MICROBIAL BIOFILMS : PATHOGENICITY AND TREATMENT STRATEGIES
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ABOUT AUTHORS
SMRUTIPRAGNYA SAMAL, PRATYUSH KUMAR DAS*
Centre for Biotechnology, Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India – 751003
*pratyushdas@soauniversity.ac.in
ABSTRACT
Microbial biofilms are complex structures wherein the planktonic cells change their growth mode to the sessile form. This kind of growth is assisted by the formation of a matrix of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) which encapsulates the bacterial cells within it and thus, provides an additional protection. These biofilms are highly resistant to high concentration of antibiotics and poses a great threat towards public health. These biofilms are even beyond the access of a normal human immune system and are involved in infections of teeth, lungs and many other diseases. There lies an immediate need to replace the extensive use of antibiotics with new emerging strategies. The review intends to provide an insight on the various perspectives of microbial biofilms including their formation, composition, mechanism of communication (Quorum sensing) and pathogenicity. Recent emerging strategies have also been discussed that can be considered for successful eradication or inhibition of biofilms and related infections.

ABOUT AUTHORS
