The biofilm mode of life : mechanisms and adaptations

A biofilm is a complex aggregation of microbes usually attached to a solid surface. Traditional studies of bacteria sometimes implied that microbes live as single organisms. It is now clear that in nature microbes usually live in co-operative groups attached to surfaces. Biofilms exist in all natural and man-made environments. Biofilm consortia are essential for cycling of elemental cycles and hence for turning the wheels of the planet. They are also essential for effective bioremediation, biodegradation and sewage treatment and are harvested for constructive purposes in biotechnology industries. While beneficial to many processes, they also have many negative impacts. For example, biofilms are involved in a wide variety of microbial infections in the body. These include: urinary tract infections, catheter infections, middle-ear infections, formation of dental plaque, tooth decay, gingivitis, coating of contact lenses, endocarditis, cystic fibrosis, and infections of devices such as joint prostheses and heart valves. In industrial environments, biofilms develop on the interiors of pipes, which lead to clogging and corrosion. They also foul membranes in water industries, a major concern for recycling and making water. Futhermore, biofilms on floors and counters can make sanitation difficult in food preparation areas. This book, written by leading international scientists, presents an overview of the most recent and exciting new research into the mechanisms that underpin the biofilm mode of life. This includes studies on interactions among biofilm cells, metabolic interactions, cell to cell communication and signal transmission across cells and species, competition and predation across species and domains, the use of modern molecular techniques and confocal laser scanning microscopy to study biofilm community structure and composition, mechanisms of biofilm dissolution, and genomic based studies. Biofilms are highly resistant to antibiotics and antimicrobials a fact that motivates scientists to focus on more applied aspects of the discipline with new ideas and approaches generated from the basic knowledge. The updated aspects of biofilm research reported in this volume will encourage researchers to integrate these new concepts to develop innovative approaches to the behaviour and functions of biofilms. Essential reading for anyone interested in biofilms.