. RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) data indicate that UME6 RNA levels are reduced in an ndt80Δ/Δ mutant, possibly a result of altered RME1 and WOR1 expression, both of which control UME6. Increased expression of UME6 in ndt80Δ/Δ mutants of three strain backgrounds restores filamentation and biofilm formation, though RNA-seq assays indicate that it does not suppress the overall ndt80Δ/Δ gene expression defect. Ndt80 has an additional role in promoting tolerance to the antifungal drug fluconazole, an inhibitor of ergosterol synthesis. This ndt80Δ/Δ phenotype varies considerably among clinical isolates. In three strains tested, increased expression of UME6 in ndt80Δ/Δ mutants enhances their susceptibility to fluconazole. Therefore, our results show an unexpected relationship between Ume6 expression and azole drug sensitivity. To our knowledge, Ume6 has previously been understood to function only in filamentation, biofilm formation, and related processes.IMPORTANCEOur focus is the fungal pathogen Candida albicans. Two traits, biofilm/hypha formation and azole resistance, are major drivers of its infection ability. We examine the roles of two biofilm transcriptional regulators, Ndt80 and Ume6, in several C. albicans clinical isolates. Prior studies in one strain background (SC5314) indicated that Ndt80 controls both biofilm/hypha formation and azole drug susceptibility and that Ume6 controls biofilm/hypha formation. The four new findings here are that (i) Ndt80 effects on fluconazole sensitivity vary considerably with strain background; (ii) Ndt80 is required for filamentation and biofilm formation in multiple clinical isolates; (iii) the Ndt80 target Ume6 contributes to Ndt80 control of filamentation and biofilm formation in multiple clinical isolates; and (iv) Ume6 influences fluconazole vulnerability, the first Ume6 function to our knowledge that is unrelated to filamentation.},
}

@article {pmid41892410,
year = {2026},
author = {Kim, M and Khatun, J and Khan, F and Kim, YM},
title = {Lactic Acid Bacteria as Natural Antimicrobials: Biofilm Control in Food and Food Industry.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics15030248},
pmid = {41892410},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {RS-2021-NR060118//Ministry of Education/ ; 2024 Postdoctoral Support Project//Pukyong National University/ ; },
abstract = {Biofilm production by foodborne pathogens poses significant challenges to food safety and quality, leading to contamination, deterioration, and substantial economic losses for the food industry. Traditional biofilm control methods, such as chemical disinfectants, antibiotics, and preservatives, are sometimes ineffective against persistent biofilms, raising concerns about antimicrobial resistance and the accumulation of chemical residues. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) have emerged as attractive natural biocontrol agents due to their ability to produce a wide range of antimicrobial secondary metabolites, including bacteriocins, organic acids, hydrogen peroxide, and biosurfactants. This paper thoroughly examines the effect of LAB and their metabolites in preventing and destroying biofilms generated by bacteria relevant to food systems, including Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella enterica, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas spp. The processes causing LAB-mediated biofilm attenuation are thoroughly investigated, including competition for nutrients and adhesion sites, interference with quorum sensing (QS), and metabolic inhibition. Furthermore, recent breakthroughs in LAB-based techniques for food preservation and facility hygiene are discussed, including the creation of LAB-derived antimicrobial coatings, biosurfactant-based cleaning agents, and probiotic bio-coatings for industrial sanitation. The incorporation of nanotechnology has enhanced LAB applications by enabling the creation of LAB-mediated metallic nanoparticles and encapsulated formulations that improve metabolite stability and facilitate controlled release. The combination of LAB metabolites, natural preservatives, and eco-friendly materials in active packaging provides sustainable alternatives to synthetic chemicals. Overall, this review emphasizes the potential of LAB and their bioactive derivatives as environmentally friendly and practical tools for controlling biofilms and preserving food, thereby promoting safer food production systems and accelerating the food industry's transition to green, sustainable technologies.},
}

@article {pmid41892419,
year = {2026},
author = {Cangui-Panchi, SP and Cangui-Panchi, DS and Palacios, VE and Becerra, E and Santamaría, AL and Muñoz, D and Reyes-Chacón, J and Machado, A and Garzon-Chavez, D},
title = {Integrated Phenotypic, Proteomic (MALDI-TOF MS), and Genomic (WGS) Investigation of a Prolonged Hospital Outbreak of Pseudomonas aeruginosa with High Biofilm-Forming Capacity.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics15030257},
pmid = {41892419},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {Project ID: 17357 entitled "Alternative approaches for eliminating biofilms"//Universidad San Francisco de Quito/ ; Project ID: 17577 entitled "The antibiofilm potential of lactobacilli biosurfactants against mul-tidrug-resistant pathogens"//Universidad San Francisco de Quito/ ; Project ID: 17579 entitled "Antibiotic resistance and biofilm formation among clinical isolates from intravenous catheter tips at a public hospital in Quito"//Universidad San Francisco de Quito/ ; },
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Hospital outbreaks of Pseudomonas aeruginosa are difficult to control due to the pathogen's extensive repertoire, including its ability to form biofilms, adapt and persist in diverse environments, and develop multidrug resistance, all of which contribute to prolonged outbreaks. This study integrates the phenotypic, proteomic, and genomic characterization of a nosocomial outbreak comprising 38 clinical isolates and one environmental isolate recovered from the intensive care unit (ICU) of Hospital IESS Quito Sur. Methods: Clinical data were collected, antimicrobial susceptibility was assessed by minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), carbapenemase genes were detected by multiple PCR and immunochromatographic assays, and the biofilm formation index (BFI) was determined. In addition, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) was used for species identification and clustering based on spectral similarity. Twelve representative isolates underwent whole genome sequencing (WGS) to characterize the resistome and virulome and to compare phylogenetic relationships with proteomic clustering defined by MALDI Biotyper Compass Explorer software. Results: All isolates were identified as P. aeruginosa, and phenotypic antimicrobial susceptibility classified most isolates as multidrug resistant, including 32 CRPA strains. The blaVIM gene was detected in 22 isolates, while BFI analysis showed that all isolates formed moderate to strong biofilms. Genomic analysis revealed that most isolates belonged to ST111 and ST253, and both conserved and heterogeneous resistome and virulome profiles, with a broad distribution of determinants related to biofilm formation, stress tolerance, and persistence. Comparison between MALDI-TOF MS and WGS showed predominant concordance in clustering, mainly within subclusters but disagreement at the cluster level. Conclusions: The detection of carbapenemases, biofilm-forming ability, and virulence determinants associated with prolonged persistence highlights the need for integrated molecular tools, such as MALDI-TOF MS with MALDI Biotyper Compass Explorer software, to support epidemiological surveillance and to inform strategies aimed at mitigating prolonged hospital outbreaks caused by P. aeruginosa.},
}

@article {pmid41892440,
year = {2026},
author = {Bertran Forga, X and Fairfull-Smith, KE and Qin, J and Totsika, M},
title = {Nitric Oxide Donor Spermine-NONOate Elicits Endogenous Dispersal-Associated Transcriptional Responses to Promote Biofilm Dispersal in Pseudomonas aeruginosa.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics15030278},
pmid = {41892440},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {DP210101317//Australian Research Council/ ; },
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Bacterial biofilms are structured communities of sessile cells embedded in a self-produced extracellular matrix. Within biofilms, bacteria become highly tolerant toenvironmental stressors such as host immune responses and antimicrobial treatments. In response to specific cues, however, biofilm cells can revert to a planktonic free-swimming lifestyle through a process termed biofilm dispersal. When dispersed cells escape the biofilm matrix, they lose biofilm-associated antibiotic tolerance, a major barrier to treating medical biofilms. As such, dispersal-inducing compounds like nitric oxide (NO) are actively investigated as adjuvants to potentiate the biofilm-eradicating activity of existing antibiotics. We recently characterised the transcriptomic responses elicited during spontaneous biofilm dispersal in closed culture-grown Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms. Here, we evaluated the transcriptional profiles of P. aeruginosa biofilms treated with the NO donor Spermine-NONOate (SP-NONO) and the nitroxide C-TEMPO, an NO analogue, to determine potential pathways involved in NO-mediated dispersal. Methods: Dispersal activity on P. aeruginosa PAO1 biofilms by SP-NONOate and C-TEMPO was quantified by crystal violet staining. Cellular responses to each compound were profiled by RNA-seq on treated and untreated cells. Results: While both compounds disrupted the transcription of ANR-regulated energy metabolism pathways, only SP-NONO activated canonical NO-regulated responses. Considering that only SP-NONO showed biofilm dispersal activity in this culture system, we investigated shared transcriptional shifts in SP-NONO-treated and spontaneously dispersed biofilms to identify pathways likely involved in central dispersal responses. These mostly included genes involved in the catabolism of branched-chain amino acids (leucine, valine, isoleucine) and lysine, as well as 9 of 14 genes previously defined as transcriptional biomarkers of spontaneous biofilm dispersal. Conclusions: This study suggests that NO disrupts biofilm maturation by prematurely stimulating central pathways of spontaneous biofilm dispersal and highlights this set of biomarkers as robust indicators of dispersal responses.},
}

@article {pmid41892461,
year = {2026},
author = {Voinescu, A and Musuroi, SI and Licker, M and Muntean, D and Horhat, FG and Baditoiu, LM and Izmendi, O and Cosnita, A and Munteanu, M and Poenaru-Sava, M and Ordodi, V and Ceachir, P and Olariu, TR and Musuroi, C},
title = {Genetic Characterization and Biofilm-Forming Capacity of Bacterial Population Isolated from Conjunctival Samples.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics15030300},
pmid = {41892461},
issn = {2079-6382},
abstract = {BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Bacterial conjunctivitis is a common ocular infection requiring prompt treatment, particularly in vulnerable patients, and may influence perioperative outcomes. This study aimed to characterize conjunctival bacterial isolates phenotypically and genotypically, to evaluate their biofilm-forming capacity, and to investigate the relationship between resistance gene carriage, resistance phenotypes, and biofilm-associated antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

METHODS: A prospective, single-center, cross-sectional study was conducted on bacterial isolates from conjunctival samples of patients examined in an ophthalmology department. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) was performed to determine the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs). Resistance genes were detected by quantitative PCR. Biofilm-forming capacity was assessed using the microtiter plate assay, and biofilm susceptibility to amikacin (AK) and levofloxacin (LEV) was evaluated using a biofilm susceptibility assay.

RESULTS: A total of 78 isolates were analyzed; Gram-positive cocci prevailed (GPC, 84.6%), being significantly more frequent than Gram-negative bacilli (GNB, p < 0.001). Among GPC, 65.2% were multidrug-resistant, with Staphylococcus epidermidis emerging as the most frequent species (p < 0.001). Resistance gene carriage was detected in 33.3% of GNB. Strong biofilm formation was observed in 22.7% of GPC versus 58.3% of GNB. It should be noted that the relatively small number of GNB may limit the statistical robustness of comparisons between Gram-positive and Gram-negative groups. A statistically significant association between resistance genes and biofilm capacity was found only in Staphylococcus aureus (p = 0.027). Biofilm-embedded bacteria showed increased antimicrobial tolerance, particularly for AK in S. aureus and for both AK and LEV in S. epidermidis (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of multidrug-resistant conjunctival isolates and their biofilm-forming capacity highlights the clinical importance of biofilm-related resistance and support integrating AMR profiling with biofilm assessment to optimize empirical therapy in bacterial conjunctivitis.},
}

@article {pmid41892779,
year = {2026},
author = {Aliu, F and Bajrami-Shabani, D and Flores Fraile, J and Meto, A and Galletti, C and Fiorillo, L and Meto, A},
title = {Electrically Charged Lipid Nanoparticles as Intracanal Antimicrobial Delivery Systems: A Narrative Review of Preclinical Evidence for Biofilm Control.},
journal = {Dentistry journal},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/dj14030171},
pmid = {41892779},
issn = {2304-6767},
abstract = {Background: Persistent endodontic infections remain a significant challenge in root canal therapy, primarily due to the complexity of root canal anatomy and the formation of resistant microbial biofilms. Conventional irrigants, including sodium hypochlorite and chlorhexidine, show limited penetration into dentinal tubules and reduced efficacy against mature biofilms, contributing to treatment failure. Electrically charged lipid nanoparticles (ECLNs), such as cationic solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, and liposomes, have emerged as potential adjunctive systems to enhance intracanal antimicrobial delivery. This focused narrative review, informed by a structured literature search, aimed to synthesize and critically evaluate preclinical and exploratory clinical evidence regarding the use of electrically charged lipid nanoparticles for antibiotic delivery and biofilm control in root canal disinfection. Methods: A structured literature search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (2010-2026) identified 312 records, of which 20 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in qualitative synthesis. The majority of included studies were in vitro investigations, followed by ex vivo studies using extracted human teeth, with only a limited number of exploratory animal or clinical studies. Overall, the level of evidence was predominantly preclinical. Results: Across studies, ECLNs demonstrated enhanced antimicrobial efficacy compared with free antibiotics or non-charged formulations, with improved biofilm interaction, enhanced penetration into dentinal tubules, and sustained antimicrobial release. However, most investigations relied on mono-species Enterococcus faecalis biofilm models, and substantial heterogeneity in nanoparticle formulation and methodology was observed. Clinical evidence remains scarce. Conclusions: Although these findings about ECLNs suggest a promising experimental adjunct for root canal disinfection, current evidence remains largely preclinical and insufficient to support routine clinical application. Standardized formulations, clinically relevant multispecies biofilm models, and well-designed controlled clinical trials are required to establish safety, efficacy, and translational feasibility.},
}

@article {pmid41895349,
year = {2026},
author = {Ma, W and Li, P and Zhou, X},
title = {A lytic phage targeting virulent Proteus mirabilis for effective biofilm eradication.},
journal = {Microbial pathogenesis},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {108469},
doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2026.108469},
pmid = {41895349},
issn = {1096-1208},
abstract = {Proteus mirabilis is an opportunistic pathogen frequently associated with catheter-associated urinary tract infections, where robust crystalline biofilms contribute to chronicity, antimicrobial tolerance, and recurrence. The rising prevalence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) P. mirabilis has prompted interest in bacteriophage therapy as an alternative to conventional antibiotics. In this study, we isolated a lytic bacteriophage, vB_PmiM_ZX7, from sewage using a highly virulent clinical strain, P. mirabilis YV2, as the host. vB_PmiM_ZX7 displayed a broad host range among MDR P. mirabilis isolates and tolerance to a wide range of pH and temperatures. Genome sequencing revealed 60% of genes with unknown function, absence of virulence or antibiotic resistance genes, and limited similarity to known P. mirabilis phages, underscoring its genomic novelty. Safety evaluation in a murine model showed no adverse effect, histopathological changes, or persistent phage accumulation. Circulating phages were cleared from the blood within 5 h and from organs within 48 h. In anti-biofilm assays, vB_PmiM_ZX7 eradicated 62.2% of established biofilms, outperforming piperacillin/tazobactam (TZP), and significantly reduced extracellular polysaccharide content and biofilm density, as confirmed by scanning electron microscopy and fluorescence imaging. Furthermore, ZX7 demonstrated strong anti-biofilm activity in an in vitro catheter-associated biofilm model, markedly reducing the viability of biofilm-associated bacteria in a time-dependent manner. These findings demonstrated the potential of vB_PmiM_ZX7 as a therapeutic candidate for catheter-associated MDR P. mirabilis infections.},
}

@article {pmid41881072,
year = {2026},
author = {Pietrella, A and Paris, I and Migliorini, C and Morelli, M and Carpentieri, A and Matricardi, P and Di Meo, C and Papa, R},
title = {Hyaluronan and gellan nanohydrogels exhibit an unexpected activity in hampering Staphylococcus epidermidis biofilm.},
journal = {Journal of controlled release : official journal of the Controlled Release Society},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {114861},
doi = {10.1016/j.jconrel.2026.114861},
pmid = {41881072},
issn = {1873-4995},
abstract = {In clinical settings, the intensive use of antibiotics, particularly in intensive care settings, leads to a significant increase in the number of bacterial species that are resistant to treatments. In this context, biofilm is a crucial virulence factor that enable bacteria to persist within the host, often resulting in the need for extensive antibiotic treatment. Staphylococcus epidermidis, a notable nosocomial pathogen, poses a risk to vulnerable patients due to its ability to form biofilms on indwelling medical devices and its high resistance to antibiotic therapy. For this purpose, investigating alternative strategies that target the virulence of pathogens could offer a promising alternative strategy. In this study, we analyzed innovative polymeric materials, such as polysaccharide-based nanohydrogels, for their potential application contrasting S. epidermidis monospecies biofilm on the surfaces of materials most employed in medical devices. These nanohydrogels were found to be effective in eradicating the biofilm matrix and preventing bacterial adhesion. Additionally, the treatment with hyaluronan-based nanohydrogels altered the surface protein profile of S. epidermidis, leading to the disappearance of AtlE, the primary autolysin involved in biofilm formation, suggesting a potential mechanism of action for these nanogels. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD074516.},
}

@article {pmid41881899,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhou, H and Huang, X and Liao, H and Xia, X},
title = {Mechanistic insights into LuxS/AI-2 quorum sensing-regulated biofilm formation and its impact on the texture and flavor of kefir.},
journal = {International journal of food microbiology},
volume = {454},
number = {},
pages = {111743},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2026.111743},
pmid = {41881899},
issn = {1879-3460},
abstract = {Kefir is a biofilm-based fermented dairy product whose unique flavor and texture are closely associated with the complex microbial community within kefir grains. However, the regulatory mechanisms underlying biofilm formation in kefir and its impact on product quality remain unclear. This study systematically investigated the dynamics of biofilm formation, core microbiota, and key metabolites in both traditional and backslopped kefir. Traditional kefir exhibited more stable metabolic activity and higher biofilm content, with biofilm levels significantly positively correlated with lactic acid bacteria (LAB) biomass (r = 0.58, p < 0.05), yeast biomass (r = 0.54, p < 0.05), and lactic acid concentration (r = 0.70, p < 0.05). Subsequent co-culture experiments revealed that yeast metabolites promoted LAB growth, and that lactic acid levels modulated yeast-LAB interactions. Critically, both the acidic environment and yeast interaction enhanced biofilm formation by regulating the LuxS/AI-2 quorum sensing (QS) system, as evidenced by increased expression of key QS genes and autoinducer-2 activity. Co-fermentation with high-biofilm-forming LAB significantly improved the physicochemical properties of fermented milk, increasing water-holding capacity by 1.2-fold, viscosity by 1.6-fold, and total volatile flavor compounds by 1.3-fold, while enriching fruity and buttery aroma profiles. This study elucidates the molecular mechanism by which acidic conditions and microbial interactions regulate biofilm formation via the QS system in kefir, and provides a novel strategy for improving fermented food quality through biofilm modulation.},
}

@article {pmid41882309,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhu, H and Wang, T and Gao, S and Geng, W and Ma, T and Cheng, L and Han, X and Deng, J and Gao, S and Cheng, C},
title = {Phage-Inspired Artificial Peroxidases with Robust Sub-Nanometer Cluster Sites for Efficient Oral Biofilm Elimination and Dental Caries Prevention.},
journal = {Nano-micro letters},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41882309},
issn = {2150-5551},
abstract = {Dental caries, a highly prevalent oral disease, is primarily driven by pathogenic biofilms; however, current antimicrobials exhibit limited efficacy and poor specificity against cariogenic biofilms. Although nanobiocatalysts that can produce reactive oxygen species represent a promising alternative to conventional antimicrobials, most current designs fail to achieve robust bacterial interaction and exhibit insufficient disruption of biofilm integrity. To address these challenges, we report the de novo design of phage-inspired artificial peroxidases (IrNC@TiO2) featuring a robust sub-nanometer cluster site and urchin-like topography, which enables efficient oral biofilm elimination and dental caries prevention. Structural characterization confirmed that sub-nanometer Ir clusters are stably anchored to the TiO2 support via Ir-O coordination. Leveraging the robust enzymatic activity of Ir clusterzymes and the topological advantages of the spiky substrate, IrNC@TiO2 exhibits potent multi-enzyme mimetic activity, generating substantial amounts of ·O2[-] and HClO to effectively capture and eradicate planktonic Streptococcus mutans and suppress biofilm formation. In a caries model, IrNC@TiO2 significantly inhibited tooth surface biofilm development, prevented enamel demineralization, and reduced caries incidence. The material also demonstrated negligible cytotoxicity and outperformed conventional non-abrasive additives in tooth-whitening assays. This work introduces a robust and efficient ROS-generating platform for oral health care and proposes a promising solution for clinical caries prevention.},
}

@article {pmid41883474,
year = {2026},
author = {Tan, C and Wang, J and Wu, A and Li, C},
title = {Mapping the global landscape of biofilm-associated antimicrobial resistance (1992-2025).},
journal = {Biofilm},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {100358},
pmid = {41883474},
issn = {2590-2075},
abstract = {Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a great global health threat, with biofilm formation recognized as a key microbial survival strategy that promotes persistence and recurrent infections. Despite growing mechanistic insights, research on biofilm-associated AMR ((biofilm-AMR)) remains fragmented, limiting the development of broadly effective interventions. To address this gap, we conducted a bibliometric analysis of 17,198 publications from the Web of Science Core Collection (retrieved November 4, 2025) using Bibliometrix-Biblioshiny, CiteSpace, and Excel. Publication output accelerated sharply after 2015, alongside diversification of research themes and increasing interdisciplinary integration. High-output countries and institutions, predominantly in Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East, emphasize natural products, nanomaterials, anti-quorum-sensing strategies, and plant-derived antimicrobials, reflecting application-oriented approaches. In contrast, high-impact contributors in North America and Europe focus on clinical microbiology, resistance mechanisms, pathogen genomics, and hospital infection control, highlighting translational relevance. Trend analyses reveal key topics including quorum sensing, persister-cell biology, multidrug-resistant pathogens, and innovative interventions such as phage therapy, antimicrobial peptides, CRISPR-based antimicrobials, and nanotechnology-enabled drug delivery. Emerging directions include environmental AMR, One Health perspectives, and computational modeling. Despite mechanistic and technological advances, translational barriers persist due to biofilm heterogeneity and model limitations. Promoting interdisciplinary collaboration that integrates basic research, clinical microbiology, materials science, and computational approaches will be essential to accelerate clinical translation and develop effective, globally relevant strategies against AMR.},
}

@article {pmid41883783,
year = {2026},
author = {Rümenapf, M and Horn, H and Hille-Reichel, A},
title = {Relationship of electrochemical performance and biofilm development of Desulfuromonas acetexigens and Geobacter sulfurreducens in microbial electrolysis cells.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1753230},
pmid = {41883783},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Desulfuromonas acetexigens has gained attention as a biocatalyst in microbial electrolysis cells (MECs) due to its inability to utilize hydrogen as an electron donor, which favors beneficial Coulombic efficiencies (CE). In this study, the electrochemical performance and biofilm morphology of D. acetexigens were compared with the model organism Geobacter sulfurreducens in flow cell MECs. Biofilm morphology was assessed non-invasively via optical coherence tomography (OCT), providing insight into quantitative parameters, including spatially resolved thickness, biovolume and anode surface coverage. While both species achieved similar maximum current densities when cultivated under identical conditions, D. acetexigens biofilms established faster, generating current after ~4 days, whereas G. sulfurreducens exhibited a lag phase of ~8 days. Limitations of extracellular electron transfer already occurred at lower average biofilm volumes for D. acetexigens ((B V ¯ J ¯ max) ≈ 16 ± 6 μm[3] μm[-2]) than for Geobacter (B V ¯ J ¯ max ≈ 40 ± 7 μm[3] μm[-2]). One monocultural D. acetexigens cultivation revealed a CE of ~96%, consistent with no detectable hydrogen utilization under the tested condition, while some cultivations showed net acetate increases. Phylogenetic analyses of the latter indicated niche dominance of the target EAM despite homoacetogenic and clostridial contaminants. Production of short-chain fatty acids suggested interspecies metabolic interaction and led to the hypothesis of an electrode-mediated ethanol to acetate fermentation by electroactive microorganisms and ethanol-utilizing contaminants such as the homoacetogen Sporomusa sphaeroides.},
}

@article {pmid41884362,
year = {2026},
author = {Koley, D},
title = {Probing the Inner World of Microbial Cities: Electrochemical Sensors for Characterizing Biofilm Chemical Microenvironments.},
journal = {Current opinion in electrochemistry},
volume = {57},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41884362},
issn = {2451-9103},
abstract = {Biofilms are structurally complex microbial communities whose function is dictated by steep chemical gradients within their microenvironment and the surrounding space outside the biofilm. Although traditional analytical methods provide either bulk or static structural information, they fail to capture real-time metabolic function in situ. Electrochemical sensors provide a powerful solution, offering label-free, quantitative measurements of key chemical species with high spatial and temporal resolution directly within and outside living biofilms. This review highlights recent advances in the design and application of electrochemical sensors for biofilm analysis. We critically discuss the use of core techniques: amperometry for tracking redox-active metabolites (e.g., O2, H2O2, phenazines), potentiometry for monitoring ion activity (e.g., pH, Ca[2+]), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy for assessing biofilm volume and interfacial processes. We also explore recent challenges in electrochemical sensor designs and discuss future perspectives on multimodal data collections that combine multiple techniques.},
}

@article {pmid41884516,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, B and Chen, Y and Hou, S and Liu, Z and Yang, Y and Li, T and Zhao, L and Zhang, H and Wei, H and Meng, L and Jing, X and Guan, H},
title = {Smart microenvironment-adaptive nanocatalytic hydrogel for sequential antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative therapy of biofilm-infected wounds.},
journal = {Bioactive materials},
volume = {62},
number = {},
pages = {342-362},
pmid = {41884516},
issn = {2452-199X},
abstract = {Biofilm-infected wounds remain a major clinical challenge, as biofilm infections and persistent inflammation hinder conventional therapies from dynamically adapting to the evolving wound microenvironment. Herein, a smart hydrogel dressing (HCOC) is successfully developed for programmed and pH-responsive therapy by integrating humic acid (HAs)-encapsulated ultrasmall mixed-valence copper nanozymes (Cu5.4O) into an oxidized alginate-carboxymethyl chitosan network. In the acidic biofilm-infected phase (pH < 6.5), the HAs shells aggregate, controllably releasing Cu5.4O to initiate chemodynamic therapy (CDT), while simultaneously enabling HAs-mediated photothermal therapy (PTT). This synergistic CDT/PTT achieves exceptional antibacterial efficacy, eradicating > 99.99% of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli and dispersing 87.46% of biofilms. As the wound pH rises post-infection (pH ≥ 7.0), HAs dissolves, liberating more Cu5.4O nanozymes, which switch to potent antioxidant modes-scavenging > 90% of reactive oxygen species-and promoting M2 macrophage polarization by suppressing NF-κB and activating Wnt/β-catenin signaling. In vivo, HCOC combined with NIR irradiation accelerates infected wound healing, achieving 91.65% closure within 7 days, significantly enhancing angiogenesis (∼90 CD31[+] cells/field), and boosting M2 macrophage infiltration (∼110 CD163[+] cells/field). This work establishes a paradigm-shifting platform for precision wound management through microenvironment-responsive sequential therapy.},
}

@article {pmid41884534,
year = {2026},
author = {Qiao, J and Wu, S and Fu, C and Zhao, Q and Gong, Y and Xu, L and Tang, D and Gao, Y and Luo, W},
title = {Perillaldehyde combined with domiphen: synergistic bactericidal and anti-biofilm activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1769865},
pmid = {41884534},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology ; *Escherichia coli/drug effects/physiology ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Animals ; Drug Synergism ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Microbial Viability/drug effects ; Larva/microbiology ; Moths/microbiology ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Biofilms formed by pathogenic bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli pose a significant threat to public health. Combination therapy has emerged as a promising strategy to combat bacterial infections and biofilm formation. In this study, the natural product perillaldehyde and the surfactant domiphen were evaluated for their ability to inhibit biofilm formation by these pathogenic strains.

METHODS: The antimicrobial activity of perillaldehyde and domiphen, alone and in combination, was assessed against S. aureus and E. coli strains. Synergism was determined by calculating the fractional inhibitory concentration index. Biofilm mass was evaluated using the crystal violet staining assay, and the viability of biofilm cells on stainless steel and polyethylene surfaces was examined via viable cell counting. Additionally, the therapeutic potential of the combination was further assessed using a Galleria mellonella larval infection model.

RESULTS: The combination of perillaldehyde and domiphen showed synergistic effects against both pathogenic strains, with a fractional inhibitory concentration index of less than 0.36. The combination of 1 μL/mL perillaldehyde and 1 μg/mL domiphen dispersed more than 53% of the biofilm mass in both S. aureus and E. coli strains. In addition, the combination reduced the total viable bacterial counts in biofilms on stainless steel and polyethylene surfaces by approximately 103 CFU/mL. The treatment also significantly improved the survival rate of G. mellonella larvae infected with the bacteria.

DISCUSSION: These results indicate that the novel combination of perillaldehyde and domiphen has the potential to decrease biofilm formation on various industrial material surfaces.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology
*Escherichia coli/drug effects/physiology
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Animals
Drug Synergism
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Microbial Viability/drug effects
Larva/microbiology
Moths/microbiology

@article {pmid41884580,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, B and Ma, K and Kong, F and Xue, T},
title = {RpoE mediates environmental stress tolerance and biofilm formation in foodborne Staphylococcus aureus.},
journal = {Current research in food science},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {101382},
pmid = {41884580},
issn = {2665-9271},
abstract = {Staphylococcus aureus(S. aureus)is a serious foodborne pathogen that is frequently found in food processing facilities like dairy farms. Despite its well-established function in dangerous microbes such as Streptococcus pneumoniae and Escherichia coli, the functional mechanisms of the σ factor encoded by rpoE in S. aureus remain poorly understood. S. aureus RMSA49 was used as the experimental strain in this investigation. This work examined the function of rpoE in foodborne S. aureus antibiotic susceptibility, biofilm formation, and environmental stress tolerance. Deletion of rpoE impaired tolerance to environmental stresses (acid, heat, desiccation, osmotic stress, H2O2). While tolerance to H2O2 has dropped by around 99%, resistance to acids, heat, and desiccation has decreased by about 50-60%. Additionally, it inhibits biofilm formation and increases antibiotic susceptibility (Biofilm reduction was approximately 65%). Using transcriptome analysis to determine the gene regulation mechanisms of rpoE in S. aureus. This work shows that rpoE plays a crucial role in antibiotic tolerance and environmental stress responses, offering a new possible target for the prevention and management of foodborne S. aureus. It provides a theoretical foundation for lowering the incidence of illnesses like food poisoning and mastitis brought on by the bacteria.},
}

@article {pmid41885023,
year = {2026},
author = {Kropp, GA and McMillian, CN and Mase, JD and Kandagiri, S and Nowak, ES and Schulz, MD},
title = {Recent developments in antimicrobial polymers for biofilm inhibition.},
journal = {Chemical communications (Cambridge, England)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1039/d5cc06617d},
pmid = {41885023},
issn = {1364-548X},
abstract = {Biofilm-associated infections continue to present a formidable clinical challenge, as surface-adhered microbial communities exhibit remarkable tolerance toward conventional antibiotics. Polymeric materials have emerged as a versatile platform for combating biofilms, offering chemical tunability and enabling diverse antimicrobial strategies. This feature review article highlights recent advances in polymeric materials designed to prevent biofilm-associated infections by resisting bacterial adhesion (passive inhibition) or exerting bactericidal effects (active inhibition). These approaches include antifouling surfaces, polymer-nanoparticle composites, and bioinspired materials. Particular attention is given to how polymer structure and functionality (e.g., hydrophobicity, charge, and network architecture) govern bacterial adhesion and viability at interfaces. Emerging glycomaterials are also discussed, where glycan motifs are integrated with nanoparticles or cationic domains to enhance biofilm penetration and antimicrobial efficacy. Collectively, these studies underscore the potential of polymeric materials to modulate microbe-surface interactions, thereby guiding the design of next-generation antibiofilm materials.},
}

@article {pmid41885142,
year = {2026},
author = {Singh, R and Khan, I and Sharma, R and Mishra, S and Pandey, LK},
title = {Understanding the impact of dust deposition and CO2 level on biofilm development causing biodeterioration of historic buildings and monuments in India.},
journal = {Biofouling},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-15},
doi = {10.1080/08927014.2026.2645567},
pmid = {41885142},
issn = {1029-2454},
abstract = {The deterioration of buildings and historic monuments due to phototrophic biofilms, dust, and carbon dioxide concentration is an increasingly significant global issue, but remains insufficiently studied. In this research, phototrophic biofilms were collected from nine sampling sites, which were categorized as control, moderately contaminated, and severely contaminated based on the air quality index and canopy cover. Severely contaminated sites showed higher temperatures, CO2 levels, and dust accumulation, but lower humidity. Cyanobacteria dominated all biofilm samples, followed by fungal hyphae and spores. Green algae and diatoms contributed minimally. Healthy diatom frustules decreased sharply with increasing contamination, from the control sites to severely contaminated sites. Regression analysis revealed significant positive correlations between cyanobacterial abundance and both CO2 levels and dust deposition, indicating that increased air pollutants promote the growth of cyanobacteria and diatoms in phototrophic biofilms, further highlighting their potential as a sensitive bioindicator of environmental contamination affecting cultural heritage sites.},
}

@article {pmid41886173,
year = {2026},
author = {Xu, KZ and Meng, D and Yin, LJ and Wang, M and Ding, ZW and Li, J},
title = {Combined use of methyl gallate and N-acyl homoserine lactonase YtnP to inhibit biofilm formation in Burkholderia thailandensis.},
journal = {Brazilian journal of microbiology : [publication of the Brazilian Society for Microbiology]},
volume = {57},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41886173},
issn = {1678-4405},
support = {82560694//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; XSTS2025179//Academic Enhancement Support Program of Hainan Medical University/ ; 242300420355//Natural Science Foundation of Henan Province/ ; 26B180010//Key Scientific Research Project for Higher Education of Henan Province/ ; YJS2025GZZ41//Postgraduate Education Reform and Quality Improvement Project of Henan Province/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41876024,
year = {2026},
author = {Nabil, Y and Atta, AH and Abd Elwahab, NH and Elshaarawy, RFM},
title = {Castor oil/ZnO-loaded quaternized chitosan nanocomposite with multiple antimicrobials, anti-biofilm and pro-healing functions for advanced wound dressings.},
journal = {International journal of biological macromolecules},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {151610},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2026.151610},
pmid = {41876024},
issn = {1879-0003},
abstract = {A quaternized chitosan-castor oil/Zinc oxide (QCCOZ) nanocomposite hydrogel was developed as an antibacterial and pro-healing wound dressing. The synergistic effect produced a positively charged (ζ = +38 mV) nanoformulation with high colloidal stability and superior encapsulation efficiencies of 89.9 and 80.5% for ZnO and CO, respectively. The successful quaternization and the loading of ZnO into the oil phase was confirmed by FTIR, XRD, SEM/TEM, and DLS techniques. The in vitro release profiles showed prolonged co-delivery of ZnO and castor oil over 72 h without burst effects and diffusional controlled release profiles for a prolonged wound dressing. QCCOZ demonstrated broad-spectrum anti-bacterial and antifungal activity, higher inhibition zones with 2-8-fold lower MIC/MBC values compared to pristine QCS, ZnO or castor oil against Pseudomonas spp., B. subtilis, and C. albicans and disrupted their biofilms. Cytocompatibility studies with human dermal fibroblasts and A375 cells showed >85% viability at therapeutic concentrations, and scratch wound assays confirmed enhanced wound closure where QCCOZ-treated fibroblast monolayers achieved 90% closing compared to 55% within 24 h for controls. Results indicate QCCOZ nanocomposite possesses antimicrobial potency with cytocompatibility and pro-healing functionality, representing a potential advanced hydrogel dressing for infected wounds.},
}

@article {pmid41876886,
year = {2026},
author = {Ragab, AR and El-Sheakh, AR and Shafik, SM},
title = {Environmental and chemical modulation of Staphylococcus aureus Newman biofilm formation.},
journal = {Applied microbiology and biotechnology},
volume = {110},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41876886},
issn = {1432-0614},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; *Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology/genetics/growth & development ; Hydrogen Peroxide/pharmacology ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration ; Oxidative Stress ; Humans ; Sodium Chloride/pharmacology/metabolism ; Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial/drug effects ; Biomass ; Serum ; Osmotic Pressure ; },
abstract = {Staphylococcus aureus biofilm formation enhances survival on host tissues and medical devices. This study tested how oxidative stress (H2O2), pH (5-9), NaCl (0-10%), and human serum (5-50%) affect the Newman strain biofilm and key genes (icaA, icaD, sarA). Biofilm was quantified by crystal violet assays and Lowry protein assay methods, and gene expression was measured by quantitative real-time PCR. Biofilm biomass was quantified using crystal violet staining and Lowry protein assays under various environmental conditions. Statistical significance was determined using ANOVA with post hoc analysis (p < 0.001). Hydrogen peroxide induced a dose-dependent reduction in biomass, with significant repression of icaA, icaD, and sarA expression at 3% H2O2 (≤ 22.8%, p < 0.001). Similarly, deviations from neutral pH markedly impaired biofilm formation, with acidic (pH 5) and alkaline (pH 9) conditions reducing biomass by 34.6% and 41.7%, respectively, accompanied by strong downregulation of biofilm-associated genes (p < 0.001). In contrast, NaCl exerted a biphasic effect: mild osmotic stress (1.25% and 5%) enhanced biofilm biomass (up to 154.2%) in the case of crystal violet assays and at 5% biomass increased to 130.8 ± 10.8*%; at 10%, it was 103.5 ± 6.1% (no significant change) in the case of protein quantification, and gene expression (icaA 160.55%, icaD 168.18%, sarA 149.8%, p < 0.001), whereas higher concentrations (≥ 10%) restored expression to near-control levels. Serum exposure produced a threshold-dependent response, with low concentrations (5-10%) slightly enhancing gene expression (~ 110%), while higher concentrations (20-50%) significantly repressed both biomass and transcription, with profound inhibition found at 50% (icaA 12.94%, icaD 10.88%, sarA 12.79%, p < 0.001). In addition, confocal laser scanning microscopy technique is used as a confirmatory step for qualitative determination of the effects of both various saline and serum concentrations on the biofilm formation, which induces similar results. Environmental stressors modulate S. aureus biofilm formation in a dose-dependent manner via regulation of the ica operon and sarA, offering molecular insights that may guide strategies for biofilm control. KEY POINTS: • Oxidative stress (H2O2) dose-dependently inhibits S. aureus Newman biofilms. • Mild NaCl levels enhance biofilm formation via upregulation of ica and sarA. • High serum concentrations (≥ 20%) suppress biofilm biomass and gene expression.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
*Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology/genetics/growth & development
Hydrogen Peroxide/pharmacology
Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
Oxidative Stress
Humans
Sodium Chloride/pharmacology/metabolism
Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial/drug effects
Biomass
Serum
Osmotic Pressure

@article {pmid41877564,
year = {2026},
author = {},
title = {Correction to "Nano Copper-Chelate Triggers Cuproptosis-Like Death in Fungi and Synergizes With Microneedles for Enhanced Biofilm Removal".},
journal = {Advanced healthcare materials},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e71093},
doi = {10.1002/adhm.71093},
pmid = {41877564},
issn = {2192-2659},
}

@article {pmid41878260,
year = {2026},
author = {Jiang, Q and Lin, J},
title = {Candida albicans metabolic adaptation gene SFU1 regulates dual-species biofilm with Streptococcus mutans.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1795742},
pmid = {41878260},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Streptococcus mutans/physiology/growth & development/genetics ; *Candida albicans/genetics/growth & development/metabolism/physiology ; Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism ; Gene Expression Regulation, Fungal ; *Fungal Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Gene Deletion ; Lactic Acid/metabolism ; Virulence ; Hyphae/growth & development ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To investigate the role of the iron-sulfur cluster assembly factor SFU1 in the virulence-related traits of Candida albicans, particularly its function within the cariogenic cross-kingdom biofilm formed with Streptococcus mutans.

METHODS: The SFU1 deletion and complemented strains were constructed. Their effects on growth, acid production, morphogenesis, metabolic activity, ROS accumulation, and biofilm formation of C. albicans were evaluated. The roles of SFU1 in the development, architecture, and spatial distribution of the C. albicans-S. mutans dual-species biofilm were further analyzed. The cariogenic metabolite profile and matrix synthesis were assessed by measuring lactic acid production, lactate dehydrogenase activity, extracellular polysaccharide content, and expression levels of related genes.

RESULTS: The SFU1 deletion strain exhibited inhibited hyphal formation, reduced metabolic activity, elevated intracellular ROS levels, impaired biofilm formation, and downregulated expression of hyphal and adhesion-related genes (ALS3, EFG1, UME6). In the cross-kingdom biofilm, the sfu1/sfu1 mutant failed to form hyphal networks, resulting in loose biofilm architecture, reduced biomass, and poor integration of S. mutans. Furthermore, the dual-species biofilm showed significantly decreased lactic acid and EPS production. Co-cultured S. mutans exhibited downregulated expression of EPS synthesis genes (gtfB/C) and upregulated expression of EPS degradation genes (dexA/B).

CONCLUSION: SFU1 modulates hyphal development, redox homeostasis, and biofilm formation in C. albicans, thereby profoundly affecting its pathogenic synergy with S. mutans. SFU1 deletion leads to disrupted architecture and attenuated cariogenic virulence of the dual-species biofilm. This study reveals the potential value of targeting fundamental metabolic pathways in C. albicans to interfere with the cariogenicity of cross-kingdom biofilms, and provides a novel perspective for the prevention and therapy of dental caries.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Streptococcus mutans/physiology/growth & development/genetics
*Candida albicans/genetics/growth & development/metabolism/physiology
Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism
Gene Expression Regulation, Fungal
*Fungal Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Gene Deletion
Lactic Acid/metabolism
Virulence
Hyphae/growth & development

@article {pmid41878517,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, MM and Bai, J and Tian, ZY and Zheng, TT and Boekhout, T and Wang, QM},
title = {Oxymatrine ameliorates Malassezia overgrowth-induced psoriasis in vivo and in vitro by inhibiting the biofilm formation and inflammation.},
journal = {Mycology},
volume = {17},
number = {1},
pages = {2511903},
pmid = {41878517},
issn = {2150-1203},
abstract = {The basidiomycetous yeast genus Malassezia is involved in the exacerbation of psoriatic lesions. Oxymatrine (OMT), a quinoline alkaloid derived from Sophora flavescens, exhibits diverse pharmacological properties, including anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antiviral effects. However, whether OMT exerts therapeutic effects against Malassezia-associated psoriasis remains unclear. This work aimed to study the antifungal and antibiofilm effect of OMT on several Malassezia species and the therapeutic benefits of OMT on Malassezia-associated psoriasis in vivo and in vitro. Treatment with 0.64 mg/mL OMT showed decreasing levels of biofilm formation of Malassezia species. Histomorphology and functional analyses demonstrated that OMT treatment effectively alleviated Malassezia-induced psoriatic lesions and repaired skin barrier integrity. Furthermore, the results demonstrate that OMT significantly reduced the levels of malonaldehyde, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-17, IL-23, and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α while promoting the activation of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione. OMT also reversed Malassezia-associated apoptosis and decreased the expression of the STAT3/Nf-κB/p-Nf-κB signalling pathway. Additionally, OMT reduces the nuclear expression of AhR/Nrf2 in Malassezia-stimulated HaCaT cells. In summary, this study demonstrated that OMT inhibits Malassezia biofilm formation and ameliorates Malassezia-associated psoriasis by modulating oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis via STAT3/Nf-κB and AhR/Nrf2 pathways.},
}

@article {pmid41879017,
year = {2026},
author = {Zschach, D and Neujahr, F and Auschill, P and Sculean, A and Heumann, C and Arweiler, NB},
title = {In Vitro Study to Evaluate the Antibacterial Effect of an Oxidising Agent on Ex Vivo Biofilm.},
journal = {Oral health & preventive dentistry},
volume = {24},
number = {},
pages = {227-231},
doi = {10.3290/j.ohpd.c_2582},
pmid = {41879017},
issn = {1757-9996},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; Humans ; *Mouthwashes/pharmacology ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Chlorhexidine/pharmacology ; In Vitro Techniques ; *Oxidants/pharmacology ; Adult ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE: To evaluate the antibacterial effect of a mouthrinse and a fluid, both containing an oxidising agent, compared with saline (negative control) and chlorhexidine (0.2%, positive control), after application to 24-hour-old biofilms.

METHODS AND MATERIALS: After 24 participants had refrained from all oral hygiene measures for a period of 24 h, a voluminous biofilm sample was taken from the buccal sites of molars, smeared on a microscope slide and divided into four parts. The four samples were each coated with 5 µl of a mouth rinse solution (BMmr, blueM mouth rinsing solution, NL), a fluid (BMfl, blueM oxygen fluid, NL), chlorhexidine 0.2% (CHX) and NaCl. After 1 min, excess liquid was suctioned off, and biofilms were stained with vital fluorescent dyes for 2 min. The stained samples were covered with a cover slip, and four pictures per sample were recorded with a digital camera under the fluorescence microscope. A special image analysis program used the red and green pixels to calculate the percentage of metabolically active bacteria in the entire biofilm sample (dental biofilm vitality, VF%).

RESULTS: Both BMmr and BMfl reduced VF to 18.46 ± 9.59% and 19.53 ± 12.17% significantly (P 0.001) compared to NaCl, with values of 59.88 ± 10.14%. CHX revealed values of 14.35 ± 6.56%, values that were not significantly lower (P 0.001) than the other active solutions.

CONCLUSION: Both BMmr and BMfl demonstrated a statistically significant antibacterial effect compared to NaCl and showed a similar effect to CHX. However, clinical trials are needed to evaluate the efficacy of both products containing oxidising agents when used as oral rinses.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
Humans
*Mouthwashes/pharmacology
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Chlorhexidine/pharmacology
In Vitro Techniques
*Oxidants/pharmacology
Adult

@article {pmid41879843,
year = {2026},
author = {Saleem, M and Khan, MS and Ahmad, I and Qattan, MY and Alharbi, MS},
title = {Distribution, antibacterial resistance, biofilm formation, and risk factors associated with carbapenemase-producing gram-negative bacteria in ICU patients.},
journal = {Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's archives of pharmacology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41879843},
issn = {1432-1912},
support = {R.G.P.2/503/46//Deanship of Research and Graduate Studies at King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia/ ; },
abstract = {Gram-negative bacteria are major contributors to intensive care unit (ICU)-acquired infections, further complicated by biofilm formation, multidrug resistance (MDR), and carbapenemase production. This study, conducted in Uttar Pradesh, India (2022-2023), assessed the distribution, antibacterial resistance profiles, biofilm formation, and risk factors associated with carbapenemase-producing organisms (CPOs) in ICU patients. A total of 321 g-negative bacteria (GNB) isolates were recovered from 311 clinical samples. Bacterial identification, antibacterial susceptibility testing, biofilm detection, and PCR-based carbapenemase gene analysis were performed. Clinical and demographic variables were evaluated to determine factors associated with CPO infections and outcomes. The predominant pathogens were Pseudomonas aeruginosa 109 (34%), Klebsiella pneumoniae 77 (24%), and Escherichia coli 53 (16.5%). High resistance rates were observed for β-lactams and fluoroquinolones, whereas carbapenems, aminoglycosides, and polymyxins remained largely effective. Biofilm formation was noted in Acinetobacter baumannii 23 (74.2%), K. pneumoniae 56 (72.7%), P. aeruginosa 74 (67.9%), and E. coli 34 (64.1%). The most prevalent carbapenemase genes were blaNDM-1 28 (45.9%), blaOXA-48 14 (23%), and blaVIM 7 (11.5%), with co-existence in 13 isolates (21.3%). CPO infections occurred in 61/311 patients (19.6%). Significant risk factors included male sex (42; 68.9%), age > 40 years (43; 70.5%), ICU stay > 7 days (46; 75.4%), urinary catheterization (41; 67.2%), venous catheterization (37; 60.7%), and mechanical ventilation (40; 65.6%). Mortality was higher in CPO-infected patients (23; 37.7%) than in non-CPO cases (52; 20.8%). Biofilm formation and carbapenemase genes are key drivers of MDR-GNB in ICUs. CPO infections are strongly linked to invasive device use and increased mortality, underscoring the need for robust antibacterial stewardship and infection control practices.},
}

@article {pmid41879899,
year = {2026},
author = {Mohan, N and Sritha, KS and Jose, J and Menachery, SJ and Mohan, CC and Isshack, AT and Gopinathan, H and Koyyappurath, S and Abhitha, K and Dalvi, YB and Bhat, SG},
title = {Characterization, genomic insights and anti-biofilm potential of phage vB_PaeM_PKMS3, a lytic Pbunavirus capable of infecting clinical Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates.},
journal = {Antonie van Leeuwenhoek},
volume = {119},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {41879899},
issn = {1572-9699},
support = {TIG 2.0//Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan/ ; DST-PURSE, DST-FIST//Department of Science and Technology, Ministry of Science and Technology, India/ ; },
mesh = {*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/virology/physiology/isolation & purification ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; Genome, Viral ; *Pseudomonas Phages/genetics/physiology/isolation & purification/classification ; Animals ; Pseudomonas Infections/microbiology/therapy ; Host Specificity ; *Myoviridae/genetics/isolation & purification/physiology ; Zebrafish ; Phage Therapy ; Genomics ; Humans ; },
abstract = {Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a leading opportunistic nosocomial pathogen, is a major contributor to antimicrobial resistance (AMR)-associated morbidity and mortality. The global surge of multidrug-resistant (MDR) P. aeruginosa strains necessitates the use of reliable alternative therapeutic strategies like phage therapy. Here, we report the isolation and comprehensive characterisation of a myoviral bacteriophage, vB_PaeM_PKMS3, effective against multiple clinical P. aeruginosa isolates. The phage exhibited potent lytic activity, a relatively broad intra-species host range, and stability across diverse temperature and pH conditions. One-step growth curve analysis revealed a short 20-min latent period, a rapid 10-min rise period, and a moderately high burst size of ~ 82 PFU/infected cell. vB_PaeM_PKMS3 showed excellent in vitro cytocompatibility and was well tolerated in the Danio rerio model during safety assessment. The exceptional in vitro biofilm-degradative ability of the phage, exemplified by a three-fold reduction in established biofilms, was corroborated by fluorescent and electron microscopic analyses. Genome sequencing revealed that phage vB_PaeM_PKMS3 possesses a linear dsDNA genome of ≈66 kbp, belongs to the Pbunavirus genus, and encodes several antibacterial proteins, including holin, depolymerase, and endolysin, while lacking virulence, lysogenic, and antibiotic resistance genes. Collectively, these results identify vB_PaeM_PKMS3 as a safe and favourable candidate for potential inclusion in phage cocktail formulations targeting MDR P. aeruginosa. This work also highlights the importance of systematic characterisation of locally isolated bacteriophages, particularly in regions burdened by drug-resistant infections.},
}

*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/virology/physiology/isolation & purification
*Biofilms/growth & development
Genome, Viral
*Pseudomonas Phages/genetics/physiology/isolation & purification/classification
Animals
Pseudomonas Infections/microbiology/therapy
Host Specificity
*Myoviridae/genetics/isolation & purification/physiology
Zebrafish
Phage Therapy
Genomics
Humans

@article {pmid41880855,
year = {2026},
author = {Bhattacharya, S and Kolandhasamy, P and Mandal, A and Rajaram, R and Darbha, GK},
title = {Biofilm-mediated surface depolymerization of multiple synthetic polymers by mangrove-derived bacterial consortia.},
journal = {Journal of hazardous materials},
volume = {507},
number = {},
pages = {141847},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.141847},
pmid = {41880855},
issn = {1873-3336},
abstract = {Plastic pollution persists across marine and terrestrial ecosystems largely due to the intrinsic resistance of synthetic polymers to biological attack. Despite growing evidence of microbial interactions with plastics, the mechanistic basis and extent of biofilm-mediated polymer deterioration remain poorly constrained. Here, we investigate the capacity of mangrove-derived bacterial consortia to initiate early-stage degradation of major synthetic polymers (PET, PS, LDPE, HDPE, and PP) under controlled laboratory conditions. Over a 120-day incubation under controlled laboratory conditions, consortium-exposed polymers exhibited differential mass loss, surface erosion, and mechanical weakening, with PS 20.14% and PET 8.33% showing the highest susceptibility. Integrated surface and molecular analyses using confocal laser scanning microscopy, atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy revealed extensive biofilm formation, nanoscale pitting, oxidative functional group incorporation, and localized polymer chain modification. Tensile testing further demonstrated reductions in mechanical integrity consistent with surface-driven structural weakening. First-order kinetic fits were applied to gravimetric data to provide comparative, non-predictive estimates of degradation dynamics across polymer types. This study provides quantitative and mechanistic evidence that environmentally adapted microbial consortia can promote biofilm-driven surface depolymerization, highlighting mangrove sediments as underexplored reservoirs of plastic-interacting microbes. These findings advance current understanding of early-stage plastic biodegradation and inform future strategies for biotechnological intervention in microplastic-polluted environments.},
}

@article {pmid41871690,
year = {2026},
author = {Abdulsattar, BO and Abdulsattar, JO and Abdulmunem, OM and Abbas, BF and Neif, OA and Mohammad, MA},
title = {Down-regulation of biofilm formation genes expression on some gram-negative bacteria by Fumaria officinalis extract.},
journal = {Journal of microbiological methods},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {107472},
doi = {10.1016/j.mimet.2026.107472},
pmid = {41871690},
issn = {1872-8359},
abstract = {The rapid rise of antibiotic-resistant Gram-negative pathogens underscores the critical need for alternative therapeutic approaches. Biofilm formation contributes significantly to pathogen resistance and persistence. This study aimed to investigate the antibacterial and anti-biofilm activity of Fumaria officinalis (FO) extract prepared via a green ionic liquid-based extraction method, evaluating its effect on type 1 fimbriae (fimH) and outer membrane protein L (oprL) gene expression. A heat-assisted extraction method is designed and presented in the research with the objective of obtaining valuable biochemical from natural FO using the green solvent 1-butyl-3methylimidazolium chloride (BMIMCl). Quantitative spectrophotometric assays showed high concentrations of secondary metabolites including total phenols (38.84 ± 1.71 mg GAE/g), total flavonoids (36.80 ± 4.51 mg QE/g), and total terpenoids (36.52 ± 7.3 mg OAE/g). Non-volatile bioactive markers, including fumaric, caffeic, and ferulic acids, alongside flavonoids and twenty-five volatile bioactive compounds were identified via HPLC and Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. Biofilm inhibition was quantified via the microtiter plate method and antibacterial activity was evaluated by agar well diffusion against biofilm-producing isolates; minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) assays were also performed. The effect of FO extract on the expression of the fimH and OprL genes was evaluated using the quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) technique. Out of 14 isolates, only three were found to be strong biofilm producers, while 4 isolates were shown to be moderate biofilm producers. The extract exhibited higher inhibitory activity against moderate biofilm-producing isolates, with MIC values 265 and 512 μg/ml. qRT-PCR demonstrated down-regulation of fimH and OprL expression in treated isolates. FO extract obtained via a sustainable green process showed antibacterial and anti-biofilm properties, partly via suppression of fimH and OprL genes expression; therefore, this study records the first green and sustainable method for FO plant biochemical compound extraction. Additionally, this work shows the inhibitory effect of FO on the two fundamental genes responsible for biofilm formation and bacterial colonization, aiming to balance the ecosystem and human well-being.},
}

@article {pmid41874431,
year = {2026},
author = {Nguyen, B and Soo, MW and Tierney, GA and Amorelli, EA and Herlihy, AL and Godoy, VG},
title = {A new component of the DNA damage response biofilm axis in Acinetobacter baumannii is a TetR-like DNA damage response regulator.},
journal = {FEMS microbiology letters},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/femsle/fnag032},
pmid = {41874431},
issn = {1574-6968},
abstract = {Acinetobacter baumannii is an opportunistic pathogen that employs a variety of strategies to evade antibiotic treatment which include forming biofilms, which are protective bacterial multicellular communities. Previously, we demonstrated RecA, a key component of the DNA damage response (DDR), governs biofilms with RecA levels inversely correlated with biofilm formation, such that low RecA levels results in high biofilms. In this study, we identify another DDR regulator, EppR-a recently characterized TetR-family transcriptional repressor-as also playing a role in biofilms. We show that an eppR-deficient strain is unable to form biofilms due to reduced expression of genes encoding adhesive pili. This occurs because EppR represses recA expression. Furthermore, we detected in biofilms an EppR-RecA complex that might lower intracellular RecA levels. Our findings provide further insight into both RecA regulation and the link between the DDR and biofilms.},
}

@article {pmid41865820,
year = {2026},
author = {Luo, Z and Li, W and Zhang, N and Lei, M and Chen, B and Li, Y and Liu, Q and Zhang, M and Lv, S and Cheng, F and Li, J},
title = {A novel continuous-flow three-stage tandem system based on partial nitrification/Anammox granular sludge and partial denitrification-Anammox biofilm (PN/A-PD-A) for advanced nitrogen removal from mature landfill leachate.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {134474},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.134474},
pmid = {41865820},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {A novel continuous-flow system coupling partial nitrification/Anammox (PN/A), partial denitrification (PD), and Anammox (Amx) biofilm reactors was developed (PN/A-PD-A) to treat mature landfill leachate (MLL). To maximize synergy, the NH4[+]-N removal in the PN/A reactor was regulated based on the NO2[-]-N accumulation ratio (NAR) in the PD stage, ensuring optimal substrate stoichiometry for the final Amx polishing step. Over 174 days of operation, the system achieved a superior total nitrogen removal efficiency (TNRE) of 98.30 ± 0.14% (effluent TN: 21.80 ± 1.71 mg/L). The PN/A granular sludge, enriched with Candidatus_Kuenenia (5.87%) and Nitrosomonas (9.73%), demonstrated high adaptability to MLL characteristics and contributed to 83.51% of the TN removal. In the PD stage, the dominant genus Thauera (43.91%) facilitated efficient NAR (82.86 ± 1.61%) at a limited COD/NO3[-]-N ratio of 2.32 ± 0.02. The Anammox biofilm (Candidatus_Kuenenia, 27.80%) in the Amx reactor contributed to 13.10% of TN removal, ensuring to meet the MLL discharge standard. Kinetic and metagenomic analyses confirmed that distinct shifts from complete to partial nitrification (and denitrification) in enzymes activity and gene abundance under chronic MLL stress underpinned the robust NO2[-]-N accumulation in both PN/A and PD reactors. Notably, compared to conventional nitrification-denitrification process, the PN/A-PD-A system significantly reduced oxygen demand (60.18%), exogenous organic carbon consumption (91.61%), sludge yield (83.72%), and CO2 emission (94.66%), demonstrating a sustainable pathway for low-carbon nitrogen removal from high-strength wastewater.},
}

@article {pmid41867910,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, K and Skivens, S and Green, JEF and Tam, AKY and Pentland, DR and Baumann, H and Gourlay, CW and Binder, BJ and Laissue, PP},
title = {A quantitative framework for multiscale analysis of Candida albicans biofilm development.},
journal = {Biofilm},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {100356},
pmid = {41867910},
issn = {2590-2075},
abstract = {Candida albicans is an opportunistic fungal pathogen of significant biomedical concern. Its ability to colonize abiotic surfaces of clinical devices - such as catheters and airway management systems - can result in life-threatening sepsis, especially in immunocompromised patients. A deeper understanding of C. albicans biofilm development under different environmental conditions is essential for improving antifungal treatments. In this study, we develop and validate a multiscale quantitative framework for analysing biofilm development. We examine C. albicans biofilm formation using live fluorescence microscopy across multiple scales and modalities, and introduce new quantification approaches. High-magnification tracking of hyphal tips reveals that hyphal elongation occurs intermittently rather than continuously. Using a new automated tracking approach, we show that hyphal emergence is initially rapid, slows down after approximately two hours, then speeds up again. At lower magnifications, area coverage across large fields of view proves to be a robust and scalable metric. It is strongly influenced by seed density and extends analysis to later stages of growth. Elevated carbon dioxide levels significantly accelerate area coverage, promoting rapid biofilm expansion. Blue light illumination reduces C. albicans growth in a dose-dependent manner. Light-sheet imaging enables the long-term capture of vertical biofilm growth, complementing widefield-based approaches. We introduce logistic model parameters to effectively quantify the dynamics of surface area growth. The methodologies presented here are well-suited for high-content screening applications aimed at identifying compounds that inhibit or suppress fungal biofilm formation under clinically relevant conditions.},
}

@article {pmid41868023,
year = {2026},
author = {Zubair, M and Alshadfan, H and Alatawy, R and Mesaik, MAH},
title = {Antimicrobial and Anti-Biofilm Properties of Ma'in Hot Springs Targeting Bacteria Isolated from Diabetic Foot Ulcers.},
journal = {Infection and drug resistance},
volume = {19},
number = {},
pages = {544236},
pmid = {41868023},
issn = {1178-6973},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are a serious complication of diabetes, which is worsened by biofilm-forming bacterial infections that can contribute to antibiotic resistance and delayed wound healing. This study explores the antimicrobial and anti-biofilm properties of Ma'in Hot Springs Water (MHSW) against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa which are associated with DFU.

METHODS: The chemical composition of MHSW was determined using LC-MS, UV-Vis spectroscopy, and heavy metal profiling. Antimicrobial efficacy was determined through minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) determination, bacterial growth kinetics, and biofilm inhibition assays.

RESULTS: The results demonstrated a dose-dependent antibacterial effect. Biofilm formation, exopolysaccharide production, and bacterial adhesion were reduced in treated samples. Moreover, MHSW disrupted virulence factors such as plasma coagulation and metallo-β-lactamase production. It was also found to be non-cytotoxic.

DISCUSSION: These findings demonstrate the potential of MHSW as an alternative or adjunctive treatment for DFU infections. However, the presence of heavy metals exceeding safety limits requires further investigation to determine their optimal concentration for clinical usage.},
}

@article {pmid41868089,
year = {2026},
author = {Liao, Y and Li, X and Sethupathy, S and Zhong, L and Cheng, X and Wang, F and Ding, Z and Hao, C and Ye, L and Li, Y and Dar, OI and Wang, M},
title = {Dihydromyricetin attenuates biofilm formation and virulence in Streptococcus mutans, the key pathogen underlying dental caries.},
journal = {Journal of oral microbiology},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {2645305},
pmid = {41868089},
issn = {2000-2297},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Streptococcus mutans is a primary pathogen linked to dental caries. This study evaluated the effects of dihydromyricetin (DHM), a flavonoid from Ampelopsis grossedentata, on the biofilm formation and virulence of S. mutans UA159 and explored the underlying mechanisms.

METHODS: Antibacterial activity was determined by minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and growth assays. Biofilm formation, metabolic activity and viable counts were assessed using crystal violet staining, MTT and CFU assays. Biofilm architecture was examined by electron and confocal microscopy. Acid production, extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) synthesis, adhesion and aggregation were evaluated. Expression of virulence genes (gtfB, gtfC and spaP) and the quorum sensing gene luxS was analyzed by RT-qPCR.

RESULTS: DHM showed an MIC of 250 μg/mL and significantly inhibited biofilm formation, EPS synthesis, acid production, adhesion and aggregation. Biofilm structure was disrupted and viable cell counts were reduced. DHM markedly downregulated virulence-associated and quorum sensing-related genes.

CONCLUSION: DHM suppresses biofilm formation and cariogenic virulence of S. mutans, partly through the modulation of quorum sensing, indicating its potential as a natural anticariogenic agent.},
}

@article {pmid41868125,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, S and Zhang, H and Zheng, X and Mou, X and Wu, Z and Zou, L and Shou, K and Liu, X},
title = {Shikonin inhibits MRSA biofilm formation to alleviate periprosthetic joint infection.},
journal = {Frontiers in pharmacology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1739888},
pmid = {41868125},
issn = {1663-9812},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To alleviate periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), shikonin (SKN) had been used to intervene the biofilm formation of MRSA in vivo and in vitro, which provides theoretical support and practical foundation for SKN as a novel drug against drug-resistant bacterial infection.

METHODS: The rat model of periprosthetic joint infection was established, utilizing techniques such as scanning electron microscopy and pathology test to evaluate the MRSA inhibitory of bacterial load and biofilm formation effects of SKN. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) experiments were conducted to assess the antibacterial activity of SKN. The crystal violet staining method was employed to evaluate the effects of SKN on MRSA biofilm formation and eradication. Transcriptomic and amino acid metabolomics analyses were used to investigate the mechanism of SKN inhibition in MRSA biofilm formation. Total thiol detection was used to assess the impact of SKN on the intracellular cysteine levels in MRSA. Finally, MIC and crystal violet staining were used to evaluate the antibacterial effects and biofilm eradication efficacy of SKN against clinical MRSA strains.

RESULTS: In vivo experimental results demonstrated that high doses of SKN significantly reduced the biofilm formation in MRSA PJI in rats, improved local inflammatory responses, and promoted tissue repair. Observations using scanning electron microscopy confirmed that SKN effectively inhibited the formation of biofilms on implant surface. MIC experiments revealed that the lowest inhibitory concentration of SKN was 70 μM, indicating significant antibacterial activity, although no direct bactericidal effects were observed. Results of crystal violet staining showed that SKN could significantly inhibit biofilm formation of MRSA at sublethal concentrations and exhibited efficacy of biofilm removal. Transcriptomic and acid amino metabolomic analyses prompted that the inhibition of MRSA biofilm formation by SKN might be related to regulate the cysteine metabolism in MRSA. Total thiol detection was used to validate the omics findings in vitro. Finally, SKN intervention in MRSA clinical strains showed that the SKN could inhibit MRSA clinical strains and remove biofilm.

CONCLUSION: SKN inhibits MRSA by suppressing biofilm formation, effectively alleviating periprosthetic joint infection by MRSA, and the mechanism of SKN antibacterial activity may be related to regulate the cysteine metabolism in MRSA.},
}

@article {pmid41869518,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, J and Wu, R},
title = {Intraoperative sampling for postoperative metagenomic next-generation sequencing to guide biofilm-targeted therapy for Cutibacterium acnes infective endocarditis complicated by ruptured sinus of Valsalva aneurysm: a case report.},
journal = {Frontiers in cardiovascular medicine},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1707117},
pmid = {41869518},
issn = {2297-055X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Cutibacterium acnes is an easily overlooked pathogen in infective endocarditis (IE) due to its slow growth, propensity for biofilm formation, and high rate of culture-negative results. When complicated by structural heart disease such as a ruptured sinus of Valsalva aneurysm (RSVA), its indolent course can lead to severe hemodynamic compromise.

CASE SUMMARY: A 35-year-old male with a known ventricular septal defect (VSD) and unruptured aortic sinus aneurysm presented with persistent fever and progressive heart failure (NYHA class IV). Echocardiography revealed a ruptured right coronary sinus of Valsalva aneurysm (RCSVA) into the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) with a large vegetation. Blood cultures were negative. After 6 days of ineffective empirical antibiotic therapy, emergency surgery was performed to resect the aneurysm and vegetation and repair the cardiac structures. Intraoperatively, a vegetation sample was collected for metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS). Postoperatively, mNGS identified Cutibacterium acnes with high sequence reads (1,284) and coverage (47.62%), enabling a definitive diagnosis. Pathology confirmed microcolonies and necrotic inflammation. The antibiotic regimen was switched to a regimen with potential activity against biofilms with oral doxycycline and intravenous clindamycin for 6 weeks. The patient's inflammatory markers normalized, and cardiac function recovered to NYHA class I, with no recurrence at 12-month follow-up.

CONCLUSION: This case highlights the diagnostic synergy of intraoperative histopathology and mNGS for pathogen identification, underscores the rationale for biofilm-conscious adjuvant therapy, and reaffirms the crucial role of early surgical debridement and repair in achieving cure.},
}

@article {pmid41869957,
year = {2026},
author = {Vijaya Prabhu, S and Suman, S and Chellapandi, A and Baskaradoss, P and Padma Priya, S and Pandurangan, T and Ayyanar, M and Murugesan, R and Srinivasan, P},
title = {Targeting Quorum Sensing LsrR Protein in E. coli: A Computational Approach to Screen the Plant Bioactive Compounds as Inhibitors of Biofilm Formation in Urinary Tract Infections.},
journal = {Assay and drug development technologies},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1540658X261429261},
doi = {10.1177/1540658X261429261},
pmid = {41869957},
issn = {1557-8127},
abstract = {Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Escherichia coli, driven by biofilm formation and quorum sensing (QS), presents a significant challenge in combating infections, particularly urinary tract infections. This study explored the potential of plant bioactive compounds to inhibit LsrR, a key transcriptional regulator of the QS system, in E. coli. The active site of LsrR was identified using the Sitemap module, which demonstrated high druggability, with a D-score of 0.987. Structure-based virtual screening was used to identify plant-derived inhibitors, followed by docking, binding free energy calculations, and induced-fit docking to evaluate ligand interactions and stability. Chebulinic acid, rutin, and vicine have emerged as potent inhibitors with better docking scores and multiple protein-ligand interactions. Molecular dynamics simulations confirmed the stability of these complexes, highlighting their potential to disrupt QS pathways and inhibit bacterial biofilm formation. These findings suggest that plant bioactive compounds are promising novel therapeutic agents for mitigating AMR in E. coli by targeting LsrR.},
}

@article {pmid41870676,
year = {2026},
author = {Božac, E and Žučko, J and Braut, A and Špalj, S and Peršić Bukmir, R and Toplak, N and Hladnik, M and Vitezić, BM},
title = {Supragingival dental biofilm microbiomes of tobacco heating system smokers, cigarette smokers and non-smokers.},
journal = {Clinical oral investigations},
volume = {30},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {41870676},
issn = {1436-3771},
mesh = {Humans ; *Biofilms ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Male ; Female ; Adult ; *Microbiota ; *Smokers ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S ; *Non-Smokers ; Middle Aged ; *Gingiva/microbiology ; DNA, Bacterial ; Heating ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: The study compared the bacterial composition of supragingival dental biofilm (SDB) among smokers and non-smokers (NS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 60 subjects allocated into three groups: tobacco heating system smokers (THSS), cigarette smokers (CS) and NS. SDB samples were collected, and bacterial DNA was extracted and prepared for next generation sequencing of the 16s rRNA gene hypervariable regions. Bioinformatic pipelines were applied to assess microbial diversity and taxonomic composition.

RESULTS: No significant differences were observed in alpha diversity (Observed taxa and Shannon index) or beta diversity (Bray-Curtis index) among groups. In contrast, significant differences in microbiome bacterial composition were identified across multiple taxonomic levels. At the genus level, Alysiella (p = 0.016) and Propionibacterium (p = 0.025) were most abundant in THSS, whereas Actinobaculum (p = 0.004), Avibacterium (p = 0.015) and Haemophilus (p = 0.030) predominated in NS. At the species level: Alysiella filiformis (p = 0.006) and Streptococcus thermophilus (p = 0.025) were most abundant in THSS, Streptococcus lactarius (p = 0.05) in CS, and Prevotella multiformis (p = 0.016) and Lactobacillus salivarius (p = 0.018) in NS group.

CONCLUSIONS: Distinct differences in bacterial composition of SDB were observed among THSS, CS and NS. The increased abundance of anaerobic bacteria with cariogenic potential in THSS and CS suggests a more dysbiotic profile and increased pathogenic potential compared to NS.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Variations in SDB bacterial composition may influence the pathological potential of dental biofilms in smokers and non-smokers.},
}

Humans
*Biofilms
Cross-Sectional Studies
Male
Female
Adult
*Microbiota
*Smokers
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S
*Non-Smokers
Middle Aged
*Gingiva/microbiology
DNA, Bacterial
Heating

@article {pmid41870810,
year = {2026},
author = {Louzada, VG and Oliveira-Silva, M and Goulart, RS and Pitondo-Silva, A and Leoni, GB},
title = {Effect of ultrasonic power settings on intracanal biofilm reduction.},
journal = {Clinical oral investigations},
volume = {30},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {41870810},
issn = {1436-3771},
}

@article {pmid41863040,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, Y and Chen, Z and Jing, M and Huang, Z and Mao, M},
title = {Streptococcus mutans CcpA Promotes Biofilm Exopolysaccharide Production and Virulence Gene Expression.},
journal = {Molecular oral microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/omi.70027},
pmid = {41863040},
issn = {2041-1014},
support = {82071104 81900988//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 23XD1434200/22Y21901000//Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality/ ; NCRCO2021-omics-07//National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases/ ; 19MC1910600//Shanghai Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases/ ; JYZP006//Major and Key Cultivation Projects of Ninth People's Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong university School of Medicine/ ; 2022ZZ01017//Shanghai's Top Priority Research Center/ ; 2019-I2M-5-037//CAMS Innovation Fund for Medical Sciences/ ; JYZZ237//Fundamental research program funding of Ninth People's Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine/ ; JYJC202223//Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital affiliated with Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine/ ; },
abstract = {Streptococcus mutans is a key cariogenic pathogen of dental caries due to its strong ability to synthesize extracellular glucans and form biofilms. Glucosyltransferases, encoded by gtfB/C/D genes in S. mutans, are responsible for producing biofilm exopolysaccharides (EPS) and are considered to be critical virulence factors. Previous studies have highlighted the roles of various regulatory factors of gtf genes in S. mutans. Here, we investigated the role of the global transcriptional regulator CcpA encoded by ccpA in regulating the EPS synthesis and biofilm formation of S. mutans. A ccpA in-frame deletion strain was observed to develop shiny, round colonies and longer cell length. In addition, the deletion of ccpA resulted in impaired growth, diminished synthesis of EPS, and reduced biofilm formation. Transcriptome analysis revealed that differentially expressed genes in the ccpA deletion strain were significantly enriched in pathways of carbohydrate transport and metabolism, in which the expressions of gtfB and gtfC were downregulated markedly. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays confirmed that CcpA directly binds to the promoter sequences of gtfB and gtfC, with a higher affinity for gtfC. Moreover, the expression level of ccpA in part explained differences in the ability to synthesize sufficient EPS and form stable biofilm in clinically isolated strains. These findings highlight that CcpA plays a crucial role in the EPS production and biofilm formation of S. mutans through directly binding to the promoter regions of gtfB and gtfC. This study provides novel insights into the pathogenic mechanisms of S. mutans and potential strategies for the prevention and treatment of dental caries.},
}

@article {pmid41863456,
year = {2026},
author = {Ullah, AA and Naeem, M and Khan, F and Qadeer, K and Zohra, RR and Ahmad, M},
title = {In Vitro Synergistic Inhibition and Eradication of Pathogenic Bacterial Biofilms by Bacillus subtilis-derived Anti-biofilm Enzymes.},
journal = {Current protein & peptide science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.2174/0113892037427870260206112949},
pmid = {41863456},
issn = {1875-5550},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Biofilm formation is a crucial virulent attribute of pathogens that promotes their resistance to antibiotics and contributes to chronic illnesses in humans. Traditional antibiotic therapies have proven ineffective in eliminating sessile microbial populations within biofilms, necessitating the development of novel therapeutic strategies. In this study, the in vitro efficacy of the anti-biofilm enzymes derived from Bacillus subtilis was evaluated against biofilm-forming human clinical pathogens.

METHODS: An in vitro impact of combined anti-biofilm enzymes obtained from Bacillus subtilis C5W on the inhibition and eradication of biofilms of A. baumannii, E. aerogenes, and E.coli was monitored using a spectrophotometric microtiter plate assay.

RESULTS: Among seven clinical pathogens, three pathogens were found to be strong biofilm producers as they formed biofilm at an incubation time of 48 hours. The anti-biofilm enzymes significantly inhibited the biofilm formation of A. baumannii and E. aerogenes at an incubation time of 48 hours, with inhibition rates of 62.51% and 57.91%, respectively. In contrast, the maximum inhibition of biofilm formation in E. coli was observed at 24 hours, with an inhibition rate of 76.69%. The biofilm eradication rates were recorded to be 30.17% (A. baumannii), 46.29% (E. aerogenes), and 53.02% (E. coli) after a 24-hour incubation time. The SEM images confirmed the disruption of adhered biofilm on the glass surface and aggregation of microcolonies.

DISCUSSION: The study highlighted that Bacillus subtilis-derived enzyme combinations showed a synergistic inhibitory effect against biofilms formed by human clinical pathogens under in vitro conditions. The combined enzymatic treatment not only disrupted established biofilms but also suppressed their formation, indicating an enhanced anti-biofilm potential.

CONCLUSION: These findings demonstrated the multi-enzyme approach as a promising and effective alternative to conventional antimicrobial approaches for managing biofilm-associated infections.},
}

@article {pmid41864121,
year = {2026},
author = {Arslan, S and Schena, R and Romano, A and Hohenegger, M and De Martino, L and Nocera, FP},
title = {Characterization of antimicrobial resistance and biofilm formation in Escherichia coli isolated from wild boars.},
journal = {Research in veterinary science},
volume = {204},
number = {},
pages = {106148},
doi = {10.1016/j.rvsc.2026.106148},
pmid = {41864121},
issn = {1532-2661},
abstract = {The wild boar (Sus scrofa) is a widely distributed and ecologically adaptable species, increasingly recognized as a useful sentinel for monitoring antimicrobial resistance (AMR) at the human-livestock-wildlife interface. This study investigated the occurrence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Escherichia coli, with particular focus on biofilm-forming ability and associated resistance determinants, in wild boars from Southern Italy. Nasal swabs were collected from healthy wild boars harvested during the 2023 hunting season in the Campania Region. E. coli isolates were identified by MALDI-TOF MS and characterized for phenotypic and genotypic AMR profiles. Biofilm production was evaluated using the crystal violet assay, while biofilm-associated genes and selected resistance genes were detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). A total of 81 E. coli isolates were analysed. Biofilm formation was detected in 66 isolates (81.5%), mainly as weak producers, and was positively correlated with the presence of biofilm-associated genes (r = 0.79, p < 0.0001), predominantly fliC (13.6%), fimH (9.9%), papC (8.6%), and agn43/flu (6.2%). Carbapenemase genes were predominantly detected among biofilm gene-positive isolates, including the combined presence of blaIMP, blaVIM, and blaNDM in three strains. Significant associations (p < 0.05) were found for blaPER, mphA, and blaVIM when comparing biofilm gene-positive and -negative strains. Most isolates exhibited a MDR phenotype, with a multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) index ranging from 0.20 to 0.39. These findings highlight wild boars as potential reservoirs of multidrug-resistant E. coli and reveal the complex interplay between biofilm formation, antimicrobial resistance, and wildlife, underscoring the need to include wildlife in integrated One Health antimicrobial resistance surveillance strategies.},
}

@article {pmid41864131,
year = {2026},
author = {Sánchez-Giménez, L and Scalschi, L and Llorens, E and Falomir, E and Camañes, G and Vicedo, B},
title = {Hexanoic acid inhibits in vitro growth and biofilm formation in Xanthomonas vesicatoria and Xanthomonas euvesicatoria.},
journal = {Microbiological research},
volume = {308},
number = {},
pages = {128504},
doi = {10.1016/j.micres.2026.128504},
pmid = {41864131},
issn = {1618-0623},
abstract = {Hexanoic acid (Hx) is a naturally occurring fatty acid with antimicrobial properties and potential to induce plant defense responses. This study evaluated the in vitro effect of Hx on Xanthomonas vesicatoria and Xanthomonas euvesicatoria, focusing on bacterial growth and biofilm formation, key factors for pathogen survival and virulence. The obtained results indicate that Hx did not exert a direct lethal effect at low concentrations on bacterial cells, but higher doses (≥ 12 mM) displayed a bactericidal effect against both species, with X. euvesicatoria showing higher sensitivity than X. vesicatoria. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed cell wall damage and absence of biofilm at ≥ 10 mM Hx, consistent with the quorum sensing (QS) inhibition observed at this concentration. Moreover, exposure to 5 mM Hx triggered a significant increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS), indicating the inability of both bacteria to overcome the toxic environment generated by this compound. In addition, gene expression analysis demonstrated that Hx significantly impaired early biofilm establishment by downregulating motility- and virulence-related genes, particularly evident in X. euvesicatoria from lower concentrations. Although responses differed between the two species in survival strategies and sensitivities to Hx, both converged in a compromised biofilm formation and stress response capacity. Overall, this study provides mechanistic insights into Xanthomonas sensitivity to Hx and highlights biofilm disruption as a central mechanism underlying its antimicrobial activity under in vitro conditions.},
}

@article {pmid41864396,
year = {2026},
author = {Qi, Q and Yin, XJ and Xuan, WJ and Wang, HM and Hamblin, MR and He, LX and Zhen, XM and Pang, Y and Huang, LY},
title = {Repeated Sublethal Photodynamic Inactivation Does Not Increase Biofilm Formation or Induce Resistance in Acinetobacter baumannii.},
journal = {Photodiagnosis and photodynamic therapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {105444},
doi = {10.1016/j.pdpdt.2026.105444},
pmid = {41864396},
issn = {1873-1597},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Antimicrobial photodynamic inactivation (aPDI) could be an effective and novel approach to address the increasingly severe issue of antibiotic resistance. However, no standardized dosing protocol exists for aPDI administration, and clinical applications have frequently used sublethal doses. This study evaluated whether repeated sublethal antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (sPDT) could not only trigger resistance in Acinetobacter baumannii, but also increase biofilm biomass accumulation and upregulate key biofilm-related genes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this study, we evaluated the response of five clinical antimicrobial-resistant A. baumannii strains to sPDT. A "cycle" was defined as one round of sPDT followed by an overnight regrowth and subsequent resuspension in fresh medium (3-3.5 h) to reach the logarithmic phase. To compare the effects of biofilm properties and antimicrobial responses, bacteria were exposed to 15 cycles of sPDT under three conditions: (1) no treatment (control group); (2) methylene blue (MB) mediated sPDT alone (MB-sPDT group); (3) a combination of MB and potassium iodide (KI) to mediate sPDT (MB/KI-sPDT group).

RESULTS: Our findings showed that the biofilms formed by A. baumannii after consecutive sPDT exhibited no resistance to subsequent aPDT, and that MB/KI-aPDT demonstrated superior efficacy in biofilm eradication. Moreover, some strains exhibited reduced biofilm-forming capacity after 15 cycles of sPDT. Compared to untreated controls (0th cycle), the expression levels of biofilm-associated genes (bap, csuE, ompA, and abaI genes) in most strains decreased after the 5th, 10th, and 15th cycles of MB-sPDT and MB/KI-sPDT, except for the upregulation of ompA observed in one multidrug-resistant strain after 5th cycles of MB-sPDT.

CONCLUSION: These results indicate that after 15 cycles of sPDT there was no increase in biofilm-forming capacity or upregulation of biofilm-related gene expression, and the biofilms formed showed no decreased susceptibility to the same aPDT regimens.},
}

@article {pmid41864415,
year = {2026},
author = {Romeu, MJ and Gomes, LC and Teixeira-Santos, R and Zulpukarova, G and Woudstra, W and Atema-Smit, J and Geertsema-Doornbusch, G and Schirhagl, R and May, PW and Mergulhão, FJ},
title = {Black diamond and black silicon for reducing marine biofilm formation.},
journal = {Environmental research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {124321},
doi = {10.1016/j.envres.2026.124321},
pmid = {41864415},
issn = {1096-0953},
abstract = {Marine biofilms quickly colonize submerged surfaces, causing drag, reduced efficiency, and corrosion in vessels and marine infrastructure. Thus, the development of coatings that can resist bacterial adhesion and biofilm growth is essential. This study investigated two nanostructured surfaces - black silicon (bSi) and diamond-coated black silicon (black diamond, bD) - designed to physically disrupt bacterial cells using nanoscale spikes. Hydrogen- and fluorine-terminated versions of these surfaces were evaluated against 7-week-old Cobetia marina biofilms under controlled hydrodynamic conditions using flat silicon (Flat-Si) and flat diamond as controls. Nanostructured surfaces were less wettable than Flat-Si, with the contact angle of the fluorinated black diamond (bD-F) reaching 132°. Scanning Electron Microscopy confirmed that bSi and bD maintained their high-aspect-ratio nanoneedles, resisted protein adsorption, and had reduced biofilm coverage compared to flat controls. Optical Coherence Tomography revealed ∼50% thinner and less porous biofilms on the bD-F surface. Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy analysis showed a 75% reduction in biofilm biovolume on bD-F compared to Flat-Si, with only 45% cell viability. Non-viable cells were predominantly located in inner biofilm layers, indicating a bactericidal effect. Flow cytometry supported these results, showing altered bacterial membrane potential and metabolic activity in bacteria exposed to bD surfaces. Experiments using real seawater and field immersion assays confirmed that bD surfaces maintain structural integrity and strongly reduce biofilm formation under realistic marine conditions. These findings demonstrate the antifouling and antimicrobial effects of nanostructured diamond-coated surfaces, particularly fluorine-terminated ones, for durable marine applications.},
}

@article {pmid41862276,
year = {2026},
author = {Tanabe, G and Mori, T and Hanaoka, M and Domae, E and Into, T},
title = {LL-37 and bacterial DNA complexes in dental plaque: Implications for biofilm structure, innate immunity, and periodontal pathogenesis.},
journal = {Journal of oral biosciences},
volume = {68},
number = {2},
pages = {100771},
doi = {10.1016/j.job.2026.100771},
pmid = {41862276},
issn = {1880-3865},
mesh = {*Biofilms ; Humans ; *Immunity, Innate/immunology ; *Cathelicidins/immunology ; *Dental Plaque/microbiology/immunology ; *Antimicrobial Cationic Peptides/immunology ; *DNA, Bacterial/immunology/metabolism ; *Periodontal Diseases/immunology/microbiology ; *Antimicrobial Peptides/immunology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Dental plaque is a highly organized polymicrobial biofilm, in which extracellular DNA serves as a vital structural and functional component of the extracellular matrix. The human antimicrobial peptide LL-37 plays an important role in oral innate defense, exhibiting both antimicrobial and immunomodulatory activities. Our recent study indicated that LL-37 forms stable complexes with bacterial DNA in dental plaque. This review summarizes current knowledge of the molecular mechanisms and immunological consequences of LL-37-bacterial DNA interactions in dental plaque, highlighting their potential implications in biofilm structure, innate immunity, and periodontal pathogenesis.

HIGHLIGHT: LL-37 binds to oral bacterial DNA forming stable, nuclease-resistant, high-molecular-weight complexes with an aggregated morphology. These complexes abrogate the intrinsic antimicrobial activity of LL-37 while enhancing the stability and cohesiveness of the biofilm matrix. Moreover, LL-37-bacterial DNA complexes act as immunostimulatory molecules by activating TLR9 and the NLRP3 inflammasome, thereby triggering proinflammatory cytokine production in host immune cells. Notably, this immunostimulatory capacity varies with the bacterial source of the DNA, suggesting species-specific modulation of host responses.

CONCLUSION: LL-37-bacterial DNA complex formation represents a key event at the interface of innate defense and dysbiosis in dental plaque. This dual nature of LL-37, whereby it acts as an antimicrobial peptide when alone, yet promotes biofilm formation and inflammation when complexed with bacterial DNA, sheds new light on the mechanisms underlying biofilm persistence and chronic inflammation. Understanding this interaction may open new avenues for therapeutic strategies targeting biofilm-associated periodontal diseases.},
}

*Biofilms
Humans
*Immunity, Innate/immunology
*Cathelicidins/immunology
*Dental Plaque/microbiology/immunology
*Antimicrobial Cationic Peptides/immunology
*DNA, Bacterial/immunology/metabolism
*Periodontal Diseases/immunology/microbiology
*Antimicrobial Peptides/immunology