@article {pmid41839669,
year = {2026},
author = {Abd-Alrahman, AK and Al-Hayanni, HS},
title = {Bioactivity of green-synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles using Fusarium oxysporum extract on the expression of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase and biofilm-associated genes in the pathogen Klebsiella pneumoniae.},
journal = {Journal, genetic engineering & biotechnology},
volume = {24},
number = {1},
pages = {100645},
pmid = {41839669},
issn = {2090-5920},
abstract = {Multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae poses a serious clinical threat because of its ability to form biofilms and generate extended-spectrum beta-lactamase enzymes (ESBLs). This research investigated the influence of biosynthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles made from Fusarium oxysporum alcohol extract (FOE) on ESBL genes (blaTEM, blaCTX-M, blaSHV) and the biofilm-associated genes mrkA and luxS. The presence of the 16S rRNA, ESBL and biofilm genes was confirmed through subsequent polymerase chain reaction of the isolates. The FOE and zinc oxide nanoparticles both demonstrated significant antibacterial activity, with zinc oxide nanoparticles exhibiting greater inhibition with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 26 μg/ml. Compared with untreated and FOE-treated isolates, those treated with sub-MIC concentrations of zinc oxide nanoparticles expressed significantly fewer ESBL and biofilm-related genes. The expression levels of the genes blaTEM, blaCTX-M, blaSHV, mrkA and luxS were downregulated below a ratio of 1.0 in each of the bacterial isolates. The biosynthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles demonstrated strong antibacterial and antibiofilm effects through the downregulation of bacterial antibiotic resistance and virulence genes in K. pneumoniae. The findings of this study demonstrate the ability of biosynthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles to function as a green and apotential alternative or support the role of antibiotcs for the treatment of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria.},
}

@article {pmid41839781,
year = {2026},
author = {Escalona, CE and Santibañez, N and Cortés, M and Arriagada, V and Ruiz, P and Fuentes, D and Romero, A and Oliver, C},
title = {Sub-Inhibitory Concentrations of Florfenicol Modulate the Expression of Biofilm Formation and Antibiotic Resistance-Associated Genes in Biofilm-Embedded Piscirickettsia salmonis.},
journal = {Journal of fish diseases},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e70166},
doi = {10.1111/jfd.70166},
pmid = {41839781},
issn = {1365-2761},
support = {11180994//Agencia Nacional de Investigación y Desarrollo/ ; 1231761//Agencia Nacional de Investigación y Desarrollo/ ; CIA250009//Fondo de Financiamiento de Centros de Investigación en Áreas Prioritarias/ ; },
abstract = {Piscirickettsiosis is the most prevalent bacterial disease affecting Chilean aquaculture and responsible for the majority of mortality in salmonids. Currently, large quantities of antibiotics, predominantly florfenicol, are used in the Chilean aquaculture industry, and sub-MIC concentrations of this antibiotic, similar to what occurs in the marine environment, have been shown to induce biofilm formation on both biotic and abiotic surfaces when sub-MIC doses of florfenicol, raising concerns about the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate whether in vitro sub-MIC concentrations of florfenicol induce the expression of genes associated with biofilm formation and antibiotic resistance in the biofilm-embedded P. salmonis. Interestingly, in vitro analyses showed that sub-MIC dilutions of antibiotic significantly modulated the expression of an efflux pump acrAB and the two-component systems cpxAR, and qseBC, as well as the antibiotic resistance-associated genes tclor/tflor and t.flor in the biofilm-embedded P. salmonis isolates tested. Thus, this study highlights the negative consequences of the extensive use of antibiotics in aquaculture, which can promote biofilm formation in marine bacterial pathogens, potentially facilitating the spread of resistance genes among different bacterial species in the aquatic environment and increasing the risk of reinfection within culture systems.},
}

@article {pmid41839986,
year = {2026},
author = {Enan, G and El-Wafa, NA and El-Saber, MM and Osman, A and Abdel-Shafi, S and Sitohy, M},
title = {"Salvia officinalis extract-conjugated magnetite and selenium nanocomposites showed enhanced antibacterial and anti-biofilm activity against multidrug-resistant pathogens".},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41598-026-39983-6},
pmid = {41839986},
issn = {2045-2322},
}

@article {pmid41840555,
year = {2026},
author = {Hu, J and Lei, J and Yu, J and Jin, C and Liang, S and Guo, J and Huang, C},
title = {Effects of cleaning methods on the removal efficacy of Streptococcus mutans biofilm and material properties of thermoplastic aligner materials.},
journal = {BMC oral health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12903-026-08132-w},
pmid = {41840555},
issn = {1472-6831},
support = {82271010//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41841120,
year = {2026},
author = {Alenazi, N and Binsuwaidan, R and Alhabardi, S and Alanazi, SS and Aldahasi, RM and Almutairi, JA and Fatani, WK},
title = {Enhanced antibacterial properties of amoxicillin-loaded silver nanoparticles against Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus: physicochemical characterization, anti-virulence activity, and biofilm inhibition.},
journal = {PeerJ},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {e20924},
pmid = {41841120},
issn = {2167-8359},
mesh = {*Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/pathogenicity ; *Amoxicillin/pharmacology/administration & dosage ; *Biofilms/drug effects ; *Silver/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; *Metal Nanoparticles/chemistry ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Humans ; Virulence/drug effects ; Particle Size ; Acacia/chemistry ; },
abstract = {Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) presents significant challenges in healthcare and community settings due to its diverse virulence factors and increasing resistance to conventional antibiotics. Given the scarcity of effective treatments, developing innovative antibacterial strategies is essential. This study explores the potential of silver nanoparticles conjugated with acacia extracts as nanocarriers for amoxicillin to enhance antibacterial efficacy and circumvent resistance mechanisms in MRSA. The synthesized amoxicillin-loaded silver-acacia nanoparticles were characterized for their physicochemical properties, revealing spherical morphology with a minimum particle size of approximately 230 nm, a polydispersity index of 0.3, and a high negative zeta potential of -32 mV as confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. In vitro assays demonstrated that these nanoparticles significantly inhibited bacterial growth, achieving a reduction at a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 2 mg/mL. At this concentration, biofilm formation by MRSA was inhibited by 80%, as verified by scanning electron microscopy, and hemolytic activity on blood agar was completely suppressed. While a dose-dependent cytotoxic effect on endothelial cells was observed, the MIC concentration remained cytocompatible (p < 0.05). These findings underscore the promise of amoxicillin-loaded silver-acacia nanoparticles as potent antibacterial agents with minimal cytotoxicity at effective doses. This study highlights the potential of nanotechnology-enabled drug delivery to repurpose amoxicillin and offers a novel platform for combating multidrug-resistant MRSA infections, which may inform future therapeutic developments.},
}

*Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/pathogenicity
*Amoxicillin/pharmacology/administration & dosage
*Biofilms/drug effects
*Silver/pharmacology/chemistry
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
*Metal Nanoparticles/chemistry
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Humans
Virulence/drug effects
Particle Size
Acacia/chemistry

@article {pmid41833560,
year = {2026},
author = {Mathewos, W and Kumalo, A and Teklu, T and Demisse, T and Temesgen, M and Chinasho, T},
title = {Nasal Carriage Rate of Biofilm Producing Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Its Associated Factors Among Health Care Workers at Hospital of Central Ethiopia.},
journal = {MicrobiologyOpen},
volume = {15},
number = {2},
pages = {e70266},
doi = {10.1002/mbo3.70266},
pmid = {41833560},
issn = {2045-8827},
mesh = {Humans ; *Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/isolation & purification/physiology/drug effects ; Ethiopia/epidemiology ; *Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; *Health Personnel/statistics & numerical data ; Female ; *Carrier State/microbiology/epidemiology ; Male ; Adult ; *Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology/epidemiology ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Middle Aged ; Young Adult ; *Nose/microbiology ; Hospitals ; Nasal Cavity/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Not susceptible to methicillin Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), is a potentially harmful bacteria that is resistant to the most important antimicrobial agents. Because MRSA is so resistant to many antibiotics, it can cause illnesses by forming biofilms. The aim of this study was to assess the nasal carriage rate of biofilm-producing methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and its associated factors among HealthCare Workers at Wachemo University Nigist Ellen Mohammed Memorial Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Central Ethiopia. This cross-sectional study, carried out at Wachemo University Nigist Ellen Mohammed Memorial Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Central Ethiopia from August 1 to November 30, 2023. Nasal swab samples from 294 healthcare workers (HCWs) were obtained using sterile cotton swabs. Bacterial isolates were identified using standard culture methods on Mannitol Salt and Blood Agar, while antimicrobial susceptibility testing and biofilm formation assessments followed the CLSI 2023 (M100, 33rd edition) guidelines via the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion methods. All laboratory analyses were performed in triplicate to ensure consistency. Data were double-entered into Epi Data version 4.6 and cross-checked for accuracy. Missing or inconsistent data were verified against original laboratory records and latterly then, exported to SPSS V25 for analysis. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were applied for statistical evaluation, with a p-value of ≤ 0.05 regarded as statistically significant. In this study, the occurrence rates of S. aureus, MRSA, and biofilm-producing MRSA were 98 out of 294 isolated strains (33.4%), 41 out of 294 isolated strains (13.9%), and 28 out of 294 isolated strains (9.5%), respectively. The MRSA strains exhibited high sensitivity to linezolid, rifampicin, and vancomycin while showing resistance to cefoxitin, cotrimoxazole, and ciprofloxacin. A history of prior hospitalization (length of stay in the hospital) was statistically significant for the colonization of biofilm-producing MRSA, with an adjusted odds ratio of 10.00 (95% CI: 1.36-73.3; P = 0.024). MRSA and MRSA that produces biofilms were found to be 41.8% and 68.3% prevalent overall in the study area, respectively. Biofilm-producing MRSA is a potential cause of healthcare-associated diseases. Therefore, these findings emphasize the urgent need for improved infection-prevention practices and routine screening of healthcare workers to mitigate the risk of healthcare-associated infections.},
}

Humans
*Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/isolation & purification/physiology/drug effects
Ethiopia/epidemiology
*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
Cross-Sectional Studies
*Health Personnel/statistics & numerical data
Female
*Carrier State/microbiology/epidemiology
Male
Adult
*Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology/epidemiology
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Middle Aged
Young Adult
*Nose/microbiology
Hospitals
Nasal Cavity/microbiology

@article {pmid41834852,
year = {2026},
author = {, },
title = {Retraction: Low temperature synthesis of superparamagnetic iron oxide (Fe3O4) nanoparticles and their ROS mediated inhibition of biofilm formed by food-associated bacteria.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1812892},
doi = {10.3389/fmicb.2026.1812892},
pmid = {41834852},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {[This retracts the article DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2018.02567.].},
}

@article {pmid41839405,
year = {2026},
author = {Yu, PF and Hu, BM and Wang, D and Ma, XG and Sun, HW and Wang, A},
title = {Optimization of conditions and mechanism of algal-bacterial biofilm formation: Degradation effects, biofilm characteristics, and bacterial community structure.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {134431},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.134431},
pmid = {41839405},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {The study aimed to determine the treatment performance and optimal operating conditions of an algal-bacterial biofilm system supported by either high-density polyethylene (HDPE) carrier or rope-type carrier for domestic wastewater treatment. Response surface methodology (RSM) identified the optimal conditions as: (i) an algae-to-bacteria ratio of 7.4 (sludge: microalgae, in terms of mixed liquid suspended substances (MLSS), mass ratio), (ii) 12.2 mg/L FeCl3, and (iii) one starvation period of one cycle. Both carriers achieved ＞80% removal of chemical oxygen demand (COD), total nitrogen (TN), and total phosphorus (TP). The rope-type carrier outperformed HDPE for nutrients, delivering 85.8% TN and 97.6% TP removal. Biofilm mass on the rope-type carrier was 3.66 times higher than on HDPE carrier, indicating rapid algal enrichment and minimized cell washout. In both algal-bacterial biofilms, Proteobacteria and Chlorophyta were dominant. Carrier properties influenced overall community composition, whereas identical operating conditions maintained a stable core bacterial community. The dominance of Proteobacteria and Bacteroidota likely supported stable nitrogen removal and organic matter degradation. In conclusion, the rope-type carrier conferred superior and more stable performance on the algal-bacterial biofilm system for domestic wastewater treatment.},
}

@article {pmid41829330,
year = {2026},
author = {Ameen, S and Miran, F and Azhdar, B},
title = {Synthesis of Core-Shell Chitosan-TiO2 Nanoparticles and Its Impact on Candida albicans Biofilm Inhibition on 3D-Printed Denture Base Resins: An In Vitro Study.},
journal = {Polymers},
volume = {18},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {41829330},
issn = {2073-4360},
abstract = {Objective: This study aimed to obtain a core-shell chitosan-TiO2 nanoparticle and to investigate its ability to inhibit Candida albicans biofilm formation when added to 3D-printed polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) denture base resins. Materials and Methods: Ionic gelation was employed to prepare and characterize the nanoparticle, and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction were used to identify the structure and morphology. Nanoparticle was added to 3D-printed denture resins at four different weight percentages (0.25%, 0.5%, 0.75%, and 1%) and antibiofilm activity was determined by carrying out Colony Forming Unite (CFU) counts after exposure to C. albicans. Results: The 0.25 wt.% chitosan-TiO2 group exhibited a significant reduction in colony-forming units (CFUs) compared to the control (p < 0.05). Although higher nanoparticle concentrations showed improved biofilm formation, this was most likely caused by nanoparticle aggregation, which interfered with surface homogeneity and biofilm resistance. Conclusions: Incorporating a 0.25 wt.% core-shell chitosan-TiO2 nanoparticle into 3D-printed denture base resin markedly improves its antibiofilm activity against Candida albicans while maintaining the material's integrity.},
}

@article {pmid41830776,
year = {2026},
author = {Kaiser, T and Picioreanu, C and Lackner, S},
title = {A modeling perspective on biofilm formation in granular activated carbon filters - local promotion of autotrophic microorganisms due to the effects of adsorption processes on the availability of organic substrates.},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {297},
number = {},
pages = {125693},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2026.125693},
pmid = {41830776},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {Various studies demonstrated that biofilm formation occurs in granular activated carbon (GAC) filters for (waste-)water treatment. However, little is known about how transient adsorptive interactions between organic solutes and the GAC within the filter bed influence biofilm development on the macroscale. This study proposes a numerical approach to simulate biofilm development in a GAC filter bed. For this purpose, a model approach for simulations at the single grain scale was extended to additionally account for spatial gradients along the filter bed length. The model was successfully tested with operational data from pilot-scale GAC filters. The subsequently simulated scenarios aimed at conceptually identifying key interactions between the GAC and biofilm formation, including spatial gradients in its composition. The simulation results showed that both heterotrophic and autotrophic microorganisms grew in GAC filters under typical operating conditions. The heterotrophs grew closer to the filter influent, consistent with the system's plug-flow-like behavior. Adsorption of organic solutes onto the GAC resulted in a stricter longitudinal separation of the two general types of microorganisms in the filter bed compared to a non-adsorbing reference filter bed by decreasing the downstream concentrations of organic substrate. Considering explicit backwash events further consolidated this separation for the GAC case. Together with the periodic adsorptive retention and release of organic solutes in the upper filter bed section, depending on the current biological activity, backwash events created even more favorable conditions for autotrophic growth in intermediate regions of the filter bed. Overall, the simulation results showed that autotrophic activity was locally enhanced by adsorptive effects of the GAC and that its extent was directly influenced by the simulated backwash regime. Considering the link between autotrophic activity and co-metabolic biotransformation of organic micropollutants discussed in literature, the results further highlight the potential biological contributions to the overall removal of certain micropollutants in GAC filters, but also the necessity to adequately represent longitudinal gradients and biofilm thickness control mechanisms in mathematical models.},
}

@article {pmid41831689,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, H and Fan, D and Liu, X and Chen, Y and Xiao, J and Hou, C and Zeng, W and Chen, F},
title = {Stage-specific therapeutic strategies for combating bacterial biofilm infections: Recent advances and future perspectives.},
journal = {Journal of controlled release : official journal of the Controlled Release Society},
volume = {393},
number = {},
pages = {114815},
doi = {10.1016/j.jconrel.2026.114815},
pmid = {41831689},
issn = {1873-4995},
abstract = {Bacterial biofilms are highly organized microbial communities that drive chronic and recurrent infections, posing significant clinical challenges. The extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) matrix and dormant cells of biofilms confer strong tolerance to conventional antimicrobials, and their formation through distinct developmental stages presents unique vulnerabilities that can be therapeutically targeted. This review summarizes recent advances in functional biomaterial-based strategies aimed at combating biofilm-associated infections, including prevention of bacterial adhesion, disruption of EPS, eradication of dormant cells, and enhanced antimicrobial penetration. We discuss both in vitro and in vivo validations, emphasize the importance of prophylactic approaches, and highlight emerging multifunctional platforms that improve infection control and biofilm clearance. By linking mechanistic insights to translational applications, this review provides a framework for next-generation therapies capable of effectively combating biofilm-driven infections at each developmental stage.},
}

@article {pmid41828398,
year = {2026},
author = {Guerra, MES and Destro, G and Cezar, RV and Ciaparin, I and Ferraz, LFC and Hakansson, AP and Girardello, R and Darrieux, M and Converso, TR},
title = {Capsule Regulation Shapes Klebsiella pneumoniae Pathogenesis by Balancing Adhesion, Biofilm Formation, and Intracellular Survival.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27052169},
pmid = {41828398},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {2019/23566-6//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo/ ; 2022/15111-1//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo/ ; 2024/02517-5//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo/ ; 400099/2022-5//National Council for Scientific and Technological Development/ ; 139133/2025-9//National Council for Scientific and Technological Development/ ; 2021-06050//Swedish Research Council/ ; 2022-01296//Swedish Research Council/ ; Grant//Alfred Österlunds Stiftelse/ ; },
mesh = {*Klebsiella pneumoniae/pathogenicity/physiology/genetics ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; *Bacterial Capsules/metabolism/genetics ; *Bacterial Adhesion ; Humans ; *Klebsiella Infections/microbiology ; Virulence ; Epithelial Cells/microbiology ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Klebsiella pneumoniae is a major opportunistic pathogen, where the polysaccharide capsule is traditionally recognized as a critical virulence determinant. However, its role in surface interactions and intracellular adaptation remains incompletely understood. Here, we combined phenotypic assays with physicochemical analyses to dissect the contribution of the capsule. A wza knockout mutant displayed enhanced biofilm formation, adhesion, and invasion of epithelial cells compared to the encapsulated strain. Zeta potential and hydrodynamic size measurements revealed that capsule absence increased surface negativity and exposure of adhesion structures, thereby promoting host-cell interactions. In contrast, intracellular survival assays demonstrated that the capsule conferred a clear advantage for persistence and replication. Together, our results support a dynamic model in which capsule expression imposes a trade-off: restricting early adhesion and biofilm development but favoring long-term intracellular survival. This trade-off model expands the understanding of capsule biology and may inform novel strategies to disrupt colonization or persistence in antibiotic-resistant K. pneumoniae.},
}

*Klebsiella pneumoniae/pathogenicity/physiology/genetics
*Biofilms/growth & development
*Bacterial Capsules/metabolism/genetics
*Bacterial Adhesion
Humans
*Klebsiella Infections/microbiology
Virulence
Epithelial Cells/microbiology
Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism

@article {pmid41828371,
year = {2026},
author = {Tadtong, S and Techavijit, S and Mukdapattanakul, N and Singh, S and Chittasupho, C and Eiamart, W and Samee, W},
title = {Phytochemical Assessment, Evaluation of Antioxidant and Antibacterial Properties, and Molecular Docking to Elucidate the Regulation of Bacterial Biofilm Formation in an Herbal Formulation for the Treatment of Abscesses.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27052145},
pmid = {41828371},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {457/2567//Srinakharinwirot University/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; Molecular Docking Simulation ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Antioxidants/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Plant Extracts/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Phytochemicals/pharmacology/chemistry ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Curcuma/chemistry ; Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects ; Staphylococcus epidermidis/drug effects ; Curcumin/pharmacology/analogs & derivatives/chemistry ; },
abstract = {Abscess formation is commonly precipitated by bacterial infection. This study delineates the phytochemical composition and evaluates the antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-biofilm activities of a Thai traditional anti-abscess herbal formulation comprising Curcuma zedoaria, Vitex trifolia, and Azadirachta indica. Validated high-performance liquid chromatography-photodiode array detection (HPLC-PDA) analysis of the ethanolic extract identified curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, bisdemethoxycurcumin, and vitexicarpin as principal constituents. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were 32.08 ± 2.54 mg GAE/g and 17.52 ± 1.28 mg QE/g dry weight, respectively. Antioxidant assessment by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay yielded an half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 53.46 ± 3.24 µg/mL, while reducing power corresponded to 383.97 ± 13.24 µg FeSO4/g dry weight. Molecular orbital analysis revealed a highest occupied molecular orbital and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (HOMO-LUMO) gap for vitexicarpin (ΔE = 9.7710 eV), indicative of greater radical-scavenging potential relative to curcuminoids. Antibacterial assays demonstrated selective activity against Staphylococcus epidermidis (inhibition zone 1.48 ± 0.16 cm), with no observed inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes. Curcumin exhibited the highest activity against S. epidermidis (minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) 62.5 µg/mL; minimal bactericidal concentration minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) 125 µg/mL). Molecular docking showed curcumin binding to the teicoplanin-associated transcriptional regulator (TcaR) with a binding energy of -8.00 kcal/mol, comparable to methicillin (-8.16 kcal/mol), suggesting a potential mechanism for modulation of biofilm-associated regulatory pathways. Collectively, these findings indicate that the formulation has measurable antioxidant activity and targeted antibacterial efficacy against S. epidermidis, which may contribute to attenuation of abscess progression via interference with biofilm regulation.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
Molecular Docking Simulation
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
*Antioxidants/pharmacology/chemistry
*Plant Extracts/pharmacology/chemistry
*Phytochemicals/pharmacology/chemistry
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Curcuma/chemistry
Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects
Staphylococcus epidermidis/drug effects
Curcumin/pharmacology/analogs & derivatives/chemistry

@article {pmid41826947,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhu, Q and Sun, F and Fan, Y and Wang, P and Yang, Y},
title = {Florida probe combined with guided biofilm therapy in the treatment of severe periodontitis: a case report.},
journal = {BMC oral health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12903-026-08090-3},
pmid = {41826947},
issn = {1472-6831},
}

@article {pmid41824940,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, Y and Zhu, D and Zhao, C and Jiao, J and Xue, H and Li, P and Du, X},
title = {Characterization and Affecting Factors' Analysis of Biofilm Formation by Cronobacter sakazakii on Different Food Contact Surfaces.},
journal = {Journal of agricultural and food chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acs.jafc.5c15768},
pmid = {41824940},
issn = {1520-5118},
abstract = {Cronobacter sakazakii is a major pathogen that contaminates infant milk powder, which usually attaches to abiotic surfaces in the form of biofilms and causes diseases. However, few in-depth studies have been conducted on the properties of biofilms formed on different abiotic surfaces. Therefore, this study explored the characteristics of biofilm formation by C. sakazakii on commonly used food contact surfaces, including stainless steel (SS), glass (GS), poly(phenylene sulfone) resin (PPSU), and soft silicone (SSI), with a focus on the biofilm formation ability and the biofilms' functional, structural, and compositional properties. Correlation analysis was used to confirm the leading factors affecting C. sakazakii biofilm formation, including surface hardness and stiffness, cell length, and extracellular nucleic acid content. Finally, proteomic analysis revealed menaquinone biosynthesis, amino acid metabolism, SOS response, and transport systems as being crucial for C. sakazakii biofilm formation. This study provides valuable insights for a deeper understanding of the bacterium's biofilm formation.},
}

@article {pmid41824364,
year = {2026},
author = {Pelka, M and Czekala, W and Kwiatek, A and Polanska, M and Maciejewska, B and Otwinowska, A and Golec, P and Wyszyńska, A and Drulis-Kawa, Z and Adamczyk-Popławska, M},
title = {Phage-derived depolymerase targeting K27 capsule impairs Klebsiella pneumoniae virulence, biofilm formation, and promotes immune clearance.},
journal = {Emerging microbes & infections},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {2645857},
doi = {10.1080/22221751.2026.2645857},
pmid = {41824364},
issn = {2222-1751},
abstract = {The global rise of multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae underscores the urgent need for alternative therapeutic strategies. Bacteriophage-derived depolymerases have emerged as promising antimicrobial factors, selectively degrading bacterial capsules and impairing key pathogenic traits. We characterize a novel depolymerase, PRA33gp45, associated with the structural protein of bacteriophage vB_KpnP_PRA33. Bioinformatic structural analyses predicted endo-N-acetyl neuraminidase-like activity and canonical depolymerase domain architecture. The recombinant PRA33gp45 specifically hydrolysed capsular polysaccharides (CPS) of K27-serotype K. pneumoniae and produced characteristic halo zones on bacterial lawns, confirming its enzymatic activity. Capsule staining demonstrated rapid and progressive capsule degradation within 120 minutes of treatment. PRA33gp45 significantly inhibited biofilm formation, disrupted mature biofilms, and altered biofilm architecture as visualized by confocal microscopy. Depolymerase pre-treatment markedly reduced K. pneumoniae survival within A549 human lung epithelial cells, without exhibiting any cytotoxic effect and sensitized bacteria to complement-mediated killing in human serum. Finally, PRA33gp45 treatment of K. pneumoniae lowers morbidity and mortality in the Galleria mellonella larvae model. Collectively, these findings identify PRA33gp45 as a novel and highly specific depolymerase that diminishes K. pneumoniae virulence by targeting its protective capsule, impairing persistence as biofilm, and enhancing innate immune clearance. Its safety and efficacy suggest potential as an antimicrobial or adjuvant therapeutic agent against K27-type K. pneumoniae infections, particularly in the context of multidrug resistance and emerging pathogens.},
}

@article {pmid41823755,
year = {2026},
author = {Luong, JHT},
title = {Biofilm Control with Rare-Earth Oxides: A Mechanistic Framework for Next-Generation Antibiofilm Materials.},
journal = {Nanomaterials (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {16},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/nano16050302},
pmid = {41823755},
issn = {2079-4991},
abstract = {Biofilm-associated infections remain a major barrier to wound healing, implant integration, and chronic infection management. Rare-earth oxides (REOs) have emerged as promising antibiofilm materials, though their mechanisms, limitations, and translational potential are still being defined. Cerium oxide (CeO2) serves as the benchmark due to its redox adaptability, oxygen-vacancy-driven catalytic activity, and host compatibility. In contrast, non-ceria REOs show antibiofilm effects under more restricted conditions, often requiring surface functionalization, composite architectures, or hybrid organic-inorganic interfaces-such as polyphenol coatings or hydroxyapatite-based composites-to achieve comparable activity. Across systems, biofilm control arises not from bactericidal potency but from matrix-level mechanisms including extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) destabilization, extracellular DNA (eDNA) sequestration, redox modulation, and quorum-sensing interference. Preclinical and near-clinical evidence, particularly in chronic wound models, supports the translational relevance of these mechanisms, though the evidence base remains preliminary. This review synthesizes mechanistic data across cerium-, samarium-, lanthanum-, and strontium-based systems to establish a unified framework for REO-mediated biofilm disruption. REOs are positioned as biofilm-modulating platforms that complement antibiotics, enhance healing, and improve outcomes. Design rules emphasize controlled redox activity, targeted coordination chemistry, functional surface engineering, and host-compatible performance, alongside regulatory and manufacturing guidance for future development.},
}

@article {pmid41823455,
year = {2026},
author = {Niu, J and Chen, D and Lin, T and Li, S and Xu, J and Xu, H and Liu, X and Chen, X and Wei, N and Meng, K},
title = {Species-specific chlorine resistance and biofilm regulation by extracellular polymeric substances and quorum sensing in drinking water pipeline bacteria.},
journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0153125},
doi = {10.1128/aem.01531-25},
pmid = {41823455},
issn = {1098-5336},
abstract = {Biofilms in drinking water distribution systems pose significant risks by harboring chlorine-resistant bacteria. This study isolated five bacterial strains (Sphingomonas ursincola, Sphingobium amiense, Gordonia amicalis, Microbacterium saccharophilum, Hydrogenophaga laconesensis) from municipal pipelines to evaluate differences in biofilm formation and chlorine resistance. Biofilm formation ability varied notably, with S. ursincola showing the strongest capacity and H. laconesensis the weakest. Quorum sensing (QS) signal molecules (C6-HSL, 3-OXO-C14-HSL; 0.2240-0.2481 μg/L) and extracellular polymeric substances (EPSs: 19.940-32.407 mg/L) were critical in biofilm regulation, where QS molecules influenced EPS composition. Chlorine resistance assays revealed species-specific tolerance: at ≤1.0 mg/L, resistance ranked M. saccharophilum > S. amiense > G. amicalis > S. ursincola > H. laconesensis; above 1.0 mg/L, S. ursincola and S. amiense exhibited robust resistance. Low chlorine levels (0.6 mg/L) damaged only 25.91%-34.80% of bacteria, insufficient to control the biofilm formation of the tested isolates. Optimal disinfection occurred at 1.0-1.5 mg/L, effectively controlling biofilm biomass. These findings highlight EPS-driven chlorine resistance mechanisms and QS-mediated biofilm regulation, providing actionable strategies for pipeline management.IMPORTANCEThis study addressed a critical gap in understanding different bacterial biofilm dynamics and chlorine resistance mechanisms in drinking water systems. By linking quorum sensing to extracellular polymeric substance production, it reveals how bacteria modulate biofilm resilience, elucidating species-specific mechanisms underlying biofilm resilience to chlorine disinfection. The identification of chlorine-resistant species (Sphingomonas ursincola, Sphingobium amiense) and optimal disinfection thresholds (1.0-1.5 mg/L) directly informs municipal water treatment protocols, providing a practical chlorine concentration range (1.0-1.5 mg/L) that effectively controls biofilms while avoiding excessive disinfectant use. These results are pivotal for mitigating secondary contamination risks and safeguarding public health, particularly in aging infrastructure where biofilm-related outbreaks are prevalent.},
}

@article {pmid41823410,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, Y and Li, D and Zhou, M and Zhao, L and Chen, L and Cheng, Z},
title = {Targeting biofilm and virulence in Pseudomonas aeruginosa: AidH@SPEEK as a novel quorum-sensing inhibitor.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0166825},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.01668-25},
pmid = {41823410},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA), a gram-negative opportunistic pathogen, poses severe risks to immunocompromised patients. Conventional antibiotics often fail due to toxicity and resistance, primarily linked to biofilm formation controlled by quorum sensing (QS). Here, we developed an AidH-loaded sulfonated polyetheretherketone (AidH@SPEEK) composite, optimizing its loading conditions (400 μL AidH, 30 min). Enzymatic activity peaked at 40°C and pH 7.0 but remained stable at 37°C. AidH@SPEEK significantly suppressed PA biofilm formation and virulence factor secretion while downregulating QS (LasR/LasI, RhlR/RhlI) and virulence genes (exoS, phzM). Notably, it enhanced PA's antibiotic susceptibility, offering a promising QS-targeting strategy to combat resistant infections.

IMPORTANCE: The rising antibiotic resistance in Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) underscores the urgent need for alternative therapeutic approaches. This study highlights the potential of AidH@SPEEK as a non-antibiotic strategy to combat PA infections by targeting the quorum-sensing (QS) system, a key regulator of biofilm formation and virulence. By degrading QS signaling molecules, AidH@SPEEK disrupts bacterial communication, reduces pathogenicity, and enhances antibiotic sensitivity. The use of SPEEK as a delivery platform ensures sustained enzyme activity and biocompatibility, making it suitable for medical implants. These findings offer a promising direction for developing anti-infective materials that mitigate biofilm-associated resistance, ultimately improving clinical outcomes for high-risk patients.},
}

@article {pmid41823381,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, B and Ni, K and Wang, W and Lu, M and Jin, H},
title = {Filamentous surface structures drive biofilm formation in ICU-isolated Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus: implications for persistent environmental contamination.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0211425},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.02114-25},
pmid = {41823381},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {The relationship between surface biofilms and the persistent contamination of environmental surfaces has garnered increasing attention. Although biofilm research is extensive, systematic comparisons of the morphological characteristics of pathogens isolated from healthcare surfaces, particularly strains that retain biofilm-forming capacity after long-term preservation, are still lacking. In this study, we aimed to investigate the biofilm formation potential and ultrastructural features of the cell membrane surfaces of healthcare environment-isolated Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus. The revived strains were inoculated into 96-well plates containing TSB and incubated for 24 h to assess their biofilm-forming potential under favorable growth conditions. Biofilm formation was assessed using crystal violet staining. Strains with different biofilm-forming abilities were examined for their morphological characteristics under a scanning electron microscope. Of the 198 historically preserved strains of the three common pathogens, 162 were successfully revived (78 A. baumannii, 36 P. aeruginosa, and 48 S. aureus). The biofilm formation rates of A. baumannii, P. aeruginosa, and S. aureus were 70.51%, 88.89%, and 25%, respectively. The cell surface morphology between the biofilm- and non-biofilm-forming strains differed significantly. Biofilm-forming strains exhibited numerous filamentous structures on their surfaces and displayed aggregation and multidimensional stacking owing to the "net-like" effect of the filaments. In contrast, non-biofilm-forming strains had smooth surfaces without filamentous structures or aggregation. This study provides systematic evidence for the biofilm-forming capabilities of common pathogens associated with healthcare-associated infections, isolated from healthcare environment surfaces. All biofilm-forming strains displayed distinct filamentous structures on their surfaces, with the clonal strains exhibiting similar characteristics.IMPORTANCEThis study is the first to demonstrate the biofilm-forming capacity and morphological characteristics of Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus in intensive care unit (ICU) environments, filling a critical gap in our understanding of biofilm mechanisms among healthcare-associated pathogens. Notably, P. aeruginosa exhibited an 88.89% biofilm formation rate, with its distinctive filamentous fibrous structures significantly enhancing bacterial adhesion and aggregation-a key explanation for persistent environmental contamination. These findings directly inform the optimization of ICU cleaning protocols, promote the development of biofilm-targeted disinfection standards, and provide a scientific foundation for refining environmental monitoring metrics in infection control policies, ultimately reducing healthcare-associated infection rates.},
}

@article {pmid41823272,
year = {2026},
author = {Gaware, MG and Goswami, S and Sahai, S and Chate, GP and Banerjee, T and Biswas, S and Wavhale, RD and Banerjee, SS},
title = {A biofilm-penetrating nanozyme robot for drug-free inactivation of drug-resistant bacteria.},
journal = {Journal of materials chemistry. B},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1039/d5tb02853a},
pmid = {41823272},
issn = {2050-7518},
abstract = {The emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections mainly due to the proliferation of bacterial biofilms poses a critical clinical challenge. The low efficacy of currently used antibacterial agents, caused due to their poor penetration into biofilms, hinders their therapeutic potential. Here, we report a drug-free, nanozyme-based, self-propelling Janus nanobot engineered to penetrate bacterial biofilms and eradicate drug-resistant pathogens through a synergistic physical-chemical mechanism. The nanobot is fabricated using magnesium (Mg) nanoparticles as a propulsion core, which generate hydrogen bubbles upon reaction with water, and a hemispherical copper oxide (CuO) shell that imparts catalytic and bactericidal activities. The CuO shell catalyses Fenton-like reactions in response to elevated hydrogen peroxide levels within bacterial microenvironments, producing reactive oxygen species (ROS) that induce oxidative stress, membrane disruption, and cell death. Autonomous propulsion enables the nanobots to actively traverse the dense extracellular polymeric matrix of biofilms, thereby enhancing the antibacterial effect. The Mg-CuO (MCO) nanobots achieved efficient biofilm removal and significant reduction in cell viability against S. aureus (MIC - 256 µg mL[-1]), P. aeruginosa (MIC - 512 µg mL[-1]), and MRSA (MIC - 1024 µg mL[-1]). This drug-free, self-powered nanozyme platform effectively overcomes diffusion-limited biofilm barriers and demonstrates potent activity against antibiotic-resistant bacteria, offering strong translational potential for the treatment of chronic and drug-resistant infections.},
}

@article {pmid41822123,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhao, D and Ma, G and Li, G and Zhang, C},
title = {Biofilm-driven multi-stage anaerobic-aerobic process for high-strength petrochemical wastewater treatment.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1778614},
pmid = {41822123},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {High-strength petrochemical wastewater typically shows poor biodegradability, making stable compliance difficult with biological treatment alone. In this study, an integrated train combining coagulation-Fenton oxidation pretreatment with a biofilm-driven multi-stage anaerobic-aerobic process was developed. The Fenton pretreatment was optimized by response surface methodology, and the downstream system comprised an anaerobic biofilter, multi-stage biological contact oxidation, followed by hydrolysis-acidification/contact oxidation and clarification. Results indicated that the Initial pH was the most influential factor for Fenton performance. Under optimized conditions (pH 2.20, H2O2 dosage 4.5 mL/L, H2O2/Fe[2+] molar ratio 20), pretreatment achieved 51.9% COD removal. At steady operation (Day 28), overall COD decreased from 3740 mg/L to 239.2 mg/L (93.6% cumulative removal). Anaerobic biofilter provided stable COD removal of 20.2-23.5% with an optimal temperature window of 25-35°C, while the multi-stage biological contact oxidation maintained 64.1-80.0% COD removal and was buffered under higher loading by extending reaction time/increasing hydraulic retention time. Biofilm stability was supported by MLSS of 4,151 mg/L and SVI of 75.9 mL/g in the multi-stage reactor (Day 30). Overall, coagulation-Fenton served as an influent-shaping module, complementing the anaerobic-aerobic biofilm process to achieve robust removal of high-strength refractory organics.},
}

@article {pmid41821963,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, Y and Dechesne, A and Franck, SL and Klümper, U and Wang, G and Smets, BF},
title = {Effect of biofilm lifestyle caused by water matric potential on invasion of exogenous plasmid.},
journal = {ISME communications},
volume = {6},
number = {1},
pages = {ycag031},
pmid = {41821963},
issn = {2730-6151},
abstract = {Conjugal plasmid transfer is an efficient mechanism for gene exchange among bacteria. Most bacteria exist in biofilms encased in extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), which provide protection against environmental stressors such as water deprivation. We hypothesized that enhanced EPS production in response to water matric stress would create a physical barrier limiting exogenous plasmid invasion into established biofilms. Employing filter mating assays, we demonstrate that Pseudomonas putida (serving as recipient strain), which produces more EPS with decreasing water matric potential, suppresses plasmid invasion from exogenously added P. putida (pKJK5) donor cells. Similarly, transfer into a biofilm formed by an EPS overproducing P. putida mutant was impaired. This barrier effect was not observed in biofilms co-established by mixtures of donor and recipient strains, probably because EPS does not form a thick enough internal barrier within the biofilm compared to the external barrier on top of a mature biofilm. Hence, sufficiently high cell-to-cell contacts remain possible within these biofilms regardless of water matric stress and EPS production capability. We further tested these mechanisms employing a complex, natural soil bacterial community as recipient; also here conjugal plasmid invasion declined with decreasing matric potential. Our study provides novel insight into the complex dynamics of horizontal transfer of plasmids in microbial biofilms.},
}

@article {pmid41821380,
year = {2026},
author = {Castro, AB and Hadisurya, J and Gaurav Srivastava, M and Bernaerts, K and Braem, A and Zayed, N},
title = {Advancing Biofilm Removal: Evaluating Electrolytic Methods for Decontaminating Dental Implants In Vitro.},
journal = {Journal of periodontal research},
volume = {61},
number = {2},
pages = {216-218},
doi = {10.1111/jre.70031},
pmid = {41821380},
issn = {1600-0765},
support = {1SHFK24N//Fonds Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Dental Implants/microbiology ; *Decontamination/methods ; Titanium ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning ; *Electrolysis/methods ; Humans ; In Vitro Techniques ; Bioreactors ; },
abstract = {Multispecies oral biofilms were established on titanium implants using a controlled bioreactor model and subjected to different decontamination strategies. Biofilm persistence was evaluated by v-qPCR, SEM, and CLSM to assess treatment efficacy.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Dental Implants/microbiology
*Decontamination/methods
Titanium
Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
*Electrolysis/methods
Humans
In Vitro Techniques
Bioreactors

@article {pmid41820875,
year = {2026},
author = {Sun, L and Luo, Z and Zou, X and Sun, C and Peng, F and Peng, C and Zhou, Q},
title = {Pogostone disrupts key virulence traits of Candida albicans: hyphal inhibition and biofilm suppression.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12866-026-04890-3},
pmid = {41820875},
issn = {1471-2180},
support = {U24A20790//National Natural Science Foundation of China Regional Innovation and Development Joint Fund Key Program/ ; U24A20790//National Natural Science Foundation of China Regional Innovation and Development Joint Fund Key Program/ ; U24A20790//National Natural Science Foundation of China Regional Innovation and Development Joint Fund Key Program/ ; U24A20790//National Natural Science Foundation of China Regional Innovation and Development Joint Fund Key Program/ ; U24A20790//National Natural Science Foundation of China Regional Innovation and Development Joint Fund Key Program/ ; U24A20790//National Natural Science Foundation of China Regional Innovation and Development Joint Fund Key Program/ ; U24A20790//National Natural Science Foundation of China Regional Innovation and Development Joint Fund Key Program/ ; 2024NSFSC0054//National Natural Science Foundation of China Key Project/ ; 2024NSFSC0054//National Natural Science Foundation of China Key Project/ ; 2024NSFSC0054//National Natural Science Foundation of China Key Project/ ; 2024NSFSC0054//National Natural Science Foundation of China Key Project/ ; 2024NSFSC0054//National Natural Science Foundation of China Key Project/ ; 2024NSFSC0054//National Natural Science Foundation of China Key Project/ ; 2024NSFSC0054//National Natural Science Foundation of China Key Project/ ; 2024ZD02//Sichuan Provincial Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine Special Scientific Research Project/ ; 2024ZD02//Sichuan Provincial Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine Special Scientific Research Project/ ; 2024ZD02//Sichuan Provincial Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine Special Scientific Research Project/ ; 2024ZD02//Sichuan Provincial Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine Special Scientific Research Project/ ; 2024ZD02//Sichuan Provincial Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine Special Scientific Research Project/ ; 2024ZD02//Sichuan Provincial Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine Special Scientific Research Project/ ; 2024ZD02//Sichuan Provincial Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine Special Scientific Research Project/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41818211,
year = {2026},
author = {Matsumoto, Y and Shimizu, Y and Nakayama, M and Takizawa, M and Kurakado, S and Sugita, T},
title = {Genetic and pharmacologic inhibition of calcineurin reduces biofilm formation by the pathogenic fungus Trichosporon asahii in an in vivo silkworm infection model.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {21},
number = {3},
pages = {e0344259},
pmid = {41818211},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {Animals ; *Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Calcineurin/genetics/metabolism ; *Bombyx/microbiology ; *Trichosporon/drug effects/genetics/physiology/pathogenicity ; Tacrolimus/pharmacology ; *Calcineurin Inhibitors/pharmacology ; *Trichosporonosis/microbiology/drug therapy ; Disease Models, Animal ; *Fungal Proteins/genetics/metabolism/antagonists & inhibitors ; Basidiomycota ; },
abstract = {Trichosporon asahii is a dimorphic pathogenic fungus that causes catheter-related bloodstream infection in immunocompromised patients with neutropenia. Biofilm formation by T. asahii on the surfaces of medical devices such as catheters is influenced by various host environmental factors. Calcineurin, a protein phosphatase composed of the catalytic subunit Cna1 and the regulatory subunit Cnb1, regulates multiple stress responses and virulence of T. asahii. The role of calcineurin in biofilm formation under host-derived conditions, however, remains unclear. Here, we demonstrated that calcineurin is essential for biofilm formation in vivo by T. asahii. While the cna1 gene- and the cnb1 gene-deficient mutants formed biofilms comparable to those of the parent strain in vitro, it produced significantly less biofilm than the parent strain in the in vivo silkworm infection model. Similarly, tacrolimus, a calcineurin inhibitor, did not inhibit biofilm formation by T. asahii in vitro but markedly suppressed biofilm formation in vivo. Together, these findings suggest that calcineurin plays a crucial role in biofilm formation by T. asahii under host environmental conditions.},
}

Animals
*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Calcineurin/genetics/metabolism
*Bombyx/microbiology
*Trichosporon/drug effects/genetics/physiology/pathogenicity
Tacrolimus/pharmacology
*Calcineurin Inhibitors/pharmacology
*Trichosporonosis/microbiology/drug therapy
Disease Models, Animal
*Fungal Proteins/genetics/metabolism/antagonists & inhibitors
Basidiomycota

@article {pmid41817910,
year = {2026},
author = {Ye, JB and Zeng, K and Li, XB and Yang, J and Zhang, S and Chen, Q},
title = {Analysis of the efficacy of fosfomycin trometamol in preventing biofilm bacterial infection in double-J stents among diabetic patients and the factors associated with infection.},
journal = {International urology and nephrology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41817910},
issn = {1573-2584},
support = {Project No. 22yb050//the General Project of the Scientific Research Program of the Zigong Municipal Health Commission/ ; Project No. 2024GZL14//the High-Quality Development Project of the First People's Hospital of Zigong City/ ; Project No. 2024-YKY-03-13//the Scientific Research Project of the Zigong Medical Academy/ ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of fosfomycin trometamol powder (FMT) in preventing biofilm-associated bacterial infections on double-J stents in diabetic patients; to characterize the species distribution and antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of biofilm-forming bacteria isolated from these devices; and to identify clinical and microbiological risk factors associated with such infections-thereby informing evidence-based strategies for infection prevention in this high-risk population.

METHODS: A total of 100 adult diabetic patients who underwent double-J stent placement at our tertiary care center between June 2024 and June 2025 were prospectively enrolled and randomized in a 1:1 ratio to either an experimental group or a control group (n = 50 per group). Patients in the experimental group received a single oral dose of 3 g FMT on the day before stent insertion and on postoperative days 7 and 15; those in the control group received a single oral dose of 0.5 g levofloxacin (LFX) tablets on the day before stent insertion and on postoperative days 1 and 2. At the time of stent removal, stent surface specimens were collected for quantitative biofilm-forming bacterial culture, species identification, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Baseline clinical characteristics, stent-related symptoms, and infection outcomes were systematically recorded. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 26.0, with two-sided p < 0.05 considered statistically significant.

RESULTS: Among the 100 diabetic patients with indwelling double-J stents, biofilm-forming bacterial colonization was detected in 24 (24.0%), with significantly lower prevalence in the experimental group (7/50, 14.0%) than in the control group (17/50, 34.0%) (χ[2] = 5.48, p = 0.019). Escherichia coli (E. coli) was the predominant pathogen isolated (accounting for 50% of all positive cultures); among these E. coli isolates, 83.3% (10/12) were confirmed as extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing strains. Gram-negative bacilli exhibited high-level resistance to ciprofloxacin (93.7%), ampicillin (100%), levofloxacin (87.5%), cefepime (68.7%), cefazolin (87.5%), cefuroxime (81.2%), and ceftriaxone (75.0%). Multivariable logistic regression identified age ≥ 60 years, double-J stent indwelling duration ≥ 30 days, daily fluid intake ≤ 2000 mL, serum albumin < 30 g/L, serum creatinine > 110 μmol/L, and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) > 6% as independent risk factors for biofilm-associated bacterial infection (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION: When administered with equivalent dosing frequency (three doses total), FMT was associated with a significantly lower detection rate of biofilm-forming bacteria in double-J stent specimens compared with LFX among diabetic patients. These findings support the preferential use of FMT over LFX for targeted prophylaxis in high-risk diabetic populations and underscore the importance of integrating antimicrobial stewardship-particularly agent selection aligned with local resistance patterns-with proactive management of modifiable risk factors to optimize infection prevention and clinical outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid41816737,
year = {2026},
author = {Ökeer, M and Aydemir, SŞ and Eraç, B},
title = {Fitness cost and biofilm formation in fosfomycin-resistant clinical Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates.},
journal = {Turkish journal of medical sciences},
volume = {56},
number = {1},
pages = {315-325},
pmid = {41816737},
issn = {1303-6165},
mesh = {*Fosfomycin/pharmacology ; *Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Escherichia coli/drug effects/genetics/physiology/isolation & purification ; *Klebsiella pneumoniae/drug effects/genetics/physiology/isolation & purification ; Humans ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; *Drug Resistance, Bacterial ; Escherichia coli Infections/microbiology/drug therapy ; Klebsiella Infections/microbiology/drug therapy ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND/AIM: Fosfomycin has regained importance owing to its unique mechanism of action and effectiveness against extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Gram-negative bacteria. This study aimed to evaluate the biological fitness cost associated with fosfomycin resistance and its impact on biofilm formation in clinical Enterobacteriaceae isolates.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 78 Escherichia coli and 34 Klebsiella pneumoniae strains isolated from urine samples at Ege University Hospital were analyzed. Fosfomycin minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) were determined using the reference agar dilution method. Resistance was induced by exposing two K. pneumoniae strains with a fosfomycin MIC of 4 μg/mL and two E. coli strains susceptible to fosfomycin (MIC ≤ 8 μg/mL) to gradually increasing concentrations of the antibiotic. Biofilm-forming capacities, growth rates, and expression levels of selected virulence genes (fimH and papC in E. coli; entB, mrkD, uge, wabG, and ycfM in K. pneumoniae) were compared between variants with low and high fosfomycin MICs.

RESULTS: Of the 78 E. coli isolates, 13 (16.6%) were resistant to fosfomycin. Additionally, eight (23.5%) of 34 K. pneumoniae isolates exhibited high fosfomycin MICs (MIC > 32 μg/mL). No significant differences in biofilm formation were observed between the variants. However, the expression of the fimH gene decreased in one E. coli resistant variant compared with its susceptible counterpart. While the expression of the uge gene decreased in one K. pneumoniae isolate with a high MIC, the expression of the wabG gene increased. Slower growth rates were observed in two fosfomycin-resistant E. coli strains and one K. pneumoniae strain with a high fosfomycin MIC than in their counterparts.

CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that, in the examined isolates, decreased susceptibility to fosfomycin was associated with slower growth, whereas biofilm formation ability remained largely unaffected. Continued surveillance of fosfomycin resistance is essential owing to its potential implications for bacterial fitness and pathogenicity.},
}

*Fosfomycin/pharmacology
*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Escherichia coli/drug effects/genetics/physiology/isolation & purification
*Klebsiella pneumoniae/drug effects/genetics/physiology/isolation & purification
Humans
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
*Drug Resistance, Bacterial
Escherichia coli Infections/microbiology/drug therapy
Klebsiella Infections/microbiology/drug therapy

@article {pmid41815836,
year = {2026},
author = {Mohamed, H and Marusich, E and Leonov, S},
title = {Framework for Analyzing the Anti-biofilm and Anti-virulence Activities of Fatty Acids from Hermetia illucens Larvae Targeting Multidrug-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae.},
journal = {Bio-protocol},
volume = {16},
number = {5},
pages = {e5629},
pmid = {41815836},
issn = {2331-8325},
abstract = {The emergence of antimicrobial resistance and the persistence of Klebsiella pneumoniae biofilms represent significant challenges to public health. Hermetia illucens (HI) larvae are considered a sustainable reservoir of novel bioactive compounds. This protocol details a method for extracting fatty acids from HI larvae fat (AWME3 fraction) and studying their effects on multidrug-resistant and hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae strains. Effects are evaluated by crystal violet and ethidium bromide uptake assays, motility assays (swimming, swarming, and twitching), minimal biofilm inhibitory and eradication concentration tests (MBIC/MBEC) for single, mixed, and mature biofilms, light, fluorescence, and scanning electron microscopy imaging, and microbial adhesion to solvents (MATS). This protocol offers a reliable methodology for evaluating the anti-biofilm and anti-virulence properties of natural compounds. Key features • A reproducible protocol for extracting fatty acids from Hermetia illucens larvae fat (AWME3). • A comprehensive set of assays to assess biofilm inhibition and eradication in multidrug-resistant and hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae. • Combines light, fluorescence, and scanning electron microscopy to visualize biofilm structure and fatty acid-induced morphological changes. • Includes microbial adhesion to solvents (MATS) analysis for evaluating cell surface hydrophobicity in relation to biofilm formation.},
}

@article {pmid41815221,
year = {2026},
author = {Debta, P and Sahu, BK and Patra, SK and Debta, FM and Mishra, E and Panda, SK},
title = {Overcoming Candida biofilm resistance: targeting persister cells with probiotic-derived metabolites.},
journal = {Frontiers in antibiotics},
volume = {5},
number = {},
pages = {1767028},
pmid = {41815221},
issn = {2813-2467},
abstract = {Candida biofilms pose a significant complication in clinical settings due to antifungal drug tolerance and the presence of persister cells. Biofilm-mediated resistance is influenced by several associated factors, including the high density and extracellular matrix characteristics of the biofilm, metabolic downregulation, efflux pump activity, and stress-response signaling pathways, which ultimately diminish drug permeability and effectiveness. Within biofilms, persister cells form a small subpopulation of cells with unique phenotypic traits that enable them to survive lethal antifungal exposure and promote the recurrence of infection. Failure of antifungal treatments in eliminating biofilm and their resilient communities suggests a need for new, adjunct treatment options Recent findings have highlighted the therapeutic potential of probiotic-derived metabolites for inhibiting certain aspects of biofilm behavior and survival. These postbiotic compounds could offer a multi-faceted, low-toxicity treatment approach that may be used as an adjunct with existing antifungal therapies. Future investigations incorporating mechanistic studies, biofilm models, and drug product development for metabolite formulations could lead to a new treatment strategy for persistent Candida infections.},
}

@article {pmid41814592,
year = {2026},
author = {Youn, MJ and Eom, YB},
title = {Plumbagin Disrupts Biofilm Integrity and Resistance Gene Expression in Carbapenem-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii.},
journal = {Journal of microbiology and biotechnology},
volume = {36},
number = {},
pages = {e2601011},
doi = {10.4014/jmb.2601.01011},
pmid = {41814592},
issn = {1738-8872},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Acinetobacter baumannii/drug effects/genetics ; *Naphthoquinones/pharmacology ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; *Carbapenems/pharmacology ; Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial/drug effects ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics ; Acinetobacter Infections/microbiology ; Humans ; Drug Resistance, Bacterial/genetics ; Plumbaginaceae/chemistry ; },
abstract = {Carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) has appeared as a leading cause of hospital-acquired infections, resulting in high mortality rates and limited treatment options. The development of novel antibacterial agents has lagged behind the rapid spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria; thus, alternative therapeutic strategies are urgently needed. In this study, we investigated plumbagin, a natural compound derived from Plumbago zeylanica L., for its potential antibacterial and antibiofilm activities against CRAB. MIC and MBC determinations showed that plumbagin significantly inhibited growth and exerted bactericidal activity at low concentrations. Biofilm inhibition concentration and biofilm eradication concentration assays revealed that plumbagin both prevented biofilm formation and eradicated mature biofilms. Consistent with these findings, XTT reduction assays showed a marked decrease in metabolic activity after plumbagin treatment, and confocal laser scanning microscopy with COMSTAT analysis confirmed reduced biofilm biomass and decreased viability of biofilm-embedded cells. Further, quantitative polymerase chain reaction confirmed the downregulation of the carbapenem-resistance gene blaOXA-23 and biofilm-related genes, including bfmR, csuA/B, ompA, and bap. Collectively, these results reveal plumbagin as a therapeutic candidate against CRAB.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Acinetobacter baumannii/drug effects/genetics
*Naphthoquinones/pharmacology
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
*Carbapenems/pharmacology
Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial/drug effects
Bacterial Proteins/genetics
Acinetobacter Infections/microbiology
Humans
Drug Resistance, Bacterial/genetics
Plumbaginaceae/chemistry

@article {pmid41813782,
year = {2026},
author = {Hong, JY and Moon, YG and Choi, SK and Kim, HT and Jo, S},
title = {Povidone iodine demonstrates strong efficacy in reducing Candida biofilm in an in vitro fungal prosthetic infection.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41598-026-42366-6},
pmid = {41813782},
issn = {2045-2322},
}

@article {pmid41812688,
year = {2026},
author = {Özdemir, FN},
title = {Lactic Acid Bacteria Derived Postbiotic Preparations Disrupt Biofilm Architecture of Mastitis-Related Pathogens in vitro.},
journal = {Microbial pathogenesis},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {108433},
doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2026.108433},
pmid = {41812688},
issn = {1096-1208},
abstract = {Rising antimicrobial resistance necessitates alternative therapeutic approaches for bovine mastitis, especially strategies targeting biofilm-related infections. This study explores the antibiofilm effects of LAB-derived postbiotic preparations (neutralized cell-free supernatants, nCFS) from Pediococcus pentosaceus and Lactococcus lactis, isolated from local sources as potential complementary or adjuncts to conventional antibiotic therapy. Antimicrobial activity was assessed using the agar well diffusion method, while antibiofilm efficacy was determined via the microtiter plate assay. Biofilm eradication assays showed that L. lactis CNM81-derived postbiotic preparations removed up to 93% Staphylococcus aureus biofilms, with 63-94% reductions in other Gram-positive pathogens, including Streptococcus agalactiae and Staphylococcus epidermidis. In contrast, postbiotic preparations from P. pentosaceus M46 were more effective against Gram-negative pathogens, achieving up to 88% biofilm removal in Pseudomonas aeruginosa and 74% in Klebsiella pneumoniae. Several pathogen-treatment combinations exceeded the 50% eradication threshold, highlighting the condition-dependent nature of the antibiofilm activity. Whole-genome sequencing was performed to support the bioactive potential of L. lactis CNM81. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed extensive structural disruption of mature biofilms, particularly in S. aureus. Raman spectroscopy further confirmed molecular-level biofilm damage, showing marked reductions in carotenoid- and protein-associated bands following treatment with L. lactis-derived postbiotic preparations. These LAB-derived postbiotic preparations represent a promising non-antibiotic strategy against S. aureus, the most prevalent pathogen implicated in both clinical and subclinical forms of mastitis, particularly in chronically infected mammary glands.},
}

@article {pmid41812557,
year = {2026},
author = {Yang, S and Zuo, Z and Li, S and Ma, M and Liu, Y and Huang, X},
title = {In-sewer biofilm and sediment-derived suspended solids accelerate virus genome-signal decay and implications for wastewater-based epidemiology.},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {297},
number = {},
pages = {125607},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2026.125607},
pmid = {41812557},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {Mechanistic models in wastewater-based epidemiology rely on robust in-sewer virus genome-signal decay parameters, yet most existing decay estimates are derived from bulk wastewater and neglect the role of suspended solids originating from sewer infrastructure. Here, we quantified the decay of an enveloped virus (porcine epidemic diarrhea virus, PEDV), an enveloped bacteriophage (Phi6), and a non-enveloped bacteriophage (T7) in suspended solids derived from sewer biofilms (BF-SS) and sediments (SD-SS), and compared them with raw wastewater (WW) across temperatures from 4 to 35 °C. Biofilm- and sediment-derived suspended solids significantly accelerated virus genome-signal decay relative to raw wastewater, contributing 34.32-44.15 % and 27.98-41.75 % of the total decay, respectively, under the tested solids conditions and controlled matrix preparation. Elevated temperatures increased decay rates by approximately 2-3 times across all matrices. Integrating these kinetics, we developed a temperature-dependent comprehensive decay model (T-CMD) that jointly represents virus genome-signal decay in wastewater, biofilm-derived, and sediment-derived suspended solids. The T-CMD exhibited 2.2-3.0-fold higher temperature sensitivity compared with wastewater-only models, indicating that neglecting suspended solids leads to systematic underestimation of in-sewer virus genome-signal loss. These findings identify biofilm and sediment-sourced suspended solids as major drivers of virus genome-signal decay in sewers and provide a mechanistic framework to refine sewer process models and improve the accuracy of wastewater-based epidemiology for public health surveillance.},
}

@article {pmid41811925,
year = {2026},
author = {Oastler, C and La Ragione, RM and Chambers, MA and Gosling, RJ and Martelli, F and Wales, AD and Davies, RH},
title = {Biofilm-forming capability of Salmonella isolates sourced from poultry production and farm environments in Great Britain.},
journal = {Journal of medical microbiology},
volume = {75},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1099/jmm.0.002131},
pmid = {41811925},
issn = {1473-5644},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; Animals ; *Salmonella/physiology/isolation & purification/classification ; United Kingdom ; *Poultry/microbiology ; Farms ; *Environmental Microbiology ; *Salmonella Infections, Animal/microbiology ; Poultry Diseases/microbiology ; Serogroup ; Temperature ; Chickens/microbiology ; },
abstract = {Introduction. Poultry and poultry products are commonly implicated in human salmonellosis, making effective Salmonella control in the poultry and allied industries an important public health priority. Several factors have been identified which contribute to Salmonella survival and persistence in the environment, including biofilm formation.Gap Statement. Biofilm-forming capability in Salmonella has previously been under-studied in environmental isolates sourced from some commercial poultry production environments, such as poultry feed mills, hatcheries and duck farms.Aim. This study assessed the biofilm-forming capabilities of 96 Salmonella isolates from the environments of commercial poultry premises in Great Britain: feed mills, hatcheries, chicken farms, turkey farms and duck farms.Methodology. A crystal violet microtitre plate biofilm assay was used at environmentally relevant temperatures of 20 °C and 25 °C under aerobic conditions. Analysis of correlations between the biofilm-forming capability and serovar of isolates, assay conditions and origin was undertaken.Results. Ninety-five of the 96 Salmonella isolates formed biofilms. The influence of incubation temperature varied between isolates but increased significantly after an extended incubation period of 72 h. Isolates originating from different types of commercial poultry environments showed significant differences in biofilm-forming capability. However, as different serovars predominated in the isolate panels from each poultry environment, the influences of serovar versus origin could not be differentiated. The influence on biofilm formation of sample type and/or surface material of origin was not statistically significant. Inter-serovar variation was observed with nine serovars also demonstrating intra-serovar variation, consistent with biofilm-forming capability being strain dependent.Conclusion. This study demonstrates that most Salmonella isolated from poultry environments have strong or moderate biofilm-forming capabilities in microtitre plate assays.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
Animals
*Salmonella/physiology/isolation & purification/classification
United Kingdom
*Poultry/microbiology
Farms
*Environmental Microbiology
*Salmonella Infections, Animal/microbiology
Poultry Diseases/microbiology
Serogroup
Temperature
Chickens/microbiology

@article {pmid41809886,
year = {2025},
author = {Liu, M and Liu, X and Zhang, T and Wang, Y and Yao, H and Liu, X and Fang, Z and Yu, Y and Luo, L},
title = {Hypoxia-responsive hybrid nanoparticles loaded with fingolimod and colistin against multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae with mature biofilm.},
journal = {Asian journal of pharmaceutical sciences},
volume = {20},
number = {6},
pages = {101107},
pmid = {41809886},
issn = {2221-285X},
abstract = {Multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (MDR-KP) is characterized by high mortality and risk of nosocomial transmission, and biofilm constitutes the primary challenge in the treatment of its implant-associated and refractory pulmonary infections. Notably, the hypoxic microenvironment and the physical barrier of biofilm leading to the increased tolerance of the bacteria to antibiotics. Herein, a hypoxia-responsive hybrid nanoparticle (CHLip@FLD/COL) loaded separately with anti-biofilm candidate fingolimod (FLD) and antibiotic colistin (COL) is achieved targeting antibacterial efficacy against MDR-KP in vitro and in vivo. CHLip@FLD/COL is composed of hybridizing hypoxia-responsive lipids (HLipid) and lipid A targeting materials DSPE-mPEG-COL. HLipid is synthesized by hexadecanedioic acid esterified with nitroimidazole, while DSPE-mPEG is coupling with vector COL via amide reaction. The relative level of extracellular polymeric substances and the NIR-IIb sO2 images of the infection site are used as indicators to establish mature biofilm models. CHLip@FLD/COL readily releases FLD and COL in hypoxic conditions, and its MIC against MDR-KP is only one-sixteenth of that when COL is used alone in vitro. The nanoparticle exhibits bacterial targeting ability and antibacterial effect in the pulmonary infection and biofilm infection mice models. Bacterial loads eliminated by 4 Log10 CFU and 2 Log10 CFU, respectively. The strategy provides a valuable reference for the treatment of refractory infections caused by MDR-KP.},
}

@article {pmid41809372,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, J and Singh, P and Chen, X and Shi, L and Cao, Z and Rahimi, S and Pandit, S and Mijakovic, I},
title = {Green-synthesized silver nanoparticles against Streptococcus mutans: antibacterial activity and transcriptomic insights into planktonic and biofilm states.},
journal = {Materials today. Bio},
volume = {37},
number = {},
pages = {102983},
pmid = {41809372},
issn = {2590-0064},
abstract = {Dental caries, one of the most common infectious diseases worldwide, is closely associated with Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) biofilms that exhibit strong resistance to conventional antimicrobial agents. Herein, a green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) is reported to use extracellular metabolic products derived from Pseudomonas putida KT2440 as natural reducing, capping, and stabilizing agents for antibacterial therapy. The resulting AgNPs possess nanoscale size, negative surface charge, and excellent colloidal stability. These green AgNPs display potent antibacterial and antibiofilm activities against S. mutans, significantly disrupting bacterial membranes, suppressing acidogenicity, and inducing metabolic dysfunction. Biofilm evaluation further revealed a marked reduction in bacterial and extracellular polysaccharide biomass, indicating the collapse of the three-dimensional biofilm structure. To gain deeper insight into the molecular mechanisms of AgNPs-mediated antibacterial activity, RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was conducted, revealing significant transcriptional reprogramming associated with the inhibition of metabolic and translational processes, disruption of cell wall homeostasis, suppression of virulence gene expression, and perturbation of carbohydrate metabolism. This study presents an environmentally friendly and effective strategy that bridges green nanotechnology with oral microbiology, offering a sustainable approach for caries prevention and biofilm control.},
}

@article {pmid41809201,
year = {2025},
author = {Kumar, SD and Kim, EY and Radhakrishnan, NK and Ganbaatar, B and Lee, CW and Yang, S and Shin, SY},
title = {Development of lysine-branched dendrimeric antimicrobial peptides targeting ESKAPE pathogens: broad-spectrum activity, biofilm eradication, and endotoxin neutralization.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1702629},
pmid = {41809201},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) represents a pressing global health challenge, driving the urgent need for novel therapeutic agents with improved stability and selectivity. In this study, we present the rational design and synthesis of lysine-branched dendrimeric antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) based on short arginine/tryptophan-rich motifs (Du-6 and Lf-6), yielding dimeric and tetrameric architectures. Physicochemical analyses revealed a systematic increase in net charge and hydrophobicity with higher degrees of branching. Comparative biological evaluations demonstrated that dimeric peptides (di-Du-6 and di-Lf-6) achieved optimal broad-spectrum antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including multidrug-resistant ESKAPE pathogens. These dimers maintained low hemolytic activity and exhibited therapeutic indices of up to 40. In contrast, despite their elevated charge density and tryptophan content, tetrameric peptides showed increased cytotoxicity, likely due to deeper membrane penetration into eukaryotic cells, thereby compromising selectivity. To overcome proteolytic degradation, D-enantiomeric dimers [(di-Du-6) D and (di-Lf-6) D ] were synthesized. These retained potent antimicrobial efficacy, demonstrated complete resistance to trypsin digestion, and remained active under physiologically relevant conditions, including the presence of salts and serum. Beyond their antibacterial effects, the dimeric peptides effectively inhibited and eradicated biofilms formed by multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, exhibited synergistic interactions with conventional antibiotics, and attenuated inflammatory responses by suppressing the production and expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in LPS-stimulated macrophages. Furthermore, they neutralized endotoxins through direct binding and disaggregation of LPS aggregates. Collectively, these results establish dimeric peptides as multifunctional anti-infective agents, combining broad-spectrum antibacterial, antibiofilm, and anti-inflammatory activities. The enhanced proteolytic stability and selectivity of D-form dimers underscore their promise as next-generation therapeutics for combating multidrug-resistant infections and sepsis-associated inflammation.},
}

@article {pmid41808008,
year = {2026},
author = {Belkacem, N and Terrade, A and Hong, E and Deghmane, AE and Taha, MK},
title = {Role of biofilm formation and antimicrobial resistance in urogenital Haemophilus influenzae isolates.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12866-026-04914-y},
pmid = {41808008},
issn = {1471-2180},
}

@article {pmid41807572,
year = {2026},
author = {Wintachai, P and Thonguppatham, R and Smith, DR and Voravuthikunchai, SP and Sitthisak, S and Boripun, R and Surachat, K and Clokie, MRJ},
title = {Efficacy of a novel bacteriophage in controlling Escherichia coli associated with swine farm environments and its potential for biofilm disruption.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41598-026-42644-3},
pmid = {41807572},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {N42A670603//the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT) and Walailak University/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41807094,
year = {2026},
author = {Al Hashedi, SA and Dmour, SM and Galut, HS and Alsheikh, ADI and Abukhalil, MH and Ma'aitah, S and Al-Zoreky, NS and Ramadan, KMA and Sattar, MN and Iqbal, Z and Alshoaibi, A and Saghir, SAM},
title = {Myricetin as a potential therapeutic agent against Pseudomonas aeruginosa: inhibition of biofilm formation, quorum sensing, and virulence factor production.},
journal = {Biofouling},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-17},
doi = {10.1080/08927014.2026.2634395},
pmid = {41807094},
issn = {1029-2454},
abstract = {Multidrug-resistant pathogenic bacteria, particularly Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa), pose a significant threat to human health. Despite the huge persistence of antibiotics, there remains a lack of effective natural compounds capable of simultaneously disrupting quorum sensing (QS), biofilm formation, and virulence in this pathogen. This study aimed to investigate the inhibitory potential of myricetin against P. aeruginosa focusing on its ability to interfere with QS-regulated virulence traits. Antibacterial, antibiofilm, anti-QS, and virulence factor activities were evaluated using crystal violet biofilm formation and QS-regulated virulence factor inhibition assays (e.g. pyocyanin, rhamnolipid, protease, and exopolysaccharides). The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) required to inhibit visible bacterial growth was 0.97 mg/mL. Additionally, the minimum biofilm inhibitory concentration of 50 (MBIC50) was recorded at the MIC value. Myricetin showed a significant inhibitory effect against biofilm formation by suppressing bacterial hydrophobicity, aggregation, and swarming motility. Furthermore, myricetin significantly reduced the production of pyocyanin, rhamnolipid, protease, and exopolysaccharides. The myricetin effectively impeded QS mechanisms as evidenced by a significant reduction in the production of acyl homoserine lactone and violacein pigment, both qualitatively and quantitatively. Gene expression analysis exhibited a significant downregulation of LasI/R and RhlI/R genes, further enhancing the myricetin role in QS inhibition. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that myricetin effectively interferes with QS-mediated virulence mechanisms in P. aeruginosa, supporting its potential as a promising lead compound for developing anti-virulence strategies.},
}

@article {pmid41806603,
year = {2026},
author = {Eddaoui, N and Soulaine, C},
title = {Modeling chemotaxis-biofilm competition during NAPL biodegradation in porous media.},
journal = {Journal of contaminant hydrology},
volume = {279},
number = {},
pages = {104904},
doi = {10.1016/j.jconhyd.2026.104904},
pmid = {41806603},
issn = {1873-6009},
abstract = {Bioremediating non-aqueous phase liquids (NAPLs) in subsurface environments poses a persistent challenge due to their low solubility and the tendency of microbial biofilms to induce pore clogging, both of which limit contaminant accessibility. This study develops a continuum-scale bioreactive transport model to investigate the competitive dynamics between chemotactic motility - defined as the intrinsic ability of bacteria to migrate in response to chemical gradients - and biofilm formation during toluene biodegradation under diffusion-dominated conditions. The model incorporates NAPL dissolution, solute diffusion, chemotactic migration, microbial growth, and biofilm-induced pore clogging. We tested three microbial strategies: a biofilm-only population, a chemotaxis-only population, and a combined system. Our results reveal that competition for feeding alone, even in the absence of physical pore obstruction, limits bacterial mobility. Simulations show that chemotactic bacteria migrate along solute gradients, forming patterns that refresh the contaminant targeting. However, this directed migration toward the aromatic hydrocarbon is progressively restricted in the presence of growing biofilms by a dynamic feeding competition for dissolved toluene. As bacterial activity suppresses the dissolved toluene gradient, the system shifts into a growth-dominated regime, chemotactic activity is suppressed, and continuous biofilm expansion leads to clogging and more reduced substrate accessibility. Our results also show that chemotactic bacteria can mitigate clogging by suppressing biofilm formation through competitive interactions, but this comes at a cost: reduced overall degradation rates compared to biofilm-only systems. While advective transport and shear-induced biofilm detachment are not considered here, the results isolate key microbial competitive mechanisms relevant to diffusion-controlled environments, with implications for bioremediation and other subsurface applications such as underground hydrogen storage, where suppressing microbial activity and bioclogging are desirable.},
}

@article {pmid41806111,
year = {2026},
author = {Garcia, LS and Roque-Borda, CA and Pavan, FR and Chorilli, M},
title = {Biofilm Associated Persistence and Drug Tolerance in Mycobacteria Within Host Microenvironments.},
journal = {APMIS : acta pathologica, microbiologica, et immunologica Scandinavica},
volume = {134},
number = {3},
pages = {e70166},
doi = {10.1111/apm.70166},
pmid = {41806111},
issn = {1600-0463},
support = {001//Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior/ ; 2024/23710-8//São Paulo Research Foundation/ ; 2023/01664-1//São Paulo Research Foundation/ ; 2020/16573-3//São Paulo Research Foundation/ ; 2021/14603-5//São Paulo Research Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {Biofilms formed by mycobacteria, particularly Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), represent a major challenge in tuberculosis (TB) treatment due to their highly organized structure and their capacity to induce phenotypic drug tolerance. These three-dimensional bacterial aggregates are embedded in a self-produced extracellular matrix that restricts antibiotic penetration and shields bacilli from host immune responses. The resulting spatial and physiological heterogeneity within biofilms generates microenvironments that favor slow-growing or non-replicating cells, markedly reducing the efficacy of conventional antimicrobial therapies. Increasing experimental and clinical evidence supports the presence of biofilm-like mycobacterial communities in TB lesions, linking this growth mode to disease chronicity, treatment failure, and relapse. This review aims to provide an integrated overview of the biological and physiological states adopted by mycobacteria within biofilm microenvironments, with particular emphasis on the mechanisms underlying biofilm-associated drug tolerance. In addition, it critically discusses therapeutic strategies designed to overcome this tolerance, focusing on synergistic antibiotic combinations and peptide-antibiotic therapies that directly disrupt biofilm architecture, enhance drug penetration, or sensitize biofilm-embedded bacilli to antimicrobial killing.},
}

@article {pmid41806019,
year = {2026},
author = {Su, ZZ and Hou, Y and Lin, JJ and Duan, YF and Obeten, AU and Dong, S and Huang, Q and Huang, H and Pan, Z},
title = {Extracellular vesicles from biofilm and planktonic Pseudomonas aeruginosa: proteomic profiles, iron chelation and functional Implications.},
journal = {Archives of microbiology},
volume = {208},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {41806019},
issn = {1432-072X},
}

@article {pmid41805852,
year = {2026},
author = {Subramani, T and Vuppu, S},
title = {Targeting super bugs: metal complexes as emerging anti-microbial and anti-biofilm agents.},
journal = {Archives of microbiology},
volume = {208},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {41805852},
issn = {1432-072X},
abstract = {Antimicrobial resistance has emerged as one of the major global health threats, driving the search for innovative strategies to combat chronic and recurring infections, particularly associated with biofilm formation. Biofilms confer strong tolerance to traditional antibiotics by shielding microbial communities within an extracellular matrix, posing significant challenges in clinical settings, especially in device-associated infections. Conventional antibiotics often fail to eradicate these complex biofilm structures, underscoring the need to explore alternative therapeutic strategies. Over the past decade, metal-based complexes have emerged as promising alternatives due to their unique modes of action and physicochemical properties. The integration of organic and inorganic chemistry, metal-ligand interactions in metal complexes, exhibits diverse mechanisms of action, including ROS production, enzyme inhibition, membrane cleavage and delayed resistance, representing a compelling frontier in addressing the global AMR crisis. This review highlights the dual role of metal complexes in antimicrobial and antibiofilm applications, with emphasis on silver, copper, palladium, gold, zinc, ruthenium, platinum and other complexes, reinforcing their potential as next-generation therapeutic antimicrobials.},
}

@article {pmid41800823,
year = {2026},
author = {Shen, Y and Zhang, X and Xia, X and Li, M and Chen, C and Li, Q and Zhang, Y and Zhu, H},
title = {Antimicrobial Activities of Ophiobolins from Bipolaris maydis against Foodborne Pathogenic Bacteria via Biofilm Formation Inhibition.},
journal = {The Journal of organic chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acs.joc.6c00055},
pmid = {41800823},
issn = {1520-6904},
abstract = {Bipolarizens A-O (1-15), 15 previously undescribed ophiobolin derivatives, and one known analog, 3-anhydroophiobolin A (16), were discovered from the fungus Bipolaris maydis. All of the compounds were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic data, DP4+ analyses, electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculations, and X-ray crystallography studies. Compound 1 had a 15-oxatetracyclo[9.3.2.0[2,12].0[4,8]]hexadecane-bridged system. Compound 2 featured a 5/8/5/7-tetracyclic sesterterpenoid framework, constituting only the second reported example of this structural class. Bioactivity research revealed that compound 16 exhibited moderate antimicrobial activity against Bacillus cereus, with a MIC of 50 μg/mL. Further crystal-violet assay, fluorescent staining, and scanning electron microscopy significantly demonstrated that compound 16 could inhibit biofilm formation and cellular morphological integrity of B. cereus. These findings not only enrich the structural diversity of ophiobolins but also offer a promising molecular scaffold to control foodborne contamination associated with B. cereus and its biofilm.},
}

@article {pmid41800478,
year = {2026},
author = {Çetinsoy, E and Gökçe, B and Köse, T and Gürkan, A},
title = {Ultrasonication-Assisted Sequential Chemical Removal of Mature Biofilm on Retrieved Titanium Healing Abutments.},
journal = {Clinical implant dentistry and related research},
volume = {28},
number = {2},
pages = {e70131},
doi = {10.1111/cid.70131},
pmid = {41800478},
issn = {1708-8208},
support = {2023-Dent-32360//Ege University Research Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {*Titanium ; Humans ; *Dental Abutments/microbiology ; *Biofilms/drug effects ; Surface Properties ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning ; *Decontamination/methods ; Sodium Hypochlorite ; Male ; Maleates ; Citric Acid ; Lactic Acid ; Spectrometry, X-Ray Emission ; Sonication ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Potential effectiveness of ultrasonication (US) with different chemical solutions on the decontamination of titanium implant healing abutments (HAs) and their surface characteristics was investigated.

METHODS: Ninety-five HAs, representing two distinct brands/designs, were retrieved from patients after 4-6 weeks for the present study. They were precleaned by immersing in enzymatic detergent (ED) and randomized into five groups: autoclaving only (control), US in 40°C tap water and autoclaving, US in 40°C 1% sodium hypochlorite (SH) and autoclaving, US in 80°C citric + maleic + lactic acid (CA) solution and autoclaving, US in 40°C ED and autoclaving. HAs were stained and photographed from lateral and occlusal aspects before and after decontamination. Stained areas were calculated and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analyses were conducted to assess surface morphology and elemental composition.

RESULTS: Control group showed the lowest debridement potential (mean 54.4%) and highest residual contamination. SH almost entirely removed the debris (mean 99.7%, Brand1: 99.6%, Brand2: 99.9%) showing an outperforming cleansing efficacy among all groups (p < 0.05). SEM and EDS analyses demonstrated that surface morphology and elemental composition of decontaminated surfaces in SH group was similar to that of unused HAs.

CONCLUSION: After precleaning HAs by soaking in ED, 1% SH, used in combination with US, can be preferred for decontaminating HAs due to its superior cleaning efficiency and minimal surface alteration regardless of HA macrogeometry. In cases where placing unused HAs is not feasible, this three-step protocol may present an efficient and cost-effective alternative for at least one reuse cycle.},
}

*Titanium
Humans
*Dental Abutments/microbiology
*Biofilms/drug effects
Surface Properties
Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
*Decontamination/methods
Sodium Hypochlorite
Male
Maleates
Citric Acid
Lactic Acid
Spectrometry, X-Ray Emission
Sonication

@article {pmid41799496,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhao, W and Han, Z and Gu, H and Ren, D},
title = {On-demand biofilm removal by shape-memory triggered local changes in surface topography.},
journal = {MRS bulletin},
volume = {51},
number = {2},
pages = {128-137},
pmid = {41799496},
issn = {0883-7694},
abstract = {ABSTRACT: Bacterial pathogens can form biofilms on implanted biomedical devices, causing persistent infections that are highly tolerant to antibiotics. Previously, we reported a strategy of biofilm control based on dynamic topography, which effectively removes biofilms via horizontal contraction of the substrate surface of a shape-memory polymer (SMP) upon triggered shape recovery. This method is effective and species nonspecific; however, alterations in the bulk material profile limit its applications. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that biofilm can be removed by changes in local topography without altering the shape of the bulk material. Acrylate-based SMPs were prepared to obtain transition temperature of 40℃ to trigger shape recovery in aqueous environment within 10 min. Micron-scale square patterns that are about 6-µm tall with varying width and spacing were prepared by hot compression against PDMS with complementary patterns, while maintaining the bulk shape of the material unchanged. The results demonstrated effective on-demand biofilm removal (e.g., 48 h biofilms of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and 24 h biofilms of Escherichia coli were removed by 71.5% and 70.6%, respectively). In addition, shape recovery triggered topographic changes increased antibiotic susceptibility of attached bacterial cells. Overall, the results from this study demonstrated the feasibility to remove biofilms without changing the shape of the bulk material. These findings are helpful for engineering better antifouling materials.

IMPACT STATEMENT: Bacterial biofilms are the root cause of persistent infections associated with implanted biomaterials. Conventional treatments with antibiotics are often ineffective and promote the development of bacterial drug resistance. Thus, we are motivated to engineer new biomaterials that are self-defensive against bacterial colonization. Previously, we reported that shape-memory polymers (SMPs) can be programed to change the bulk shape (via horizontal stretch) on-demand and effectively remove bacterial biofilms. In this study, we further developed this strategy to control shape change of surface topography alone. The SMP surfaces programmed with microscale square-shaped features were fabricated, which were able to revert to flat surfaces upon triggering with moderate temperature change and disrupt bacterial biofilms (~70%). The shape recovery was limited to surface topography with the bulk shape unchanged. In addition to biofilm removal, shape recovery also enhanced the antibiotic susceptibility of remaining biofilm cells. Further research could explore various forms of surface topographies and different stimuli to enable more effective and reversible changes. In summary, this study reports a new strategy for biofilm control. With further development, it could help reduce medical device-associated infections and biofouling in industrial settings.

On-demand biofilm removal through microscale shape recovery.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1557/s43577-025-01024-4.},
}

@article {pmid41798863,
year = {2026},
author = {Abolarinwa, TO and Ajose, DJ and Oluwarinde, BO and Ewunkem, AJ and Montso, PK and Engohang-Ndong, J and Callaway, TR and Fayemi, OE and Aremu, AO and Ateba, CN},
title = {Unravelling the Pathotype, Biofilm, Virulome and Resistome Profile of MultiDrug-Resistant Bacteria Isolated From Cattle Faeces Using Whole Genome Sequence Analysis.},
journal = {International journal of microbiology},
volume = {2026},
number = {},
pages = {6662085},
pmid = {41798863},
issn = {1687-918X},
abstract = {The high mortality and morbidity resulting from diarrhoeal cases worldwide are associated with the increasing incidence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and represent a serious public health concern. Cattle are a major reservoir of AMR organisms, and faecal shedding may facilitate their transmission into the food chain. This study examined the pathotype, biofilm, virulome and resistome profiles of bacteria isolated from cattle faeces using whole genome sequencing (WGS). Asymptomatic cattle faecal samples (n = 269) were analysed, and three isolates identified as multidrug-resistant and biofilm-forming bacteria were sequenced. In this study, we successfully isolated bacteria from cattle faecal samples, and the isolates DEC_NWU, DVC_NWU and DSS_NWU were phenotypically confirmed as multidrug-resistant and strong biofilm formers. WGS analysis confirmed DEC_NWU, DVC_NWU and DSS_NWU to have genome lengths of 4,803,571, 4,499,945 and 5,374,783 bp, respectively. The Genome Taxonomy Database (GTDB) confirmed that DEC_NWU, DVC_NWU and DSS_NWU are E. coli, V. cholerae and S. enterica, respectively. Also, the genetic nexus of the isolates with other species confirmed that DEC_NWU, DVC_NWU and DSS_NWU were related to E. coli O104:H4 (88%), V. cholerae O1 (100%) and S. enterica serovar Typhimurium (100%), respectively. In addition, PathogenFinder classified the isolates as human pathogens. Furthermore, virulence factors such as adherence, iron uptake, invasion, toxin and secretion system were detected in the genomes of DEC_NWU, DVC_NWU and DSS_NWU. The DSS_NWU genome had the highest number of virulence genes (65), compared to DVC_NWU (29) and DEC_NWU (40). Notably, DEC_NWU, DVC_NWU and DSS_NWU each harboured several resistance genes. This study established that asymptomatic cattle carry human pathogens, which harbour a repertoire of virulome and resistome.},
}

@article {pmid41794707,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, W and Yun, J and Niu, L and Liang, Y and Tian, Y and Wang, N and Song, Y and Chen, B and Bai, H and Li, Y},
title = {Microenvironment-responsive nanomotors enable enhanced biofilm penetration and immune reprogramming for peri-implantitis therapy.},
journal = {Journal of nanobiotechnology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12951-026-04244-1},
pmid = {41794707},
issn = {1477-3155},
support = {TJWJ2024MS010//Tianjin Health Research Project/ ; 24JCYBJC01060//Tianjin Science and Technology Planning Project/ ; TJYXZDXK-3-008B//Tianjin Key Medical Discipline Construction Project/ ; 82171008//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Peri-implantitis is driven by persistent multispecies biofilms and a pathological inflammatory microenvironment characterized by elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS), acidic pH, and sustained pro-inflammatory macrophage activation. These coupled features severely limit the efficacy of conventional antimicrobial therapies by restricting drug penetration into mature biofilms and perpetuating immune dysregulation. Therapeutic strategies capable of simultaneously overcoming biofilm mass-transport barriers and restoring immune homeostasis remain lacking.

RESULTS: Herein, we report a microenvironment-responsive nanomotor system (M-CaO₂-CL) that converts pathological inflammatory cues into sustained autonomous motion, enabling active biofilm penetration and concurrent immunomodulation. Triggered by elevated hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and sustained by acidic pH, the nanomotors generate continuous oxygen-driven propulsion, facilitating deep infiltration into dense biofilm matrices and overcoming diffusion-limited transport. This motion-enabled behavior markedly enhances antibacterial efficacy, particularly when combined with mild photothermal treatment under near-infrared irradiation (< 48 °C), achieving efficient biofilm disruption without detectable collateral tissue damage. Beyond antibiofilm activity, the nanomotor platform exhibits intrinsic antioxidant and anti-inflammatory functions, effectively scavenging excessive ROS and reprogramming macrophages from a pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype toward a reparative M2 phenotype. In a rat peri-implantitis model, M-CaO₂-CL treatment significantly reduced bacterial burden, suppressed pro-inflammatory cytokine expression, and preserved peri-implant bone architecture.

CONCLUSIONS: Collectively, this study demonstrates a multifunctional nanomotor-based therapeutic strategy that integrates inflammation-responsive propulsion, enhanced biofilm penetration, mild photothermal disinfection, and immune reprogramming. By harnessing pathological microenvironmental cues as endogenous driving forces, the M-CaO₂-CL nanomotor effectively addresses key biological barriers in peri-implantitis, establishing a promising nanotherapeutic platform for biofilm-associated inflammatory diseases.},
}

@article {pmid41794508,
year = {2026},
author = {Mgomi, FC and Lu, C and Tang, A and Xu, S and Chen, F and Yuan, L and Yang, ZQ},
title = {Biofilm-inspired encapsulation enhances the viability of probiotic Lacticaseibacillus paracasei NN4-1 under simulated gastrointestinal conditions.},
journal = {Food research international (Ottawa, Ont.)},
volume = {230},
number = {},
pages = {118649},
doi = {10.1016/j.foodres.2026.118649},
pmid = {41794508},
issn = {1873-7145},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Probiotics ; *Microbial Viability ; Alginates/chemistry ; *Gastrointestinal Tract/microbiology ; *Lacticaseibacillus paracasei/physiology/genetics ; },
abstract = {The survival of probiotics during transit through the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) remains a significant challenge, limiting their in vivo functional efficacy. Microorganisms often resist adverse conditions by forming biofilms. Leveraging this property, the current study introduces a novel biofilm-inspired encapsulation approach using single- and multilayer-coated sodium alginate gel beads (SAGBs) to promote in situ biofilm formation by Lacticaseibacillus paracasei NN4-1. Comparative analyses were conducted to assess bacterial viability in SAGBs, planktonic cells, and biofilm cells under simulated GIT conditions. In vitro studies showed enhanced resistance in SAGBs, with a survival rate of 81.48% compared to unencapsulated cells. Additionally, biofilm encapsulation increased biochemical production, yielding average protein and polysaccharide concentrations of 0.633 mg/mL and 1.056 mg/mL, respectively. The scanning electron microscope revealed clusters of bacterial colonization inside the SAGBs. Whole-genome sequencing revealed multiple genes associated with biofilm formation, stress tolerance, adhesion, acid, and bile salt resistance. Multilayer of SAGBs reduced bacterial leakage by 52.52%, slowed small-molecule diffusion, and slightly improved textural properties without compromising bacterial metabolic activity or growth. Furthermore, SAGBs exhibited markedly higher survival (99.43%) than planktonic (76.3%) and biofilm cells (77.5%) after 21 days of refrigerated storage in milk. This approach offers promising applications in designing next-generation functional foods and targeted probiotic delivery systems, warranting higher viability of probiotics under adverse conditions of the GIT.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Probiotics
*Microbial Viability
Alginates/chemistry
*Gastrointestinal Tract/microbiology
*Lacticaseibacillus paracasei/physiology/genetics

@article {pmid41793880,
year = {2026},
author = {Wei, S and Tang, P and Wang, L and Xi, Y and Huang, X and Yin, S},
title = {Zein-based Upconversion Nanoplatform enables NIR-activated Photothermal-photodynamic synergy for rapid sterilization and biofilm eradication.},
journal = {Journal of colloid and interface science},
volume = {714},
number = {},
pages = {140229},
doi = {10.1016/j.jcis.2026.140229},
pmid = {41793880},
issn = {1095-7103},
abstract = {Bacterial resistance is a major factor compromising the efficacy of conventional antibiotics, particularly in the treatment of biofilm-associated infections. To tackle this critical challenge and enable antibiotic-free antimicrobial therapy, we developed a near-infrared (NIR)-activated photothermal-photodynamic therapy nanoplatform (UCNPs/Cur@Zein@PDA, denoted as UCZP), through an innovative Zein-based hierarchical integration strategy. Specifically, upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) and curcumin (Cur) were co-encapsulated within the hydrophobic core of Zein nanoparticles through self-assembly, followed by surface polymerization of polydopamine (PDA). Under 808 nm laser irradiation, the resulting UCZP nanoplatform exhibits efficient photothermal conversion and enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, leading to rapid bacterial inactivation within 10 min via disruption of cell wall and membrane integrity, as well as inhibition of the respiratory chain. Moreover, the UCZP nanoplatform achieves effective eradication of mature biofilms under the same irradiation conditions. Collectively, this work establishes a NIR-activated synergistic ROS-thermal antibacterial paradigm and presents a promising colloidal strategy combating biofilm-associated infections.},
}

@article {pmid41793807,
year = {2026},
author = {Gu, J and Guo, J and Peng, R and Wu, Y and Long, M and Zheng, X and Huang, H and Chen, Y},
title = {Biofilm-suspension syntrophy drives synergistic electro-fermentation through engineered spatial division of labor for concurrent carbon recovery and pollutant degradation.},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {297},
number = {},
pages = {125665},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2026.125665},
pmid = {41793807},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {Electro-fermentation systems (EFS) offer a promising approach for waste activated sludge valorization, yet the spatial metabolic interaction between electrode biofilms and planktonic suspensions remains unclear. This lack of understanding limits the optimization of systems aimed at simultaneous resource recovery and pollutant removal. This work investigated the cooperation between biofilms and suspensions in EFS designed to synchronize carbon recovery (volatile fatty acid, VFAs) production and halogenated contaminant degradation (4-bromophenol, 4-BP, as model pollutant). The system demonstrated dual advantages, achieving 97.4% removal of 4-BP while increasing VFAs production by 40.2% compared to the control. Multi-omics analysis revealed a distinct spatial division of labor. Electrode biofilms primarily governed reductive debromination by enriching electroactive bacteria (e.g., Syntrophomonas and Geobacter) and dehalogenators (e.g., Hydrogenophaga). This process was driven by the enrichment of genes related to electron transfer and dehalogenation. In contrast, planktonic suspensions mainly drove acidogenesis by enriching fermentative bacteria (e.g., Sedimentibacter and Petrimonas) and accelerating hydrolysis and fatty acid biosynthesis pathways. Partial least squares path modeling identified extracellular electron transfer as the key factor reinforcing this biofilm-suspension syntrophy, significantly contributing to both dehalogenation and acidogenesis. Furthermore, the microbial community activated an integrated adaptive network involving sensing, defense, and energy metabolism to protect the system from toxicity. This work provides in-depth insight into how biofilms and suspensions partition metabolic functions in EFS, clarifying rules that coordinate carbon and redox flows for robust sludge valorization and detoxification.},
}

@article {pmid41792774,
year = {2026},
author = {Sołtysiuk, M and Przyborowska, P and Wiszniewska-Łaszczych, A and Tobolski, D},
title = {Virulence, cytotoxicity potential and biofilm production ability of Listeria spp. isolated from raw fish in Poland.},
journal = {BMC veterinary research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12917-026-05323-z},
pmid = {41792774},
issn = {1746-6148},
support = {the Regional Initiative of Excellence Program//the Minister of Science (Poland)/ ; the Regional Initiative of Excellence Program//the Minister of Science (Poland)/ ; the Regional Initiative of Excellence Program//the Minister of Science (Poland)/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41792751,
year = {2026},
author = {Ballı Akgöl, B and Bayram, M and Üstün, N and Aksaka, N},
title = {Effect of plaque-disclosing agents on biofilm removal: single-center randomized trial in fourth-year dental students.},
journal = {Head & face medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s13005-026-00596-z},
pmid = {41792751},
issn = {1746-160X},
}

@article {pmid41792180,
year = {2026},
author = {Pereira, GL and Belizario, JA and Ambrósio, SR and Benard, G and Pires, RH},
title = {Tolerance of outbreak-associated Candida parapsilosis isolates to antiseptics in a dry surface biofilm model.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41598-026-40814-x},
pmid = {41792180},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {2023/15798-0//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo/ ; 2023/17649-1//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41791612,
year = {2026},
author = {Qin, Y and Zhang, J and Yuan, P and Ding, Y and Guo, R and Wang, C and Ma, B},
title = {Membrane aerated biofilm reactors for sustainable nitrogen management: Mechanisms, process integration, and engineering implications.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {134354},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.134354},
pmid = {41791612},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Membrane aerated biofilm reactors (MABRs) have emerged as a promising platform for sustainable nitrogen management in wastewater treatment, owing to their unique counter-diffusion biofilm architecture. This review critically examines how stratified redox microenvironments in MABRs govern nitrogen transformation pathways, enabling shortcut nitrogen removal and improved energy efficiency. We synthesize recent advances in gas diffusion and mass transfer modeling, microbial functional organization, and process integration strategies, with particular emphasis on simultaneous nitrification-denitrification (SND) and partial nitritation-anammox (PN/A) configurations. Beyond performance advantages, key sustainability challenges are discussed, including nitrite accumulation, nitrous oxide (N2O) formation, operational stability, and scale-up limitations. By linking mechanistic insights with engineering implications, this review identifies critical knowledge gaps and control strategies for minimizing emissions and maximizing nitrogen removal efficiency. The analysis provides a framework for advancing MABR applications toward robust, low-energy, and low-emission nitrogen management in full-scale wastewater treatment systems.},
}

@article {pmid41791499,
year = {2026},
author = {Witte, M and Lee, KH and Hardy, J},
title = {Biofilm and planktonic Staphylococcus aureus exhibit distinct gene expression patterns in response to cinnamaldehyde.},
journal = {Infection, genetics and evolution : journal of molecular epidemiology and evolutionary genetics in infectious diseases},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {105919},
doi = {10.1016/j.meegid.2026.105919},
pmid = {41791499},
issn = {1567-7257},
abstract = {Staphylococcus aureus forms biofilms in the context many infections, including endocarditis, lung infection, and the colonization of implants. How antimicrobials specifically affect S. aureus biofilms as opposed to planktonic S. aureus is an important consideration in the development of treatments of these infections. It is well known that bacteria in biofilms are more resistant to antimicrobials, and the degree and nature of the responses is crucial to understanding the basis of this resistance. While certain antimicrobials such as antibiotics have specific mechanisms that induce pathways related to those mechanisms, and others such as hypochlorite are highly toxic, a wide variety of compounds exhibit intermediate effects that affect multiple systems. Responses to these substances are important to understand if new therapeutics are to be designed. Here, we investigated antibacterial and antibiofilm effects of cinnamaldehyde (CmAl), an antibacterial agent commonly used in foods. CmAl affects multiple bacterial systems, providing a model for the characterization of these intermediate responses. We measured CmAl activity on established biofilm and planktonic bacteria using recombinant bioluminescent S. aureus and performed RNA-seq on CmAl-treated biofilms and planktonic bacteria. RNA-seq results revealed response pathways that differ between these states, including phosphate uptake. The results of this study demonstrate how CmAl differentially affects S. aureus biofilms compared to planktonic forms.},
}

@article {pmid41791283,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, Y and Qin, H and Guo, R and Wang, Y},
title = {The impact of the hly gene deletion on biofilm formation and antibiotic sensitivity in Listeria monocytogenes.},
journal = {International journal of medical microbiology : IJMM},
volume = {322},
number = {},
pages = {151709},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijmm.2026.151709},
pmid = {41791283},
issn = {1618-0607},
abstract = {Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes) is a pathogenic bacterium that poses a significant threat in food safety due to its ability to form resilient biofilms, contributing to cross-contamination risks in food processing environments. This study examines the role of the hly gene on biofilm formation and antibiotic resistance in L. monocytogenes. By generating a hly deletion mutant (Lm-Δhly), we investigated how the absence of this gene affects bacterial behavior and biofilm development. Our results revealed that hly deletion did not impact bacterial growth but significantly impaired biofilm formation. The Lm-Δhly strain exhibited a reduced biofilm biomass and a looser biofilm structure compared to the wild-type (WT) strain. Microscopic analysis, including SEM and CLSM, confirmed that biofilm architecture was compromised, with more viable cells in the WT biofilms and a substantial decrease in extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) in the mutant strain. Furthermore, the Lm-Δhly strain displayed reduced motility, auto-aggregation, and surface hydrophobicity, indicating a reduced ability to adhere and disseminate. Gene expression analysis revealed downregulation of key virulence factors such as prfA, sigB, and quorum sensing (QS) genes in the Lm-Δhly strain, suggesting that hly plays a role in their regulation. Antibiotic susceptibility testing revealed that the Lm-Δhly strain was more sensitive to ribosome-targeting antibiotics, including tetracycline and roxithromycin, correlating with impaired biofilm development under antibiotic stress. These findings emphasize the importance of hly in biofilm development, antibiotic resistance, and virulence regulation in L. monocytogenes. Targeting hly or its associated pathways may be a promising strategy to combat persistent L. monocytogenes contamination in food-related environments. Further investigation into hly' interactions with broader regulatory networks is needed to fully elucidate its role in L. monocytogenes pathogenesis.},
}

@article {pmid41791150,
year = {2026},
author = {Kumar, A and Deepshikha, and Saini, S and Chaturvedi, V and Kayastha, AM},
title = {Ficus benghalensis β-amylase: A potent biofilm-degrading enzyme with broad-Spectrum activity against nosocomial and foodborne pathogens.},
journal = {Food chemistry},
volume = {510},
number = {},
pages = {148688},
doi = {10.1016/j.foodchem.2026.148688},
pmid = {41791150},
issn = {1873-7072},
abstract = {The current study elucidates the purification and characterization of β-amylase derived from the fruit of the Banyan tree (Ficus benghalensis) and its potential efficacy as an antibiofilm agent. The enzyme was purified by utilizing a four-step process that included acetone precipitation, acid precipitation, anion-exchange chromatography with DEAE-cellulose, and epoxy-activated Sepharose 6B affinity chromatography. This resulted in 11-fold purification with a specific activity of 376.74 U/mg. Size-exclusion chromatography (SEC), SDS-PAGE, and LC/MS analysis have confirmed the identity of β-amylase from F. benghalensis fruit. SDS-PAGE confirmed purity, with a single band at 29 ± 1 kDa. The purified β-amylase showed optimal activity at 60 °C and pH 5.6. Kinetic analysis using soluble starch yielded Km and Vmax values of 3.67 mg/mL and 381.68 μmol/min/mg, respectively. Most importantly, the enzyme was highly effective at degrading preformed biofilms of foodborne bacteria such as Listeria monocytogenes, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus. The enzyme breaks down Extracellular Polymeric Substances (EPS), which are important parts of the biofilm matrix. The results indicate that β-amylase derived from F. benghalensis fruit is a potentially novel therapy for disorders associated with biofilms, along with potential applications in the food and pharmaceutical sectors.},
}

@article {pmid41790930,
year = {2026},
author = {},
title = {Correction for Potapova et al., Vibrio cholerae biofilm matrix assembly and growth are shaped by a glutamate-specific TAXI/TRAP protein.},
journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America},
volume = {123},
number = {11},
pages = {e2605129123},
doi = {10.1073/pnas.2605129123},
pmid = {41790930},
issn = {1091-6490},
}

@article {pmid41790864,
year = {2026},
author = {Xu, T and Cao, W and Fan, S and Liu, R and Zhu, H and Lu, X and Zhang, Z and He, X and Zhang, K and Huang, J and Ma, N and Chang, G and Yang, Z},
title = {Repurposing metformin as a dual-function agent to combat E. coli-induced mastitis: Mechanistic insights into biofilm dispersion and AMPK/SIRT1-mediated NF-κB inhibition.},
journal = {PLoS pathogens},
volume = {22},
number = {3},
pages = {e1014012},
doi = {10.1371/journal.ppat.1014012},
pmid = {41790864},
issn = {1553-7374},
abstract = {Escherichia coli-induced bovine mastitis represents a major challenge in dairy production due to the prevalence of multidrug-resistant strains. This study repurposes metformin as a dual-function agent that simultaneously targets bacterial virulence and host inflammation. Epidemiological surveillance identified phylogroup B1 as the most prevalent (52.5%) and resistant E. coli lineage. Against a representative B1 strain, metformin potently inhibited and dispersed bacterial biofilms, and synergized with conventional β-lactam antibiotics. Bacterial transcriptomics revealed metformin downregulated genes critical for membrane integrity and metabolism. In parallel, metformin attenuated the inflammatory response in bovine mammary epithelial cells and in murine and ovine mastitis models. In vivo, it significantly reduced bacterial colonization in mammary tissue and suppressed key pro-inflammatory cytokines. Mechanistically, metformin activated the AMPK/SIRT1 axis, leading to deacetylation of NF-κB p65. In the ruminant model, this culminated in epigenetic regulation, with increased chromatin compaction at promoters of inflammatory genes, and a significant inverse correlation (r = -0.77) between NF-κB binding and chromatin accessibility. Collectively, metformin combats resistant E. coli mastitis through a dual mechanism: disrupting biofilm-dependent bacterial persistence and reprogramming host immunometabolism via AMPK/SIRT1-mediated epigenetic regulation. These findings provide a compelling non-antibiotic strategy for overcoming antimicrobial resistance.},
}

@article {pmid41790731,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, X and Dong, J and Wang, B and Chen, L and Gong, Z and Yang, J and Shu, G and Ning, Q},
title = {Molecular mechanism of gallium nitrate in inhibiting bacterial biofilm formation through pykF modulation.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {21},
number = {3},
pages = {e0337557},
doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0337557},
pmid = {41790731},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Gallium/pharmacology ; Animals ; Mice ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial/drug effects ; Virulence/drug effects ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE: Gallium nitrate, a non-redox analog of iron (III), suppresses bacterial biofilms and virulence within the framework of bacterial regulation. This study investigates the molecular mechanisms and regulatory pathways through which gallium nitrate modulates bacterial activity and function.

METHODS: The antimicrobial properties of gallium nitrate, its effects on bacterial biofilms, and gallium-responsive signaling pathways were assessed. Observation of marked upregulation of pyruvate kinase (pykF) expression following gallium nitrate exposure prompted in vitro and in vivo experiments to examine how gallium influences the expression, enzymatic activity, and functional role of bacterial pykF.

RESULTS: Crystal violet staining, XTT assay, confocal laser scanning microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy consistently indicated that gallium nitrate suppressed bacterial biofilm formation and metabolic activity. Transcriptomic profiling and subsequent validation analyses further suggested a strong association between pykF and gallium-mediated antibacterial effects. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments revealed that pykF knockout significantly enhanced bacterial survival and biofilm formation.

CONCLUSION: Gallium nitrate modulates bacterial biofilm development and virulence, with its antimicrobial effect largely dependent on pykF upregulation. Concurrent therapeutic targeting of both pykF and gallium may provide a more effective strategy against persistent biofilm-associated infections. This work also establishes a mechanistic basis for clinical approaches aimed at reducing biofilm formation and limiting device-related infections.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Gallium/pharmacology
Animals
Mice
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial/drug effects
Virulence/drug effects

@article {pmid41790700,
year = {2026},
author = {AlKhalidi, HM and Ali, AH and Abo-Ouf, AM and El-Bidawy, MH and Arafah, AMR and Aldawsari, SM and Dayel, SB and Hajelbashir, MI and Abd El-Naem, MM and AlGhamdi, MAA and Alhumaid, KH and Abd El-Lateef, AES and Aljabr, KHE and Khairy, HA and Samhan, MA},
title = {Effect of the antidepressant drug paroxetine in downregulating the biofilm-adhering genes in Staphylococcus aureus: In vitro and in silico studies.},
journal = {Medicine},
volume = {105},
number = {10},
pages = {e47907},
doi = {10.1097/MD.0000000000047907},
pmid = {41790700},
issn = {1536-5964},
abstract = {Osteomyelitis is a bacterial infection of the bone that affects millions globally. Due to problems in drug delivery, bacterial resistance through biofilm formation, adverse effects of the medications in use, etc, the scientists are searching for novel antimicrobial agents. As drug repurposing is an excellent method to develop new antimicrobials, this study evaluates the antibacterial and antibiofilm effects of the antidepressant paroxetine, combined with hydroxyapatite (HA), against drug-resistant, biofilm-forming Staphylococcus aureus. The antibacterial activity of paroxetine was assessed using the agar diffusion assay, and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined by the microdilution method. The antibiofilm potential of paroxetine was quantified through the crystal violet assay and further examined using scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy. The bacterial load on drug-loaded hydroxyapatite was determined using the viable colony count method. The expression of bacterial adhesion genes following paroxetine treatment was analyzed using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Molecular docking studies were performed to evaluate the binding affinity of paroxetine to bacterial adhesion proteins and penicillin-binding proteins. The study demonstrated promising antibacterial properties of the drug and the drug-HA combination against S aureus with a MIC of 18.75 µg/mL. Paroxetine prevented the biofilms formation by S aureus, and could eradicate mature biofilms, with 83%, 86%, and 89% efficacy after 1X MIC, and 2X treatment. The antibiofilm effect was further confirmed by in silico, in vitro methods, wherein a strong affinity was noted for biofilm adhesion protein and paroxetine. Paroxetine treatment revealed downregulation of biofilm-adhering genes, like icaA, clfA, cna, fnbpA, and fib, using RT-PCR. When combined with HA, paroxetine displayed synergistic activity, and this was visualized using confocal laser scanning microscopy, which showed 81% and 19% dead/live cells after treatment, respectively. Furthermore, the scanning electron microscopy analysis displayed the impact of the drug paroxetine on S aureus cell morphology, which showed remarkable damage to the bacterial cells. In silico docking revealed that paroxetine's mode of action was mediated through binding with proteins and penicillin-binding protein, thereby inducing cell death. These results suggest that the paroxetine-HA combination may serve as a promising adjunctive strategy for treating biofilm-associated infections caused by S aureus.},
}

@article {pmid41790510,
year = {2026},
author = {Supparitsch, S and Zeitlinger, M},
title = {Experimental biofilm models for pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic investigations: bridging in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo systems.},
journal = {The Journal of antimicrobial chemotherapy},
volume = {81},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jac/dkag091},
pmid = {41790510},
issn = {1460-2091},
abstract = {Biofilm-associated infections represent a major therapeutic challenge due to reduced antimicrobial susceptibility and the limited predictive value of conventional pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) indices with clinical outcome. A wide spectrum of experimental models has been developed to study biofilms, ranging from simple in vitro assays to ex vivo tissue-derived systems and in vivo infection models. Each category provides distinct advantages: in vitro platforms enable high-throughput compound screening and measurement of biofilm-specific indices such as MBIC and MBEC; ex vivo models preserve host tissue architecture and allow investigation of topical therapies and therapeutic windows; and in vivo systems are indispensable for analysing host-pathogen interactions and systemic PK/PD relationships. No single model is sufficient to replicate clinical biofilm complexity, but combined use and progressive standardization can improve translational value. This review provides a structured overview of available models, their PK/PD readouts and their strengths and limitations, aiming to guide model selection in preclinical biofilm research and antimicrobial development.},
}

@article {pmid41790256,
year = {2026},
author = {Aydın, E and Genç, S and Perçin Renders, D},
title = {Interaction between lpxABCD and pmrABC genes and Biofilm Formation in Colistin-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii and Klebsiella pneumoniae Strains.},
journal = {Current microbiology},
volume = {83},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {41790256},
issn = {1432-0991},
}

@article {pmid41788398,
year = {2025},
author = {Kayser, C and Druart, K and Bouscasse, E and Matondo, M and Chane, A and Hoh, F and Groboillot, A and Barbey, C and Merieau, A and Latour, X and Soule, P and Mühle, E and Norris, V and Konto-Ghiorghi, Y},
title = {Staphylococcus epidermidis DnaK alters biofilm formation and proteome in Staphylococcus aureus CIP 107093.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1705130},
pmid = {41788398},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis, two Gram-positive bacteria of the human skin microbiota, form biofilms that contribute to dysbiosis and inflammatory skin diseases such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. The human calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), involved in skin inflammation, was previously shown to enhance the virulence of S. epidermidis MFP04. We previously observed a significant increase in the level of the molecular chaperone DnaK/Hsp70 in the secretome of CGRP-activated S. epidermidis. Here, we investigated the role of recombinant S. epidermidis DnaK in biofilm formation in both S. aureus and S. epidermidis. DnaK modulates biofilm formation in a strain-dependent manner. In commensal strains (S. aureus MFP03 and S. epidermidis MFP04), it is associated with an increase in biofilm biomass. In contrast, it significantly reduces biofilm formation in the clinical S. aureus strain CIP 107093. Point mutations in the substrate-binding domain (SBD) and nucleotide-binding domain (NBD) of DnaK differentially affect its modulation of biofilm formation. Specifically, only the mutation in the SBD abolishes the biofilm reduction observed in CIP 107093, while the NBD mutation results in a milder effect. Notably, these mutations have no significant impact on DnaK-induced biofilm changes in strains where DnaK promotes biofilm formation. Proteomic analyses of S. aureus CIP 107093 reveal that DnaK alters the S. aureus biofilm proteome, stabilizing protein degradation components and downregulating key biofilm regulators. These findings highlight the cross-species regulatory potential of S. epidermidis extracellular DnaK in the skin microbiota.},
}

@article {pmid41787690,
year = {2026},
author = {Dong, J and Feng, S and Shao, J and Huang, L and Xiang, L and Zhou, X},
title = {Synthesis of LiYbF4: Tm-Based Core-Shell Upconversion Nanoparticles for Biofilm Eradication on Titanium Implants via Dominated Photoelectron Therapy.},
journal = {ACS applied materials & interfaces},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acsami.5c23508},
pmid = {41787690},
issn = {1944-8252},
abstract = {Bacterial biofilm-induced inflammation can corrode implant surfaces and is the main reason for implantation failures. Considering that conventional mechanical treatments show limited efficacy, prolonged antibiotic therapy carries certain risks as well. Here, we developed NIR-active antibacterial Ti implant surfaces. LiYbF4-based core-shell upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) were synthesized with controlled core size (∼10 nm) and shell thickness (∼2 nm). These UCNPs were homogeneously coated onto sandblasted and acid-etched titanium (SLA Ti) implants by ultrasonic spraying following the prior deposition of a conformal polydopamine (PDA) coating. Upon NIR excitation (λ = 980 nm), the UCNPs generate upconverted ultraviolet (UV) light, which can be absorbed by PDA and natural TiO2 layers on Ti implants. The PDA layer not only mediates localized energy transfer but also enhances light absorption through the aromatic structures. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated excellent biofilm eradication rate (98.9% in vitro and 99.99% in vivo) and potentially high biocompatibility. This approach combines the high efficiency of LiYbF4 core-shell UCNPs with PDA, providing antibacterial functionality based on photoelectron therapy on Ti implants. The deep-tissue penetration of NIR light and the localized UV generation minimize off-target effects, making this system a promising and clinically translatable strategy for infection-resistant implants.},
}

@article {pmid41787281,
year = {2026},
author = {Van Rossum, U and Heyndrickx, M and Rasschaert, G and Demaître, N and Sadiq, FA and Boon, N and Cools, A and De Reu, K},
title = {Hidden threats: exploring biofilm communities in broiler houses and pig nursery units drinking water lines.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12866-026-04790-6},
pmid = {41787281},
issn = {1471-2180},
support = {HBC.2021.1060//VLAIO-LA/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41787264,
year = {2026},
author = {Su, J and Wen, J and Zheng, W and Wang, J},
title = {Phenotypic-genotypic characteristics of Corynebacterium striatum clinical isolates and diversified biofilm production capabilities in the presence of plasma proteins.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12866-026-04912-0},
pmid = {41787264},
issn = {1471-2180},
support = {No. 82260416//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; No. 82260416//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; No. 82260416//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; No. 82260416//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; No. 2025YFSH0088//Science and Technology Plan Project of Inner Mongolian Autonomous Region/ ; No. 2025YFSH0088//Science and Technology Plan Project of Inner Mongolian Autonomous Region/ ; No. 2025YFSH0088//Science and Technology Plan Project of Inner Mongolian Autonomous Region/ ; No. 2025YFSH0088//Science and Technology Plan Project of Inner Mongolian Autonomous Region/ ; No. ZY20241209//Zhiyuan talents project of Inner Mongolia Medical University/ ; No. ZY20241209//Zhiyuan talents project of Inner Mongolia Medical University/ ; No. ZY20241209//Zhiyuan talents project of Inner Mongolia Medical University/ ; No. ZY20241209//Zhiyuan talents project of Inner Mongolia Medical University/ ; No. 2024GLLH0302//Science and Technology Program of the Joint Fund of Scientific Research for the Public Hospitals of Inner Mongolia Academy of Medical Sciences/ ; No. 2024GLLH0302//Science and Technology Program of the Joint Fund of Scientific Research for the Public Hospitals of Inner Mongolia Academy of Medical Sciences/ ; No. 2024GLLH0302//Science and Technology Program of the Joint Fund of Scientific Research for the Public Hospitals of Inner Mongolia Academy of Medical Sciences/ ; No. 2024GLLH0302//Science and Technology Program of the Joint Fund of Scientific Research for the Public Hospitals of Inner Mongolia Academy of Medical Sciences/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41786098,
year = {2026},
author = {Mukherjee, S and Sikdar, B and Chaudhuri, D and Giri, K and Roy, S},
title = {Attenuating effect of plumbagin on Chromobacterium violaceum quorum sensing and biofilm formation: an in-vitro and in-silico approach.},
journal = {Microbial pathogenesis},
volume = {214},
number = {},
pages = {108418},
doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2026.108418},
pmid = {41786098},
issn = {1096-1208},
abstract = {The increasing problem of antibiotic resistance over recent decades calls for alternative methods to reduce bacterial pathogenicity. Targeting quorum sensing (QS) is gaining attention as a promising alternative treatment. This study investigates the potential of plumbagin, a natural naphthoquinone derived from Plumbago species, to inhibit quorum sensing and biofilm formation in Chromobacterium violaceum using both in vitro and in silico methods. In vitro assays revealed that sub-minimum inhibitory concentrations of plumbagin significantly suppressed QS-regulated traits compared to controls. These included a reduction in violacein production by up to 40%, exopolysaccharide levels by up to 30%, and swarming motility and biofilm formation, which were reduced by up to 40%. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis demonstrated that plumbagin (at 2.42 μg/ml, corresponding to 1/4th MIC) decreases the expression of key QS genes (with relative fold changes of 0.36 ± 0.06, 0.35 ± 0.06, and 0.18 ± 0.01 for cviI, cviR, and vioA, respectively), indicating interference with bacterial communication pathways. Furthermore, the hemocompatibility assay demonstrated that the plumbagin concentrations used in this study are safe. Complementary in-silico molecular docking and dynamic simulations confirmed stable interactions between plumbagin and the QS regulatory protein CviR, suggesting its plausible mechanism of action. These results highlight plumbagin as a promising anti-QS agent that could be developed into alternative antibacterial therapies.},
}

@article {pmid41785019,
year = {2026},
author = {Harrington, NE and Allen, F and Garcia Maset, R and Harrison, F},
title = {Pseudomonas aeruginosa gene expression changes during established biofilm infection in a cystic fibrosis lung model.},
journal = {Microbiology (Reading, England)},
volume = {172},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1099/mic.0.001678},
pmid = {41785019},
issn = {1465-2080},
abstract = {The opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa forms biofilm infections in the lungs of people with the genetic condition cystic fibrosis (CF) that can persist for decades. There are numerous P. aeruginosa lifestyle changes associated with chronic biofilm infection that are cued by the CF lung environment. These include a loss of virulence, metabolic changes and increased antimicrobial tolerance. We have investigated P. aeruginosa PA14 biofilm infection over 7 days in an ex vivo pig lung (EVPL) model for CF, previously shown to facilitate formation of a clinically relevant P. aeruginosa biofilm structure with expression of key genes comparable to human infection. We have compared P. aeruginosa gene expression between sequential time points: 24 h, 48 h and 7 days post-infection, and investigated tolerance to polymyxins. Our results demonstrate that the EVPL model can maintain a P. aeruginosa biofilm population, which exhibits increased antibiotic tolerance, for at least 7 days. Differential expression of antimicrobial resistance-associated genes was not observed; however, there was significant upregulation of sulphur metabolism and maintenance of a structured biofilm. Our findings demonstrate that 7 days is a viable time point for studying established, chronic biofilm infection in the EVPL model and provide insight into the accompanying gene expression changes.},
}

@article {pmid41784609,
year = {2026},
author = {Vincy, A and Anand, V and Kannan, DK and Pandith, A and Gurnani, B and Ranjan, P and Pathak, A and Jain, N and Chahal, S and Kumar, P and Vankayala, R},
title = {Correction to "NIR-Responsive Free Standing Borophene Mediates Photothermal and Photodynamic Therapy to Reduce Bacterial Biofilm Burden".},
journal = {ACS applied materials & interfaces},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acsami.6c03914},
pmid = {41784609},
issn = {1944-8252},
}

@article {pmid41782171,
year = {2026},
author = {Hosny, NS and Elgamal, SG},
title = {Efficacy of Calcium Silicate-Based, Simvastatin, Levofloxacin and Calcium Hydroxide Intracanal Medicaments Against Mature Enterococcus faecalis Biofilm. An In Vitro Study.},
journal = {Australian endodontic journal : the journal of the Australian Society of Endodontology Inc},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/aej.70070},
pmid = {41782171},
issn = {1747-4477},
abstract = {This in vitro study investigated the antibiofilm efficacy of calcium silicate-based, Simvastatin, Levofloxacin and calcium hydroxide intracanal medicaments against mature Enterococcus faecalis biofilm. Ninety dentine specimens were inoculated with Enterococcus faecalis biofilm for three weeks and divided into five groups (n = 18): (1) calcium silicate-based; (2) Simvastatin; (3) Levofloxacin; (4) calcium hydroxide (CH); (5) positive control, no medicament. After two weeks of intracanal medicament application, live/dead bacterial cells were assessed using confocal laser scanning microscopy. The results revealed a statistically significant difference in the percentage of dead bacteria of the four tested groups compared to the positive control group (H = 30.45, p < 0.001). The calcium silicate-based group recorded the highest median (IQR) percentage of dead bacteria at 56.33 (10.03), followed by Simvastatin 44.88 (7.30), CH 41.70 (12.53), Levofloxacin 35.99 (3.78), and the positive control group 3.61 (1.01). These findings suggest that these intracanal medicaments demonstrate promising antibiofilm activity, with further investigations needed.},
}

@article {pmid41781815,
year = {2026},
author = {Abduljalil, H and Bartie, K and Bal, AM and Rautemaa-Richardson, R and Williams, C and Kean, R and Ramage, G},
title = {Rezafungin exhibits anti-biofilm properties against fungal biofilms in vitro.},
journal = {The Journal of antimicrobial chemotherapy},
volume = {81},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jac/dkag058},
pmid = {41781815},
issn = {1460-2091},
support = {//MundiPharma/ ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: We sought to evaluate the comparative activity of rezafungin compared with caspofungin and other antifungal classes against biofilms from a large clinical panel of Candida strains (n = 167).

METHODS: Biofilm killing and inhibition were assessed using standard XTT [2,3-bis(2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium-5-carboxanilide salt] metabolic assessment. Biofilm time-kill kinetics were also evaluated using metabolic and viable cell counts. Microscopy was performed to visually assess biofilm inhibition.

RESULTS: Rezafungin was shown to outperform caspofungin and other antifungals against C. albicans, C. parapsilosis, C. tropicalis and Nakaseomyces glabratus (previously called C. glabrata) strains with a heterogeneous biofilm phenotype. Assessment of high biofilm-forming strains at 0.03 mg/L concentrations showed that rezafungin killed biofilms to an equal or greater extent than caspofungin. Time-kill studies showed a rapid reduction in metabolism and viable cfus by both rezafungin and caspofungin, but with little difference between both compounds. Evaluation of biofilm inhibition characteristics of both compounds showed that rezafungin was marginally more effective than caspofungin, which was corroborated by microscopical analyses.

CONCLUSIONS: Together, these data show that rezafungin is non-inferior to caspofungin in terms of anti-biofilm activity and displays characteristics that suggest it can control biofilms more effectively than caspofungin. Further evaluation is required to establish whether these in vitro effects translate clinically, but the data indicate an opportunity for rezafungin to be used for the clinical management of biofilm-related diseases.},
}

@article {pmid41780771,
year = {2026},
author = {Kanchanapiboon, J and Tuntoaw, S and Poonsatha, S and Maiuthed, A and Rukthong, P and Thumanu, K and Siriwong, S and Thunyaharn, S and Wachisuthon, D and Sakpetch, A and Chuennangchee, V},
title = {Boesenbergia rotunda extract decreases biofilm formation and host-pathogen interaction of bloodstream-isolated Candida albicans by interfering with biomolecule composition and metabolomics adaptation.},
journal = {Microbial pathogenesis},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {108417},
doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2026.108417},
pmid = {41780771},
issn = {1096-1208},
abstract = {Boesenbergia rotunda (L.) Mansf. rhizome has been traditionally used to treat abscesses, leukoplakia, and leukorrhea. Candida albicans is a major cause of these incidences and can lead to bloodstream infection. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and mechanisms of B. rotunda extract on susceptibility, biofilm formation, and invasion into human endothelial EA.hy926 cells of bloodstream-isolated C. albicans. Their virulence were determined by microdilution, metabolic activity, lactate dehydrogenase release, and internalization assays. Alterations in biomolecule composition were determined by Fourier-transform infrared microspectroscopy. The metabolomic profiles during host-pathogen interactions were assessed with high-resolution accurate-mass spectrometry. The B. rotunda extract consisted of 15.60% (w/w) pinostrobin and 6.02% (w/w) pinocembrin. All strains of C. albicans were not susceptible to the extract at a concentration of 100 μg/mL. The biofilm formation was inhibited only in C. albicans Isolate03 by the B. rotunda extract with IC50 value of 46.03 μg/mL. However, the ability of Isolate03 and Isolate04, invasive phenotypes, to damage the endothelial EA.hy926 cells was significantly inhibited with IC50 values of 27.39 and 30.81 μg/mL, respectively. The extract markedly altered the invasive phenotype's biomolecule composition and metabolomic profiles. The glycogen and carbohydrate compositions were decreased, whereas protein was increased. Moreover, propanoate and glycerolipid metabolism were dramatically regulated. These results suggest that alterations of biomolecule and metabolism could decrease their virulences because metabolic adaptation involved in pathogenic traits of C. albicans. Therefore, the B. rotunda extract might disrupt biomolecule compositions and metabolic pathways of the isolated C. albicans, thereby reducing biofilm formation and tissue invasion.},
}

@article {pmid41780377,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, H and Fan, Q and Liu, B and Wang, Y and Jia, A and Yi, L and Wang, Y},
title = {Glycosyltransferases play a pivotal role in regulating biofilm formation and pathogenicity in Streptococcus suis.},
journal = {Veterinary microbiology},
volume = {315},
number = {},
pages = {110962},
doi = {10.1016/j.vetmic.2026.110962},
pmid = {41780377},
issn = {1873-2542},
abstract = {In bacteria, the glycosyltransferases play important roles in bacterial fitness and virulence. A prior transposon screen implicated glycosyltransferase Gtf-2 in the regulation of S. suis biofilm formation, but the biological function of Gtf-2 and how biofilm is modulated by Gtf-2 remains largely unclear. Here, we characterized the major components of S. suis biofilm matrix and further elucidated the its regulatory role in biofilm formation, which involved the regulation of S. suis extracellular matrix, c-di-AMP, cell surface properties, and bacterial energy metabolism. Additionally, we also revealed that Gtf-2 regulates the content and composition of capsular polysaccharide. Finally, the regulatory role of Gtf-2 in the virulence of S. suis was elucidated based on in vitro and in vivo infection models, and the loss of Gtf-2 function weakened the virulence of S. suis.},
}

@article {pmid41780240,
year = {2026},
author = {Calabro-Souza, G and Lorke, A and Simons, A and Chaumont, C and Tassin, B and Dris, R},
title = {Understanding the role of turbulence and biofilm on low density microplastic dynamics: An experimental approach towards natural conditions.},
journal = {Journal of hazardous materials},
volume = {506},
number = {},
pages = {141640},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.141640},
pmid = {41780240},
issn = {1873-3336},
abstract = {The fate of microplastics (MP) in rivers is controlled by particle properties, biological interactions, and hydrodynamics, yet mechanisms governing near-bed behavior of low-density MP remain unclear. Despite their buoyancy, low-density MP are frequently found in sediments, suggesting that turbulence-driven transport and benthic biofilms influence the near-bed transport and retention. Flume experiments quantified how turbulence modulates MP transport, biofilm contact, and MP-biofilm interaction at the sediment-water interface. Flume integrating water, sediment, and biofilm compartments used fluorescent polyethylene spheres (0.995 g cm[-3]; ∼50 µm) under controlled flows. Particle trajectories near a monospecific Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm were reconstructed via particle tracking velocimetry, while turbulence intensity was characterized by friction velocity (u* = 0.0009, 0.0014 and 0.0024 m s[-1]). Increasing turbulence significantly increased MP-biofilm encounters (p < 0.001), with median fractions reaching 3.3-4.3% of all observed MP at u* ≥ 0.0014 m s[-1] , compared with 1.6% at 0.0009 m s[-1] . Most MPs contacting the biofilm originated within the viscous boundary layer, although up to ∼20% came from above under higher turbulence, reflecting a shift in transport pathways. Biofilm retention of MPs remained low (0.6-5.8%) and decreased slightly with turbulence, revealing a trade-off between delivery and attachment. These results indicate a two-step mechanism: turbulence delivers particles to near-bed zone, while biofilm properties govern retention. This coupled process helps explain the presence of buoyant MP in sediments and highlights the role of benthic biofilms in mediating MP exchange between water and riverbeds. The empirical relationships derived here can inform process-based transport models to improve predictions of MP fate and fluxes in fluvial systems.},
}

@article {pmid41779039,
year = {2026},
author = {Yogendraiah, KM and Sadanandan, B and Natraj, LK and Vijayalakshmi, V and Shetty, K},
title = {Biofilm formation directly correlates with cell viability in Candida tropicalis on polypropylene.},
journal = {Applied microbiology and biotechnology},
volume = {110},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41779039},
issn = {1432-0614},
abstract = {Candida tropicalis, the most prevalent non-Candida albicans Candida species, is an emerging pathogen forming robust biofilms on medical devices, contributing to biofouling, virulence, and antifungal resistance. In this study, growth conditions for six C. tropicalis clinical isolates (C4, U873, U951, U1179, U1309, U1360) and a standard strain (MTCC-184) were optimized on polypropylene using central composite design-based response surface methodology. The parameters tested included temperature, pH, shaker speed, inoculum size, and incubation time, with biofilm formation quantified by crystal violet, cell viability by MTT, biomass by calcofluor white, and wet/dry weight measurements. Notably, C. tropicalis forms biofilm on polypropylene surfaces, resembling extracellular polymeric substance-rich matrices. Among the isolates, C4, U873, U951, and U1179 fit the CCD model, whereas for MTCC-184, U1309, and U1360, the Johnson Transformation was required to obtain unified optimal conditions. Temperature and pH were the major factors influencing biofilm formation in C4 and U1179, while temperature and incubation time were significant for U873 and U951. A direct correlation was observed between cell viability and biofilm formation, though biomass varied, indicating strain-specific virulence. This high-throughput optimization strategy establishes a platform for antifungal screening, biofilm-material interaction studies, and the development of medical devices resistant to fungal colonization. KEY POINTS: • Optimized growth conditions of Candida tropicalis biofilm on polypropylene material by RSM • Four C. tropicalis isolates fit the CCD model; the other three isolates were modelled using CCD-JT • A direct correlation was observed between cell viability and biofilm with variations in cell mass.},
}

@article {pmid41778856,
year = {2026},
author = {Ge, J and Shi, X and Hou, S and Wang, Y and Zhou, X and Ji, Y and Tao, Z and Liu, X and Cheng, Y and Li, S and Xiao, Y and Hong, Y and Zhao, Z and Ge, F and Wang, J},
title = {Magnetically Recyclable Core-Shell Ag@Fe3O4 Nanoparticles for Waterborne Pathogen Inactivation and Medical Biofilm Eradication.},
journal = {ACS applied bio materials},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acsabm.6c00025},
pmid = {41778856},
issn = {2576-6422},
abstract = {The proliferation of drug-resistant bacteria in water poses a significant public health threat. Experimental wastewater from microbiology laboratories and residual fluids in medical catheters are particularly prone to pathogenic bacterial growth and biofilm formation. This challenge requires antibacterial agents that can eliminate pathogenic bacteria with high efficiency. In this study, core-shell Ag@Fe3O4 NPs were synthesized via a straightforward solvothermal method. This structuration minimizes silver ion loss and ensures sustained antibacterial activity through core-shell synergy. Mechanistic studies revealed that Ag@Fe3O4 disrupts biofilm architecture and induces nucleic acid leakage via the synergistic release of Ag[+] ions and the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Significantly, Ag@Fe3O4 NPs exhibit superparamagnetic properties and demonstrate a low minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 10 μg/mL. In water treatment simulations, Ag@Fe3O4 NPs maintained a 100% pathogen elimination rate across diverse environmental conditions after 40 magnetic recovery cycles. Furthermore, the Ag@Fe3O4 NPs achieved precise targeting and efficient removal of biofilms in a medical catheter model under magnetic guidance. Ag@Fe3O4 NPs offer an efficient and sustainable solution for eradicating waterborne pathogens and eliminating medical catheter biofilms.},
}

@article {pmid41778798,
year = {2026},
author = {Lu, J and Fan, S and Shi, J and Hu, X and Ding, W and Hao, J and Zhang, W},
title = {Genomic and chemical analyses of 713 marine biofilm-derived bacterial strains.},
journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0259325},
doi = {10.1128/aem.02593-25},
pmid = {41778798},
issn = {1098-5336},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Marine biofilms are known as a reservoir of bacterial specialized metabolites, but the majority of these metabolites remain unexplored because most biofilm-associated bacteria have not yet been cultivated or genomically characterized. In a recent study, we isolated and cultivated 713 bacterial strains from marine biofilms and generated their nearly complete genomes. Here, we conduct a systematic analysis of biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) contained in these bacterial genomes. A total of 3,146 BGCs are predicted and organized into 2,176 mostly new gene cluster families (GCFs), in comparison with the GCFs in the Minimum Information about a Biosynthetic Gene cluster database, and those from genomes of global seawater bacteria. In particular, certain less-studied microorganisms, such as members of the Roseobacteriaceae family, possess a number of novel BGCs. Moreover, through bacterial antagonistic tests, 50 of the 713 strains inhibit the growth of at least one tested pathogenic bacterial strain. Furthermore, metabolomics followed by molecular networking reveals previously uncharacterized antimicrobial activities associated with known secondary metabolites, represented by the polycyclic tetramate macrolactam alteramide A.

IMPORTANCE: Marine microorganisms are important sources of natural products, yet quite a few studies have systematically explored the production of active molecules by marine biofilm-associated bacteria. In the present study, we analyzed nearly complete genomes of 713 strains isolated from marine biofilms to assess their biosynthetic potential. We further conducted experiments to discover compounds with a strong inhibitory effect against pathogenic bacterial strains. This work has laid the groundwork for further prospecting marine biofilm-associated bacterial strains for antibacterial agents.},
}

@article {pmid41778262,
year = {2025},
author = {Du, J and Huang, S and Li, Y and Qiu, Z and Hao, Y and Huang, J and Zhan, L and Chen, S and Huang, X},
title = {Deletion of dltD gene modulates biofilm matrix and acid metabolism to attenuate Streptococcus mutans cariogenicity.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1741359},
pmid = {41778262},
issn = {2235-2988},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Streptococcus mutans (SM) is one of the key pathogenic bacteria in the occurrence and development of dental caries. Its complex virulence regulation network has become an important target in current ecological caries prevention research. This study explored how dltD attenuates SM cariogenicity using standard strain SMUA159, high-cariogenic clinical strain SM593, and their dltD deletion/complemented strains.

METHODS: In this study, the clinical serotype C SM593 clinical strain isolated from caries-active patients (DMFT6), the SM593 dltD deletion strain (SM593-dltD), and SM593-dltD complementary strain (SM593-dltD-c) were selected as the experimental strains. Rat caries model was constructed to detect the cariogenicity. Colony forming counting units (CFU) counting was used to detect the colonization ability in vivo. The adhesion ability and surface hydrophobicity of each strain were examined by tube attachment assay and microbial adhesion to hydrocarbons method. Biofilm of each strain was constructed in vitro., CFU counting and MTT staining were used to analyze the SM biofilm formation. Laser confocal scanning microscope were used to observe the biofilm morphology, live/dead staining distribution. Anthrone-sulfuric acid assay, laser confocal scanning microscope, SYTOX probe assay and BCA protein kit assay were used to detect the extracellular polysaccharide content, extracellular polysaccharide distribution, eDNA content and extracellular protein content of the biofilm. Acid production was examined by detecting the pH of the biofilm supernatant. Potassium iodide assay and lactate dehydrogenase detection kit assay were used to examine intracellular polysaccharides and lactate dehydrogenase activity. CFU counting was used to detect the adaptive acid tolerance ability. Laurdan fluorescent probe was used to examine the cell membranes fluidity under the acidic condition. The expression of genes related to biofilm formation and acid tolerance was detected by RTqPCR.

RESULTS: In vivo, dltD deletion significantly reduced fissure and proximal caries severity (P<0.05), with strain-specific colonization differences. In vitro, dltD deletion strains showed decreased biofilm viable cells (P<0.05), metabolic activity (P<0.01), and water-insoluble polysaccharides (P<0.01), associated with downregulated gtfB and gtfC expression (P<0.05), increased autolysis, and extracellular DNA (P<0.01). Acidogenicity and acid tolerance were impaired, associated with downregulated dexA, fabM, and atpD expression (P<0.05).

DISCUSSION: These findings confirmed that dltD deletion attenuates SM cariogenicity by disrupting biofilm EPS and acid metabolism, supporting dltD as a potential target for caries prevention.},
}

@article {pmid41778016,
year = {2026},
author = {Sharma, A and Katoch, P and Shrivastava, R},
title = {Bacterial biofilm conundrum: insight into the frontiers of antibiotic resistance and state-of-the-art anti-biofilm interventions.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1589866},
pmid = {41778016},
issn = {2235-2988},
abstract = {Bacterial biofilms are organized multicellular structures enmeshed in a self-secreted extracellular matrix (ECM). The communities present an alarming challenge in the fight against antimicrobial resistance (AMR). They act as a protective niche for microbes, provide chemical and physical protection to the resident cells, allow bacteria to endure host immune responses, and undermine the standard antimicrobial treatments. Despite advancements in microbiological research, biofilms remain an invisible frontier that complicates diagnostics and treatment. This perspective article provides insights into the enigmatic nature of biofilms and examines their role in human infections and diseases. It scrutinizes biofilm AMR mechanisms, including altered metabolic states, ECM-linked decreased antibiotic penetration, and augmented horizontal gene transfer. Further, it delves into the innovative anti-biofilm interventions for mitigating impact of bacterial biofilm on human health. The article also highlights the challenges in engineering ECM for eradicating the recalcitrant biofilms. The article emphasizes critical urgency to integrate biofilm-related research with the comprehensive AMR response, and advocates for interdisciplinary collaborations to transform laboratory discoveries into healthcare advancements. Research uncovering the complexity of biofilms and intriguing therapeutic approaches can address the requirement of revolutionary solutions to combat biofilm-associated infections and ensuing AMR. Overall, this perspective serves as a call to action, underscoring the compelling need to prioritize collective efforts in biofilm research to promote public health.},
}

@article {pmid41777716,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, H and Xia, A and Huang, Y and Ji, J and Zhang, J and Zhu, X and Zhu, X and Liao, Q},
title = {Engineering a semi-artificial photosynthetic biofilm for robust and high-efficiency CO2-to-methane conversion.},
journal = {Chemical science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41777716},
issn = {2041-6520},
abstract = {Hybrid semi-artificial photosynthetic systems, which integrate semiconductor nanomaterials with methanogens, offer an innovative strategy for the solar-driven conversion of CO2 to CH4 with high selectivity. However, these systems face challenges, including light harvesting losses, low quantum efficiency, and instability due to photodamage. To overcome the intrinsic limitations, we introduce a paradigm-shifting strategy: leveraging biofilms as a new platform for efficient solar-driven CO2-to-CH4 conversion. The strategic modification of carbon nitride promoted the self-assembly of stable biofilms. This process formed an integrated, cross-linked network comprising the material, cells, and extracellular polymeric substances, which remarkably improved light utilization efficiency compared to traditional suspension systems. Furthermore, the extracellular polymeric substance matrix served as a biocompatible shield, effectively quenching reactive oxygen species and suppressing photodamage to the cells. To further enhance efficiency, Methanosarcina barkeri was decorated with silver nanoparticles. This modification rewires the electron transfer pathway, promoting a ferredoxin-independent mechanism and significantly enhancing cellular electron uptake. We achieved a state-of-the-art performance with a record 1.92% quantum yield and 97.1% methane selectivity by suppressing photodamage. This study pioneers the paradigm of integrating biofilms within hybrid systems. By elucidating its advantages and potential applications, our work provides a foundational blueprint for engineering the hybrid-biofilm microenvironment and designing practically viable reactors.},
}

@article {pmid41777556,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, H and Tang, Q and Zhu, Q and Xu, W and Wang, Z and Jiao, Z and Zuo, J and Jiang, W and Huang, C and Yin, H and Han, X and Zhou, W},
title = {Discovery of novel coumarin amphiphiles: dual-action antimicrobials with bacteria-mediated biofilm disruption and host-directed immunomodulation.},
journal = {RSC medicinal chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41777556},
issn = {2632-8682},
abstract = {Bacterial infections pose a threat to the health of animals and humans, and biofilm formation exacerbates the microbial threat. Therefore, new antimicrobial agents to address this challenge are much needed. In this study, some new amphipathic compounds derived from the natural product coumarin were designed and synthesized by mimicking the structure and function of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). Compound 15 exhibited strong inhibitory effects against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC29213 and four clinical isolates, with the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranging from 1 to 4 μg mL[-1]. It also demonstrated rapid bactericidal activity and a low propensity for resistance development. The in vivo activity of compound 15 was supported by good antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects in a mouse wound infection model. More importantly, the good immunomodulatory effects, biofilm formation inhibition and biofilm clearance were detectable in the treatment of compound 15, which made it a potential antibacterial candidate for controlling S. aureus forming biofilm infections.},
}

@article {pmid41773870,
year = {2026},
author = {Huang, A and Li, X and Lu, S and Zhang, J and Zheng, Y and Wang, M and Zhao, K},
title = {Role of sucrose-dependent exopolysaccharides in the biofilm development of Streptococcus mutans revealed at the microscale level.},
journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0000926},
doi = {10.1128/aem.00009-26},
pmid = {41773870},
issn = {1098-5336},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) has a superior ability to rapidly metabolize sucrose into exopolysaccharides (EPS, mainly glucans), which serve as a critical virulence factor related to dental caries. Despite extensive research on sucrose-dependent EPS at the molecular and macroscale levels, however, the mechanisms underlying EPS effects at the microscale level remain poorly understood. Here, by employing bacteria tracking and fluorescence staining techniques, we investigated the role of sucrose-dependent EPS during biofilm development of S. mutans at the microscale level for both WT and ΔgtfB strains. The results showed that at the early stages of biofilm development, the sucrose-derived glucans enhanced the surface attachment of S. mutans through bamboo joint-like glucan patterns displayed on cell surfaces and altered their microcolony structures from loose 2D chains in ΔgtfB to dense-packed cell clusters in WT; then, after microcolonies formed, sucrose-dependent EPS promoted their development by speeding up the 2D-3D transition of WT microcolonies and affected final biofilm morphologies at the stage of biofilm maturation. Moreover, by tracking the long-time dynamic process of WT biofilm development at the microscale, the results demonstrated clearly the origin of liquid regions and their correlations with the structural and pH heterogeneity of biofilms. These findings establish sucrose-dependent EPS as dual-functional scaffolds-mechanically accelerating biofilm assembly, meanwhile, facilitating the formation of structural and pH heterogeneity inside biofilms that are critical for enamel demineralization, and thus provide insights for developing new anti-caries strategies.

IMPORTANCE: Streptococcus mutans is a major pathogen in caries development due to its ability to rapidly metabolize sucrose into EPS. EPS serves as a major component of the S. mutans biofilm matrix, and previous studies mostly explored the effects of EPS on the macroscale. However, how EPS shapes S. mutans biofilm formation at the microscale is not well understood. By combining single-cell tracking with fluorescence staining techniques, we demonstrate that sucrose-dependent EPS governs the transition from 2D growth to 3D biofilm architecture and facilitates the formation of a liquid region at the bottom of the biofilm. These findings bridge a fundamental knowledge gap between the microscale organization and macroscale attributes of biofilms, offering novel perspectives for developing targeted anti-caries strategies.},
}

@article {pmid41772628,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhou, C and Huo, S and Guo, R and Li, X and Wang, X and Gu, C and Li, Z and Lu, L and Shi, C and Liu, X},
title = {Ultrasound-activated MoS2@Fe3O4 nanoplatform orchestrates biofilm disruption and immune reprogramming in implant-associated infections.},
journal = {Journal of nanobiotechnology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12951-025-03995-7},
pmid = {41772628},
issn = {1477-3155},
support = {82472391//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 82402272//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Implant-associated infections (IAIs), particularly those caused by antibiotic-resistant pathogens and protected by biofilms, remain a formidable challenge in orthopedic surgery due to limited antibiotic efficacy and sustained local immunosuppression. Addressing this dual bottleneck, we report a multifunctional MoS2@Fe3O4 heterostructure nanocomposite that enables ultrasound (US)-triggered piezocatalytic antibacterial therapy coupled with immune microenvironment remodeling. The nanoplatform integrates the piezoelectric polarization of MoS2 and the Fenton-like catalytic activity of Fe3O4 to achieve efficient charge separation, interfacial polarization, and enhanced Fe[3+]/Fe[2+] cycling, generating high levels of ROS (•OH, •O2[-], [1]O2) under low-intensity US irradiation. These reactive species effectively disrupt MRSA biofilms, promote bacterial membrane rupture, and expose pathogen-associated antigens. Importantly, this treatment activates the cGAS-STING signaling axis in dendritic cells, enhances M1-type macrophage polarization, and triggers coordinated innate and adaptive immune responses. In a murine subcutaneous IAI model, MoS2@Fe3O4 + US not only eradicated biofilm infections and reduced myeloid-derived suppressor cell (MDSC) infiltration, but also induced robust CD4[+]/CD8[+] T cell activation and memory B/T cell formation, effectively preventing infection recurrence after implant replacement. This work presents a paradigm-shifting, non-antibiotic immunotherapeutic strategy that integrates catalytic disinfection, immune activation, and long-term protection in a single nanoplatform. By overcoming key limitations of current treatments, our approach offers substantial promise for improving clinical outcomes in IAIs and advancing the field of immune-interactive nanomedicine.},
}

@article {pmid41772582,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, X and Hu, Y and Xu, C and Lian, T and Li, H and Sun, L and Sun, S and Hu, M and Wang, Y and Liu, D},
title = {Injectable dual-drug hydrogel containing curcumin and glycyrrhizic acid for biofilm inhibition and immunomodulatory therapy in periodontitis.},
journal = {Journal of nanobiotechnology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12951-026-04219-2},
pmid = {41772582},
issn = {1477-3155},
support = {82401076//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 82273499//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 82571050//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 23JCZDJC00210//Key Program of Tianjin Natural Science Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by excessive oxidative stress, persistent bacterial biofilms, and progressive destruction of periodontal tissues. Current clinical treatments primarily focus on controlling bacterial infection but often show limited long-term efficacy due to unresolved immune dysregulation. Therefore, therapeutic strategies that simultaneously target microbial biofilms and the pathological immune microenvironment are urgently needed. In this study, we developed an injectable dual-drug hydrogel incorporating curcumin (CUR) and glycyrrhizic acid (GL) for the treatment of periodontitis.

METHODS: CUR was dissolved in melted polyethylene glycol distearate and then dispersed in an aqueous medium to form micelles (CURM). Compared to CUR, CURM exhibited improved solubility and stability, thereby displaying greatly enhanced antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial activities. CURM were subsequently embedded within a hydrogel self-assembled from glycyrrhizic acid and polyvinyl alcohol (GLH) to form a dual-drug hydrogel system (CURM@GLH). Experimental periodontitis was established in mice to test their in vivo effects.

RESULTS: Owing to the intrinsic anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties of glycyrrhizic acid, the hydrogel exhibited combined effects in regulating immune dysregulation. The CURM@GLH effectively protected cells from oxidative damage, reduced intracellular reactive oxygen species levels, promoted macrophage polarization from the proinflammatory M1 phenotype toward the pro-regenerative M2 phenotype, and downregulated proinflammatory cytokine expression. In a ligature-induced rat model of periodontitis, local administration of the hydrogel significantly alleviated periodontal oxidative stress and inflammation and markedly reduced alveolar bone resorption.

CONCLUSIONS: This study presents an injectable dual-drug hydrogel, CURM@GLH, that integrates biofilm inhibition with immunomodulatory regulation, offering a promising host-directed therapeutic strategy for periodontitis. The proposed approach provides new insights into the design of multifunctional biomaterials for the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases associated with biofilm persistence and immune imbalance.},
}

@article {pmid41772134,
year = {2026},
author = {Sadiq, FA and Yang, N and Goeteyn, J and De Reu, K and Heyndrickx, M and Burmølle, M},
title = {Microbial Interactions Shape Spatial Organisation and Transcriptional Responses in a Model Mixed-Species Biofilm.},
journal = {Microbial ecology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1007/s00248-026-02701-w},
pmid = {41772134},
issn = {1432-184X},
abstract = {Dynamic social interactions within bacterial biofilms drive distinct spatial organisation and transcriptional responses. Here, we combine fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH), confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), and RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) to investigate a model three-species biofilm community derived from a dairy pasteuriser, comprising Stenotrophomonas rhizophila, Microbacterium lacticum, and Bacillus licheniformis. CLSM revealed species-specific biovolume dynamics and stratified 3D structures over 24 h, with S. rhizophila as the dominant species and M. lacticum exhibiting the lowest abundance yet playing an essential role as the initial coloniser. Spatial patterns reflected known pairwise interactions - commensalism, exploitation, and neutral interaction. Transcriptomic profiling of S. rhizophila revealed extensive gene expression changes in dual-species biofilms with M. lacticum, including upregulation of genes related to flagellar motility, nutrient acquisition, energy metabolism, and TonB-dependent transport. In contrast, co-culture with B. licheniformis induced minimal transcriptional changes in S. rhizophila, consistent with a neutral interaction among the two. Our findings demonstrate how interspecies interactions govern both spatial topology and functional specialisation in mixed-species biofilms which is of relevance to microbial ecology, industrial biofilm control, and the targeting of keystone biofilm species.},
}

@article {pmid41768750,
year = {2026},
author = {Yılmaz, MK and Esen, MK and Yalçın, MS and İnce, S and Özdemir, S},
title = {Design, Synthesis and Multitarget Biological Evaluation of Perfluoroalkylated Benzoylthiourea Compounds: From Biofilm Disruption to DNA Cleavage.},
journal = {ACS omega},
volume = {11},
number = {7},
pages = {11911-11919},
doi = {10.1021/acsomega.5c10893},
pmid = {41768750},
issn = {2470-1343},
abstract = {In the present study, a series of benzoylthiourea compounds bearing a perfluorinated group (-C8F17), namely N-((4-(heptadecafluorooctyl)-phenyl)-carbamothioyl)-benzamide (1) and N-((3-(heptadecafluorooctyl)-phenyl)-carbamothioyl)-benzamide (2) along with their non-fluorinated analogue, N-(phenylcarbamothioyl)-benzamide (3), were synthesized and characterized. Subsequently, various biological properties of the thiourea derivatives 1, 2, and 3 were evaluated, with a particular focus on elucidating the effect of the fluorinated group. The free radical scavenging activities of these compounds were evaluated with ascorbic acid and Trolox standards. Antioxidant activity peaked at 84.56% for 1 and 74.22% for 3. While 1 and 2 showed 97.70 and 96.50% inhibitory effects on α-amylase at 6.25 mg/L, 3 demonstrated 74.90% inhibitory effect at 100 mg/L. All compounds also displayed effective DNA nuclease activity. Additionally, antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities of benzoylthiourea compounds were also investigated. The most resistant microorganisms to the tested compounds were found to be Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In contrast, the most sensitive microorganisms were found to be Legionella pneumophila subsp. pneumophila and Enterococcus faecalis. The biofilm formation inhibition activities of benzoylthiourea compounds against S. aureus were 71.79, 69.80, and 63.53%, and against P. aeruginosa were 53.52, 63.33, and 70.00%, respectively, at the highest concentration. These findings provide a basis for proposing perfluorinated benzoylthiourea derivatives as potential potent, selective, and multitarget medicinal agents.},
}

@article {pmid41766602,
year = {2026},
author = {Jennings, JA and Abdelbary, H and Abdulla, FS and Arafah, O and Benzouak, T and Choe, H and Coenye, T and Coraça-Huber, DC and Drago, L and Gustavo Garcia, R and Goh, GS and Hamilton, J and Hamoudeh, R and Hickok, NJ and Jensen, LK and Lee, HG and Li, B and Manzary, M and Markovics, A and McDonald, K and Fintan Moriarty, T and Muthukrishnan, G and Nishitani, K and Norton, NJ and Oral, E and Parvizi, J and Del Pozo, J and Priddy, LB and Raafat, D and Saeed, K and Spiegel, C and Schwarz, EM and Siverino, C and Trobos, M and Tubbs, A and Yeasmin, R},
title = {2025 International Consensus Meeting on Musculoskeletal Infection: Summary From Biofilm Workgroup on Treatment of Biofilm-Related Infection and Preclinical Models.},
journal = {Journal of orthopaedic research : official publication of the Orthopaedic Research Society},
volume = {44},
number = {3},
pages = {e70169},
doi = {10.1002/jor.70169},
pmid = {41766602},
issn = {1554-527X},
abstract = {Despite advancements in surgical techniques, musculoskeletal infections (MSKI) remain severe complications following orthopedic surgery, imposing a substantial financial and personal burden on patients and healthcare systems globally. To establish the current state of knowledge in this field, International Consensus Meetings (ICM) were held in 2013, 2018, and 2025, including a Biofilm Section focused on establishing state-of-the-art basic science and translational research. The latest ICM utilized a 2-year-long Delphi process that commenced on May 31, 2023, and culminated in an in-person meeting involving voting on 30 questions by 47 delegates on May 8-10, 2025, in Istanbul, Turkey. Following the voting process, the Biofilm Section formed three workgroups (Biofilm Basic Science, Biofilm Treatment, and Research Priorities) to interpret the results and disseminate the findings in Consensus Articles that highlight priorities. The following is the summation of the Biofilm Treatment Workgroup, which aims to shape future pre-clinical MSKI research directions and grant funding with respect to: (1) elevating scientific rigor to ensure reproducibility and high-quality data in preclinical research; (2) transitioning mature therapeutic concepts into rigorous in vivo models to definitively prove their clinical feasibility; and (3) accelerating the development of novel molecular targets and advanced drug-delivery systems. Finally, the workgroup acknowledged a critical shift in the funding landscape. As government support faces future challenges, there is an urgent need for increased investment from industry and philanthropic partners. Such support is essential to develop effective treatments for serious orthopedic infections and to improve outcomes for patients facing life-altering illnesses.},
}

@article {pmid41765712,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhou, L and Dong, N and Fu, M and Yue, X and Jian, Y and Li, H and Zhuang, WQ},
title = {Corrigendum to "Dissimilatory sulfate reduction in an anaerobic biofilm reactor for tofu processing wastewater treatment: Bacterial community and their functional genes" [Sci. Total Environ. 892, (2023), 164579].},
journal = {The Science of the total environment},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {181598},
doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2026.181598},
pmid = {41765712},
issn = {1879-1026},
}

@article {pmid41765503,
year = {2026},
author = {Sato, T and Fukada, N and Kobayashi, H and Okaniwa, A and Okada, M and Yamazaki, K},
title = {Biofilm and Dermatophytoma.},
journal = {Medical mycology journal},
volume = {67},
number = {1},
pages = {71-77},
doi = {10.3314/mmj.26.006},
pmid = {41765503},
issn = {2186-165X},
abstract = {Dermatophytoma is a type of onychomycosis with distinctive clinical features. Clinically, it typically appears as a linear spike, triangular, or round white- or yellow-colored mass on the nail plate. Dermatophytes are thought to adhere to the nail surface and secrete extracellular polysaccharides (EPS), proteins, DNA, and other components, forming a biofilm matrix. EPS typically encases this microbial aggregation and is synthesized by the microbial constituents of the biofilm. Herein, we review dermatophytoma and the relationship between nail infection and biofilm. We also discuss green nails with dermatophytoma and infection models of biofilm formation.},
}

@article {pmid41765389,
year = {2026},
author = {Jurrat, H and Liaqat, I and Naseem, S and Abdul Latif, A and Saleem, G and Ali, A and Aftab, MN and Ali, S and Ismoilov, M},
title = {Biotechnological Evaluation of Anti-microbial and Anti-biofilm Properties of Biosurfactants Isolated from Catla catla Fats Derived Bacteria.},
journal = {Journal of oleo science},
volume = {75},
number = {3},
pages = {251-270},
doi = {10.5650/jos.ess25217},
pmid = {41765389},
issn = {1347-3352},
abstract = {Antibiotic resistance and biofilm-associated infections are major global health concerns, requiring sustainable antimicrobial alternatives. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial, antifungal, and antibiofilm potential of biosurfactants produced by Bacillus strains (H1, H2, and H5) isolated from the fat of Catla catla, a freshwater fish from the Sutlej River, Pakistan. The biosurfactants were extracted, purified, and characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, high-performance liquid chromatography, and mass spectrometry. Quantitative analysis revealed that strain H5 produced the highest levels of surfactin (107.5 ± 0.3 mg L[-1]) and iturin A (60.5 ± 0.5 mg L[-1]). The biosurfactants exhibited strong antibacterial activity, producing inhibition zones of up to 28.3 ± 0.3 mm against Bacillus licheniformis and 24.3 ± 0.3 mm against Escherichia coli. Minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations against Staphylococcus aureus were 6.6 ± 0.6 µg mL[-1] and 11.8 ± 0.4 µg mL[-1], respectively. Antifungal tests showed up to 34.6 ± 0.3 mm inhibition zones against Fusarium moniliforme. Antibiofilm assays demonstrated that the extracellular biosurfactant from strain H2 achieved the highest inhibition (82.7 ± 0.3 %) at 50 µg mL[-1]. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed the isolates as Bacillus subtilis (PV789583), Bacillus thuringiensis (PV789584), and Bacillus cereus (PV789585). These findings indicate that biosurfactants derived from Catla catla fat as a substrate represent a cost-effective and eco-friendly source of potent antimicrobial and antibiofilm compounds with promising biotechnological and therapeutic applications.},
}

@article {pmid41764148,
year = {2026},
author = {Murugesan, S and Rengarajan, S and Subbarayalu, A and Raman, S and Navaneethan, RD and S, SS and G, RR and Pandian, A and Chinnapandi, B},
title = {Sustainable fabrication of TiO2 nanoparticles using Gracilaria edulis extract: a study on biofilm inhibition and photocatalytic industrial dye degradation.},
journal = {Environmental geochemistry and health},
volume = {48},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {41764148},
issn = {1573-2983},
abstract = {Titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles were green-synthesized using whole Gracilaria edulis. The G. edulis was washed, dried, powdered and extracted, which is rich with various natural reducing, stabilizing, and capping agents. The TiO2 nanoparticles confirmed with strong UV-Vis absorption with peaks between 250 and 350 nm, consistent with the anatase TiO2 band gap. FTIR analysis revealed surface hydroxyl groups and organic residues from the algal extract, potentially facilitating reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. XRD confirmed a highly crystalline nature of green-synthesized TiO2 nanoparticles and showed irregular nanoscale morphology by SEM, while EDS confirmed Ti and O with minor algal-derived elements. TEM images showed mostly spherical, well-dispersed nanoparticles with minimal aggregation. Antimicrobial evaluation demonstrated stronger inhibition, with MIC values of 0.50 mg/mL for bacteria and 0.25 mg/mL for fungi. Photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue under sunlight achieved efficiencies of 90.1-94.4% at neutral pH (7) and 88.3-90.1% at alkaline pH (9), with performance improving at higher TiO2 loadings (10-30 ppm), while acidic pH showed slightly lower but variable degradation. Immobilization within sodium alginate produced uniform, stable beads with minimal leaching, suitable for reuse, and biofilm assays demonstrated concentration-dependent inhibition of bacterial biofilm formation. These results highlight that G. edulis-mediated TiO2 nanoparticles are promising sustainable materials in wastewater treatment and antimicrobial work because they have good physiochemical properties, strong antimicrobial and anti-biofilm action, and high dye degradation by photocatalysts.},
}

@article {pmid41763718,
year = {2026},
author = {Radcliffe, T},
title = {Overcoming Biofilm Detection and Mitigation Challenges to Improve Process Control of a Pharmaceutical Water-for-Injection System: Poster presented at PDA Microbiology Conference 2025.},
journal = {PDA journal of pharmaceutical science and technology},
volume = {80},
number = {1},
pages = {187-188},
doi = {10.5731/pdajpst.2026.26133},
pmid = {41763718},
issn = {1948-2124},
abstract = {The development and existence of bioburden in pharmaceutical water systems is often misunderstood. Microorganisms are always present and have a keen ability to adapt to their environment. This is especially true in a Water-for-Injection (WFI) system, where microbial attachment and biofilm growth will occur regardless of flow rate, material of construction, turbulent flow and low nutrient conditions. While industry makes every effort to control and eliminate bioburden, traditional sanitization methods are not one-hundred-percent effective at accomplishing this objective. Additionally, because of the limitations and time to result delay of conventional plate counting, we may be at a disadvantage for assessing bioburden, causing us to use water at risk. This poster explores real-life examples of biofilm in pharmaceutical water systems, risk mitigation strategies, and how real-time microbial detection could be used as a tool for improved risk management and process control.},
}

@article {pmid41763046,
year = {2026},
author = {Tao, Y and Zhang, Y and Liu, H and Xu, X and Zhuang, J and Huang, T and Lu, H and Wu, B},
title = {Sustainable nutrient removal without chemical addition: Pilot-scale performance of a biochar-enhanced hybrid biofilm system in municipal wastewater treatment.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {402},
number = {},
pages = {129151},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2026.129151},
pmid = {41763046},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {This study proposes a chemical-free and carbon-efficient strategy for advanced nutrient removal by integrating functional biochar into a hybrid biofilm system within a modified A[2]/O process. A long-term pilot-scale demonstration was conducted at a municipal wastewater treatment plant to evaluate system performance under realistic operating conditions. The biochar-enhanced system achieved stable treatment performance, consistently meeting China's Class 1A discharge standards without the addition of external carbon sources or chemical precipitants. The system achieved average removal efficiencies of 80.6% for total nitrogen and 94.2% for total phosphorus, with effluent concentrations consistently below 10 mg/L and 0.5 mg/L, respectively, which are well within the stringent regulatory limits. Biochar served as a multi-functional habitat and electron mediator, fostering the development of redox-stratified microenvironments and enhancing direct interspecies electron transfer. The introduction of biochar reduced aeration energy demand by 15-20%, which significantly decreased operational costs and enhanced overall system efficiency. High-throughput sequencing revealed the selective enrichment of key functional guilds, including denitrifying Caldilineaceae (12.3% relative abundance) and phosphorus-removing Saprospiraceae (8.7%). Structural equation modeling further quantified that biofilm-surface communities contributed 1.8-2.3 times more to pollutant removal than internal populations. The system also demonstrated robust adaptability to varying C/N ratios (2-8) and temperatures (15-30 °C), showcasing its potential for widespread application in diverse environments. These results provide not only insights into biochar-facilitated microbial processes but also a practical and scalable retrofit strategy for existing treatment plants to achieve sustainable nutrient management with reduced operational costs and chemical dependency.},
}

@article {pmid41759977,
year = {2026},
author = {Jing, K and Li, Y and Li, Y and Meng, Q and Zhang, J and Guan, Q},
title = {Migration of antibiotic resistance genes in process of biodegradation of sulfonamide antibiotics in biofilm-sediment: Mechanisms, microbial communities, and driving factors.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {448},
number = {},
pages = {134286},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.134286},
pmid = {41759977},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {The main removal pathway of sulfonamide antibiotics (SAs) in biofilm-sediment system is biodegradation, which not only promotes the enrichment of drug-resistant bacteria, but its metabolic intermediates also promote the horizontal gene transfer (HGT) of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). Since the biofilm-sediment multiphase system is closer to characteristics of the natural aquatic environment, the study of the dynamic migration process of ARGs in this system can reveal the propagation patterns of ARGs more realistically. Therefore, this study investigated the migration characteristics of ARGs and their driving mechanisms during the biodegradation of SAs in the biofilm-sediment system. The results showed that the migration of ARGs exhibited obvious stratification characteristics: the abundance of ARGs in the surface biofilm fluctuated in synchrony with the degradation of SAs, the HGT mediated by mobile genetic elements (MGEs) in middle sediments enabled the cross-layer migration and accumulation of ARGs, while deep sediments were limited in migration due to hypoxia and pore barriers. Changes in the bacterial community also facilitated the migration of ARGs, with the proliferation of host bacteria dominating the surface layer and the formation of a composite transfer system of "host bacteria-ARGs-MGEs" in the middle layer. The multivariate statistical analysis model confirmed that the synergistic effects of bacterial abundance, MGEs and environmental factors contributed 95-99% to the migration of ARGs in the surface and middle layers, with pH being the strongest positive regulator. These results demonstrated that the migration of ARGs is closely related to the degradation process of pollutants.},
}

@article {pmid41759553,
year = {2026},
author = {Felton, SM and Ficarrotta, JM and Kolling, GL and Papin, JA and Berger, BW},
title = {Enzyme-enhanced RNA isolation from biofilm-producing bacteria.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0307725},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.03077-25},
pmid = {41759553},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {RNA isolation is a critical first step for gene expression analysis; however, obtaining high-quality RNA from polysaccharide-rich or biofilm-producing microbial samples remains challenging. High polysaccharide content hinders cell lysis, decreases RNA yield, and reduces sample purity, limiting the reliability and accuracy of downstream techniques such as RNA-seq and RT-qPCR. In this study, we evaluated the use of polysaccharide lyase, Smlt1473, as a pre-processing step to improve RNA isolation from Pseudomonas species. Incorporation of Smlt1473 into a commercial RNA extraction kit workflow significantly improved RNA extraction for mucoid clinical and agricultural pseudomonads and did not adversely affect the non-mucoid isolate, PA14. More specifically, RNA-seq analysis demonstrated that pre-processing with Smlt1473 increased the proportion of assigned reads without introducing significant changes in gene expression. Only a limited set of genes-primarily hypothetical proteins and potential phage-associated elements-were differentially expressed, while global transcriptional profiles remained stable. Together, these findings demonstrate that pre-processing with Smlt1473 provides an effective, easily integrated method to enhance RNA isolation from biofilm-forming bacteria and improves RNA-seq data quality without perturbing the underlying biology.IMPORTANCEPseudomonas aeruginosa, along with other clinically relevant pathogens, is notorious for forming complex biofilms. Microbial biofilms can be composed of anywhere from 50% to 90% polysaccharides. This high polysaccharide content of microbial biofilms severely hinders RNA extraction by complicating bacterial cell lysis, causing a decrease in yield and purity. Challenges with isolating RNA from clinically relevant biofilm-forming pathogens limit our ability to study and better understand bacterial pathogenesis. Low quality and quantity of RNA impede the accuracy and reproducibility of downstream analysis and may ultimately obstruct the discovery of novel drug targets and therapeutic interventions. Developing strategies to overcome these barriers, such as enzymatic pre-processing, is therefore critical to improving RNA recovery from biofilm-producing bacteria to enable more accurate transcriptomic studies that advance both basic science and clinical applications.},
}

@article {pmid41758651,
year = {2026},
author = {Bjarnsholt, T and Lex, C and Stewart, P},
title = {The biofilm paradigm: A milestone, not the destination.},
journal = {Cell reports},
volume = {45},
number = {3},
pages = {117014},
doi = {10.1016/j.celrep.2026.117014},
pmid = {41758651},
issn = {2211-1247},
abstract = {Biofilms have profoundly shaped our understanding of chronic infection, yet their explanatory reach is limited. This commentary argues that chronicity emerges from a host-pathogen partnership, where host-derived structural, metabolic, immune, and systemic constraints define persistence, tolerance, and treatment responses beyond microbial architecture alone.},
}