@article {pmid42081074,
year = {2026},
author = {Srivastava, D and Gupta, K and Kumar, P and Kaushal, S and Srivastava, S and Pant, Y and Chanotiya, CS and Rout, PK and Pal, A},
title = {Pharmacological and mechanistic assessment of Trachyspermum ammi hydrosol: antimicrobial and anti-biofilm efficacy against Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes.},
journal = {Folia microbiologica},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42081074},
issn = {1874-9356},
abstract = {The escalating global threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), particularly among biofilm-forming bacterial pathogens, has necessitated the development of novel therapeutic strategies. Trachyspermum ammi hydrosol has exhibited a range of bioactive properties. However, its potential as a dual-action antimicrobial agent targeting both planktonic and biofilm-associated microorganisms remains underexplored. This study aimed to explore the antibacterial and antibiofilm activity of T. ammi hydrosol (TaHy) against two major Gram-positive pathogens, Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes), and elucidate its mechanism of action based on cell. Additionally, we aimed to evaluate in vivo acute toxicity and biosafety. Antimicrobial activities were assessed using DDA, MIC, and time-kill assays. Antibiofilm activity was evaluated using a crystal violet method, and biofilm morphology was examined by microscopy. TaHy demonstrated efficient inhibition in hydrophobicity and EPS production, along with alterations in membrane integrity, including bacteriolysis and protein and nucleic acid release. Our results showed that the MIC of TaHy was 0.625 mg/mL against both pathogens and that it significantly inhibited and eradicated biofilm formation at sub-MIC values, as confirmed by SEM and fluorescence microscopy. TaHy effectively inhibited hydrophobicity and EPS production, reducing the virulence factors of pathogens to 1/8 MIC. Consequently, in vivo acute oral toxicity tests revealed no adverse effects at doses up to 2000 mg/kg body weight of hydrosol concentrate. These findings revealed that TaHy has robust antimicrobial and antibiofilm capability against S. aureus and L. monocytogenes.},
}

@article {pmid42082030,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, D and Zhao, Z and Li, H},
title = {Achieving nitrogen removal in the integrated upper fixed-biofilm activated sludge reactor without recirculation: Differential protein and metagenomic analysis.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {454},
number = {},
pages = {134774},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.134774},
pmid = {42082030},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {The Integrated Fixed-film Activated Sludge (IFAS) system emerges as an advanced nitrogen removal technology, particularly effective for treating high-nitrogen wastewater due to its sophisticated configuration. This research introduces an enhanced Integrated Upper Fixed-film Activated Sludge (IUFAS) reactor featuring a two-stage series design. By strategically positioning carrier media in the upper compartment and implementing controlled influent distribution with aeration in the lower section, the system achieves functional compartmentalization within a single reactor without liquid and sludge recirculation. Experimental results under influent conditions of chemical oxygen demand/total nitrogen (C/N) ratio (4 ∼ 5) and hydraulic retention time (10 h) confirmed effective nitrogen removal, evidenced by effluent total nitrogen consistently below 7 mg N/L and removal efficiency exceeding 87%. Notably, the optimized IUFAS configuration achieved functional zoning by establishing a pronounced dissolved oxygen gradient between the upper (0.1 ∼ 0.7 mg/L) and bottom compartments (0.3 ∼ 3.6 mg/L). This oxygen stratification facilitated distinct nitrogen removal pathways, including stable anaerobic ammonium oxidation (Anammox) as evidenced by successful Candidatus Brocadia enrichment in the secondary reactor's upper zone. Microbial analysis further indicated potential modulation of electron flow by sulfate-reducing bacteria and sulfur-driven denitrifying bacteria, whose synergistic activity optimized electron transfer pathways and enhanced denitrification efficiency. Additionally, microalgae reduced aeration demand, lowering energy consumption. These findings propose novel strategies for optimizing carbon source allocation in nitrogen removal processes, supporting the development of energy-efficient wastewater treatment systems.},
}

@article {pmid42083229,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhou, Y and Zhang, N and Xu, W and Li, X and Zhang, M and Luo, X and Ni, B and Huang, F and Lu, R and Zhang, Y and Han, X},
title = {Sodium cyclamate enhances Vibrio parahaemolyticus biofilm formation on seafood-contact surfaces.},
journal = {Food research international (Ottawa, Ont.)},
volume = {235},
number = {},
pages = {119195},
doi = {10.1016/j.foodres.2026.119195},
pmid = {42083229},
issn = {1873-7145},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Vibrio parahaemolyticus/drug effects/genetics/physiology/pathogenicity ; *Seafood/microbiology ; Animals ; Food Microbiology ; Virulence ; Food Handling ; Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Sodium cyclamate, a widely used artificial sweetener, is commonly added in food processing, though its use in seafood products is generally prohibited. This study investigates its effects on biofilm formation and surface colonization by Vibrio parahaemolyticus on seafood-related materials. At concentrations of 1.4 mg/ml and 2.8 mg/ml, sodium cyclamate significantly promoted bacterial growth and biofilm formation. Specifically, viable cell counts in biofilms on shrimp and crab surfaces increased by up to 0.23-0.76 log10CFU/cm[2] compared to untreated controls. It enhanced the secretion of exopolysaccharide (EPS, with the synthesis-related gene cpsC upregulated 3.3213-fold), proteins, and extracellular DNA (eDNA), thereby promoting biofilm development on various surfaces including glass, stainless steel, plastic, and seafood. Transcriptomic analysis revealed 405 differentially expressed genes, with notable changes in pathways related to c-di-GMP signaling, flagellar synthesis, virulence factor expression, and amino acid metabolism. Key virulence genes were upregulated, including the thermostable direct hemolysin gene tdh2 (2.3487-fold), T3SS2 genes (2.0904-2.7097-fold), and T6SS2 genes (2.2079-3.4539-fold). Consistent with these changes, swimming motility was significantly inhibited (with 12 polar flagellum genes downregulated to 0.2938-0.4685-fold of the control level), while swarming motility remained unaffected. Although key virulence genes were upregulated in vitro, in vivo models showed attenuated virulence. Thus, sodium cyclamate enhances environmental adaptability (e.g., biofilm) of V. parahaemolyticus on seafood-contact surfaces but has complex effects on virulence-promoting gene expression yet reducing pathogenicity in vivo. Its unauthorized use in seafood remains a concern due to enhanced biofilm and colonization, though net pathogenicity requires further real-world investigation.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Vibrio parahaemolyticus/drug effects/genetics/physiology/pathogenicity
*Seafood/microbiology
Animals
Food Microbiology
Virulence
Food Handling
Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial/drug effects

@article {pmid42069115,
year = {2026},
author = {Aguilera, MA and Pastén, V and MartinThiel, },
title = {Light pollution by coastal streetlights affects intertidal grazers and biofilm differentially in natural rocky habitats and breakwaters.},
journal = {Environmental pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {128237},
doi = {10.1016/j.envpol.2026.128237},
pmid = {42069115},
issn = {1873-6424},
abstract = {Most coastal urban environments are characterised by a large concentration of shipping ports, walkways, and other built infrastructures. These are commonly associated with high levels of artificial light at night (ALAN), a pervasive anthropogenic driver that erodes natural light cycles and impacts the ecology of benthic communities. However, it is not well known whether the spatial configuration of coastal built structures may influence the effects of light pollution on community structure. Here, we conducted field surveys in natural rocky habitats and on breakwaters directly lit by streetlights (ALAN), and in matched unlit zones (without-ALAN), along the coast of northern and central Chile (20°S-32°S), to examine the influence of light pollution on the diel activity and density of the intertidal grazer guild and on the biomass of their main food resource, biofilm, in both habitat types. The patchy distribution of artificial light on the breakwaters seems to allow the co-occurrence of diurnal and nocturnal grazers at night, resulting in no major alteration of grazer densities with light pollution. The density and night-time activity of diurnal grazer species increased in parallel with an increase in the biofilm biomass under lit conditions in the topographically more homogeneous natural rocky habitat. On the lit breakwaters, biofilm also increased but no change in grazer densities was found, most likely related to the presence of dark zones. Our results indicate that the influence of coastal streetlight pollution on benthic grazers can be dampened by the presence of among-boulder interstices in the built structure. Increases in biofilm, the main food of grazers, by artificial light, may reinforce grazing pressure in both rocky habitats. Promoting a balanced mix of built habitats and conserving urban natural rocky shores while reducing coastal light pollution from streetlights could help prevent impacts on different functional groups due to accelerated urban infrastructure expansion.},
}

@article {pmid42069314,
year = {2026},
author = {Yin, Q and Sun, J and Wu, QY and Wang, WL and Guan, Y},
title = {Hybrid membrane bioreactor-filler system enables efficient nitrogen removal from semiconductor wastewater through engineered microbial niche differentiation: Process optimization, biofilm-enhanced kinetics, and multi-omics insights.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {454},
number = {},
pages = {134765},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.134765},
pmid = {42069314},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Nitrogen removal from semiconductor wastewater is challenged by low carbon-to-nitrogen (C/N) ratios and the need for specialized microbial guilds to degrade organoamines including tetramethylammonium hydroxide (TMAH), N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), and monoethanolamine (MEA). We hypothesized that creating distinct ecological niches within a single treatment system would shift microbial community assembly from stochastic to deterministic processes, selectively enriching specialized functional guilds and improving nitrogen removal without external carbon addition. To test this, we developed a hybrid system integrating a multi-stage anoxic-oxic (AOAO) process with a long sludge retention time (SRT) membrane bioreactor (MBR) and polyurethane fillers, creating three distinct ecological niches (suspended sludge, filler biofilm, and MBR biomass). Following process optimization with back-loaded hydraulic retention time (HRT) allocation and 150% internal recycle, the system achieved stable total nitrogen (TN) removal of 73% (effluent TN 7-9 mg L[-1]) without external carbon addition. Normalized stochasticity ratio (NST) analysis confirmed that the anoxic microenvironment within fillers shifted community assembly toward deterministic processes (NST = 37% vs. 76% in suspended sludge). This shift enriched Methanomethylovorans (5.1-fold) for anaerobic TMAH demethylation and Hyphomicrobium for methylotrophic denitrification. Untargeted metabolomics identified tryptophan and succinate depletion in filler biofilm, with strong metabolite-gene correlations (tryptophan-norB, r = 0.90; succinate-dmmA, r = 0.83) linking organoamine catabolism to respiratory denitrification. Co-occurrence network analysis confirmed tightly coupled anaerobic demethylation and denitrification modules in filler biofilm (216 edges, density 0.53). This work demonstrates that engineered niche differentiation can overcome carbon limitation in organoamine-rich industrial wastewater, providing a transferable design paradigm for carbon-efficient biological nitrogen removal.},
}

@article {pmid42072218,
year = {2026},
author = {Del Hougne, M and Mitzscherling, A and Ewald, A and Schilling, T and Stahlhut, P and Gbureck, U and Schmitter, M},
title = {In Vitro Biofilm Formation on 3D-Printed, Milled, and Conventionally Manufactured Denture Base Resins.},
journal = {Bioengineering (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/bioengineering13040424},
pmid = {42072218},
issn = {2306-5354},
abstract = {Biofilm formation on denture base materials may contribute to oral diseases such as denture stomatitis and therefore represents an important factor in prosthodontic treatment. This in vitro study investigated biofilm formation on dental prosthetic materials manufactured by additive, subtractive, and conventional techniques. Disc-shaped specimens were fabricated from 3D-printed Denture Base Resin (Formlabs), milled Lucitone Digital Fit (Dentsply Sirona), and conventionally processed cold-polymerized PALAPress (Kulzer). Biofilm formation by Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sanguinis was assessed separately over a 21-day incubation period using crystal violet staining and photometric determination of optical density at eight predefined time points. Surface characteristics before and after microbial colonization were qualitatively evaluated by scanning electron microscopy. For S. mutans, significant material-dependent differences were observed only at selected time points, while overall biofilm accumulation remained low. In contrast, S. sanguinis exhibited pronounced and repeated differences, with milled PMMA generally showing lower biofilm accumulation compared with additively manufactured and conventionally processed materials. Overall, S. sanguinis formed significantly more biofilm than S. mutans across all materials and time points. These findings indicate that both manufacturing technique and bacterial species influence biofilm formation on denture base materials.},
}

@article {pmid42072719,
year = {2026},
author = {Meng, X and Ning, C and Lu, X and Kang, M and Yang, Y and Yu, Z and Wang, Y and Sun, Y and Guo, H},
title = {The Effects of Baicalin in Combination with Cefotaxime on the Biofilm and Metabolic Reprogramming of Multidrug-Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa.},
journal = {Biomolecules},
volume = {16},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/biom16040598},
pmid = {42072719},
issn = {2218-273X},
support = {NO.JJKH20261179KJ//Department of Education of Jilin Province/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Flavonoids/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/metabolism/physiology ; *Cefotaxime/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/drug effects ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Molecular Docking Simulation ; Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics ; Drug Synergism ; Quorum Sensing/drug effects ; Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial/drug effects ; Metabolic Reprogramming ; },
abstract = {Baicalin, a natural plant-derived compound, holds promise in addressing clinical bacterial resistance when combined with antibiotics. This study evaluated the antibacterial activity of the combination of baicalin and cefotaxime and explored its mechanism of action on the cell wall and biofilm of multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MRPA). The results showed that the combination of baicalin and cefotaxime exerted a synergistic inhibitory effect on the growth of MRPA, with a fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI) of 0.28. Mechanistically, compared with cefotaxime alone, the combination of baicalin and cefotaxime enhanced the permeability of the cell membrane and cell wall of MRPA, thereby increasing cell damage. It also exhibited stronger antibiofilm activity by inhibiting numerous virulence factors (pyocyanin, elastase, lectin), reducing cellular metabolic activity, and downregulating the expression of biofilm genes (pslA, pelA, algD) and quorum-sensing genes (lasl, lasR, rhll, rhlR, pqsA, pqsR). The molecular docking results revealed that baicalin could stably bind to wbpE, LasR, and RhlR. Therefore, this interaction may indirectly influence the processes related to antibiotic resistance and biofilm formation in bacterial cells. Metabolomic analysis revealed that the combination of baicalin and cefotaxime upregulated 863 metabolites and downregulated 587 metabolites. These metabolites mainly included amino acids, lipids, nucleotides, carbohydrates, and secondary metabolites. The combination primarily enriched key pathways such as amino acid metabolism, lipid metabolism (sphingolipid metabolism) and secondary metabolite biosynthesis. Through these pathways, it triggers significant metabolic reprogramming, thereby interfering with the supply of cell wall synthesis precursors, membrane structural stability, and the generation of biomembrane matrix. Ultimately, it synergistically enhances the effects of cell wall damage and biomembrane inhibition. In conclusion, this study confirms that the combination of baicalin and cefotaxime exerts significant synergistic antibacterial activity against MRPA. It also reveals the mechanism of action of the combination on the cell wall and biofilm of MRPA at the metabolic level, providing theoretical support for the development of novel strategies to combat MRPA.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Flavonoids/pharmacology/chemistry
*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/metabolism/physiology
*Cefotaxime/pharmacology/chemistry
*Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/drug effects
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Molecular Docking Simulation
Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics
Drug Synergism
Quorum Sensing/drug effects
Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial/drug effects
Metabolic Reprogramming

@article {pmid42075179,
year = {2026},
author = {Fan, B and Su, Q and Shao, Y and Sun, W and Zhou, J and Han, X and Jiang, W},
title = {Construction of a Mutant Library of Avibacterium paragallinarum Transposons and Screening and Preliminary Study of Genes Related to Biofilm Formation.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14040783},
pmid = {42075179},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {2023YFD1800602-2//National Key Research and Development Programs of China/ ; 2025I0030-1//Fujian Foreign Cooperation Project/ ; },
abstract = {Avibacterium paragallinarum (Av. paragallinarum), the causative agent of infectious coryza, imposes substantial economic burdens on the poultry industry by inducing growth retardation in broilers and reducing egg production in laying hens by up to 40%. Disease control is hindered by the limited efficacy of available vaccines and the increasing prevalence of antibiotic resistance-challenges that are exacerbated by the pathogen's capacity to form biofilms, which facilitate bacterial persistence and enhance drug tolerance. To systematically elucidate the genetic determinants underlying biofilm formation in Av. Paragallinarum, we constructed a high-density random mutant library using mini-Tn5 transposon mutagenesis, comprising 3106 individual mutants. Phenotypic screening via crystal violet staining identified 188 mutants displaying altered biofilm-forming capacity relative to the wild-type strain, including 172 with enhanced and 16 with reduced biofilm formation. Sequencing of transposon insertion sites in these mutants revealed 105 disrupted genes involved in diverse biological pathways, including amino acid metabolism, quorum sensing, and transmembrane transport. A representative subset of eight mutants was selected for detailed phenotypic characterization. Their biofilm phenotypes were consistent with the initial screening results; certain mutants exhibited markedly enhanced biofilm formation (e.g., Tn-2206), whereas others, including Tn-1504, Tn-2428, and Tn-2859, showed significant reductions in biofilm production. Notably, these three biofilm-deficient mutants-harboring disruptions in a TonB-dependent receptor (Tn-1504), a GntP family permease (Tn-2428), and a hypothetical protein (Tn-2859)-displayed drastically attenuated virulence in vitro. Compared with the wild-type strain, these mutants exhibited reductions in cytotoxicity (up to 66.38%), cell adhesion (up to 50.68%), and invasive capacity, while maintaining normal growth kinetics. These findings indicate that the identified genes may play crucial roles in biofilm-associated virulence and highlight Tn-1504, Tn-2428, and Tn-2859 as promising candidates for the development of live attenuated vaccines. Collectively, this study provides a comprehensive genetic foundation for the rational design of novel anti-biofilm strategies against Av. paragallinarum.},
}

@article {pmid42075223,
year = {2026},
author = {Cao, Y and Li, Y and Zhou, Y},
title = {Membrane Vesicles Improve Streptococcus mutans Early Biofilm Formation.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14040826},
pmid = {42075223},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {2025A04J5291//Science and Technology Program of Guangzhou/ ; },
abstract = {Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans), one of the main etiological pathogens of dental caries, forms dental plaque biofilms that drive tooth decay. Although bacterial membrane vesicles (MVs) are increasingly recognized as modulators of biofilm biology, little is known about MVs generated by S. mutans. The objective of this study is to investigate the role of S. mutans-derived MVs in the development of S. mutans biofilms formed under static conditions in plates or confocal dishes. Transmission electron microscopy and nanoparticle tracking analysis revealed that the MVs were cup-shaped with bilayered membranes and averaged 80.49 ± 32.24 nm in diameter. The addition of ≥5 µg/mL MVs enhanced biofilm formation during the initial adhesion stage (0 to 6 h), as demonstrated by crystal violet staining and XTT assays. Confocal laser scanning microscopy and scanning electron microscopy confirmed the incorporation of PKH26-labeled MVs into S. mutans biofilms and showed that supplemental MVs increased bacterial viability and extracellular polysaccharide biomass. Furthermore, RT-qPCR analysis revealed upregulated expression of genes related to adhesion and quorum-sensing systems in MV-treated biofilms. In conclusion, these findings indicate that S. muants MVs are integral biofilm components that promote biofilm establishment at the early stage of biofilm formation.},
}

@article {pmid42075237,
year = {2026},
author = {Sun, J and Wang, H and Chen, Y and Huang, S and Bi, X and Cheng, L and Shi, X and Zhao, W and Zhou, X},
title = {Performance of Nitrogen Removal and Biofilm-Associated Microbial Community in a Compact Marine Shrimp Recirculating Aquaculture System with MBBR.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14040841},
pmid = {42075237},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {tsqn202312222//Department of Education Shandong Province/ ; (ZR2023QE234)//Department of Science and Technology of Shandong Province/ ; ZR2023QE234//Department of Science and Technology of Shandong Province/ ; },
abstract = {To address ammonium nitrogen (NH4[+]-N) and nitrite accumulation in intensive marine shrimp aquaculture, a marine recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) for Penaeus vannamei centered on a moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) was constructed to investigate the microbial basis of nitrogen removal. The results showed that the MBBR contributed most to NH4[+]-N removal, demonstrating favorable nitrification potential under marine conditions (0.513 mg·L[-1]·h[-1]). The biofilm carrier formed a complete attached layer and developed a mature biofilm structure. Microbial community analysis revealed clear differentiation between the biofilm and sediment. The biofilm community was dominated by norank_f__Caldilineaceae (9.89%). Linear discriminant analysis effect size identified the nitrifying genus Nitrospira to be significantly enriched on the biofilm side (α = 0.05, linear discriminant analysis > 2.0). In addition, PICRUSt2-based functional prediction suggested a higher potential in biofilm than in sediment for ammonia oxidation and downstream nitrogen transformation, involving ammonia monooxygenase (EC:1.14.99.39), hydroxylamine dehydrogenase (EC:1.7.2.6), nitrate reductase (EC:1.7.99.4), and nitrite reductase (EC:1.7.2.1). Thus, this study provides a microbial basis and process strategy for P. vannamei RAS.},
}

@article {pmid42075702,
year = {2026},
author = {Kranz, S and Heyder, M and Guellmar, A and Gottschaldt, M and Schubert, US and Loeffler, B and Sigusch, B and Reise, M},
title = {An Innovative Oral Ex Vivo Biofilm Model for Antimicrobial Investigations.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/pathogens15040375},
pmid = {42075702},
issn = {2076-0817},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; Humans ; *Saliva/microbiology ; *Dental Plaque/microbiology ; Plant Extracts/pharmacology ; Chlorhexidine/pharmacology ; *Anti-Infective Agents/pharmacology ; Microscopy, Confocal ; Adult ; },
abstract = {The methodical work describes all the necessary steps for establishing a stable oral ex vivo biofilm using saliva and crevicular plaque samples from periodontal healthy donors. First, cover slips were preconditioned with saliva supernatants and subsequently inoculated with crevicular plaque suspensions. Ex vivo biofilm formation was characterized by confocal laser scanning microscopy (cLSM) after 1, 4, 24, 48 and 72 h of anaerobic cultivation. Exemplarily, the inhibitory characteristics of blackcurrant fruit extracts [all-fruit juice (AFJ); alcoholic fraction from berry skins (AFBS)] were observed on 1, 4 and 24 h-aged ex vivo biofilms. Chlorhexidine (CHX, 0.2%) served as positive control. After direct contact (3 min), biofilms were dispersed, plated onto agar and anaerobically cultivated for 24 h. Early ex vivo biofilms (1 h-biofilm) showed scattered microbial colonies. After 4 h of cultivation, a multilayered biofilm was formed. Biofilm mass gradually increased, displaying a complex polymicrobial structure after 24 h. At 72 h, the biofilms had a dense three-dimensional appearance. Treatment with AFJ and CHX was more efficient in inhibiting biofilm growth compared to AFBS. Early biofilms (1 h, 4 h) were more susceptible to AFJ and CHX compared to 24 h-biofilms. The introduced model can be recommended for testing the efficiency of plaque-controlling agents.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
Humans
*Saliva/microbiology
*Dental Plaque/microbiology
Plant Extracts/pharmacology
Chlorhexidine/pharmacology
*Anti-Infective Agents/pharmacology
Microscopy, Confocal
Adult

@article {pmid42076159,
year = {2026},
author = {Das, S and Baradarbarjastehbaf, F and Szokolics, AS and Campos, GKD and Gazdag, Z and Széchenyi, A and Miseta, A and Kovács, GL and Kőszegi, T},
title = {Species-Specific Susceptibility of Planktonic and Biofilm Forming Candida Strains to Cyclodextrin-Encapsulated Essential Oils.},
journal = {Pharmaceutics},
volume = {18},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/pharmaceutics18040508},
pmid = {42076159},
issn = {1999-4923},
support = {NKFI ÚNKP-23-4-II-PTE-1742//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; 008_2025_PTE_RK/28//University of Pécs Rector's Scientific Fund/ ; },
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Essential oils (EOs) have multi-target antifungal activity, but their translation is limited by volatility and poor aqueous dispersibility. Randomly methylated β-cyclodextrin (RAMEB) inclusion may enhance effective exposure and thereby alter susceptibility, stress responses, and biofilm outcomes in a species-dependent manner. This study quantified species-specific planktonic and biofilm susceptibility to four EOs and their RAMEB complexes across clinically relevant Candida species. Methods: Lavender (L), lemon balm (B), peppermint (P), and thyme (T) oils and their RAMEB complexes (RL, RB, RP, and RT) were tested against C. albicans and non-albicans Candida. Susceptibility thresholds were used to derive phase plasticity metrics. Functional inhibition was assessed via planktonic metabolism/viability and established biofilm metabolism/viability/biomass. Mechanistic signatures were captured by ROS/RNS measurements and a qPCR analysis of antioxidant genes (CAT1, GPX1, and SOD1) was performed. Mixed-effects models and multivariate/unsupervised and interpretable classification approaches (k-means, PCA, and CRT) were used to integrate endpoints and stratify response phenotypes. Results: Susceptibility thresholds were strongly species-structured (lowest MIC90/EC10 for C. albicans; higher thresholds and broader sublethal windows in non-albicans species). RAMEB complexation produced formulation-dependent shifts in efficacy, with RT emerging as the most consistent broad-spectrum inhibitory condition across compartments. Biofilm biomass was comparatively insensitive even when viability was suppressed, indicating a decoupling of structural biomass from biocidal activity. Mechanistic signatures were broadly conserved across species and linked to antioxidant-program engagement, with CAT1-related rules contributing to responder/tolerant classification. Conclusions: Integrating MIC/EC plasticity with functional and mechanistic markers supports the rational selection of EO formulations; RAMEB complexation, particularly RT, prioritizes candidates for further pharmaceutical optimization while highlighting species-specific vulnerabilities.},
}

@article {pmid42077202,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhou, YB and Wu, X and Li, YJ and Zhao, SY and Hu, XB and Du, ZY and Lian, DC and Xie, JL and He, DX and Yang, Y and Su, JH and He, QH and Zhu, YF and Chang, YQ and Lan, P and Sun, PH and Pan, XH and Zheng, JX and Liu, J},
title = {Discovery of Catechol-Benzothiazole Conjugates as Antibacterial Synergists against Pseudomonas aeruginosa by Inhibiting Biofilm Formation.},
journal = {Journal of medicinal chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acs.jmedchem.6c00428},
pmid = {42077202},
issn = {1520-4804},
abstract = {The formation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) biofilm hinders the efficacy of antibiotics, making clinical treatment challenging. Given that disrupting iron homeostasis represents a promising strategy for treating biofilm infections, a series of catechol-conjugated benzothiazole derivatives with iron-chelating properties was designed and synthesized. Among them, 4p was identified as the hit compound, demonstrating potent biofilm inhibition (IC50 = 0.27 μM). Mechanistic studies demonstrated that 4p attenuates biofilm formation by inhibiting heme oxygenase (HemO), impairing iron homeostasis, virulence factor production, and motility. Moreover, 4p synergized with ciprofloxacin (CIP) and tobramycin (Tob), enhancing their efficacy and delaying the development of resistance. Notably, 4p improved survival in Galleria mellonella (G. mellonella) and reduced bacterial load by 2.10-2.11log10 CFU in mice wounds in vivo when combined with CIP and Tob. Collectively, these results highlight the potential of 4p as an antibacterial synergist and a promising candidate for the treatment of P. aeruginosa infections.},
}

@article {pmid42077371,
year = {2026},
author = {Abbasi, Z and Fasim, F and Abbas, S and Shafique, R and Khan, BA and Nisar, A and Alshahrani, SM and Uzair, B},
title = {Biosynthesis of fosfomycin-loaded CuO nanoparticles: evaluation of antibacterial, antibiofilm properties and molecular docking analysis against biofilm-associated proteins in MDR bacteria.},
journal = {Asian biomedicine : research, reviews and news},
volume = {20},
number = {1},
pages = {21-34},
pmid = {42077371},
issn = {1875-855X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Infectious diseases caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria pose a significant challenge in healthcare. The development of new antibiotics, while essential, is often hindered by the complexity, cost, and time involved in the process. An alternative approach gaining traction is the conjugation of existing antibiotics with potent antimicrobial agents to improve their efficacy against resistant pathogens.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to develop environmentally sustainable and cost-effective copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) synthesized using bioactive compounds extracted from Curcuma zedoaria.

METHODS: These nanoparticles were subsequently conjugated with fosfomycin. Physicochemical characterization was carried out using XRD, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), FTIR, and UV-Visible spectroscopy. Release was studied using Franz diffusion cell. Antibacterial efficacy of the pure and fosfomycin-conjugated copper oxide nanoparticles (Fos-CuO NPs) was evaluated against multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa using the disk diffusion method. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and antibiofilm activity were determined using the microbroth dilution method. Additionally, molecular docking analysis was performed to examine the interaction of Fos-CuO NPs with biofilm-associated proteins (LecA, CdrA, PslA, PslD, GacA, CupA, DipA, PelA, PelB) in P. aeruginosa.

RESULTS: The physicochemical analysis confirmed successful CuO NPs synthesis and their conjugation with fosfomycin. XRD results confirmed the crystalline structure of the nanoparticles, while SEM revealed some agglomerated, irregular spherical shapes. Fos-CuO NPs exhibited greater antibacterial activity against MDR S. aureus (42 mm), E. coli (45 mm), and P. aeruginosa (39 mm) compared with pure CuO NPs (39 mm, 27 mm, and 41 mm, respectively). The docking results showed that the fosfomycin-conjugated nanoparticle exhibited the highest binding affinity for the biofilm-associated proteins Lec A and Pel A, with docking scores of -4.4 kcal/mol and -4.9 kcal/mol, respectively, compared with blank CuO NPs, supporting their potential application as a novel antimicrobial strategy.

CONCLUSION: This research offers significant insights into the green synthesis of fosfomycin-conjugated nanoparticles for addressing the growing challenge of multidrug-resistant bacterial infections.},
}

@article {pmid42077899,
year = {2026},
author = {Calvi, GS and Braga, MT and Jácome Cartaxo, GN and Kubát, P and Liška, V and Mosinger, J and Costa, MS},
title = {Visible Light Activation for Fungal Biofilm Inhibition: Combining Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy with Singlet Oxygen and Iodine Generation against Candida albicans and Pichia kudriavzevii.},
journal = {ACS omega},
volume = {11},
number = {16},
pages = {23743-23754},
pmid = {42077899},
issn = {2470-1343},
abstract = {Biofilms formed by Candida albicans and the highly resistant Pichia kudriavzevii are critical virulence factors because of their resistance to conventional antifungals. This study explored antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) using sulfonated polystyrene nanoparticles with an encapsulated tetraphenylporphyrin photosensitizer (TPP-NPs), synergistically enhanced by potassium iodide (KI), to combat biofilms of these yeasts. TPP-NPs irradiated by visible light generate antimicrobial singlet oxygen (O2([1]Δg)), which oxidizes KI to form another reactive species (I2/I3 [-]), augmenting total antimicrobial effects. The usage of TPP-NPs led to reduced cell proliferation and biofilm viability in both species, with KI significantly enhancing efficacy and enabling lower TPP-NP doses. P. kudriavzevii biofilms were more susceptible (70-80% inhibition, up to 95% with KI) than C. albicans biofilms (30-40% inhibition), a crucial finding for drug-resistant P. kudriavzevii. This is the first demonstration that aPDT using TPP-NPs effectively reduces both biofilm formation and viability, especially against resistant P. kudriavzevii, highlighting its potential as a biocompatible alternative therapy for biofilm-associated infections.},
}

@article {pmid42078529,
year = {2026},
author = {Bertran Forga, X and Fairfull-Smith, KE and Qin, J and Totsika, M},
title = {Transcriptional profiling of Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm life cycle stages reveals dispersal-specific biomarkers.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1826561},
pmid = {42078529},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Bacteria exhibit two lifestyles: planktonic, free-floating individual cells or sessile multicellular aggregates known as biofilms. The biofilm life cycle is characterized by three distinct stages: attachment, maturation and dispersal. Consequently, specific adaptations occur at each stage, governing cellular behaviors such as adhesion and the synthesis and degradation of extracellular matrix components. Characterizing stage-specific bacterial profiles therefore represents a valuable strategy for the development of novel antibiofilm therapies. Here, we used the model biofilm-forming bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 to characterize the transcriptional profiles of each stage of the biofilm life cycle: attachment, biofilm maturation and spontaneous dispersal in closed cultures. We report that, relative to biofilm dispersal, surface attachment coincided with the upregulation of genes comprising the Pil-Chp mechanosensory system (2.00-7.37-fold), whereas biofilm maturation was characterized by the upregulation of genes involved in Pel polysaccharide synthesis (∼2.5-fold relative to either attachment or dispersal), siaD and PA4396 diguanylate cyclases as well as phosphodiesterases pipA, fimX and PA5442 (2.08-3.73-fold relative to biofilm dispersal). In contrast with cells undergoing biofilm maturation, dispersing cells upregulated genes responsible for the biosynthesis of alginate, rhamnolipid, and extracellular nucleases (eddA, 3.28-fold; and eddB, 2.95-fold), as well as the transcriptional regulator of dispersal amrZ (6.27-fold). Additionally, genes involved in the biosynthesis and sensing of the dispersal signal cis-2-decenoic acid (dspS, 2.04-fold; and dspI, 5.59-fold), canonical phosphodiesterases (nbdA, 7.56-fold; and rbdA, 3.03-fold), four non-canonical HD-GYP phosphodiesterases and seven other c-di-GMP-related enzymes were also upregulated during dispersal. Altogether, this work provides benchmarking stage-specific transcriptional profiles characterizing the biofilm life cycle of P. aerugiosa in closed systems. Furthermore, it allowed the identification of a subset of fourteen genes as transcriptional biomarkers of dispersal, which were used to build reporter plasmids as tools to determine the onset of dispersal.},
}

@article {pmid42078987,
year = {2026},
author = {Sofian, AA and Che-Hamzah, F and Khirul-Ashar, NA and Noorman, MF and Ab-Halim, AA and Amin-Nordin, S and Sither-Joseph, NM},
title = {The Efficacy of Povidone-Iodine in Eradicating Staphylococcus aureus Biofilm on Stainless Steel Alloy Implants.},
journal = {Malaysian orthopaedic journal},
volume = {20},
number = {1},
pages = {14-22},
pmid = {42078987},
issn = {1985-2533},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Staphylococcus aureus is the leading biofilm-forming microorganisms in orthopaedic implant infections. The biofilms formed are difficult to eradicate and resistance to antibiotics. This current study aims to determine the effectiveness of povidone-iodine; an antiseptic solution in eradicating S. aureus biofilm on stainless steel alloy. In addition to the usual Colony-Forming Unit (CFU) used for verification, Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) is used to validate the formation and eradication of the biofilms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is an in vitro study where the biofilm is formed by inoculating clinically isolated S. aureus, incubated for 24 hours onto stainless steel alloy 316L implants. The implants are then irrigated using povidone-iodine solution with varying concentrations (5 and 10%) and durations (30, 60, and 180 seconds). The anti-biofilm effect was evaluated using plating and SEM methods to confirm its effectiveness. The process is repeated after 24 hours of post-irrigation reincubation to detect any rebound growth.

RESULTS: No biofilm seen after irrigation with povidone-iodine at 5% and 10% concentrations at 30, 60 and 180 seconds, respectively, in both CFU count and SEM. This result is replicated after 24 hours of reincubation, in assessing for rebound growth.

CONCLUSION: Our study supports that a minimum of 5% povidone-iodine with a minimum irrigation time of 30 seconds are effective at eliminating S. aureus biofilm on stainless steel alloy implants. Both CFU count and SEM yield similar value in validating the presence of biofilm. Additionally, SEM allows visualisation of the morphology of the biofilm.},
}

@article {pmid42079082,
year = {2026},
author = {Kasivisweswaran, S and Prentice, JA and Bridges, AA},
title = {A branching cell-fate decision in biofilm dispersal enables long-term surface persistence.},
journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.64898/2026.04.24.720661},
pmid = {42079082},
issn = {2692-8205},
abstract = {Biofilms are the most ancient multicellular communities on Earth, representing a primitive developmental system that protects microbes from threats. Biofilm dispersal, whereby bacteria exit biofilms, is critical for the spread of pathogens to new infection sites. Here, using Vibrio cholerae , we show that dispersal events are accompanied by a branching cell-fate decision. While ∼90% of cells disperse, a viable subpopulation remains within a residual matrix. This post-dispersal biofilm community (PDBC) is established by the matrix protein RbmA and adopts a specialized anabolic program that enhances tolerance to antibiotics and bacteriophages. Our findings reveal that PDBCs act as a resilient "seed-bank" capable of rapidly re-populating the niche without requiring de novo matrix biosynthesis, providing a mechanistic basis for the recurrence and spread of chronic infections.},
}

@article {pmid42079179,
year = {2026},
author = {Wood, AK and Carson, CS and Neubauer, HR and Gutierrez, LH and Adeoye, M and Johnson, A and Buiatte, ABG and Chong, B and Cook, LC and Session, A and Andam, CP and McKenney, PT},
title = {Contact dependent suppression of Clostridioides difficile sporulation by enterococci requires the endocarditis and biofilm associated pilus.},
journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.64898/2026.04.22.718763},
pmid = {42079179},
issn = {2692-8205},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Clostridioides difficile is a healthcare-associated infection that arises when broad-spectrum antibiotic treatment disrupts the gut microbiota and is transmitted by highly resistant spores. Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium (VRE) is an opportunistic pathogen frequently co-isolated from C. difficile patients. We found that C. difficile sporulation is significantly reduced in VRE- C. difficile co-culture. Physical separation of C. difficile and VRE in transwell co-culture restored sporulation. Mixed macrocolony culture assays on solid agar confirmed physical contact is necessary for sporulation inhibition. We screened a panel of enterococci and found that most strains reduce sporulation, except Enterococcus saccharolyticus , which lacks predicted surface displayed virulence factors in its genome. We performed a candidate gene screen using an Enterococcus faecalis OG1RF transposon library and found that an insertion in the major pilin ebpC partially restored C. difficile sporulation in co-culture. These data were confirmed with in-frame deletions in the ebpABC pilus operon and a clinical isolate of E. feacalis lacking ebpABC . These findings suggest enterococci modulate C. difficile sporulation through a contact-dependent mechanism involving the Ebp pilus.

IMPORTANCE: A characteristic of C. difficile infection is multiple episodes of acute disease. Spores are the transmission vector of C. difficile and are necessary for recurrence in models of disease. Our research demonstrates that C. difficile spore production is significantly reduced in the presence of enterococci, a common group of beneficial and pathogenic bacteria present in the gut microbiota. Physical contact with enterococci reduces C. difficile spore production. We attribute this effect to a protein structure on the surface of enterococci. This finding suggests a potential role for enterococci and the gut microbiota in general to uncover regulators of C. difficile spore formation. This may provide an avenue for innovative treatment strategies that reduce spore formation.},
}

@article {pmid42079636,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhou, B and Meng, X and Yu, Z and Zhang, B and Zhao, W and Wang, L and Peng, L and Zou, J and Chen, J and Lin, X and Gao, X and Huang, SH and Cao, H},
title = {Vimentin-NF-κB signaling contributing to IbeA-mediated adhesion, invasion, and biofilm formation during Escherichia coli K1 traversal of the blood-brain barrier.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1793594},
pmid = {42079636},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Blood-Brain Barrier/microbiology/metabolism ; Animals ; *NF-kappa B/metabolism ; *Bacterial Adhesion ; Signal Transduction ; Humans ; Rats ; *Escherichia coli/physiology/pathogenicity ; *Escherichia coli Proteins/metabolism/genetics ; *Vimentin/metabolism/genetics ; *Meningitis, Escherichia coli/microbiology/metabolism ; Endothelial Cells/microbiology/metabolism ; Animals, Newborn ; Virulence Factors/metabolism/genetics ; *Escherichia coli Infections/microbiology/metabolism ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: IbeA is a critical virulence factor that is present in the GimA island in Escherichia coli (E. coli) K1, the most common cause of Gram-negative bacterial meningitis in newborns. IbeA has multiple virulence functions, including adhesion, invasion, and biofilm formation in the pathogenesis of E. coli K1 meningitis. However, it is unclear how IbeA coordinates its role in bacterial adhesion, invasion, and biofilm formation during crossing the blood-brain barrier (BBB).

METHODS: An isogenic ibeA deletion mutant (ZD1) was generated from the neonatal meningitis-associated E. coli K1 strain E44. To define IbeA-mediated virulence, bacterial adhesion, invasion, and biofilm formation were quantified in human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMECs) using TEER, confocal imaging, and crystal violet assays. A neonatal rat meningitis model evaluated bacterial dissemination, BBB disruption, neuroinflammation, and neurological deficits. Mechanistic studies focused on Vimentin (VIM) dynamics using lipid-raft fractionation, cytoskeleton extraction, immunofluorescence, vimentin-knockout (Vim-KO) HBMEC and Co-immunoprecipitation to assess its redistribution, post-translational modifications, and interaction with NF-κB. The functional involvement of the IbeA-VIM-NF-κB signaling pathway was further examined by modulating VIM activity with glatiramer acetate (GA) in both in vitro and in vivo experiments.

RESULTS: Deletion of ibeA and VIM significantly impaired bacterial adhesion, invasion, and biofilm formation both on HBMECs and on abiotic surfaces. In neonatal rats, infection with ZD1 resulted in higher survival rates, milder neurological symptoms, and a marked reduction of biofilm structures within the cerebral microvasculature compared with infection by the wild-type strain. IbeA-triggered post-translational modifications and cytoplasmic mobilization of VIM drive its nuclear translocation, which in turn activates NF-κB signaling. Pharmacological inhibition of VIM with GA disrupted IbeA-mediated virulence, lowering bacterial loads in the blood and alleviating neurological injury.

CONCLUSIONS: IbeA is a key virulence factor that coordinates E. coli K1 adhesion, invasion, and biofilm formation by activating the VIM-NF-κB signaling pathway. Our study establishes for the first time a direct mechanistic link between IbeA's multiple virulence functions through the above signaling pathway leading to acute BBB disruption and meningitis and identify GA as a potential drug development candidate for this disease.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Blood-Brain Barrier/microbiology/metabolism
Animals
*NF-kappa B/metabolism
*Bacterial Adhesion
Signal Transduction
Humans
Rats
*Escherichia coli/physiology/pathogenicity
*Escherichia coli Proteins/metabolism/genetics
*Vimentin/metabolism/genetics
*Meningitis, Escherichia coli/microbiology/metabolism
Endothelial Cells/microbiology/metabolism
Animals, Newborn
Virulence Factors/metabolism/genetics
*Escherichia coli Infections/microbiology/metabolism

@article {pmid42080116,
year = {2026},
author = {Teymouri, M and Khayyer, R and Iranshahy, M and Salarinia, R and Zarghami Moghaddam, P and Mohammdi, A and Memariani, T and Mollazadeh, S},
title = {Sophoraflavanone G in Nano-Niosomal Form: Implications for Bacterial Inhibition, Biofilm Disruption, and Cancer Suppression.},
journal = {Avicenna journal of medical biotechnology},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {61-68},
pmid = {42080116},
issn = {2008-2835},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Sophoraflavanone G, SG, is a flavonoid compound found in Sophora species with various biological properties, including antibacterial, anticancer, antibio-film activities. However, this compound shows limited solubility in water, which reduces its bioavailability and hinders its practical application. To overcome this barrier, SG nano-niosomal form was prepared.

METHODS: In the current study, a nano-niosomal form of SG was prepared using cholesterol (Chol) and Tween 20. Antibacterial and antibiofilm activities were assessed by disc and well diffusion and biofilm assays, respectively, while anticancer specificity was evaluated by MTT on KB and L929 cell lines.

RESULTS: Disc and well diffusion assays showed a reduction in planktonic antibacterial activity of niosomal SG compared with free SG, whereas biofilm assays improved anti-biofilm effects; MTT assays indicated reduced cytotoxicity toward L929 cells with retained activity against KB cancer cells, suggesting improved anticancer specificity.

CONCLUSION: While niosomal formulation decreased SG's activity against planktonic bacteria, it enhanced antibiofilm effects and improved anticancer specificity by reducing toxicity to normal cells, making niosomal SG a promising candidate for cancer-directed therapeutic applications despite limited antimicrobial gains.},
}

@article {pmid42080171,
year = {2026},
author = {Khlifi, N and Mnif, S and Zerrouki, C and Guermazi, H and Fourati, N and Duponchel, B and Aifa, S and Guermazi, S},
title = {Tunable anti-biofilm activity of Zn-doped CuO nanoparticles: structural, morphological, and biological insights against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.},
journal = {RSC advances},
volume = {16},
number = {25},
pages = {22610-22626},
pmid = {42080171},
issn = {2046-2069},
abstract = {Biofilm-associated infections represent a major challenge in healthcare due to antibiotic resistance, driving the search for effective nano-antimicrobial agents. This study presents the synthesis of Zn-doped CuO nanoparticles (Cu1-x Zn x O, 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.5) via an eco-friendly co-precipitation method and investigates their anti-adhesive efficacy against Gram-positive Staphylococcus epidermidis S61 and Gram-negative Pseudomonas aeruginosa 2629. Comprehensive characterization (XRD, SEM, AFM, FTIR, and EDX) revealed that Zn doping refined crystallite size, altered surface morphology, and enhanced specific surface area. The anti-biofilm assays demonstrated that Zn incorporation significantly improved anti-adhesive activity against S. epidermidis, with x = 0.2 achieving >73% inhibition at 500 µg mL[-1]. In contrast, pure CuO was most effective against P. aeruginosa, indicating a strain-dependent response linked to bacterial cell-wall structure. The anti-adhesive mechanism is attributed to nanoparticle-surface interactions, ion release, and reactive oxygen species generation. These findings highlight the potential of compositionally tunable Zn-doped CuO nanoparticles as selective anti-biofilm agents for combating healthcare-associated infections.},
}

@article {pmid42067348,
year = {2026},
author = {Cao, S and Liu, Z and Zhao, J and Dong, X and Dai, J and Yin, H},
title = {Hyaluronic acid-engineered infection-responsive liposomes achieve biofilm penetration and synergistic photothermal-photodynamic antibacterial therapy.},
journal = {Carbohydrate polymers},
volume = {383},
number = {},
pages = {125313},
doi = {10.1016/j.carbpol.2026.125313},
pmid = {42067348},
issn = {1879-1344},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Hyaluronic Acid/chemistry/pharmacology ; *Liposomes/chemistry ; Animals ; *Photochemotherapy/methods ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Indocyanine Green/chemistry/pharmacology ; *Photosensitizing Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Mice ; Photothermal Therapy ; Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism ; Humans ; Mice, Inbred BALB C ; Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects ; Hyaluronoglucosaminidase/metabolism ; Infrared Rays ; },
abstract = {Bacterial infections, particularly those caused by drug-resistant strains and biofilm-associated wounds, pose serious challenges in clinical treatment. Although phototherapy is a promising antibacterial approach, conventional photosensitizers suffer from poor stability, low photothermal conversion efficiency, and limited biofilm penetration. Herein, we developed an infection-responsive hyaluronic acid-modified cationic liposomal platform (HA@ICG@Lip) for synergistic photodynamic and photothermal antibacterial therapy. Elevated hyaluronidase (HAase) levels in infected tissues specifically degrade the outer HA layer, triggering enzyme-responsive deshielding to expose the positively charged liposomal core, which enhances bacterial adhesion and deep biofilm penetration. Upon near-infrared irradiation, indocyanine green (ICG) generates reactive oxygen species and localized heat, inducing bacterial membrane disruption and biofilm disintegration. Moreover, ICG forms J-aggregates within the liposomal matrix, improving near-infrared absorption and photothermal conversion efficiency. In vivo, HA@ICG@Lip combined with 808 nm LED irradiation effectively eradicated mixed-species biofilm infections and accelerated wound healing. This study provides a polysaccharide-based, infection-responsive phototherapeutic nanoplatform with potential for treating biofilm-associated infections.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Hyaluronic Acid/chemistry/pharmacology
*Liposomes/chemistry
Animals
*Photochemotherapy/methods
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Indocyanine Green/chemistry/pharmacology
*Photosensitizing Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Mice
Photothermal Therapy
Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism
Humans
Mice, Inbred BALB C
Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects
Hyaluronoglucosaminidase/metabolism
Infrared Rays

@article {pmid42068031,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, S and Feng, H and Wang, Y and Huang, J and Xu, S and Gong, Y and Liu, X and Ouyang, Y and Ye, Q and Zheng, D and Sun, K and Wang, A and Chen, Y},
title = {Intestinal epithelial Syndecan-1 maintains mucosal homeostasis in inflammatory bowel disease by enhancing Faecalibacterium prausnitzii biofilm formation.},
journal = {Gut microbes},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {2665870},
doi = {10.1080/19490976.2026.2665870},
pmid = {42068031},
issn = {1949-0984},
mesh = {Animals ; *Syndecan-1/genetics/metabolism ; *Inflammatory Bowel Diseases/microbiology/metabolism/genetics ; Mice ; *Intestinal Mucosa/microbiology/metabolism ; Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; Mice, Knockout ; Humans ; *Faecalibacterium prausnitzii/physiology/genetics/growth & development ; Mice, Inbred C57BL ; Homeostasis ; Disease Models, Animal ; Dextran Sulfate ; Colitis/microbiology/chemically induced ; Male ; Fecal Microbiota Transplantation ; },
abstract = {Despite the rising global incidence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), curative therapies remain unavailable. While our previous work implicated the intestinal proteoglycan Syndecan-1 (SDC1) in IBD-associated barrier dysfunction and inflammation, the underlying mechanism was unclear. This study aimed to elucidate how SDC1 maintains intestinal barrier integrity through interactions with the gut microbiome. In DSS-induced colitis, global knockout of Sdc1 (Sdc1[-/-]) exhibited exacerbated inflammatory infiltration and greater impairment of barrier structure and function than wild-type (WT). Formation of intestinal organoids was independent of genotype, indicating that Sdc1[-/-] does not impair barrier function via disrupting epithelial development. The heightened colitis susceptibility in Sdc1[-/-] mice was abolished in the antibiotic-treated pseudo-germ-free models, and transmissible to WT mice via fecal microbiota transplantation. Similar results were reproduced in a germ-free mouse model. Metagenomic sequencing identified Faecalibacterium prausnitzii as the most significantly depleted species upon Sdc1 knockout. In vitro, SDC1-attached glycosaminoglycans (heparan sulfate (HS) and chondroitin sulfate (CS)) but not the SDC1 core protein promoted F. prausnitzii growth. Prokaryotic transcriptome profiling indicated that HS/CS induces cobalamin biosynthesis in F. prausnitzii. The critical role of cobalamin as a mediator was confirmed, as its synthetic inhibition significantly diminished the growth-promoting effect of HS/CS. Mechanism studies showed that HS/CS enhanced biofilm formation in F. prausnitzii, thereby facilitating cobalamin biosynthesis. Oral administration of HS ameliorated DSS-induced colitis and promoted mucosal colonization of F. prausnitzii, independent of the host genotype. Finally, human IBD biopsies revealed a positive correlation between epithelial SDC1 and mucosal F. prausnitzii, as well as an inverse correlation with bacterial translocation and the number of LPS‑positive cells. Our study elucidates a novel mechanism in which the glycosaminoglycan chains of SDC1 promote F. prausnitzii colonization and growth through enhanced biofilm formation and cobalamin synthesis, thereby highlighting the therapeutic potential of HS for IBD and offering a new basis for host-directed microbiota regulation.},
}

Animals
*Syndecan-1/genetics/metabolism
*Inflammatory Bowel Diseases/microbiology/metabolism/genetics
Mice
*Intestinal Mucosa/microbiology/metabolism
Gastrointestinal Microbiome
*Biofilms/growth & development
Mice, Knockout
Humans
*Faecalibacterium prausnitzii/physiology/genetics/growth & development
Mice, Inbred C57BL
Homeostasis
Disease Models, Animal
Dextran Sulfate
Colitis/microbiology/chemically induced
Male
Fecal Microbiota Transplantation

@article {pmid42068955,
year = {2026},
author = {Yang, H and Zhu, Y and Duan, L and Zhang, N and Li, S and Liao, Q and Yu, M and Zhang, Z and Shi, C},
title = {Metabolic triage under oxidative stress: Peracetic acid drives Listeria monocytogenes into a persistent, biofilm-enhanced small colony variant state.},
journal = {Journal of hazardous materials},
volume = {511},
number = {},
pages = {142249},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.142249},
pmid = {42068955},
issn = {1873-3336},
abstract = {The formation of Small Colony Variants (SCVs) by environmental biological hazards represents a formidable challenge to hazard detection and mitigation in engineered environments. In the present study, the physiological characteristics and formation mechanisms of Listeria monocytogenes SCVs induced by peroxyacetic acid (PAA) were investigated. PAA exposure resulted in the emergence of transient, miniaturized SCVs characterized by metabolic dormancy, indicated by an extended lag phase, reduced enzymatic activity, and ATP depletion. Transcriptional analysis revealed upregulation of stress response (sigB) and efflux (mdrL) genes, with concurrent downregulation of virulence (hly, inlA) and metabolic (betL, ftsZ) genes. Despite flaA upregulation, SCVs exhibited impaired motility but enhanced biofilm formation. Physiologically, SCVs displayed membrane hyperpolarization, elevated intracellular ROS, and cross-protection against acid, thermal, and osmotic stresses. Crucially, inhibition of ATP synthesis using CCCP shifted the population from culturable SCVs to a non-culturable state, confirming that SCV formation is an active, energy-dependent adaptation rather than a passive injury. Furthermore, while invasion capability was compromised, cell surface hydrophobicity and adhesion were significantly increased. These findings demonstrate that PAA drives L. monocytogenes into a defensive, dormant state that prioritizes persistence over pathogenesis, providing new insights into the toxicological responses and persistence strategies of this biological hazard under environmental oxidative stress.},
}

@article {pmid42066934,
year = {2026},
author = {Puertas-Segura, A and Costa, RR and Peixoto, D and Ivanova, K and Alves, NM and Reis, RL and Todorova, K and Dimitrov, P and Pashkuleva, I and Tzanov, T},
title = {Nano-enabled enzyme-assisted layer-by-layer coating prevents biofilm formation on urinary catheters.},
journal = {Acta biomaterialia},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.actbio.2026.04.058},
pmid = {42066934},
issn = {1878-7568},
abstract = {The ability of bacterial pathogens to colonise indwelling medical devices, particularly urinary catheters, and to establish drug-resistant biofilms accounts for approximately 60 % of all nosocomial infections, underscoring the urgent need for effective strategies to mitigate biofilm development on catheter surfaces. In this study, we developed a multilayer nano-composite coating for urinary catheters, assembled via sequential deposition of bioadhesive catechol-functionalised chitosan (catCS), hyaluronic acid (HA), and antimicrobial aminated lignin nanoparticles (N-LigNPs). Sono-enzymatically phenolated, aminated, and formulated lignin nanoparticles (NPs) served as both structural and functional components within the coatings, whose assembly was monitored in real time using a quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation. Atomic force microscopy was employed to characterise the coating topography, complemented by surface zeta potential measurements and lubricity analysis. Cross-linking of N-LigNPs with catCS, catalysed by the oxidative enzyme laccase, increased the mechanical integrity of the coating beyond that afforded by electrostatic interactions alone. This translated into durable antimicrobial and antibiofilm performance of the functionalised catheters over 7 days in a hydrodynamic model simulating a catheterised human bladder, reducing S. aureus and E. coli biofilm formation by more than 60 %, while exhibiting no cytotoxic effects on mammalian cells. Moreover, the clinical, histological, and microbiological data obtained from in vivo studies in a rabbit model demonstrated that the coating was biocompatible and effectively prevented catheter-associated urinary tract infections during a 10-day indwelling period. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) remain a major clinical challenge due to biofilm formation and rising antimicrobial resistance. This study presents a bio-based, multilayer nanocomposite coating for urinary catheters that combines catechol-functionalised chitosan, hyaluronic acid, and aminated lignin nanoparticles, stabilised through laccase-mediated cross-linking. Unlike conventional electrostatic coatings, this enzymatically reinforced system exhibits enhanced mechanical durability, sustained antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity under physiologically relevant hydrodynamic conditions, and biocompatibility. Importantly, its efficacy is demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo. This work highlights a sustainable, antibiotic-sparing strategy with strong translational potential for preventing CAUTIs and could be extended to other biofilm-prone medical devices.},
}

@article {pmid42061741,
year = {2026},
author = {Vincent, J and Tenore, A and Mattei, MR and Frunzo, L},
title = {Modelling the Role of Phages in Biofilm Ecosystems and the Spread of Antimicrobial Resistance.},
journal = {Journal of theoretical biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {112492},
doi = {10.1016/j.jtbi.2026.112492},
pmid = {42061741},
issn = {1095-8541},
abstract = {The spread and control of antibiotic resistance is a major public health issue and challenge to address. This has driven a growing interest in bacteriophages, used alone or in combination with antibiotics to treat antibiotic-resistant biofilms. Evaluating the potential of phage therapy requires a detailed understanding of phages-microbes interactions, from their lytic activity to their capacity for transducing resistance genes. Mathematical models are a powerful tool to investigate specific aspects of these complex mechanisms, where a great number of biotic and abiotic interactions are involved. We present here a mathematical model exploring the role of phages in biofilm ecosystems and the potential of phage therapy to eliminate resistant bacterial populations. The model is formulated as a system of non-local partial differential equations in a one-dimensional, free-boundary domain. It incorporates all major routes of horizontal gene transfer - conjugation, natural transformation, and generalised transduction - along with selective pressure from metals and antibiotics, within a spatially structured, growing biofilm. Numerical simulations investigate the contribution of vertical and horizontal gene transfer, including generalised transduction, to the spread of plasmid-mediated resistance. We assess the potential of phage therapy, both as a stand-alone treatment and in combination with antibiotics, highlighting how phage-antibiotic synergy can substantially reduce the antibiotic concentration required to eradicate even resistant biofilms. The simulations reveal how phage predation contributes to selective pressure and shapes biofilm ecology.},
}

@article {pmid42062835,
year = {2026},
author = {Yang, J and Xie, J},
title = {c-di-GMP-Mediated Biofilm Regulation in Specific Spoilage Organisms: Mechanisms and Control Strategies in Aquatic Products.},
journal = {Comprehensive reviews in food science and food safety},
volume = {25},
number = {3},
pages = {e70469},
doi = {10.1111/1541-4337.70469},
pmid = {42062835},
issn = {1541-4337},
support = {32472401//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Cyclic GMP/analogs & derivatives/metabolism ; Food Microbiology ; },
abstract = {Aquatic product spoilage primarily results from specific spoilage organisms (SSOs) such as Pseudomonas, Aeromonas, and Shewanella, with biofilm formation playing a pivotal role in accelerating deterioration. The bacterial second messenger bis-(3'-5')-cyclic dimeric guanosine monophosphate (c-di-GMP) orchestrates this process by regulating biofilm assembly. Intracellular c-di-GMP levels, modulated by diguanylate cyclases (DGCs) and phosphodiesterases (PDEs), dictate bacterial behavior: higher concentrations suppress motility, promote adhesion, and trigger extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) secretion, reinforcing biofilm integrity. This protective matrix enhances SSO resistance to refrigeration, antimicrobial agents, and environmental stressors. Within biofilms, SSOs display heightened metabolic activity, producing proteases and lipases that degrade proteins and lipids, yielding spoilage metabolites such as trimethylamine, hydrogen sulfide, and organic acids-compounds responsible for off-odors, texture deterioration, and quality loss. Interventions targeting c-di-GMP signaling, such as DGC/PDE inhibitors, quorum-sensing disruption, and combined physical-chemical treatments, may effectively suppress biofilm formation and prolong shelf life. Further studies should elucidate c-di-GMP's interactions with other regulatory networks and its influence on multispecies biofilm dynamics in aquatic products. This review examines biofilm formation and its role in aquatic product spoilage, along with c-di-GMP's regulatory function in spoilage-associated biofilms and its broader spoilage implications, offering a theoretical foundation for further research on c-di-GMP-mediated interactions in multispecies biofilm systems.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Cyclic GMP/analogs & derivatives/metabolism
Food Microbiology

@article {pmid42062893,
year = {2026},
author = {Rockstroh, J and Pagel, AJ and Neufend, JV and Siemens, N and Lalk, M and Methling, K},
title = {Metabolomic Characterization of Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis: Different Metabolic States in Planktonic and Biofilm Forms and the Influence of Streptokinase.},
journal = {Journal of the American Society for Mass Spectrometry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/jasms.6c00024},
pmid = {42062893},
issn = {1879-1123},
abstract = {Despite the extensive research that has been conducted into the metabolism of Gram-positive bacteria, relatively little is known about the adaptations of Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis (SDSE) during biofilm maturation. This study uses targeted metabolomics and MALDI MS imaging to investigate time-dependent changes in the metabolome composition. Key metabolites of energy metabolism were quantified in planktonic and biofilm bacteria. A distinct decline in the abundance of metabolites from all analyzed metabolic pathways was observed in sessile SDSE. Furthermore, we observed a broad decrease of nutrient utilization in biofilm-associated bacteria. Additionally, we examined the impact of deleting streptokinase on SDSE metabolism. Especially, concentrations of glycolysis intermediates and adenosine phosphates exhibited significant alterations when comparing the S118 strain with its mutant. The absence of the ska gene led to drastic changes in both energy and structural metabolism. These findings provide new insight into the metabolic adaptations of SDSE and represent an initial step toward understanding its role in pathogenesis.},
}

@article {pmid42063757,
year = {2026},
author = {Maher, AA and Maad, AH and Al-Jaufy, AY and Al-Shami, HZ and Al-Saban, AM and Al-Haifi, AY and Al-Worafi, YM and Al-Barq, AM and Al-Yosffi, EA and Naji Saad, HM and Al-Dhabali, AA and Thawaba, ZA and Al-Shami, AS},
title = {Association of biofilm formation with multidrug resistance in burn wound patients isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in Sana'a City, Yemen.},
journal = {Frontiers in medicine},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1762684},
pmid = {42063757},
issn = {2296-858X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Burn wound infections (BWIs) represent a major cause of morbidity and mortality among hospitalized burn patients. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is recognized for its ability to acquire multidrug resistance (MDR) and form biofilms that enhance virulence and antimicrobial tolerance.

OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the association between biofilm formation and multidrug resistance among P. aeruginosa isolates from burn wound infections in Sana'a City, Yemen.

METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Republic Hospital, Sana'a City, Yemen, from October 2023 to December 2024. A total of 424 burn wound samples were collected and processed using standard microbiological techniques. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines (CLSI, 2022). Biofilm production was assessed by the microtiter plate method, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect biofilm-associated genes (algD, pslD, and pelF). Statistical analyses were performed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.0, with p ≤ 0.05 considered significant.

RESULTS: Of 424 burn wound samples, P. aeruginosa was the predominant isolate (39.6%), followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae (27.1%) and Staphylococcus aureus (19.3%). Significant risk factors associated with bacterial isolation included prior antibiotic use (χ [2] = 16.4, p = 0.001), wound debridement (χ [2] = 21.6, p = 0.001), and surgical skin grafting (χ [2] = 11.7, p = 0.001). P. aeruginosa showed high resistance to ceftazidime (89.8%), cefepime (90.4%), ticarcillin (92.2%), and meropenem (61.9%), while remaining largely sensitive to colistin (97%). Among isolates, 13% were MDR, 21% extensively drug-resistant (XDR), and 51% pan-drug-resistant (PDR) strains. Biofilm formation was observed in 66.4% of P. aeruginosa isolates-19.7% strong, 47.0% moderate, and 33.3% non-producers. The biofilm-associated genes algD, pslD, and pelF were detected in 38, 35, and 27% of isolates, respectively. A significant association was observed between strong biofilm formation and the presence of the pslD gene (χ [2] = 4.8, p = 0.03), but not with MDR status (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION: P. aeruginosa remains the leading cause of burn wound infections in Sana'a City, Yemen, exhibiting alarmingly high levels of carbapenem and cephalosporin resistance. Although biofilm formation was common, no significant association was found between biofilm production and multidrug resistance. The high prevalence of PDR strains underscores the urgent need for antimicrobial stewardship, routine susceptibility testing, and infection control measures in burn centers.},
}

@article {pmid42064215,
year = {2026},
author = {Arya, R and Joshi, B},
title = {Editorial: Innovative approaches to preventing and treating biofilm-associated infections.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1833864},
pmid = {42064215},
issn = {2235-2988},
}

@article {pmid42064378,
year = {2026},
author = {Haugli, KH and Samuelsen, JT and Aas, V and Dragland, IS and Charnock, C},
title = {Acrylic-based occlusal device materials - the influence of manufacturing techniques on material properties and the propensity for biofilm formation.},
journal = {Biomaterial investigations in dentistry},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {45909},
pmid = {42064378},
issn = {2641-5275},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The material composition, manufacturing system, and post-processing steps used to fabricate acrylic-based occlusal devices may affect their clinical performance. This study aims to assess how manufacturing techniques and post-processing treatments influence the material properties of acrylic-based occlusal devices and the propensity of Streptococcus mutans to form biofilms on the surfaces.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Based on applied manufacturing technique and post-processing treatment, disc‑shaped specimens were manufactured using four 3D printing workflows (Splint 2.0‑Asiga Flash/Otoflash (OF), and LT Clear‑Form Cure/OF), one milling workflow (Therapon), and one autopolymerization workflow (PalaXtreme). Water sorption and solubility, surface free energy (SFE), average surface roughness, and Vickers hardness were tested across these workflows. The ATCC 700610 Streptococcus mutans strain served as a model for biofilm formation on the material surfaces. Two biofilm methods were employed: a 24-hour bioreactor approach and a 72-hour culture plate approach. Biofilm was quantified as colony-forming units per cm[2].

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The Therapon and PalaXtreme workflows exhibited the lowest solubility, suggesting that these materials have the lowest release of material components in water. The Splint 2.0 workflows exhibited the lowest water sorption, indicating enhanced material integrity in humid conditions. Therapon showed the highest Vickers hardness, followed by PalaXtreme. The lower hardness of the print materials may make them susceptible to wear, which may not be optimal for treating patients with bruxism. No significant differences in SFE were observed between workflows. Low roughness values across all workflows indicate good polishability, which can enhance resistance to bacterial adhesion. In the 72-hour biofilm experiment, the Therapon workflow exhibited the most biofilm formation on material surfaces while PalaXtreme showed the least (p < 0.05). No significant differences between workflow groups were shown in the 24-hour biofilm experiment.In summary, material properties are influenced by material chemistry, manufacturing method, and associated post-processing treatment.},
}

@article {pmid42065257,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhou, F and Zheng, W and Liao, X and Duan, X and Liu, X and Chen, Z and Gao, M and Liao, C and Xu, H and Lan, Q and Yang, Z and Chen, C},
title = {Biofilm-Derived Disinfection Byproducts in Water Distribution: Precursor Roles and Toxicity under Various Disinfection Methods.},
journal = {Environmental science & technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acs.est.6c02498},
pmid = {42065257},
issn = {1520-5851},
abstract = {Biofilms in drinking water distribution systems (DWDS) serve as important reservoirs of disinfection byproduct (DBP) precursors. This study systematically investigated the formation and toxicity of DBPs from extracellular (EOM) and intracellular organic matter (IOM) of pipe biofilms under five disinfection methods. EOM consistently produced higher DBP yields than IOM, with ozone (O3)/chlorine (Cl2) generating the highest levels due to a synergistic oxidation-halogenation effect. Monochloramine (NH2Cl) disinfection resulted in low DBP additive toxicity for both EOM (493) and IOM (100), and the zebrafish embryo toxicity test also confirmed that NH2Cl induced the weakest adverse effects. Although disinfection altered the content and proportion of proteins, polysaccharides, and deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) in biofilms, these changes alone could not fully explain the observed DBP formation patterns. Targeted analysis identified ten major biofilm components, including d-glucosamine, 2-deoxy-d-ribose, and several amino acids. However, their contribution to the formation of the aforementioned DBPs was generally low, indicating that uncharacterized precursors predominated in most scenarios. Despite their limited quantitative contribution, potential reaction pathways for four amino acids with high DBP formation potential were summarized. The contribution of specific biofilm components to DBP formation identified and evaluated in this paper provides important insights for DBP control in DWDS.},
}

@article {pmid42065469,
year = {2026},
author = {Alqahtani, H and Abd El-Sattar, SM and Faqerah, N and Faisal, S and Rizk, MA and El-Moslamy, SH and Abdelhamid, HN and Gomaa, I},
title = {Ultrasound-assisted synthesis of a ZnO-Te/TeO2 nanocomposite for multidrug-resistant microorganism and biofilm eradication.},
journal = {Journal of materials chemistry. B},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1039/d6tb00128a},
pmid = {42065469},
issn = {2050-7518},
abstract = {The spread of multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens demands antimicrobial materials that combine tunable surface chemistry with durable, non-antibiotic kill mechanisms. We reported a sonication-freeze-dry route to hybrid ZnO nanorod-decorated Te/α-TeO2 sheets and demonstrated that interfacial strain-engineering at the ZnO-Te/TeO2 heterointerface enhances antimicrobial potency across Gram-negative, Gram-positive, and fungal MDR strains. Structural analysis shows a two-phase Te/α-TeO2 host (∼68% Te: ∼32% α-TeO2) whose oxide sublattice accumulates microstrain and defects as ZnO loading increases (α-TeO2: Dmin ≈ 39.8 nm, εmax ≈ 0.384% at 40% ZnO), while Te domains recover crystallinity at 50% ZnO, consistent with strain redistribution. The optimal formulation (Z7, 50% ZnO-Te/α-TeO2) produced the largest inhibition zones against Klebsiella pneumoniae (36.64 ± 3.5 mm) and Escherichia coli (34.70 ± 3.6 mm), achieved a growth reduction efficiency of 96.45 ± 2.54% and 94.19 ± 1.63%, respectively, and showed an minimal inhibition concentration (MIC) of 1.95 mg mL[-1] (MBC 7.81 mg mL[-1]) versus K. pneumoniae. Long-term dynamic viability analysis demonstrates complete eradication of planktonic growth within 78-90 h, depending on strain. Mechanistically, enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production together with strong interfacial membrane disruption is proposed as a potential mechanism. The material's structural tunability, facile synthesis, and broad anti-MDR performance make it promising for futher applications such as hospital coatings and infection-resistant surfaces.},
}

@article {pmid42065658,
year = {2026},
author = {Choi, JB and Choi, CI and Choi, T and Kim, DS and Lee, JW},
title = {Emerging strategies for biofilm disruption in recurrent urinary tract infections.},
journal = {Investigative and clinical urology},
volume = {67},
number = {3},
pages = {227-236},
doi = {10.4111/icu.20250654},
pmid = {42065658},
issn = {2466-054X},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Urinary Tract Infections/microbiology/drug therapy ; Humans ; Recurrence ; Quorum Sensing/drug effects ; Antimicrobial Peptides/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; Nanoparticles ; },
abstract = {Biofilm formation is a key microbial survival mechanism that enables bacterial persistence and recurrence of urinary tract infections (UTIs), especially in patients with catheters or structural abnormalities. These complex microbial communities hinder antibiotic efficacy and facilitate the development of antibiotic resistance. Recent advances in microbiology and materials science have led to the emergence of diverse therapeutic approaches targeting biofilms. This review highlights current and investigational strategies for biofilm disruption, including the inhibition of quorum sensing, enzymatic or chemical degradation of extracellular polymeric substances, antimicrobial peptides, nanoparticle-based systems, and microbiota modulation. Understanding these evolving modalities may guide future individualized treatments for recurrent UTIs.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Urinary Tract Infections/microbiology/drug therapy
Humans
Recurrence
Quorum Sensing/drug effects
Antimicrobial Peptides/therapeutic use/pharmacology
Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology
Nanoparticles

@article {pmid42066399,
year = {2026},
author = {Yang, X and Chen, M and Song, B and Liu, T and Zhao, YG and He, Q and Chen, Y},
title = {Micro(nano)plastics reshape constructed wetlands: Linking biofilm succession's role to key biogenic substance transformation.},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {301},
number = {},
pages = {126024},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2026.126024},
pmid = {42066399},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {Constructed wetlands (CWs) are increasingly recognized as terminal sinks for micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs), yet how chronic MNPs accumulation reshapes biofilm-mediated biogenic substance transformation remains poorly understood. Here, using a 300-day CW experiment integrating process analysis, biofilm microstructure characterization, and metagenomics, we demonstrate that plastic particle size acts as a decisive ecological switch governing biofilm succession and multi-element cycling. Long-term microplastics (MPs) exposure unexpectedly enhanced denitrification and sulfate reduction, whereas nanoplastics (NPs) persistently suppressed carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur transformations. Mechanistic analyses reveal that these divergent outcomes arise not from direct metabolic toxicity but from size-dependent reorganization of biofilm architecture, regulatory gene networks, and microbial cooperation. MPs promoted extracellular polymeric substance synthesis, reinforced anaerobic redox stratification, and strengthened electron-transfer-driven microbial clustering, while NPs disrupted biofilm integrity, downregulated succession-related genes, and fragmented functional interactions. This study challenges the prevailing assumption that MNPs accumulation uniformly degrades treatment performance and establishes a mechanistic framework linking particle size, biofilm succession, and ecosystem functioning. Our findings provide new insights into the long-term ecological effects of emerging particulate pollutants and offer guidance for designing resilient biofilm-based treatment systems under increasing plastic pressure.},
}

@article {pmid42057785,
year = {2026},
author = {Yang, B and Wu, Z and Cui, X and Yi, Y and Chen, F and Wu, G},
title = {Polymethyl methacrylate microplastics affect oral microbiota diversity and Streptococcus mutans biofilm formation.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1811667},
pmid = {42057785},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)-a widely applied dental resin-based material-contributes to oral PMMA microplastics (PMMA-MPs) exposure through masticating. PMMA-MPs may facilitate pathogen adhesion, posing substantial risks to oral health. Dental caries represents the most prevalent chronic infectious oral disease, characterized by progressive lesions that may induce pain, tooth structure loss, and compromised masticatory efficiency. Streptococcus mutans have been widely identified as the primary etiological agents responsible for caries pathogenesis. This study aimed to investigate the effects of PMMA-MPs on oral microbiota closely associated with dental caries.

METHODS: The impacts of PMMA-MPs were assessed using a standardized murine oral exposure model, followed by the quantification of PMMA-MPs-associated shifts in oral microbiota using high-throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Compared with the control group, PMMA-MPs significantly altered the diversity of oral microbial communities in mice, with a notable increase in the relative abundance of Streptococcus. Based on the 16S sequencing results, S. mutans was selected for subsequent in vitro experiments.

RESULTS: PMMA-MPs markedly enhanced the growth, biofilm formation, and virulence factor synthesis of S. mutans. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that PMMA-MPs may promote biofilm formation through pathways including ABC transporters, quorum sensing, and purine metabolism. Additionally, PMMA-MPs exposure enhanced bacterial antibiotic tolerance.

DISCUSSION: Overall, our results revealed that PMMA-MPs can alter the composition of the oral microbial community, while enhancing both the virulence factors and antibiotic tolerance of S. mutans biofilms.},
}

@article {pmid42058172,
year = {2026},
author = {Cavallo, I and Sivori, F and Truglio, M and Francalancia, M and Abril, E and Fabrizio, G and Petrolo, S and Maione, F and Prignano, G and Mastrofrancesco, A and Pimpinelli, F and Di Domenico, EG},
title = {Clonal lineage and biofilm growth shape cefiderocol activity in Acinetobacter baumannii from oncology patients.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1788718},
pmid = {42058172},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; Humans ; *Acinetobacter baumannii/drug effects/genetics/isolation & purification/classification/physiology ; *Cephalosporins/pharmacology ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Cefiderocol/pharmacology ; beta-Lactamases/genetics ; Whole Genome Sequencing ; *Acinetobacter Infections/microbiology/drug therapy ; Multilocus Sequence Typing ; *Neoplasms/complications ; Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial ; Bacterial Proteins/genetics ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Acinetobacter baumannii is a leading cause of healthcare-associated infections in immunocompromised patients and frequently exhibits multidrug resistance. Cefiderocol, a siderophore cephalosporin, is among the few remaining therapeutic options for infections caused by carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii (CRAB); however, its activity may differ by clonal lineage and can be further compromised in the biofilm state. This study investigates genomic features and cefiderocol efficacy against planktonic and biofilm-associated forms of oncology-derived A. baumannii isolates.

METHODS: Twenty-five non-duplicate, consecutive clinical isolates of A. baumannii from oncology patients underwent whole-genome sequencing and multilocus sequence typing. Cefiderocol activity was quantified in planktonic and biofilm-associated states using minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) and minimum biofilm eradication concentration (MBEC) assays.

RESULTS: Ten sequence types were identified, with the high-risk sequence type 2 (ST2) clone accounting for 56% (14/25) of isolates. ST2 strains showed significantly higher resistance to aminoglycosides, carbapenems, and fluoroquinolones than non-ST2 (NST) strains. The carbapenemase gene bla OXA-23 was detected exclusively in ST2. Colistin and cefiderocol were the most active agents overall. ST2 strains showed higher cefiderocol MBC values than NST strains. However, avibactam significantly reduced cefiderocol MBC in ST2, consistent with class D β-lactamases activity. ST2 and NST isolates exhibited comparable distributions of iron acquisition genes and similar CAS-detected siderophore activity under the assay conditions tested. Cefiderocol activity was significantly reduced in biofilms relative to planktonic cells (median MBEC 2 µg/ml versus median MBC 0.5 µg/ml). NST exhibited higher MBEC/MBC ratios than ST2 isolates, indicating greater biofilm-associated tolerance to cefiderocol.

DISCUSSION: Collectively, these data associate the predominance of oncology-derived ST2 with bla OXA-23 carriage and higher cefiderocol bactericidal thresholds and show that cefiderocol activity is consistently reduced in the biofilm state. Future studies integrating functional measures of iron acquisition and β-lactamase activity will be needed to define the determinants of cefiderocol efficacy across lineages and growth states.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
Humans
*Acinetobacter baumannii/drug effects/genetics/isolation & purification/classification/physiology
*Cephalosporins/pharmacology
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Cefiderocol/pharmacology
beta-Lactamases/genetics
Whole Genome Sequencing
*Acinetobacter Infections/microbiology/drug therapy
Multilocus Sequence Typing
*Neoplasms/complications
Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial
Bacterial Proteins/genetics

@article {pmid42058173,
year = {2026},
author = {Rademacher, A and Ekat, K and Skusa, R and Scharnagl, L and Knipp, F and Warnke, C and Marcinek, J and Tobien, S and Frank, M and Khaimov, V and Rohde, H and Kreikemeyer, B and Oehmcke-Hecht, S},
title = {Bacterial factors required for biofilm formation in Staphylococcus epidermidis are linked to contact activation.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1802218},
pmid = {42058173},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Staphylococcus epidermidis/genetics/physiology/growth & development/metabolism ; Humans ; Polysaccharides, Bacterial/genetics/metabolism ; Blood Coagulation ; Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics ; Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology ; N-Acetylmuramoyl-L-alanine Amidase/genetics/metabolism ; Factor XII/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Staphylococcus epidermidis is a leading cause of device-associated bloodstream infections, where biofilm formation contributes to persistence in direct contact with host plasma. While extracellular matrix components are central to biofilm development, their functional consequences at the host-pathogen interface remain incompletely understood. Here, we investigated whether bacterial factors required for biofilm formation are associated with activation of the intrinsic coagulation pathway in human plasma. Clinical isolates of S. epidermidis that accelerated clotting time in plasma also showed stronger biofilm formation. S. epidermidis mutants, deficient in polysaccharide intercellular adhesin (PIA) or the autolysin AtlE were impaired in biofilm formation and had prolonged clotting times compared to their wild type. The wild-type strain induced activation of factor XII and plasma kallikrein, accelerated intrinsic coagulation, and degraded high-molecular-weight kininogen, effects absent in the AtlE and PIA mutants. Notably, DNase I treatment of the wild-type strain prolonged intrinsic coagulation time and prevented high-molecular-weight kininogen degradation, identifying bacterial extracellular DNA as a possible central driver of contact activation. The D5-derived peptide HKH20, previously shown to inhibit contact activation, also reduced S. epidermidis-induced activation of contact factors. In plasma, HKH20 decreased the formation and size of bacterial aggregates and altered biofilm architecture by modulating fibrin network formation. Together, these findings identify extracellular DNA and PIA as biofilm-relevant bacterial factors that are linked to contact system activation and intrinsic coagulation in plasma, highlighting an unexpected functional interface between biofilm matrix components and host plasma defense mechanisms.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Staphylococcus epidermidis/genetics/physiology/growth & development/metabolism
Humans
Polysaccharides, Bacterial/genetics/metabolism
Blood Coagulation
Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics
Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology
N-Acetylmuramoyl-L-alanine Amidase/genetics/metabolism
Factor XII/metabolism

@article {pmid42058217,
year = {2026},
author = {Tan, S and Lai, J and Yu, S},
title = {Biofilm adaptation and mucosal immune dysregulation in recalcitrant chronic rhinosinusitis: from pathogenesis to a therapeutic roadmap.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1797096},
pmid = {42058217},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; *Sinusitis/immunology/therapy/microbiology ; Chronic Disease ; *Rhinitis/immunology/therapy/microbiology ; *Immunity, Mucosal ; *Nasal Mucosa/immunology/microbiology ; Animals ; Dysbiosis ; Rhinosinusitis ; },
abstract = {The management of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is frequently complicated by treatment recalcitrance, a phenomenon primarily driven by the persistence of microbial biofilms. Beyond their traditional role as a physical barrier against antibiotics, recent evidence positions biofilms as sophisticated immune modulators that actively perpetuate mucosal dysbiosis. This review synthesizes the pathological continuum of biofilm-associated CRS, elucidating how biofilm derived pathogen associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) trigger the release of epithelial alarmins (TSLP, IL-33, IL-25), thereby fueling a maladaptive Type 2 inflammatory loop. We further examine bacterial survival strategies, such as the formation of small colony variants (SCVs) and intracellular "Trojan Horse" reservoirs, which render conventional functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) and antimicrobial monotherapies insufficient for complete eradication. Crucially, we discuss the current diagnostic disconnect where standard cultures fail to detect biofilm burdens. Finally, we propose a therapeutic paradigm shift from a purely bactericidal approach to one of ecological restoration. By integrating cutting-edge strategies, including matrix-degrading enzymes, bacteriophage cocktails, and Nasal Microbiota Transplantation (NMT), we construct a multi-dimensional framework aiming to restore sinonasal homeostasis. Together, these emerging strategies support a shift from pathogen suppression alone toward ecological and immunologic rebalancing of the sinonasal mucosa, offering a more durable conceptual framework for overcoming treatment recalcitrance.},
}

Humans
*Biofilms/growth & development
*Sinusitis/immunology/therapy/microbiology
Chronic Disease
*Rhinitis/immunology/therapy/microbiology
*Immunity, Mucosal
*Nasal Mucosa/immunology/microbiology
Animals
Dysbiosis
Rhinosinusitis

@article {pmid42060102,
year = {2025},
author = {Baek, J and Lee, J and Jeong, YJ and Oh, SY and Kang, SS},
title = {Inhibition of Salmonella Typhimurium Biofilm Formation, Adhesion, and Invasion by Whey Beverage Supplemented with Triticum dicoccum (Farro) Enzyme.},
journal = {Food science of animal resources},
volume = {45},
number = {2},
pages = {648-661},
doi = {10.5851/kosfa.2025.e5},
pmid = {42060102},
issn = {2636-0780},
abstract = {Triticum dicoccum (Farro) an ancient wheat species has recently gained attention for its exceptional health benefits. However, research on its antibacterial and anti-biofilm properties remains limited. Additionally, a growing trend has been observed in releasing enriched or fortified whey beverages to enhance their functionality. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the inhibitory effects of whey beverages supplemented with enzyme-rich fermented farro (WF) on Salmonella Typhimurium biofilm formation and explore the underlying mechanisms. Treatment with WF significantly reduced biofilm formation and viability of S. Typhimurium. Moreover, WF decreased the bacterial adhesion to and invasion of human intestinal epithelial cells. WF also inhibited gene expression associated with motility and initial adhesion in S. Typhimurium, as well as genes involved in quorum sensing (QS), in a concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, WF suppressed the production of the QS signaling molecule autoinducer-2 in a similar concentration-dependent manner. Consequently, our findings indicate that the addition of enzyme-rich fermented farro to whey beverage enhances anti-biofilm activity, which is probably attributed to its antimicrobial effects, inhibition of initial adhesion, and QS reduction. These findings offer a promising basis for developing fortified dairy beverages that can enhance food safety and promote human health.},
}

@article {pmid42060315,
year = {2026},
author = {Gómez, RA and Silvero C, MJ and Becerra, MC and Vitorino, GP},
title = {Synergistic antibacterial activity of norfloxacin and sulfadiazine against planktonic and biofilm-forming multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli strain.},
journal = {FEMS microbiology letters},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/femsle/fnag054},
pmid = {42060315},
issn = {1574-6968},
abstract = {Antimicrobial resistance represents a major global health concern, particularly in countries where multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens are widespread. Biofilm formation further complicates therapeutic strategies. This study investigated the synergistic effects of combining norfloxacin (NOR) and sulfadiazine (SDZ) against three Escherichia coli strains: a reference, a quinolone-resistant clinical isolate, and a highly resistant extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing strain. Checkerboard assays and isobolograms revealed synergistic or partially synergistic effects across all strains, with Fractional Inhibitory Concentration Index (FICI) values ranging from 0.37 to 1.0. Notably, the ESBL strain displayed enhanced synergy (FICI = 0.75) under white LED light irradiation. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) analysis showed that SDZ generated higher levels than NOR, particularly in the quinolone-resistant clinical isolate, while the NOR-SDZ combination yielded lower levels. Scanning electron microscopy of biofilms confirmed that the drug combination caused greater structural disruption than either monotherapy, especially at NOR (FIC × 100) and SDZ (FIC × 10). Subinhibitory monotherapies modulated the biofilm phenotype, underscoring the benefits of combined treatments. Overall, these findings highlight the NOR-SDZ combination as a promising therapeutic approach against MDR E. coli, where drug synergy and biofilm disruption emerge as key strategies to combat antimicrobial resistance.},
}

@article {pmid42060701,
year = {2026},
author = {Da Costa, RM and Rooke, JL and Morris, FC and Yang, Z and Lian, ZJ and Rossiter, AE and Cole, JA and Forde, B and Cunningham, AF and Henderson, IR},
title = {SeaB is a conserved Salmonella enterica extracellular matrix binding protein involved in biofilm formation and infection.},
journal = {Infection and immunity},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0075425},
doi = {10.1128/iai.00754-25},
pmid = {42060701},
issn = {1098-5522},
abstract = {Salmonella enterica is a leading cause of gastroenteritis worldwide. Exacerbating this issue is the emergence of multi-drug-resistant strains, posing a major threat to human health. Type 5 secretion system proteins play a major role in virulence and are viable vaccine targets. However, only a limited number of these proteins have been functionally characterized to date. In this study, we characterized SeaB, which belongs to the Type 5a secretion system. We demonstrated that SeaB is localized to the cell surface and involved in binding to the extracellular matrix. Our results indicate that SeaB is involved in aggregation and biofilm formation and contributes to virulence. Furthermore, immunization with SeaB elicits antibodies and provides protection against Salmonella challenge in a mouse model of infection.},
}

@article {pmid42061103,
year = {2026},
author = {Aliniay-Sharafshadehi, S and Sheykhhasan, M and Sharifi, K and Ansari-Mohseni, A and Yousefi, MH and Afkhami, H and Mehdipour, A and Aghaali, M},
title = {Dental Pulp Stem Cells for the Management of Plaque Biofilm-Associated Infections : A Review.},
journal = {International dental journal},
volume = {76},
number = {4},
pages = {109559},
doi = {10.1016/j.identj.2026.109559},
pmid = {42061103},
issn = {1875-595X},
abstract = {This structured narrative review synthesises current evidence (2000-2025) on the antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and regenerative properties of dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) in the context of plaque-induced gingivitis and oral biofilm infections. We systematically reviewed peer-reviewed literature from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science via keywords related to DPSCs, oral biofilms, antimicrobial peptides (eg, β-defensins, LL-37), and immunomodulation. Unlike conventional antimicrobial therapies that solely target pathogen eradication, DPSCs offer a dual-function strategy: (1) direct microbial control through the secretion of antimicrobial peptides that disrupt Porphyromonas gingivalis and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans and (2) resolution of inflammation via macrophage M2 polarisation, suppression of IL-1β/TNF-α (Interleukin-1β and Tumor Necrosis Factor-α), and microbiome rebalancing. Additionally, DPSCs support periodontal tissue regeneration through trophic signalling and differentiation into periodontal lineage cells. Critically, no clinical trials to date have evaluated DPSCs for the management of gingivitis. This review highlights DPSCs as promising, antibiotic-sparing therapeutic candidate and outlines key knowledge gaps for future translational research.},
}

@article {pmid42061232,
year = {2026},
author = {Kong, L and Li, W and Shinoda, N and Sagita, ND and Li, W and Li, W and Li, F},
title = {Silver-loaded granular activated carbon for fixed-bed drinking water treatment: antibacterial effect in both water and biofilm phases and impact on organic matter removal.},
journal = {Chemosphere},
volume = {404},
number = {},
pages = {144934},
doi = {10.1016/j.chemosphere.2026.144934},
pmid = {42061232},
issn = {1879-1298},
abstract = {Silver-loaded activated carbon (Ag/AC) was synthesized via an impregnation method and evaluated in a 180-day continuous-flow column system treating natural river water to investigate its long-term antibacterial performance and likely impact on organic matter removal. Compared with activated carbon before silver loading (AC), Ag/AC suppressed bacterial proliferation and biofilm development during operation, as indicated by lower bacterial counts and reduced 16S rDNA copy numbers in both effluent and attached biofilm. During the operation, bacterial accumulation and biofilm growth increased, and an elevation in effluent 16S rDNA was observed prior to hydraulic cleaning at day 140. After cleaning, antibacterial performance improved. Silver loading slightly reduced the removal efficiency of dissolved organic matter (DOM) including humic-like, fulvic-like, and protein-like components, as well as p-nitrophenol (PNP), a representative low-molecular-weight organic compound. Longer empty bed contact time (EBCT) enhanced both antibacterial performance and organic matter removal. Overall, Ag/AC exhibited sustained antibacterial activity throughout the 180-day operation, while showing slightly lower organic matter removal compared with AC. These findings could contribute to better understanding of the long-term operational behaviour of Ag-modified activated carbon in drinking water treatment.},
}

@article {pmid42051042,
year = {2026},
author = {Teklay, YT},
title = {Synergies of Quorum Sensing and Biofilm Dynamics in the Bioremediation of Emerging Medical Organic Pollutants.},
journal = {TheScientificWorldJournal},
volume = {2026},
number = {1},
pages = {e5568616},
doi = {10.1155/tswj/5568616},
pmid = {42051042},
issn = {1537-744X},
mesh = {*Quorum Sensing/physiology ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; *Biodegradation, Environmental ; Bioreactors/microbiology ; Pseudomonas aeruginosa ; },
abstract = {Emerging organic pollutants in medical waste present significant environmental challenges. Bioremediation is an eco-friendly and cost-effective solution, leveraging natural processes to effectively mitigate these risks. So, this review aims to discuss the role of microbial biofilm and quorum sensing in the bioremediation of these pollutants, with a special focus on their mechanism of action, application, and potential. The review begins with an overview of emerging organic pollutants, the importance of bioremediation, the basics of quorum sensing, and its significance in a microbial consortium. Key findings indicate that technological applications such as engineered biofilm bioreactors, electroactive biofilms in microbial fuel cells, co-culture systems, and genetic engineering of QS pathways significantly accelerate pollutant mitigation compared to traditional methods. For instance, specific case studies (e.g., Pseudomonas aeruginosa in pharmaceutical degradation) demonstrate the efficacy of QS-mediated metabolic control. A key conclusion is that leveraging these integrated QS-biofilm systems can surpass conventional waste degradation approaches. However, limitations include the difficulty of scaling up laboratory nanobioremediation systems and the complexity of interspecies signaling in real-world applications. Future research bottlenecks must prioritize investigating the stability of QS signals within complex wastewater matrices impacted by variables like pH and indigenous quorum-quenching microorganisms and developing precise biofilm control strategies through QS manipulation to optimize architecture for targeted degradation. Bridging these gaps through real-scale validation is essential to transition these promising laboratory-scale technologies into practical environmental applications. This review serves as a benchmark for developing immediate, bio-based solutions to mitigate the risks posed by EMOPs.},
}

*Quorum Sensing/physiology
*Biofilms/growth & development
*Biodegradation, Environmental
Bioreactors/microbiology
Pseudomonas aeruginosa

@article {pmid42052175,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, X and Liu, Y and Geng, Z and Guo, Y},
title = {Synthesis and antibacterial activity study of anti-biofilm agents based on American oyster defensin analog A4.},
journal = {RSC advances},
volume = {16},
number = {24},
pages = {21655-21666},
pmid = {42052175},
issn = {2046-2069},
abstract = {Chronic infections caused by bacterial biofilms represent a challenging clinical issue. The formation of biofilms markedly complicates the treatment of bacterial infections and frequently contributes to the development of drug-resistant strains. Anti-biofilm agents, encompassing a class of chemically or biologically active substances, are capable of inhibiting the formation of microbial biofilms or disrupting pre-existing biofilm structures. Antimicrobial peptides, as anti-biofilm agents, effectively interfere with the formation and stability of biofilms. As an analog of American oyster defensin (AOD), A4 displays superior antibacterial activity, diverse modes of action (including DNA interaction and inhibition of DNA amplification), and low toxicity. The purpose of this study is to develop new anti-biofilm agents with higher activity and better stability based on A4. By tuning amino acid configuration and substituting disulfide bonds, four analogs (D-A4, A4-T1, A4-T2, and A4-T3) were designed and synthesized. Results of antibacterial assays indicated that all analogs maintained broad-spectrum antibacterial activity, with D-A4 exhibiting enhanced antibacterial efficacy. Crystal violet staining assays demonstrated that D-A4 effectively inhibited biofilm formation at concentrations as low as 1/2 × MIC. Stability assays revealed that D-A4 exhibited high stability in both proteolytic and serum environments. With potent activity, excellent stability, and low toxicity, D-A4 holds great promise as an anti-biofilm agent against multidrug-resistant bacterial infections.},
}

@article {pmid42052294,
year = {2026},
author = {Brümmer, N and Behrens, K and Doll-Nikutta, K and Pott, PC and Stiesch, M},
title = {Synergistic potential of antibiotics against an in vitro multispecies biofilm model for peri-implantitis.},
journal = {Frontiers in bioengineering and biotechnology},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1800253},
pmid = {42052294},
issn = {2296-4185},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Despite their widespread success, dental implants remain vulnerable to biofilm-associated infections such as peri-implantitis. Local antibiotic (AB) application may enhance treatment outcomes; however, its use remains controversial due to limited evidence and the lack of standardized recommendations regarding active agents and effective concentrations. This study aimed to identify potent antibiotic combinations and concentrations against a peri-implantitis-associated multispecies biofilm (MB) in vitro and to assess the influence of implant material on their efficacy.

METHOD: An oral multispecies biofilm model (MSBM) was cultivated in the presence of the antibiotics amoxicillin (Amox), doxycycline (Doxy), minocycline (Mino), and metronidazole (Metro), both as single agents and in combination with Metro at varying concentrations. Synergistic effects were assessed by turbidity measurement, Bactiter Glo™ assay and Resazurin assay. The most effective concentrations were further examined using confocal laser scanning microscopy. Additionally, they were tested on three potential implant materials: titanium grade 4, titanium grade 5, and an experimental ultrafine-grained niobium alloy and on a mature biofilm.

RESULTS: Amox, Doxy and Mino demonstrated strong efficacy against the MB, whereas Metro alone showed little to no effect. Synergistic interactions were mainly observed when comparing to Metro's limited activity. A tendency toward enhanced efficacy of Amox and Doxy in combination with Metro was noted, although not statistically significant. The antibacterial performance of all agents was independent of the implant material and reduced when applied on mature biofilm.

CONCLUSION: These findings highlight the potential of locally applied Amox and Doxy, alone or in combination with Metro, as a targeted approach for peri-implantitis management and indicate that their effectiveness is largely independent of implant materials. Further studies using in vivo biofilms are warranted to optimize antibiotic combinations and concentrations for clinical application.},
}

@article {pmid42052518,
year = {2026},
author = {Amatya, NM and Shrestha, S and Tamang, NS and Bista, M and Gautam, S and Shrestha, J and Karki, S},
title = {Unraveling Biofilm-Forming Uropathogens: Isolation and Antimicrobial Resistance Patterns at Nepal Police Hospital, Kathmandu.},
journal = {The Canadian journal of infectious diseases & medical microbiology = Journal canadien des maladies infectieuses et de la microbiologie medicale},
volume = {2026},
number = {},
pages = {6625304},
pmid = {42052518},
issn = {1712-9532},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are common bacterial infections with growing treatment challenges due to the rise of antimicrobial resistance. Additionally, the characteristics of the pathogens responsible for UTIs are changing, primarily due to the emergence of biofilms. Biofilms, which are structured microbial communities, pose a significant public health threat because of their inherent resistance to antimicrobial treatments. Hence, this cross-sectional study aimed to isolate and characterize uropathogenic bacteria capable of forming biofilm and exhibiting antimicrobial resistance among patients seeking microbiology laboratory services at the Nepal Police Hospital.

METHODS: Uropathogens were isolated from midstream urine samples using CLED, Blood, and MacConkey agar. Standard microbiological techniques were employed for identification of pathogen. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was conducted using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method, and biofilm formation was assessed using the microtiter plate method.

RESULTS: Of the 2081 samples analyzed, significant bacterial growth was observed in 184 (8.84%) of the samples. The predominant pathogens were Escherichia coli (39.7%), followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae (26.6%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (7.8%). Amikacin, levofloxacin, and tigecycline were the most effective antibiotics. Among the isolates, 32 (17.39%) were confirmed as MDR. Biofilm production was confirmed in six isolates (3.26%), with two Enterococcus faecalis and one Klebsiella oxytoca identified as strong biofilm producers, while two Klebsiella pneumoniae and one Acinetobacter spp. exhibited weak biofilm production. Statistical analysis showed no significant correlation between antibiotic resistance and biofilm production (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION: Biofilm-forming uropathogens present substantial challenges in UTI treatment. Importantly, our study did not find a correlation between antibiotic resistance and biofilm production, suggesting that these traits may be independent or influenced by different pathogenic mechanisms.},
}

@article {pmid42053316,
year = {2026},
author = {Vo, HH and Le, TT and Nguyen, TV and Scott, J and Gutierrez, T and Kaiser, MJ and Ngo, HTT},
title = {Developing an optimized method for biofilm extraction from microplastic surfaces for high-efficiency analysis of adherent bacterial communities.},
journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0041626},
doi = {10.1128/aem.00416-26},
pmid = {42053316},
issn = {1098-5336},
abstract = {Microplastics (MiPs, ×5 mm in size) harbor complex biofilms that facilitate pathogen dissemination, yet standardized extraction protocols are lacking. Here, we developed and optimized a method for biofilm extraction from environmentally weathered MiPs. To reflect real-world conditions, the protocol was applied directly to bulk, heterogeneous, field-collected MiP mixtures (size range: 80 µm-5 mm) without prior sorting by polymer type or morphology. By optimizing extraction buffers, mechanical disruption, and MiP quantities (100-150 particles), we established an optimal protocol combining phosphate-buffered saline with 0.1% Tween 80, ultrasonication (40 kHz, 10 min), vortexing with glass beads, and a two-cycle extraction-disaggregation workflow. This approach involves an initial extraction followed by a repeated, exhaustive extraction step designed to maximize the recovery of recalcitrant biofilm residues. This protocol markedly enhanced recovery of viable, culturable cells, delivering a 2,950-fold enhancement in the recovery of viable, culturable cells (evaluated via CFU counts; 28,020 ± 11,034 CFU MiP[-1]) vs. conventional PBS extraction (9.5 ± 3 CFU MiP[-1]) and 102-fold vs. passive extraction (274 ± 59 CFU MiP[-1]). The 10-min sonication empirically maximized viable cell recovery within the tested duration range. The two-step protocol with Tween 80-mediated disaggregation proved critical, increasing recovery 208-fold by disaggregating biofilm fragments. While DNA yields (26.5 ± 3.93 ng µL[-1]) were sufficient for targeted PCR-based pathogen detection (Aeromonas spp., Salmonella enterica), the co-extraction of complex environmental matrices (A260/A280 ratio: 0.17-0.19) strictly requires an additional purification step prior to next-generation sequencing. Validation across contrasting aquatic environments confirmed the method's robustness. Comparative analysis demonstrates that conventional single-step approaches fail to recover the majority of viable cells trapped within weathered MiP biofilms. This optimized and validated protocol provides a critical methodological foundation for investigating plastisphere microbial ecology and pathogen transport dynamics, supporting evidence-based risk assessment of MiP contamination, especially public health risks associated with microplastic pollution.IMPORTANCEMicroplastic-associated biofilms (the "plastisphere") serve as vectors for waterborne pathogens and antibiotic resistance genes; however, the persistent use of inadequate extraction methods has systematically underestimated microbial abundance, presenting a critical barrier to global environmental risk assessment. By overcoming the limitations of conventional extractions-which fail to penetrate recalcitrant extracellular polymeric matrices on environmentally weathered microplastics-our standardized methodology liberates previously undetectable bacterial populations. The ability to accurately quantify these hidden communities, including key pathogens like Aeromonas spp. and Salmonella enterica, fundamentally transforms our understanding of microplastics as hidden biological reservoirs. Ultimately, this methodological advancement bridges a critical gap in microbial ecology, delivering the reliable, quantitative data strictly required by policymakers, environmental agencies, and public health officials to establish evidence-based guidelines mitigating the impacts of microplastic pollution on global water systems.},
}

@article {pmid42054926,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhu, Y and Cui, X and Huang, Y and Zhou, Y},
title = {Effects of oxygen supply mode on linear alkylbenzene sulfonate removal during greywater treatment by oxygen-based membrane biofilm reactor.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {406},
number = {},
pages = {129804},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2026.129804},
pmid = {42054926},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {The oxygen-based membrane biofilm reactor (O2-MBfR) has garnered increasing attention for its ability to remove linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS), a widely used surfactant, from greywater for reuse while avoiding foam-related issues. However, the influence of the O2 supply mode on aerobic LAS removal remains unclear. Advancements in this area could improve O2 utilization efficiency, thereby reducing additional costs from increased aeration or advanced membrane materials. In this study, parallel and tandem O2 supply modes were compared by evaluating LAS mineralization and metabolisms in the O2-MBfR. The results demonstrated that the tandem mode achieved more efficient O2 utilization for pollutant removal. During the first 45 days, average removal ratios for chemical oxygen demand, total nitrogen and LAS were 85.8% vs. 89.2%, 68.8% vs. 83.0% and 92.9% vs. 95.3% between tandem and parallel modes, respectively. In addition, the effluent under the tandem mode exhibited improved biological stability. Mechanistic study revealed that the tandem mode increased protein and α-polysaccharide proportions in biofilms, resulting in thinner yet more compact structures with stronger resistance to hydraulic shocks. The tandem mode also promoted the growth of LAS-degrading bacteria. For instance, the abundance of the Pseudomonas genus participating in the initial steps of LAS biodegradation was 1.25-4.76 times as much as that under the parallel mode. Furthermore, statistically more LAS-degrading enzymes (e.g., acyl-CoA dehydrogenase) were enriched under the tandem mode. These findings highlight a great potential of implementing the tandem O2 supply mode in push-flow O2-MBfRs to achieve high-efficiency LAS removal while reducing costs.},
}

@article {pmid42055259,
year = {2026},
author = {Eltawab, R and Abdelfattah, A and Hu, ZT and Cheng, L},
title = {Development of a conductive gas-permeable membrane for electro-stimulated biofilm engineering and rapid startup in membrane aerated biofilm reactors.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {134733},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.134733},
pmid = {42055259},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Membrane aerated biofilm reactors offer high oxygen transfer efficiency and compact nitrogen removal; however, their practical application is strongly limited by slow and unstable startup associated with delayed biofilm establishment. In this study, a conductive gas-permeable membrane was developed by immobilizing a carbon nanotubes / reduced graphene oxide-silane nanolayer onto a Polyvinylidene fluoride substrate to enable localized electro-stimulation directly at the membrane-biofilm interface. The modified membrane preserved hydrophobicity, pore structure, and oxygen permeability while exhibiting stable electroactive behaviour. When applied in a laboratory-scale membrane aerated biofilm reactor (MABR) under low-intensity electrical stimulation, biofilm formation was significantly accelerated, achieving near-complete surface coverage and functional maturity-defined by the establishment of a stable and well-developed biofilm together with sustained ammonium removal exceeding 90%-within 7-10 days, representing a reduction of more than two weeks compared to conventional MABR startup. The biofilm growth rate increased from 7.9 ± 0.9 to 19.8 ± 1.3 µm day[-1] (approximately 2.5-fold) compared to the non-stimulated control, resulting in markedly earlier chemical oxygen demand removal and complete nitrification. Response surface analysis revealed that electro-stimulation guided biofilm development toward an optimal structural configuration, characterized by near-complete surface coverage and a balanced intermediate biofilm thickness (∼120-200 µm) associated with peak treatment performance. These findings demonstrate that conductive gas-permeable membranes provide a scalable and mechanistically robust approach to overcome startup limitations in MABR systems.},
}

@article {pmid42056812,
year = {2026},
author = {Fu, Y and Zhuang, H and Shi, J},
title = {Reshaping of the electron transport chain and carbon metabolism by low-loading Fe3O4@PU for enhanced phenolic compounds degradation in an algal-bacterial biofilm system.},
journal = {Journal of hazardous materials},
volume = {511},
number = {},
pages = {142207},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhazmat.2026.142207},
pmid = {42056812},
issn = {1873-3336},
abstract = {While previous algal-bacterial biofilm systems without magnetite have shown limited resilience to high concentration phenolic compounds, this study demonstrates that introducing low loading (5%) nano-Fe3O4 substantially enhances degradation stability by optimizing electron transfer pathways. Four algal-bacterial reactors with varying Fe3O4 loadings (5-50%) were constructed using polyurethane carriers to treat phenolic wastewater under increasing total phenol (TPh) concentrations (50-300 mg/L). The 5% loading reactor (R1) demonstrated outstanding performance, achieving > 80% TPh removal and approximately 76% COD removal even at the highest loading. Compared to without magnetite systems, R1 achieved 13-15% higher TPh degradation at 300 mg/L. R1 also exhibited the highest electron transfer system activity (0.487 μg O2·gVSS[-1]·h[-1]) and cytochrome c content (72.12 mg/g VSS), indicating that Fe3O4 serves as an electron shuttle, compensating for endogenous electron carrier limitations. Metagenomic analysis revealed that the enhanced performance stemmed from robust carbohydrate metabolism, particularly the upregulation of key glycolytic enzymes (pfkA) and glycogen degrading enzymes (GH13), ensuring efficient NADH/ATP production. This metabolic advantage supplied reducing power to the Fe3O4 optimized electron transport chain, synchronizing electron generation with respiratory utilization. These findings demonstrate that low-dose Fe3O4 optimizes natural electron transfer pathways by coupling metabolic flux with respiratory chain activity, offering a cost effective strategy for treating high strength industrial wastewater.},
}

@article {pmid42047000,
year = {2026},
author = {Mallick, U and Sahu, BK and Patra, SK and Sahu, MC and Panda, SK},
title = {Breaking the Barrier: Cutting-Edge Microbial Strategies Against Candida Biofilm Infections.},
journal = {APMIS : acta pathologica, microbiologica, et immunologica Scandinavica},
volume = {134},
number = {5},
pages = {e70214},
doi = {10.1111/apm.70214},
pmid = {42047000},
issn = {1600-0463},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; Humans ; *Antifungal Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; *Candidiasis/microbiology/drug therapy ; *Candida/drug effects/physiology ; Drug Resistance, Fungal ; Animals ; Quorum Sensing/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Candida species, particularly Candida albicans and nonalbicans, can form strong biofilms on biotic and abiotic surfaces, leading to chronic and recurring infections. These biofilms are influenced by regulatory circuits, transcription factors, and morphogenetic changes that promote biofilm development and drug resistance. The biofilm matrix, including β-glucans and extracellular DNA, hinders antifungal penetration. Next-generation approaches to controlling Candida biofilms include small-molecule inhibitors, quorum-sensing inhibitors, enzyme-based ECM inhibitors, and nanoparticle-mediated drug delivery platforms. Marine-derived metabolites, antimicrobial peptides, and monoclonal antibodies are also discussed for their antibiofilm activity. Innovative in vitro and in vivo models are presented for assessing biofilm behavior and treatment response. Polymicrobial biofilms, including Candida and bacteria, are also discussed. Obstacles to controlling Candida biofilms include antifungal resistance, therapeutic agent toxicity, and regulatory hurdles. Future directions include CRISPR-based gene editing, antifungal vaccines, and omics-based target identification. This review emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary, biofilm-centric therapeutic strategies in reducing the global health impact of Candida biofilm-related infections and advancing innovative antifungal therapies.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
Humans
*Antifungal Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use
*Candidiasis/microbiology/drug therapy
*Candida/drug effects/physiology
Drug Resistance, Fungal
Animals
Quorum Sensing/drug effects

@article {pmid42047985,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, J and Yang, B and Xing, G and Zhao, Y and Wu, Z and Li, J and Qi, M and Wu, J},
title = {D-amino acids inhibit biofilm formation in Escherichia coli and increase antibiotic susceptibility in multidrug-resistant bacteria.},
journal = {Folia microbiologica},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42047985},
issn = {1874-9356},
support = {ELDC202002//Engineering Laboratory of Tarim Animal Disease Diagnosis and Control, Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps/ ; },
}

@article {pmid42048763,
year = {2026},
author = {Lu, Z and Li, J and Zeng, X and Qiu, Y and Lu, H and Gao, H and Zhu, J},
title = {Critical role of Psl polysaccharide modulated by AmrZ for biofilm formation and cold adaptation in the spoilage bacterium Pseudomonas fluorescens.},
journal = {International journal of food microbiology},
volume = {456},
number = {},
pages = {111806},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2026.111806},
pmid = {42048763},
issn = {1879-3460},
abstract = {Pseudomonas fluorescens is a major psychrotrophic spoilage bacterium in refrigerated foods, where its persistence is closely associated with biofilm formation under low-temperature conditions. To elucidate the mechanisms underlying cold-induced biofilm adaptation, the biofilm characteristics and transcriptomic profiles of Pseudomonas fluorescens PF07 at 10 °C and 30 °C were compared. Based on these analyses, key biofilm matrix components and regulatory factors were identified, and the resistance of the corresponding mutants under cold conditions was further evaluated. Transcriptomic analyses revealed that genes involved in Psl polysaccharide biosynthesis and c-di-GMP-associated diguanylate cyclases were markedly upregulated, whereas the transcriptional regulator AmrZ was significantly downregulated at 10 °C. Deletion of amrZ resulted in a pronounced shift in biofilm architecture, characterized by reduced surface-attached biofilms but enhanced pellicle formation accompanied by elevated exopolysaccharide production. Proteomic and genetic analyses demonstrated that AmrZ negatively regulates Psl polysaccharide synthesis and intracellular c-di-GMP levels, thereby modulating the transition between distinct biofilm states. Disruption of pslB abolished pellicle formation and significantly weakened biofilm structural integrity, even in the ΔamrZ background, highlighting the essential role of Psl polysaccharide as a key matrix component. Importantly, the ΔamrZ mutant exhibited increased resistance to sodium hypochlorite and heat treatments at low temperature, which was associated with enhanced biofilm formation and Psl overproduction. In contrast, deletion of pslB markedly increased biofilm removability, indicating that Psl was a vital protective matrix component. Collectively, these findings demonstrated that low temperature promotes the formation of highly stable and stress-resistant biofilms in P. fluorescens PF07 through AmrZ-mediated regulation of Psl polysaccharide and c-di-GMP signaling. This study provided mechanistic insights into biofilm persistence under cold-chain conditions and identified potential molecular targets for improving sanitation strategies in refrigerated food systems.},
}

@article {pmid42049403,
year = {2026},
author = {Lin, YK and Lee, KH and Chen, CM and Tsai, SW and Chen, CF and Wu, PK and Chen, WM},
title = {Freezing Nitrogen-Ethanol Composite Effectively Eradicates Staphylococcus aureus Biofilm on Prosthetic Surfaces.},
journal = {In vivo (Athens, Greece)},
volume = {40},
number = {3},
pages = {1408-1417},
doi = {10.21873/invivo.14292},
pmid = {42049403},
issn = {1791-7549},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology ; *Ethanol/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Nitrogen/pharmacology/chemistry ; Humans ; Freezing ; Microbial Viability/drug effects ; Prosthesis-Related Infections/microbiology/prevention & control ; Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND/AIM: Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) remains one of the most challenging complications after arthroplasty, largely due to biofilm formation on prosthetic surfaces, which protects bacteria from antibiotics and host defenses. This study investigated whether a freezing nitrogen-ethanol composite (FNEC), a semisolid cryogenic material combining liquid nitrogen and ethanol, can effectively eradicate Staphylococcus aureus biofilms on prosthetic components.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Biofilms of S. aureus were established on plastic spacers and metallic knee prostheses. Specimens were treated for 15 min with 75% ethanol, liquid nitrogen (LN), or FNEC. Bacterial viability was assessed using LIVE/DEAD fluorescence staining, while eradication efficacy was confirmed through broth inoculation and optical-density (OD600) measurements. Additional indirect-exposure experiments evaluated the contribution of FNEC's freezing effect, and time-dependent testing determined the minimal effective exposure duration.

RESULTS: FNEC achieved the most complete biofilm eradication across both plastic and metallic surfaces. LIVE/DEAD staining demonstrated widespread cell death with minimal residual viability. Broth cultures from FNEC-treated samples remained clear, with OD600 values indistinguishable from sterile controls, whereas LN and untreated samples showed significant bacterial growth. Indirect experiments confirmed that FNEC's cryogenic effect alone substantially contributed to bacterial death. Time-course analysis revealed that a 5-min FNEC exposure was sufficient for complete sterilization.

CONCLUSION: FNEC exhibited potent bactericidal and biofilm-removal capability, outperforming ethanol and LN alone. Its combined chemical and cryogenic effects enabled rapid and complete eradication of S. aureus biofilms within 5 min. These findings support FNEC as a promising adjunctive strategy for intraoperative biofilm management and may facilitate single-stage revision surgery for PJI.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology
*Ethanol/pharmacology/chemistry
*Nitrogen/pharmacology/chemistry
Humans
Freezing
Microbial Viability/drug effects
Prosthesis-Related Infections/microbiology/prevention & control
Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology

@article {pmid42049747,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, D and Dong, H and Zhang, G and Li, Y and Liu, X and Chen, Y and Xiao, L and Wang, X and Li, D and Song, H and Zhong, C and Cao, Q and Dai, B and Liu, C},
title = {Ultrastructural and atomic characterization of biofilm-associated extracellular filaments in Shewanella oneidensis MR-1.},
journal = {Nature communications},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41467-026-72442-4},
pmid = {42049747},
issn = {2041-1723},
support = {22425704//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; 32494764//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; 32271276//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; 22577070//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; 2025M782827//China Postdoctoral Science Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {Biofilms formed by Shewanella oneidensis MR-1 are crucial for metal reduction, underpinning bioremediation and bioenergy applications, yet detailed structural insights into biofilm components remain limited. Here we show that MR-1 biofilms contain abundant filamentous networks, membrane vesicles, and distinct square-shaped aggregates, as revealed by cryo-electron tomography and cryo-electron microscopy. We further determine near-atomic resolution structures of three filament types: bacterial flagella and two distinct pili, PilA and MshA. We present high-resolution structures of an MshA pilus and a PilA pilus from Shewanella. Structural analyses show that MshA pili exhibit a balanced surface charge distribution and extensive solvent-accessible surface area, facilitating essential interactions within the biofilm matrix. Additionally, oxygen limitation markedly increases the abundance of extracellular filaments and protein aggregates, indicating adaptive responses to environmental stress. Our findings elucidate the fundamental architecture and roles of biofilm extracellular components and provide a structural foundation for engineering enhanced Shewanella strains.},
}

@article {pmid42049983,
year = {2026},
author = {Telles, PYV and Oliveira, VC and Geng Vivanco, R and de Arruda, CNF and Panzeri, FC},
title = {A chlorine releasing solution as an alternative for dental biofilm control.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41598-026-49642-5},
pmid = {42049983},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {2023/14376-4//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo/ ; },
abstract = {To evaluate the antibiofilm activity of a chlorine-releasing solution (CRS) and its in vitro effects on enamel color stability, surface roughness, and microhardness. A mixed biofilm composed of Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, and Streptococcus mutans was formed on standardized bovine enamel specimens (6 × 6 × 2 mm). After 48 h of maturation, the specimens were immersed for 5 min in CRS (Granudacyn, Mölnlycke Health Care), 0.12% chlorhexidine (CHX, positive control), or phosphate-buffered saline (PBS, negative control). Antibiofilm activity was determined by colony-forming unit counts (CFU/mL). For enamel property evaluation, new specimens were treated once daily for 30 s using immersion or spray protocols. Color changes (ΔE00), roughness (ΔRa), and microhardness (ΔKHN) were assessed at 1, 7, 15, and 30 days. CRS significantly reduced microbial counts compared with PBS and showed activity comparable to CHX. Surface roughness remained stable across treatments, except for CHX spray at 30 days (p < 0.05). CRS immersion resulted in lower microhardness values than PBS but did not differ from CHX. At 30 days, CHX spray produced the highest microhardness reduction (p < 0.05). No significant differences in color were observed among treatments. CRS demonstrated antimicrobial activity comparable to CHX without greater alterations in enamel surface properties under the tested conditions.},
}

@article {pmid42036795,
year = {2026},
author = {Park, JW and Baek, S-W and Kim, HS and Yerke, AM and Jaiswal, YS and Williams, LL and Jung, H and Yang, J-Y and Kang, HY and Hwang, S and Moon, KH},
title = {Alteration of fimbria-mediated biofilm formation and virulence in the zoonotic pathogen Edwardsiella piscicida by sub-inhibitory concentrations of erythromycin exposures.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0036626},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.00366-26},
pmid = {42036795},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: With a global rise in industrialization and chemical processing units, the introduction of anthropogenic pollutants into the environment has been on a rise. Aquatic pollutants, unlike terrestrial pollutants, are easily diluted in water environments and exist at a sub-inhibitory concentration (sub-IC). At sub-IC, they do not directly inhibit bacterial growth but can modulate gene expression profiles. Aquaculture industry relies heavily on the use of antibiotics for control of fish pathogens, and the indiscriminate use of antibiotic agents increases antibiotic resistance in the aquatic environment. Previous studies have reported that sub-IC of antibiotics are able to regulate biofilm formation in a variety of pathogenic bacteria. To understand the environmental signals in the biofilm formation of E. piscicida, we hypothesized that the biofilm of E. piscicida can be regulated by sub-IC of erythromycin, which is widely used antibiotic in aquaculture. Our results indicate that at sub-IC of erythromycin, biofilm formation was induced due to increased type 1 fimbrial expression. This caused an increased colonization of the host and hyper-virulence in E. piscicida. Our study reveals a new aspect of antibiotic functioning as a signaling molecule that modulates biofilm-related-gene expression and virulence in fish pathogen. This study demonstrates the comprehensive molecular response of the fish pathogen to environmentally discharged erythromycin. Additionally, the study provides scientific evidence for the hypertoxicity of pathogens through the indiscriminate use of antibiotics-ultimately leading to detrimental effects to the fishery industry.

IMPORTANCE: Antibiotics released into aquatic environments often persist at sub-inhibitory concentrations, where they no longer suppress bacterial growth but instead act as signaling molecules. Here, we show that sub-inhibitory erythromycin enhances biofilm formation and virulence in the fish pathogen Edwardsiella piscicida by upregulating type 1 fimbriae. This response promotes host colonization and hypervirulence, demonstrating that environmentally relevant antibiotic exposure can unintentionally increase pathogenic potential. Our findings provide in vivo evidence that sub-therapeutic antibiotics reshape bacterial behavior and host-pathogen interactions. This study highlights an underappreciated ecological and economic risk of indiscriminate antibiotic use in aquaculture, with direct implications for fish health, disease management, and environmental safety.},
}

@article {pmid42038981,
year = {2026},
author = {Wu, L and Tu, Y and Xiao, S and Zeng, J and Sun, G and Li, Y},
title = {Recent perspectives on precision-targeting therapy against oral biofilm.},
journal = {Journal of oral microbiology},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {2662093},
pmid = {42038981},
issn = {2000-2297},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Oral biofilm-derived diseases pose a significant clinical challenge due to their persistent nature and increasing drug resistance, contributing to a substantial global economic burden. Conventional treatments-such as mechanical debridement, antiseptic agents, and laser therapy-though partially effective, often lack specificity, resulting in non-targeted microbial killing and disruption of the ecological balance.

OBJECTIVE: This review provides an updated overview of the application of precision antimicrobial therapies against oral biofilms, with a particular focus on pH-responsive materials and bacteriophage-based strategies.

DESIGN: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed and Google Scholar databases from January 2016 to January 2026. A total of 84 full-text articles were included for qualitative synthesis.

RESULTS: The collective findings demonstrate that multiple precision-targeting strategies-spanning from bacteriophage therapy to pH-responsive antimicrobial materials-exhibit distinct advantages in combating oral biofilms.

CONCLUSION: The common core principle underpinning these approaches lies in their 'precision-targeting' capability: the ability to identify and interfere with specific targets or biological processes. This attribute not only significantly enhances therapeutic efficacy but also paves the way for developing personalized, microbiome-preserving strategies for the prevention and management of oral diseases.},
}

@article {pmid42039755,
year = {2026},
author = {Mazzantini, D and Amato, B and Zineddu, S and de Azevedo-França, JA and Maisetta, G and Ghelardi, E and Esin, S and Messori, L and Batoni, G},
title = {Anti-staphylococcal activity of the auranofin-analogous PEt3AuCl: antibacterial, anti-biofilm and anti-virulence effect on clinically relevant staphylococci.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1794590},
pmid = {42039755},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Humans ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Auranofin/pharmacology/analogs & derivatives ; *Staphylococcus/drug effects/pathogenicity ; Virulence/drug effects ; Cell Survival/drug effects ; Cell Line ; *Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects ; Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology/drug therapy ; Hemolysis/drug effects ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Gold(I) complexes, such as the drug Auranofin (AF) which is approved for treating rheumatoid arthritis, have attracted significant interest as a potential treatment for bacterial infections due to their promising, broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. In this study, we investigated the anti-staphylococcal activity of three AF analogues [PEt3AuCl (AF-Cl), PEt3AuI (AF-I) and PPh3AuCl (TPP-AuCl)] with the aim of discovering new weapons in the fight against antibiotic resistance.

METHODS: The antimicrobial activity and cytotoxicity of the gold compounds were evaluated by broth microdilution and the WST-1 assay, respectively. Time-kill assays were used to investigate killing kinetics, and the crystal violet (CV) assay was used to evaluate biofilm formation. Eradication of mature biofilms was assessed using the crystal violet assay, a plate count of biofilm-associated cells and scanning electron microscopy. The anti-virulence effect was tested by the hemolysis and agar diffusion assays.

RESULTS: All of the AF analogues were active against staphylococci, including antibiotic-resistant strains, with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) ranging from 0.063 to 4 µg/mL. Additionally, they exhibited lower toxicity towards the A549 lung cell line and the spontaneously immortalized human keratinocyte line HaCaT than AF. AF-Cl was identified as the most promising compound and was selected for further biological investigations. Time-kill experiments revealed that AF-Cl was rapidly bactericidal against clinical staphylococci, causing at least a 3-log reduction in the number of viable cells within six hours. At sub-inhibitory concentrations, the compound inhibited biofilm formation and reduced the secretion of hemolysins and phospholipases, representing key virulence factors in S. aureus infections. Furthermore, AF-Cl was able to eradicate mature S. aureus biofilms at non-cytotoxic concentrations.

CONCLUSION: Overall, our findings highlight the potential of AF-Cl as a promising candidate for treating staphylococcal infections, including those caused by antibiotic-resistant strains. In addition, the compound exhibited anti-biofilm and anti-virulence properties, which could be advantageous in treating toxin-mediated and biofilm-associated staphylococcal diseases.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Humans
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Auranofin/pharmacology/analogs & derivatives
*Staphylococcus/drug effects/pathogenicity
Virulence/drug effects
Cell Survival/drug effects
Cell Line
*Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects
Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology/drug therapy
Hemolysis/drug effects

@article {pmid42039800,
year = {2026},
author = {Al-Shaeri, MA and Oves, M},
title = {Single-walled carbon nanotubes as a nano-weapons against biofilm of Pseudomonas aeruginosa.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1791060},
pmid = {42039800},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND/INTRODUCTION: The emergence of antimicrobial resistance in bacterial biofilms represents a growing global healthcare burden, necessitating the development of novel agents with alternative mechanisms of action.

METHODS: In the present study, we evaluated the antibacterial and antibiofilm potential of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a clinically significant opportunistic pathogen notorious for its robust biofilm-forming capacity and intrinsic resistance profile. Antimicrobial activity was assessed using disc diffusion and broth microdilution assays, while biofilm inhibition was quantified by crystal violet microplate assays. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses were performed to elucidate the underlying antibacterial mechanism.

RESULTS: SWCNTs exhibited potent concentration-dependent bacteriostatic and bactericidal effects, with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of 62.5 and 125 μg/mL, respectively. Zones of inhibition ranged from 14.5 ± 0.30 mm to 22.0 ± 0.57 mm across concentrations of 4-16 mg/mL (p ≤ 0.05). In biofilm inhibition assays, planktonic growth (OD470) was markedly reduced from ≈0.32 ± 0.01 in untreated controls to ≈0.05 ± 0.01 at 200 μg/mL, corresponding to a maximum biofilm inhibition rate of 85.5%. SEM imaging revealed pronounced morphological disruption of P. aeruginosa cell walls, including membrane deformation, surface roughening, and loss of cellular integrity upon SWCNT treatment, indicative of direct physical interaction between the nanotubes and bacterial membranes. FTIR analysis further corroborated these findings, demonstrating characteristic spectral shifts in functional groups associated with bacterial membrane lipids, proteins, and polysaccharides.

DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: These spectral changes suggest physicochemical interactions that compromised membrane stability and disrupted biofilm matrix integrity. Collectively, these findings support a proposed mechanism whereby SWCNTs exert their antibacterial effect through direct membrane perturbation, interference with biofilm extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), and inhibition of early-stage biofilm adhesion and maturation.},
}

@article {pmid42039831,
year = {2026},
author = {Wickham, J and More, KR and Hendricks, AL and Bakaletz, LO and Goodman, SD},
title = {Rapid means of biofilm disruption induce the newly released (NRel) phenotype of enhanced antibiotic sensitivity.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1734540},
pmid = {42039831},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Biofilms are communities of microorganisms encased in a self-produced matrix, a structure that makes resident bacteria up to 1,000 times more resistant to antibiotics than their free-living, or planktonic, counterparts. Intriguingly, new methods that use reagents to release the biofilm-resident bacteria result in a transitory yet highly antibiotic sensitive phenotype. These newly released (NRel) bacteria are at least, if not more, sensitive to antibiotics than those in their planktonic form. Here, we sought to determine if the production of the NRel phenotype is reagent- dependent or can be accomplished by alternative means.

METHODS: Across four pathogenic bacteria: non-typeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHI), methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Streptococcus pneumoniae, we investigated whether rapid mechanical disruption of biofilms, or the use of a novel cationic depletion method in NTHI, could similarly induce this NRel phenotype. The presence of NRel was assessed by comparing the antibiotic sensitivity of the released bacteria to that of their planktonic counterparts. For NTHI specifically, we further characterized the phenotype by measuring the kinetics of antibiotic sensitivity via comparative plate counts over time. We also analyzed the relative expression levels of known NRel-associated genes using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR).

RESULTS: We show that using either intense mechanical disruption or a cationic depletion method not only facilitate rapid biofilm disruption but produce the NRel phenotype. In each case, both NRel signature gene expression and the transient antibiotic sensitivity phenotypes were observed compared to planktonic cells.

DISCUSSION: Similar to methods using reagents, we found that mechanical or cationic depletion disruption of pathogenic bacterial biofilms were sufficient to trigger the NRel phenotype. These results are consistent with the NRel state potentially being a rate-dependent physiological response rather than being induced by specific chemical or biological agents. We discuss the changes in gene expression permissive to NRel and the possibility that rapid and premature release of bacteria from a biofilm fails to allow the resident bacteria to be sufficiently prepared for their biofilm free state. This new insight both expands our understanding of the NRel phenotype and provides further validation for our rapid-release therapeutic strategy.},
}

@article {pmid42040505,
year = {2026},
author = {Collado, C and Romero-Tena, P and Wegener, G and Elvert, M and Menapace, W and Laso-Pérez, R},
title = {Anaerobic oxidation of methane supports a minimal microbial community in a subsurface biofilm at Ginsburg mud volcano.},
journal = {ISME communications},
volume = {6},
number = {1},
pages = {ycag072},
pmid = {42040505},
issn = {2730-6151},
abstract = {Deep marine sediments generate large amounts of methane, but most of this gas is consumed by the anaerobic oxidation of methane (AOM) mediated by microscopic consortia of anaerobic methane-oxidizing archaea (ANME) and sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB). In this study, we investigated the AOM within a sulfate-methane transition zone (SMTZ) at a depth of ~9.6 m at the rim of the Ginsburg mud volcano in the Gulf of Cádiz. The SMTZ is supplied with sulfate from both overlying seawater and an underlying evaporitic deposit, and it coincides with a fracture zone that hosts a visible biofilm. Here, carbon dioxide shows the strongest [13]C-depletion, indicating intense methane consumption. Metagenomic and lipid biomarker analysis of the biofilm revealed an exceptionally simple microbial community dominated by ANME-1b archaea (63%), which predominantly produce strongly [13]C-depleted glycerol dialkyl glycerol tetraethers and, to a lesser extent, the less common macrocyclic archaeols. The putative partner bacterium Seep-SRB1c (Desulfobacterota) is less abundant (9%). Additionally, the biofilm contained five low-abundance heterotrophs that likely rely on biomass or metabolites released from the ANME-SRB consortium. Our study highlights the presence of active methanotrophic biofilms in subsurface sediments and suggests that these communities may play an overlooked role in mitigating seafloor methane emissions.},
}

@article {pmid42041291,
year = {2026},
author = {Ratchasong, K and Saengsawang, P and Yusakul, G and Kabploy, K and Lakhanapuram, HK and Harudeen, A and Wintachai, P and Thomrongsuwannakij, T and Nwabor, OF and Mitsuwan, W},
title = {Deep Eutectic Solvent-Based Emulsion Containing Piper betle L. Extract and Hydroxychavicol Prevent Biofilm Development and Surface Adhesion of Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli on Stored Chicken Meat.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics15040328},
pmid = {42041291},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {WU-FF68-03//Thailand Science Research and Innovation Fund/ ; WU-COE-65-05//Center of Excellence in Innovation of Essential Oil and Bioactive Compounds/ ; 13/2024//Walailak University Graduate Scholarship/ ; },
abstract = {Background: Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) contributes substantially to colibacillosis outbreaks in chickens. Because APEC cells readily attach to surfaces and develop biofilms, they pose a notable hazard to poultry production and food safety. This study investigated the antibiofilm and anti-adhesion activities of deep eutectic solvent-based emulsion containing Piper betle L. extract (DEPE) and hydroxychavicol, a pure compound isolated from P. betle leaves against APEC. Methods: Antibiofilm and anti-adhesion activities of DEPE and hydroxychavicol against APEC were investigated. Molecular docking and dynamics simulation of DEPE and hydroxychavicol was conducted. In addition, anti-adhesion activity of DEPE on chicken meat during storage was evaluated. Results: DEPE and hydroxychavicol significantly inhibited biofilm formation at sub-MIC, with DEPE achieving up to 80% inhibition and hydroxychavicol up to 69%. At 8 × MIC, DEPE and hydroxychavicol diminished the viability of both early and established biofilms. Furthermore, DEPE and hydroxychavicol reduced APEC adhesion on the surface as observed by SEM. In silico analyses demonstrated the stable binding of hydroxychavicol to adhesion-related proteins, particularly EcpA and FimH, suggesting a possible mechanism for its anti-adhesion activity. At day 5, DEPE at 4 × MIC significantly reduced 63% bacterial adhesion to chicken meat surfaces during storage, while maintaining the meat's color. Conclusions: These findings indicate that DEPE and hydroxychavicol are promising candidates for limiting APEC biofilm formation and surface attachment and may serve as alternative antibacterial agents in poultry-related food safety applications.},
}

@article {pmid42041300,
year = {2026},
author = {Chines, E and Boscarelli, L and Vertillo Aluisio, G and Santagati, M and Mezzatesta, ML and Cafiso, V},
title = {Deciphering the Emergence of Biofilm-Independent Colistin Persistence and Resistance in A. baumannii: Toxin-Antitoxin Omics and Novel T/A mRNA-asRNA Balance Regulatory Models.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics15040337},
pmid = {42041300},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {PIACERI 2024-2026//Linea intervento 1 Progetti di Ricerca Collaborativa PIACERI 2024-2026" from the University of Catania, Italy/ ; },
abstract = {Background: Persistence represents a critical evolutionary reservoir for the development of antimicrobial resistance in Acinetobacter baumannii (Ab). Understanding the basal mechanisms that enable this survival strategy is crucial for elucidating how high-risk clones evolve resistance during therapy. Methods: High-dose colistin time-kill assays were performed in ten ST2 clinical colistin-susceptible (COL-S) Carbapenem-Resistant Ab (CRAB) developing in vivo stable and full-colistin resistance to detect persisters. Genomics and basal transcriptomics of chromosomal/plasmid toxin-antitoxin systems (T/As) were performed, as duplicates for each sample, in two ST2 COL-S CRAB to investigate the genomics and basal T/A transcriptomic backgrounds. Results: Phenotypically, all strains showed a persistent subpopulation (~1% survival at 8 h) under 5× COL MIC exposure. Genomics identified 10 type-II and one type-IV T/A systems. Basal transcriptomics revealed active expression patterns mainly of GNAT superfamily T/A systems, with consistently low toxin mRNA levels associated with toxin- or antitoxin-directed asRNAs in chromosomal modules. This architecture defined new dual-combined regulatory models in which asRNAs acted as primary T/A mRNA balance modulators, putatively impacting on the T/A mRNA ratio. Conversely, the plasmid-encoded BrnT/A module showed a highly balanced expression. Conclusions: Our findings revealed, for the first time, the role of the type-II GNAT T/A superfamily as putative molecular switchers via a fine-tuning transcript balance regulation, impacting the transition from a metabolically active cell state to a dormant one in developing colistin persistence and in vivo resistance CRAB.},
}

@article {pmid42041301,
year = {2026},
author = {Sevastyanova, T and Loy, C and Schneider-Wald, B and Notarbartolo, K and Reisig, G and Gaiser, S and Darwich, A and Bdeir, M and Blümke, A and Gravius, S and Schilder, A},
title = {Biofilm Formation Patterns of S. epidermidis (RP62A) and S. aureus (UAMS-1) Are Defined by Orthopaedic Implant Materials and Surface Wear.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics15040338},
pmid = {42041301},
issn = {2079-6382},
abstract = {Background/Objectives:Staphylococcus epidermidis (RP62A) and Staphylococcus aureus (UAMS-1) are clinically relevant pathogens frequently implicated in implant-associated infections due to their ability to form biofilms. RP62A is typically linked to persistent, chronic, low-grade infections, whereas UAMS-1 is associated with acute, invasive disease. Both strains serve as representative models for chronic and acute periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs). The objective of this study was to examine and compare in vitro biofilm formation by RP62A and UAMS-1 on orthopaedic materials/disc surfaces of defined composition. Methods: In vitro biofilm formation assays were performed using orthopaedic disc surfaces composed of cobalt-chromium alloy (CoCr), titanium alloy (Ti), and polyethylene (PE) after 72 h of incubation. Biofilm biomass was quantified using crystal violet staining, with absorbance measured at OD570. A polystyrene (PS) surface served as a control. Additionally, retrieved orthopaedic explant components were used as substrates for in vitro biofilm assays, in which RP62A was incubated for 72 h on the explanted surfaces. Supporting assays on glass slides were conducted to examine strain-specific biofilm-related architecture. Results: In vitro biofilm mass quantification assays showed strong biofilm formation by RP62A across all tested surfaces, with the highest absorbance on CoCr (OD570 = 5.80 ± 0.19). Notably, biofilm formation on CoCr was 76% higher compared to PS (p < 0.0001). No significant differences were observed among all three surface discs (p > 0.1). Biofilm formation was highest on PE for UAMS-1 (OD570 = 1.29 ± 0.09) and was significantly greater than on Ti (178%, p < 0.001) and CoCr (196%, p < 0.0001). In the in vitro assays performed on retrieved explant components, RP62A showed pronounced biofilm accumulation on polyethylene tibial inserts, particularly in regions of mechanical wear and friction. Supporting assays on glass slides were performed to examine strain-specific surface microstructural, revealing dense network-like structures for RP62A and thinner, discontinuous layers for UAMS-1. Conclusions: RP62A formed dense biofilms in vitro on multiple orthopaedic implant materials and retrieved explant components, consistent with its association with chronic periprosthetic joint infections. Increased biofilm accumulation was observed on mechanically worn polyethylene surfaces. In contrast, UAMS-1 showed lower biofilm formation on metallic disc surfaces, indicating strain- and material-dependent differences. These findings highlight the relevance of implant material selection and surface integrity for strategies targeting biofilm-associated implant infections.},
}

@article {pmid42041333,
year = {2026},
author = {Llamosí, M and Gomes-Ribeiro, BF and Echeverry-Rendón, M and Yuste, J and Sempere, J and Domenech, M},
title = {Inhibition of Biofilm Formation by Respiratory Bacterial Pathogens via Silver Nanoparticles and Functionalized HEPA Filters.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics15040370},
pmid = {42041333},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {PID2024-161570OB-I00//Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities/ ; PI24CIII/00045//Instituto de Salud Carlos III/ ; 2023-T1/TEC-29099//Comunidad de Madrid/ ; },
abstract = {Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate the ability of silver oxide nanoparticle (Ag2ONP)-functionalized high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters and colloidal Ag2ONP suspensions to inhibit biofilm formation by major respiratory pathogens causing infections at operating rooms. Background: Respiratory infections caused by bacterial pathogens such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus species are often associated with the formation of biofilms, which confer increased resistance to antibiotics and host immune responses. Effective strategies to prevent biofilm formation on biological surfaces and in air filtration systems are urgently needed in clinical settings. Methods: The biofilm-forming ability of each bacterial strain was assessed by crystal violet microplate assay, viable count or confocal microscopy after prior incubation of the culture medium with Ag2ONP-coated HEPA filter material or colloidal Ag2ONP suspension. Results: Both silver-functionalized filters and silver nanoparticle suspensions significantly inhibited biofilm formation by S. pneumoniae and P. aeruginosa, with near-complete suppression observed. In the case of S. aureus and S. epidermidis, the silver nanoparticle suspension showed partial inhibition of biofilm development. Conclusions: Ag2ONP-functionalized HEPA filters and colloidal Ag2ONP suspensions effectively prevent biofilm formation by major respiratory pathogens, for both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. These materials show promise for integration with air filtration and surface coating systems to reduce microbial load and transmission in healthcare environments such as operating room facilities.},
}

@article {pmid42041365,
year = {2026},
author = {Promcham, S and Limsivilai, O and Kritsadasima, T and Chermprapai, S and Tansakul, N and Udomkusonsri, P and Yurayart, C},
title = {In Vitro Antifungal Activity of Essential Oils and Nanoemulsions of Zingiber cassumunar and Cymbopogon citratus Against Planktonic and Biofilm Forms of Malassezia pachydermatis.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics15040402},
pmid = {42041365},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {CRP6405031250//Agricultural Research Development Agency/ ; VET 2021-04//Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University/ ; },
abstract = {Malassezia pachydermatis is a yeast pathogen associated with recurrent skin and ear infections in dogs, often complicated by biofilm formation and reduced antifungal susceptibility. We aimed to evaluate the in vitro antifungal activity of essential oils and nanoemulsions of Zingiber cassumunar and Cymbopogon citratus compared with conventional antifungal agents against planktonic and biofilm forms of M. pachydermatis. Preliminary screening of six plant extracts was performed using 12 clinical isolates identified Z. cassumunar and C. citratus for nanoemulsion formulation. Antifungal susceptibility testing of conventional antifungal agents and nanoemulsions was subsequently conducted using 31 clinical isolates, and nanoemulsions were prepared by high-pressure homogenization. Both essential oils exhibited antifungal activity, and nanoemulsion formulations showed enhanced inhibitory effects compared with the crude oils. Biofilm-associated cells demonstrated reduced susceptibility, particularly to conventional antifungal agents. Terbinafine was the most potent agent against planktonic cells but showed reduced efficacy in biofilms. Nanoemulsions of Z. cassumunar and C. citratus exhibited improved activity against both forms. These findings suggest that nanoemulsification may enhance the in vitro antifungal performance of essential oils against M. pachydermatis biofilms. However, further studies, including mechanistic investigations and in vivo evaluations, are required to confirm their therapeutic potential and safety.},
}

@article {pmid42041366,
year = {2026},
author = {Balázs, VL and Filep, R and Ormai, E and Radványi, L and Kocsis, B and Kerekes, E and Kocsis, M},
title = {Antibiotic Adjuvant Potential of Selected Essential Oil Components Against Respiratory Pathogens: From Planktonic Synergy to Early-Stage Biofilm Inhibition.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics15040403},
pmid = {42041366},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {NKFIH PD 147156//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; NKFIH PD 142122//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; 2024-2.1.3-POC-2025-00004//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; 2021-1.2.6-TÉT-IPARI-MA-2022-00015//National Research, Development and Innovation Office/ ; },
abstract = {Background: Respiratory tract infections remain among the most common indications for antibiotic therapy and represent a major driver of antimicrobial resistance. The ability of respiratory pathogens to form biofilms further contributes to treatment failure and recurrence. This study aimed to evaluate the antibiotic adjuvant potential of selected essential oil components against clinically relevant respiratory bacteria and to determine whether planktonic synergistic interactions translate into early-stage antibiofilm efficacy. Thymol, eugenol, trans-cinnamaldehyde, and terpinen-4-ol were tested against Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus pyogenes, Haemophilus influenzae, Haemophilus parainfluenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Methods: Minimum inhibitory concentrations were determined by broth microdilution. Synergistic interactions with clinically relevant antibiotics were assessed using the checkerboard method and fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI) analysis. Selected combinations were further evaluated in a 6 h crystal violet-based early-stage biofilm model. Gram-positive strains generally exhibited higher susceptibility to the tested components than Gram-negative bacteria. Results: Synergistic interactions (FICI ≤ 0.5) were most frequently observed between β-lactam antibiotics and phenolic components, particularly thymol and trans-cinnamaldehyde. Strong synergy was detected for vancomycin-eugenol against MRSA and for amoxicillin/clavulanic acid-cinnamaldehyde against M. catarrhalis. Importantly, synergistic combinations translated into significantly enhanced inhibition of early biofilm formation, increasing inhibition rates by 15-40% compared to antibiotic monotherapy (p < 0.05). Selected essential oil components enhanced the antibacterial activity of clinically relevant antibiotics and effectively potentiated early-stage biofilm inhibition. Conclusions: These findings support further investigation of phytochemical-antibiotic combinations as potential adjunct strategies in respiratory infection management.},
}

@article {pmid42042296,
year = {2026},
author = {Lei, H and Liang, Y and Li, X and Huang, X and Zhang, C and Zou, T},
title = {Design and Development of Teixobactin Analog-Loaded Magnetic Nanocomposites for Biofilm Destruction and Pathogen Elimination.},
journal = {Journal of functional biomaterials},
volume = {17},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/jfb17040189},
pmid = {42042296},
issn = {2079-4983},
abstract = {Although teixobactin, a promising cyclic undecadepsipeptide, exhibits efficacy against Gram-positive bacteria due to its novel mode of action and low potential for resistance, its clinical application is limited by two key shortcomings: ineffectiveness against Gram-negative bacteria and poor penetration of the protective extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) in biofilms. This renders it unsuitable for targeting the polymicrobial biofilms, which are the cause of periodontitis and peri-implantitis. We designed a modified teixobactin analog by integrating rhamnolipid, Ag@Fe3O4 nanoparticles, and L-Chg10-teixobactin to obtain a novel magnetic nanoparticle (MNP). The MNP demonstrates the ability to simultaneously degrade EPS, penetrate biofilm structures, and eliminate both G[+] and G[-] pathogens under a rotating magnetic field (RMF). Rhamnolipid grafting degraded 52.5% of biofilm EPS. MNPs showed broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, with minimal inhibitory concentrations from 100 to 200 µg/mL. Combined with RMF, biofilm eradication rates reached 97.0% (E. faecalis), 97.7% (S. gordonii), 88.4% (P. gingivalis), and 74.2% (F. nucleatum). The biofilm thickness was reduced from 19.4 ± 2.9 µm to 7.4 ± 1.0 µm, and the biofilm biomass was reduced by 68.5%. This combined strategy integrates enzymatic EPS degradation, magneto-mechanical disruption, and dual antimicrobial action, offering a promising topical therapy for periodontitis and peri-implantitis.},
}

@article {pmid42042331,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhu, X and Yin, H and Yang, D and Yang, Y},
title = {Genome and Secondary Metabolites Analysis of Fusarium oxysporum BPF55 Associated with Blaps rynchopetera and Its Anti-MRSA Biofilm Potential.},
journal = {Journal of fungi (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {12},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/jof12040236},
pmid = {42042331},
issn = {2309-608X},
support = {202305AC160035//Reserve Talents Project for Young and Middle-Aged Academic and Technical Leaders of Yunnan Province/ ; 202401AT070086//Yunnan Fundamental Research Projects/ ; },
abstract = {Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) represents a critical global health challenge, with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) posing a significant threat in both hospital-acquired and community-associated infections. Research has demonstrated that biofilm formation is a key factor contributing to drug resistance in MRSA. In this study, we investigated an fungus, Fusarium oxysporum BPF55, isolated from Blaps rynchopetera, which inhibits MRSA biofilm formation. The aim of this research was to identify the fungal strain and comprehensively characterize its genomic features, as well as to evaluate its anti-MRSA biofilm potential. Whole-genome sequencing revealed a genome size of 50,097,681 base pairs, a GC content of 47.36%, and 16,507 predicted coding genes. AntiSMASH analysis identified 56 secondary metabolite biosynthetic gene clusters, including those involved in the synthesis of various natural products such as terpenes, non-ribosomal peptides, and polyketides. Using UPLC-MS/MS, 15 compounds were annotated from the ethyl acetate extract. Molecular docking studies demonstrated that four compounds exhibit varying affinities for SarA and AgrA, two key proteins involved in MRSA biofilm formation. Overall, these findings suggest that the fungus F. oxysporum BPA55 produces a variety of secondary metabolites and contains bioactive compounds with potential anti-MRSA biofilm activity.},
}

@article {pmid42043333,
year = {2026},
author = {Pandey, N and Mondal, K and Sharma, S and Pradhan, D and Kapoor, S},
title = {Synergy of Bacterial Lipid Liposomes and Monoterpene-Mediated Membrane Perturbation for Enhanced Intracellular Mycobacteria Eradication and Biofilm Disruption.},
journal = {ChemMedChem},
volume = {21},
number = {8},
pages = {e202501110},
doi = {10.1002/cmdc.202501110},
pmid = {42043333},
issn = {1860-7187},
support = {IA/I/21/1/505624//The Wellcome Trust DBt India Alliance/ ; },
mesh = {*Liposomes/chemistry ; *Biofilms/drug effects ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Mycobacterium smegmatis/drug effects/chemistry ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Limonene/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Rifampin/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Monoterpenes/chemistry/pharmacology ; Lipids/chemistry ; Molecular Structure ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Structure-Activity Relationship ; },
abstract = {In this work, we created liposomes using lipids from the outer membrane layer of Mycobacterial smegmatis (Msm) and doped them with rifampicin and lipophilic terpene, limonene, resulting in a dual-loaded liposomal formulation. Limonene incorporation resulted in a prolonged release of encapsulated rifampicin over time and reduced minimum inhibitory concentration in comparison to the free drug or limonene-free liposomes loaded solely with the drug. Limonene showed a prolonged release over several days and could potentially find applications in fragrant antibacterial products in the future. The bacterial count evaluated by colony-forming units was found to be reduced with limonene-doped drug-loaded mycobacterial liposomes in comparison to those without limonene. Mechanistically, it was shown that limonene enhances membrane fluidity and influences permeability, interacting with intact bacteria and thereby improving drug delivery, which promotes greater bacterial destruction. Limonene in the antibacterial liposomal formulation was also found to enhance the release of intracellular material because of compromised membranes aiding in bacterial destruction. Finally, mycobacterial liposome formulation loaded with drugs and doped with limonene successfully eliminated Msm biofilms more effectively than either the free drug or liposomes without limonene. This clearly demonstrates the collaboration between limonene and rifampicin in combination antimycobacterial treatment.},
}

*Liposomes/chemistry
*Biofilms/drug effects
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Mycobacterium smegmatis/drug effects/chemistry
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Limonene/pharmacology/chemistry
*Rifampin/pharmacology/chemistry
*Monoterpenes/chemistry/pharmacology
Lipids/chemistry
Molecular Structure
Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
Structure-Activity Relationship

@article {pmid42043445,
year = {2026},
author = {Zheng, K and Yang, Z and Lu, X and Zhang, A and Zhang, T and Guo, Y and Pan, D and Li, H and Wu, Z},
title = {The Role of LPxTG Motif Proteins in Lactic Acid Bacteria: Unveiling Key Domains for Adhesion and Biofilm Formation.},
journal = {Journal of agricultural and food chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acs.jafc.5c17767},
pmid = {42043445},
issn = {1520-5118},
abstract = {Cell surface LPxTG motif protein (LMP) plays a crucial role in adhesion and biofilm formation during lactic acid bacteria (LAB) colonization. LMP anchors to the cell wall via its C-terminal LPxTG motif and contains functional domains that perform specific tasks. By integrating bioinformatics analysis with existing literature, this review systematically evaluates, for the first time at the domain level, the diversity of LMP in LAB and constructs a functional domain framework for understanding their roles in adhesion and biofilm formation. Annotation analysis reveals domain diversity across LAB strains: mucin-binding and extracellular-matrix-binding domains are widespread, while others exhibit strain-specific characteristics. We also speculate that certain LMP domains may form pilus-like adhesion structures via sortase C-mediated polymerization. Overall, this domain-level elucidation of LMP probiotic mechanisms provides a theoretical basis for probiotic strain screening and functional optimization, and offers new insights into structural and functional localization of LMP on the LAB surface.},
}

@article {pmid42045242,
year = {2026},
author = {Ji, J and Zhang, L and Wang, H and Xu, W and Cai, W and Zhang, N and Zhang, M and Luo, X and Li, X and Zhang, Y and Lu, R},
title = {Antimicrobial and anti-biofilm activity of Epigallocatechin gallate against Vibrio parahaemolyticus.},
journal = {NPJ science of food},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41538-026-00864-x},
pmid = {42045242},
issn = {2396-8370},
support = {MS2022112//Special Scientific Research Project of Nantong Health Commission/ ; 2024JY041//Nantong University Special Research Fund for Clinical Medicine/ ; },
abstract = {Vibrio parahaemolyticus enhances its environmental persistence and antimicrobial tolerance by forming biofilms. This study investigated the antimicrobial and anti-biofilm activities of (-)-Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) against the pandemic V. parahaemolyticus RIMD2210633 (O3:K6). EGCG significantly inhibited bacterial growth, motility, and biofilm formation in a concentration-dependent manner. Sub-inhibitory concentrations (4 and 8 µg/mL) effectively reduced biofilm biomass, altered colony morphology, and diminished extracellular polymeric substances, and exerted potent bactericidal activity against preformed biofilms. EGCG also exhibited bactericidal effects in shrimp meat and impeded biofilm formation on seafood-related surfaces. It also significantly attenuated bacterial virulence in both in vitro (HeLa cell) and in vivo (Galleria mellonella larva) infection models. Mechanistically, RNA sequencing revealed that EGCG induced transcriptomic reprogramming, with 500 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) involved in key pathways such as c-di-GMP signaling, flagellar assembly, type III/VI secretion systems, and stress responses; biochemical assays confirmed that EGCG directly reduced intracellular c-di-GMP levels in a dose-dependent manner. Quantitative real-time PCR validated the expression changes in genes related to virulence, motility, biofilm, and regulation. Collectively, these findings highlight the multi-faceted anti-virulence and anti-biofilm activities of EGCG, and support its potential application as a natural antimicrobial agent in the food industry and clinical settings.},
}

@article {pmid42033860,
year = {2026},
author = {ElGamily, LM and Hafez, AM and Eldars, W and El-Gazzar, RI},
title = {The impact of silver versus silver-fluoride nanoparticles coating on biofilm formation, antimicrobial effect and adhesion efficacy of fixed orthodontic retainers: An in vitro study.},
journal = {International orthodontics},
volume = {24},
number = {3S},
pages = {101175},
doi = {10.1016/j.ortho.2026.101175},
pmid = {42033860},
issn = {1879-680X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: This in vitro study evaluated the antimicrobial activity and biofilm formation of silver and silver fluoride nanoparticles coatings on orthodontic fixed retainers as the primary objective over a three-month period, with adhesion efficacy as secondary objective.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: Dead soft stainless-steel 8-strand braided wire specimens (n=222) were classified into three equal groups (n=74 each): group I (uncoated control), group II (AgFNPs-coated), and group III (AgNPs-coated). Coating was performed by chemical reduction method. Primary outcomes were antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans assessed by disc diffusion test and biofilm formation assessed by colony forming unit count (CFU/mL), both evaluated immediately after coating (T1) and after three months of storage in artificial saliva at 37°C (T2). The secondary outcome was adhesion efficacy assessed by pull-out test following thermocycling at 2,500 (S2500) and 5,000 (S5000) cycles. Data were analysed by Kruskal-Wallis test and one-way ANOVA.

RESULTS: Regarding the primary outcomes, the disc diffusion test at T1 demonstrated inhibition zones of 12mm, 4mm, and 0mm for AgFNPs, AgNPs, and control groups, respectively (P<0.001) [95% CI of differences: -13.72 to -2.88]. At T2, zones were reduced but remained statistically significant: 6mm, 2mm, and 0mm, respectively (P<0.001) [95% CI: -7.78 to -0.611]. For biofilm formation, CFU counts at T1 were 390, 11, and 5CFU/mL for control, AgFNPs, and AgNPs groups, respectively (P<0.001) [95% CI: -395.95 to 395.95]; at T2, counts increased to 580, 100, and 59CFU/mL, respectively (P<0.001) [95% CI: -80.48 to 567.55]. Regarding the secondary outcome, the pull-out test at S2500 showed mean values of 91.27±10.24, 84.19±3.86, and 79.47±8.30N for AgFNPs, AgNPs, and control groups, respectively (P=0.039) [95% CI: -20.70 to 15.98]. At S5000, values were 86.16±5.20, 81.18±3.62, and 77.75±9.45N, respectively, without a statistically significant overall difference (P=0.081) [95% CI: -15.78 to 3.94].

CONCLUSION: Silver-based nanoparticle coatings reduced bacterial adhesion and improved bond strength of orthodontic retainers without compromising mechanical stability after thermocycling. AgFNPs showed superior antibacterial and adhesive performance, suggesting a synergistic effect of silver and fluoride.},
}

@article {pmid42033876,
year = {2026},
author = {Seebach, E and Kretzer, JP and Bormann, T and Gibmeier, J and Vaßen, R and Kunisch, E and Renkawitz, T and Westhauser, F},
title = {Plasma-sprayed 45S5-bioactive glass coating provides superior anti-biofilm activity compared to hydroxyapatite coating while maintaining host cell cytocompatibility and antibacterial immune activation.},
journal = {Biomaterials advances},
volume = {185},
number = {},
pages = {214895},
doi = {10.1016/j.bioadv.2026.214895},
pmid = {42033876},
issn = {2772-9508},
abstract = {Periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs) are a major complication in joint arthroplasty, leading to higher mortality, poorer outcomes, and increased failure rates in revision surgeries. Revision challenges include patient risk factors, bacterial resistance, and the need for implants that combine biological integration with antibacterial effects. The 45S5-bioactive glass (BG), with its unique osseointegration and antibacterial properties, shows promise over hydroxyapatite (HA), though its high-temperature crystallization limits the appropriate coating technologies. Using atmospheric plasma spraying (APS) with controlled thermal exposure, we successfully applied coatings of Ti-6Al-4V alloys with either HA or BG, while preserving bioactivity and mechanical properties of the BG coating. This study compared HA and BG coated Ti-6AI-4V discs in terms of cytocompatibility, effect on biofilm formation and macrophage immune response. In doing so, we demonstrated that both coatings showed comparable attachment and viability of human bone marrow stromal cells (BMSC). We found a significant reduction in biofilm formation of Staphylococcus epidermidis (SE) on the BG coatings, while a pro-inflammatory macrophage activation by bacterial colonization and biofilm formation was preserved. Overall, our study shows that BG exhibits the same properties as HA regarding BMSC attachment and survival, whereas it is superior regarding its anti-biofilm characteristics further allowing for macrophage immunocompetence against bacterial colonization. Therefore, incorporating BG coated implants into revision joint arthroplasty has the potential to enhance and advance current coating strategies by providing a multifunctional approach that combines osteoconductive and antibacterial properties.},
}

@article {pmid42034637,
year = {2026},
author = {Nagy, K and Valappil, SK and Phan, TV and Li, S and Der, L and Morris, R and Bos, J and Winslow, S and Galajda, P and Rakhely, G and Austin, RH},
title = {Gradient metapopulation microfluidic ecologies shape genetic and biofilm drivers of T4r phage resistance in E. coli.},
journal = {NPJ biofilms and microbiomes},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41522-026-00959-z},
pmid = {42034637},
issn = {2055-5008},
support = {PHY-169940//National Science Foundation (NSF)/ ; },
abstract = {We use a gradient microfluidic metapopulation ecology which generates non-uniform phage concentration gradients and micro-ecological niches to reveal the importance of time, spatial population structure and collective population dynamics in the de novo evolution of T4r bacteriophage resistant motile E. coli. An insensitive bacterial population against T4r phage occurs within 20 hours in small interconnected population niches created by a gradient of phage virions, driven by evolution in transient biofilm patches. Sequencing of the resistant bacteria reveals mutations at the receptor site of bacteriophage T4r as expected but also in genes associated with biofilm formation and surface adhesion, supporting the hypothesis that evolution within transient biofilms drives de novo phage resistance.},
}

@article {pmid42035474,
year = {2026},
author = {Yu, R and Al-Shamiri, MM and Zhang, S and Li, P and Lei, C and Liu, H and Xue, L and Luo, K and Han, B and Xun, M and Yang, E and Han, L},
title = {Linking oxidative stress defense to biofilm architecture: Ohr mediates strain-dependent persistence in Acinetobacter baumannii.},
journal = {Virulence},
volume = {17},
number = {1},
pages = {2664989},
doi = {10.1080/21505594.2026.2664989},
pmid = {42035474},
issn = {2150-5608},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; *Acinetobacter baumannii/drug effects/genetics/physiology ; *Oxidative Stress ; *Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial ; Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Gene Expression Profiling ; Extracellular Polymeric Substance Matrix/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Biofilm formation is critical for the persistence of Acinetobacter baumannii, yet its directional correlation with antimicrobial resistance remains paradoxical. Here, we confirmed our prior finding that drug-sensitive and multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains employ distinct, temporally regulated biofilm developmental programs: susceptible strains excel at rapid biomass accumulation but undergo early collapse, while MDR strains delay biofilm initiation and optimize for the maintenance and reinforcement of mature biofilms. Transcriptomic profiling identified the organic hydroperoxide resistance protein (Ohr) as a crucial contributor mediating this strain-specific biofilm divergence, with its deletion resulting in severe biofilm defects. Metabolomics analyses further revealed that Ohr maintains biofilm integrity through dual mechanisms: by modulating redox homeostasis and regulating extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) production through control of AdeAB and AdeFG efflux pumps. Moreover, we identified indole-3-lactic acid as a potent biofilm inhibitor. Our findings suggest Ohr as a linchpin in A. baumannii biofilm development, elucidate the basis of temporal phenotypic divergence, and unveil promising therapeutic targets against biofilm-associated infections.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
*Acinetobacter baumannii/drug effects/genetics/physiology
*Oxidative Stress
*Bacterial Proteins/genetics/metabolism
Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial
Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Gene Expression Profiling
Extracellular Polymeric Substance Matrix/metabolism

@article {pmid42027296,
year = {2026},
author = {Karaca, AN and Akçelik, N and Akçelik, M},
title = {The pagN gene: a dual genetic determinant for biofilm formation and virulence in Salmonella Typhimurium.},
journal = {FEMS microbes},
volume = {7},
number = {},
pages = {xtag017},
pmid = {42027296},
issn = {2633-6685},
abstract = {Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium persists across environments and causes disease by coordinating biofilm formation and host invasion. Although PagN is a known adhesin and invasin, its role in regulating these processes is unclear. We investigated PagN's contribution to biofilm development and pathogenicity using a chromosomal pagN deletion mutant (ΔpagN) and a complemented strain. Deletion did not affect growth but significantly reduced biofilm formation on polystyrene at 20°C and 28°C. The mutant showed altered morphotypes, reduced cellulose, impaired pellicle formation, delayed autoaggregation, and restricted motility. In Caco-2 cells, pagN loss reduced adhesion by ∼60% and abolished invasion by >90%. Ectopic expression of pagN successfully abrogated phenotypic shifts, confirming gene specificity. Comparative transcriptomics revealed a niche-specific regulatory footprint; the profound hilA (SPI-1) repression in planktonic cultures was not recapitulated in biofilms. Instead, the mutant exhibited targeted csgD-yaiC attenuation during biofilm development, alongside robust fimF induction, indicating a potential compensatory shift in the adhesive landscape. Network analysis suggests PagN is integrated into global circuits, influencing pathways through the regulator of capsule synthesis (Rcs) system. These findings demonstrate PagN is a key determinant linking biofilm development with virulence regulation in Salmonella Typhimurium, coordinating environmental persistence and host-pathogen interaction.},
}

@article {pmid42027444,
year = {2025},
author = {Besharati, S and Rahbar, M and Soleimani, N},
title = {Evaluation of Biofilm Formation, Alginate Production, Pattern of Drug Resistance, and the Presence of Efflux Pump MexAB-OprM, MexXY (-OprA), and AmpC Gene in Clinical Isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa.},
journal = {Tanaffos},
volume = {24},
number = {2},
pages = {163-173},
pmid = {42027444},
issn = {1735-0344},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: One of the most significant factors contributing to multidrug resistance in Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections is the formation of biofilms and the production of alginate. This study aimed to evaluate the overexpression of efflux pumps MexAB-OprM, MexXY (-OprA), and the AmpC gene and investigate biofilm and alginate in P. aeruginosa clinical isolates.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: One-hundred isolates of P. aeruginosa were collected two government-specialized hospitals from February 2024 to June 2024 in Tehran, Iran. The disk diffusion method was used for antimicrobial susceptibility and detecting the pattern of antibiotics. We used a microtiter plate and carbazole assay to investigate biofilm formation and alginate production, respectively. We investigated the efflux pump MexAB-OprM, MexXY (-OprA), and the AmpC gene expression with real-time PCR and its correlation with biofilm, alginate, and antibiotic resistance.

RESULTS: 30 multidrug-resistant (MDR) isolates were detected, and 27 antibiotic patterns were obtained. A significant relationship between biofilm formation and resistance to PRL was observed (P<0.01). All of the samples with more than 250μg/ml level of alginate production were resistant to Piperacillin-Tazobactam (PTZ), which was significant (P<0.05). Also, the relationship between alginate production and strong biofilm formation was significant. The expression of resistance-nodulation-division (RND) efflux pumps MexABOprM, MexXY (-OprA), and AmpC gene in MDR isolates of P. aeruginosa was significantly increased.

CONCLUSION: High prevalence of MDR, along with high expression of efflux pump genes, was concerning. High production of biofilm formation and its relationship with alginate were observed in P. aeruginosa clinical isolates. To prevent the spread of antibiotic resistance, implementing monitoring methods and not overusing and abusing antibiotics is necessary.},
}

@article {pmid42027784,
year = {2026},
author = {Yuming, L and Zhenkun, X and Yixin, S and Xi, C and Jingzhe, D and Yan, P and Wenjun, Y and Hui, C and Wentao, J},
title = {Nanomaterial-based strategies for oral biofilm management: functionalized implants and targeted delivery systems.},
journal = {Frontiers in oral health},
volume = {7},
number = {},
pages = {1789632},
pmid = {42027784},
issn = {2673-4842},
abstract = {Biofilm-associated infections, particularly peri-implantitis, threaten the long-term success of dental implants, and conventional debridement or chemotherapy often fails against mature biofilms. Nanomaterials offer multifunctional strategies to control infection while supporting osseointegration. This mini-review (2015-2025) summarizes nanomaterial-based approaches for managing implant-associated oral biofilms, including passive surface functionalization, active delivery systems, externally triggered therapies, and host-directed osteoimmunomodulation. Their potential should be interpreted in light of evidence maturity, safety-especially for ROS-based modalities-and long-term tribological and manufacturing limitations. We also highlight practical selection by disease stage and host risk, while emphasizing key translational gaps, particularly validation in mixed-species biofilms and long-term biocompatibility.},
}

@article {pmid42029737,
year = {2026},
author = {Lang, Y and Mei, H and Zhang, J and Hu, C and Pang, Z and Chen, Y and Xue, C},
title = {Voltage-tunable plasma-activated water: a strategy for combating peri-implantitis via dual-path biofilm disruption and vascular regeneration.},
journal = {Clinical oral investigations},
volume = {30},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {42029737},
issn = {1436-3771},
support = {BE2020707//the Science and Technology Department of Jiangsu Province/ ; },
}

@article {pmid42030910,
year = {2026},
author = {Pak, BA and Bal, Y and Hatib, BA and Bayrakdar, A and Sahinkaya, E},
title = {Impact of micropollutants and the process configuration on the performance of moving bed membrane biofilm reactor (MBMBR).},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {300},
number = {},
pages = {125944},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2026.125944},
pmid = {42030910},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {This study investigates the removal performance of selected micropollutants (ibuprofen, diclofenac, naproxen, carbamazepine, and triclosan) from domestic wastewater using a moving bed membrane biofilm reactor (MBMBR) process, consisting of two moving bed biofilm reactors (MBBRs) in series followed by a membrane bioreactor (MBR). While the integration of MBBR and MBR processes leverages the advantages of both technologies, systematic studies on determining the optimal configuration, particularly in the presence of micropollutants, remain quite limited in the literature. Within the scope of the research, the effects of sludge recirculation (hybrid growth) from the MBR to different MBBR units on treatment performance were evaluated over 140 days with three different periods. The results showed that the COD removal efficiency, which was initially 98% (permeate COD <10 mg/L), gradually decreased following the introduction of micropollutants. The toxicity of micropollutants led to the accumulation of soluble microbial products (SMPs) and extracellular polymeric substances (EPSs), which increased the average supernatant COD up to 370 mg/L in the MBR unit. The membrane rejected most of the SMPs and EPSs, which improved the permeate quality (with permeate COD averaging <50 mg/L in all configurations) but increased the fouling potential. Nitrification almost entirely ceased (with permeate NH4[+]-N averaging 40 mg/L) during the second period (biofilm-only growth) as the system suffered from both micropollutant toxicity and the lack of microbial seeding by sludge recirculation. Regarding micropollutant removal, high efficiencies of over 75% were achieved for ibuprofen and triclosan, while removal efficiencies for recalcitrant compounds such as carbamazepine, diclofenac, and naproxen generally remained below 30%. This study highlights the impact of micropollutants on ammonia oxidizing bacteria (AOB), which may have a critical role in micropollutant removal, and demonstrates the advantages of the hybrid growth mode in maintaining process stability.},
}

@article {pmid42032345,
year = {2026},
author = {Masoudipour, N and Shivaee, A and Pourmehdiabadi, J and Pourmehdiabadi, A and Hajikhani, B and Bastaminejad, S and Kalani, BS},
title = {MqsR Toxin may be a Potential Anti-biofilm and Anti-persistence Target in Burkholderia cenocenocepacia.},
journal = {Current microbiology},
volume = {83},
number = {6},
pages = {},
pmid = {42032345},
issn = {1432-0991},
}

@article {pmid42032569,
year = {2026},
author = {Yein, N and Martande, S and Shetty, SK and Kulloli, A and Pv, S and Ramamurthy, P and Sharma, D},
title = {Clinical efficacy of Guided Biofilm Therapy in the management of periodontal disease - a systematic review.},
journal = {BMC oral health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12903-026-08418-z},
pmid = {42032569},
issn = {1472-6831},
}

@article {pmid42022114,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhan, X and Huang, G and Su, J and Zhang, J and Huang, Q and Deng, X and Xu, M},
title = {Correction: Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus encodes a functional BolA transcriptional regulator related to motility, biofilm development, and stress response.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1820587},
doi = {10.3389/fmicb.2026.1820587},
pmid = {42022114},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2026.1717228.].},
}

@article {pmid42023935,
year = {2026},
author = {Hsu, K-LC and Furstenau, TN and Shaffer, I and Macek, MD and Ernst, RK and Fofanov, VY},
title = {Ethnicity-specific microbiome in early childhood caries: a functional perspective of oral biofilm.},
journal = {mSystems},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0178725},
doi = {10.1128/msystems.01787-25},
pmid = {42023935},
issn = {2379-5077},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: National surveillance data show persistent racial and ethnic disparities in early childhood caries (ECC), but the underlying causes of these differences have not been determined. This study examined both functional and taxonomic differences in ECC-related microbial activity between two high-risk groups of children: African American (AA) and Latin American Hispanic (LAH). Metatranscriptomic profiling of paired non-caries and caries plaque revealed consistent population-level shifts in gene expression and enabled species-level attribution of metabolically active microbes in caries lesions. A core set of well-established cariogenic organisms was consistently present and highly over-expressed in caries of both groups, including Streptococcus mutans, Veillonella parvula, Propionibacterium acidifaciens, and Lactobacillus rhamnosus. Beyond identifying the core organisms and functions active in lesions, we have also made two significant observations. First, the active communities in the two groups have substantially diverged: 4,900+ genes across 413 Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes Orthology (KO) groups were consistently (25%+ of samples) over-expressed in AA children, and 6,500+ genes across 382 KOs were consistently (57% of samples) over-expressed in LAH children. This reproducibility across multiple samples indicates robust group-level differences rather than random variation or single-sample effects. Second, although AA and LAH children exhibited similar functional responses to caries (sharing 1,392 KOs), these shifts were expressed by different bacterial species, indicating that distinct taxa may occupy similar metabolic niches in different groups. Taken together, these findings suggest that there is no single universal caries-associated microbiome; instead, a shared cariogenic core is necessary, but differences among the non-core taxa and their functional activity may be key to understanding ECC disparities.

IMPORTANCE: The disparity in tooth decay among young children has long been demonstrated in national surveillance data. While various factors including family, culture, access to health insurance, and medical infrastructure have been studied, the global transcriptomic perspective remains underexplored. Employing RNA-Seq technology, we examine functional and taxonomic differences in caries-associated microbial activity between two high-risk populations. Besides a core set of well-established cariogenic organisms, we observed significant and consistent differences in the active microbial communities between these two high-risk populations, African American (AA) and Latin American Hispanic (LAH) children. In AA children, Pseudopropionibacterium propionicum and Cardiobacterium hominis consistently showed the highest caries-related gene expression. In contrast, among LAH children, Propionibacterium acidifaciens, Selenomonas sp., Rothia dentocariosa, Atopobium parvulum, and Streptococcus sanguinis were the primary drivers of gene expression in caries lesions. By identifying the unique microbial mechanisms and pathways active in each population, we can better define the core factors required for caries development and uncover how differences in microbial function contribute to persistent disparities.},
}

@article {pmid42024423,
year = {2026},
author = {Garratt, I and Ravari, MY and Clarke, OE and McMurtrie, J and Wand, ME and Feil, EJ and Taylor, TB and Sutton, JM and Jones, BV},
title = {A model of polymicrobial catheter-associated urinary tract infection reveals biofilm-mediated modulation of treatment efficacy.},
journal = {Journal of applied microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/jambio/lxag098},
pmid = {42024423},
issn = {1365-2672},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Catheter associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI) are among the most prevalent healthcare associated infections and an important site for development and spread of antimicrobial resistance. Although CAUTI are frequently polymicrobial, the majority of research focuses on individual pathogens in monoculture, largely due to a lack of representative and tractable models.

AIMS: The aim of this study was to develop a tractable and reproducible model of polymicrobial CAUTI.

METHODS: Here we describe the use of an in vitro model of the catheterised urinary tract to generate polymicrobial communities encompassing common uropathogens (Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus and Proteus mirabilis), in an environment representative of the catheterized urinary tract.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: We show that our system establishes stable and reproducible polymicrobial communities and facilitates analysis across both planktonic and biofilm lifestyles. We confirm that polymicrobial biofilms in this system display distinct population dynamics compared to planktonic populations and modulate the impact of ciprofloxacin treatment by protecting the most susceptible community members. In addition, we demonstrate the capacity of P. mirabilis to encrust and block catheters when part of a polymicrobial community and confirm that thioridazine treatment remains effective at inhibiting catheter blockage under these conditions.},
}

@article {pmid42025880,
year = {2026},
author = {Peng, L and He, Z and Fang, L and Liu, Y and Xu, Y},
title = {Reduced nitrous oxide emissions in a comammox-dominated continuous-flow moving bed biofilm reactor compared to a sequencing batch reactor.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {134688},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2026.134688},
pmid = {42025880},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {The complete ammonia oxidation (comammox) bacteria play an important role in biological nitrogen removal from wastewater. However, limited information is available on the effect of reactor operational mode on comammox bacteria enrichment and the associated nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions under varying dissolved oxygen (DO) and ammonium levels. In this work, a moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) and a sequencing batch reactor (SBR) were adopted to selectively enrich comammox bacteria under oligotrophic (∼142.7 mg N/L/d) and oxygen-rich (> 6.0 mg O2/L) conditions. Stable ammonium removals (>90%) were achieved for both reactors, with comammox bacteria dominating over counterparts at relative abundances of 97.4-98.9%. N2O emission factors across operational cycles were ∼ 0.06% and ∼ 0.1% for the comammox-dominated MBBR and SBR, respectively. DO played an important role in N2O production by either comammox-dominated biofilm or comammox-dominated floccular sludge. Increasing DO from 0.35 to 6.0 mg O2/L resulted in a significant decrease in N2O emissions for both comammox-dominated biofilm (0.5% to 0.04%) and floccular sludge (0.5% to 0.1%), mainly through suppressing abiotic NH2OH oxidation pathway. Non-aerated settling and decanting phases in the batch-mode SBR were responsible for 46.1% higher N2O emissions compared to the continuous-flow MBBR, probably ascribed to the heterotrophic denitrification in comammox-dominated floccular sludge under limited oxygen and organic carbon availabilities. These results suggest the potential of comammox-dominated biofilm-driven continuous-flow reactors in reducing N2O emissions while maintaining efficient pollutant removal.},
}

@article {pmid42015920,
year = {2026},
author = {Lin, IF and Chou, CY and Chen, YF and Wang, TY and Lin, JT and Lee, CC and Chen, JW and Jan, JS and Hung, YP},
title = {Biofilm- and Spore-Disruptive Star-Shaped Poly(l-lysine)/Hyaluronic Acid Microgels for Targeted Oral Therapy of Clostridioides difficile Infection.},
journal = {Biomacromolecules},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acs.biomac.5c02037},
pmid = {42015920},
issn = {1526-4602},
abstract = {Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) remains a major healthcare challenge due to recurrent disease, spore persistence, and biofilm-associated tolerance, while conventional antibiotics often disrupt gut microbiota. Here, we report a star-shaped poly(l-lysine) dendrimer (G3-PLL9) formulated into hyaluronic acid-based microgels for targeted oral delivery to the inflamed colon. G3-PLL9 exhibited potent antimicrobial activity, including rapid bactericidal effects, superior spore inhibition compared with vancomycin, and robust biofilm disruption at subinhibitory concentrations. In a murine CDI model, rectal administration of G3-PLL9 alleviated clinical symptoms, reduced tissue damage, and lowered recurrence risk. To enable oral therapy, G3-PLL9 was incorporated into hyaluronic acid microgels, achieving site-specific release through hyaluronidase-mediated degradation in the inflamed colon. Importantly, treatment preserved commensal gut microbiota more effectively than vancomycin. Collectively, these findings highlight G3-PLL9 microgels as a microbiota-sparing therapeutic that targets multiple stages of CDI pathogenesis─including spores and biofilms─and demonstrate their potential for clinical translation.},
}

@article {pmid42016031,
year = {2025},
author = {Khanjani, S and Nikkhahi, F and Zeynali Kelishomi, F and Javadi, A and Sadeghi, S and Bijani, B and Sadeghi, H and Saghi Sarabi, H and Marashi, SMA},
title = {Phage Cocktail against Acinetobacter baumannii biofilm on Endotracheal Tube: An in vitro study.},
journal = {International journal of molecular and cellular medicine},
volume = {14},
number = {4},
pages = {1045-1058},
pmid = {42016031},
issn = {2251-9637},
abstract = {Although biofilms on endotracheal tube (ET) surfaces represent a major clinical challenge, studies addressing the effect of lytic bacteriophages on these biofilms are relatively scarce. This study focused on examining the anti-biofilm capability of three specific phage against an XDR isolate of Acinetobacter baumannii in a 48-hour pre-formed biofilm on an ET surface. For this purpose, crystal violet staining, colony counting, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were employed. The results demonstrated a significant decrease in biofilm mass and bacterial count after 24 hours of exposure to the phage cocktail. SEM images confirmed a dramatic reduction in the biofilm. Based on these findings, phage therapy has the potential to reduce and disrupt biofilms on ET surfaces.},
}

@article {pmid42016371,
year = {2026},
author = {Mohammadi, M and Nikkhahi, F and Charkhchian, M and Kiaheyrati, N and Javadi, A and Fard Sanei, A and Fardsanei, F},
title = {Synergistic Anti-Biofilm and Bactericidal Activity of Ethanol and Chlorhexidine Combined with EDTA Against Staphylococcus aureus Isolates from Healthcare-Associated Carriers.},
journal = {Infection and drug resistance},
volume = {19},
number = {},
pages = {580129},
pmid = {42016371},
issn = {1178-6973},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), particularly in dialysis units, remain a significant challenge due to the frequent use of invasive devices and the immunocompromised status of patients. Among the most concerning pathogens is Staphylococcus aureus, known for its multidrug resistance and biofilm-forming capacity. This study aimed to investigate the antibiofilm effects of ethanol, chlorhexidine, and EDTA, individually and in combination, against S. aureus isolates from hospital carriers in the dialysis department of Qazvin teaching hospitals, Qazvin, Iran.

METHODS: A total of 400 samples were collected from nasal cavities, fingernails, patient beds, and dialysis machines. Isolates were identified by biochemical tests and PCR. Antibiotic susceptibility was evaluated via disk diffusion and E-test, with mupirocin resistance determined by mupA and mupB detection. Biofilm formation was assessed using the microtiter plate assay with crystal violet staining. The antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities of a combined solution of chlorhexidine, ethanol, and EDTA were analyzed using broth microdilution and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

RESULTS: 70 S. aureus isolates were analyzed for antibiotic resistance and biofilm formation. High resistance rates were observed to ciprofloxacin (62.8%), doxycycline (57.1%), and tetracycline (54.2%), while mupirocin resistance was detected in 4.2% of isolates (mupA positive). Multidrug resistance (MDR) was found in 68.6% of isolates. Strong biofilm formation was observed in 90% of isolates and was significantly associated with MDR. The combination of chlorhexidine and EDTA exhibited potent antibiofilm activity (FICI ≤ 0.5), with SEM imaging confirming disruption of biofilm structure and bacterial cell integrity.

CONCLUSION: Our findings indicate a high prevalence of multidrug-resistant and strong biofilm-producing S. aureus in dialysis units. Among the tested disinfectant combinations, chlorhexidine in combination with EDTA demonstrated substantial antibiofilm and antimicrobial effects, whereas EDTA and ethanol alone showed no significant activity. These results highlight the potential of synergistic disinfectant combinations to disrupt biofilm structures and suggest the need for further studies to evaluate their applicability in clinical settings.},
}

@article {pmid42016518,
year = {2026},
author = {Yuan, S and Wang, W and Yin, H and Luu, QH and Kong, L and Zhang, X and Lu, S and Bai, X and Han, X and Jiang, W},
title = {Transposon mutant library reveals the complex regulatory network of biofilm formation in Vibrio parahaemolyticus.},
journal = {Biofilm},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {100359},
pmid = {42016518},
issn = {2590-2075},
abstract = {Vibrio parahaemolyticus (V. parahaemolyticus) is a globally prevalent seafood-borne pathogen and a leading cause of gastroenteritis. It readily forms biofilms on shrimp, shellfish, and food packaging surfaces, enhancing its environmental tolerance, survival, and risk of cross-contamination during processing and storage. In this study, we constructed a transposon mutant library to systematically identify genes involved in biofilm regulation. Quantitative screening of 4000 mutants revealed 103 candidate genes, with 28 mutants showing reduced biofilm formation and 75 showing enhanced formation. Enrichment analysis indicated that these genes are primarily associated with the two-component systems (TCS), pyrimidine metabolism, and amino acid biosynthesis pathways. Two previously uncharacterized genes were further analyzed. Results showed that vp2252, encoding a component of a TCS, and vp2888, encoding a diguanylate cyclase with cyclic di-GMP (c-di-GMP) synthetase activity, broadly regulate biofilm formation, motility, and virulence. Transcriptomic data suggest that vp2252 mediates the transition from free-swimming to surface-associated swarming lifestyles. These findings provide new insights into the genetic regulation of V. parahaemolyticus biofilm development, highlight potential molecular targets for biofilm control, and lay the groundwork for future studies on its regulatory networks.},
}

@article {pmid42018147,
year = {2026},
author = {Mushtaq, K and Shakeel, N and Chaman Lal, K},
title = {Beyond replacement frequency: age, biofilm ecology, and methodological constraints in tracheostomal colonization studies.},
journal = {European archives of oto-rhino-laryngology : official journal of the European Federation of Oto-Rhino-Laryngological Societies (EUFOS) : affiliated with the German Society for Oto-Rhino-Laryngology - Head and Neck Surgery},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42018147},
issn = {1434-4726},
}

@article {pmid42018469,
year = {2026},
author = {Jungbauer, G and Giacobbo, L and Stähli, A and Sculean, A and Burger, J and Eick, S and Hofmann, M},
title = {Modeling In Vitro Biofilm-Calculus Formation for Assessing Periodontal Instrumentation and the Forces Applied.},
journal = {Clinical and experimental dental research},
volume = {12},
number = {2},
pages = {e70359},
doi = {10.1002/cre2.70359},
pmid = {42018469},
issn = {2057-4347},
support = {//Association for Dental Infection Control/ ; //Geistlich-Stucki Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; Humans ; *Dental Calculus/microbiology/therapy ; In Vitro Techniques ; Periodontitis/microbiology/therapy ; Ultrasonic Therapy/instrumentation ; Dental Scaling/instrumentation ; Periodontal Pocket/microbiology/therapy ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: In vitro models provide valuable insights into treatment options and their effectiveness prior to and alongside clinical evaluation. Such models should be standardized, reproducible, and closely reflect the clinical situation. This study aimed to investigate the removal of subgingival biofilm and calculus by instrumentation, which is vital in the successful treatment of periodontitis. The approach was to (i) develop an in vitro model based on biofilm and calculus formation and (ii) assess it by hand and ultrasonic instrumentation, while (iii) measuring the forces applied in an innovative periodontal defect model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A multi-species mixture consisting of 11 bacterial strains was used to form an initial calculus over 14 days. Inserts carrying human dentin specimens, either with biofilm or with a combination of biofilm and calculus, were placed in a periodontal pocket model equipped with a multi-axis force sensor, followed by treatment with hand or ultrasonic instrumentation. Instrumentation forces were recorded, and the remaining biofilm or biofilm/calculus was analyzed for bacterial colony-forming unit (cfu) counts and calcium levels after instrumentation.

RESULTS: The results revealed that the cfu counts and calcium levels in the biofilm/calculus group were higher compared to the respective biofilm controls. Ultrasonic instrumentation was more effective than hand instrumentation in reducing cfu counts in both the biofilm and biofilm/calculus groups. Furthermore, both hand and ultrasonic instrumentation reduced calcium levels in the biofilm/calculus groups. The peak forces Fy in the hand instrumentation groups were significantly higher in both the biofilm and biofilm/calculus groups compared to the respective ultrasonic groups.

CONCLUSIONS: The model enabled an initial reproducible calculus formation and evaluation of different instrumentation modalities, including the forces applied. The results favored the ultrasonic instrumentation due to its superior removal of biofilm and calculus and lower lateral forces. The presented biofilm/calculus model offers a new in vitro approach for comparing different instrumentation modalities.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
Humans
*Dental Calculus/microbiology/therapy
In Vitro Techniques
Periodontitis/microbiology/therapy
Ultrasonic Therapy/instrumentation
Dental Scaling/instrumentation
Periodontal Pocket/microbiology/therapy

@article {pmid42018900,
year = {2026},
author = {Viana, AAG and Borchardt, H and Dantas, JV and Dias, DSB and Amaral, IPGD and Vasconcelos, U},
title = {Exogenous phenazine allows biofilm stability but retards biodegradation of recently WLO-contaminated aqueous system.},
journal = {Anais da Academia Brasileira de Ciencias},
volume = {98},
number = {1},
pages = {e20250706},
doi = {10.1590/0001-3765202620250706},
pmid = {42018900},
issn = {1678-2690},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; Biodegradation, Environmental/drug effects ; *Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/metabolism ; *Phenazines/pharmacology ; *Water Pollutants, Chemical/metabolism ; *Petroleum/metabolism ; *Lubricants/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Each year, millions of liters of lubricating oil are consumed worldwide, and more than 50% of Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons (TPH) enter the environment through spills or improper disposal. Numerous strategies are applied to remediate oil-contaminated sites, and each scenario contributes to assessing the maximum efficiency of available cleanup approaches. This study evaluated, on a laboratory scale, the effect of phenazine methosulfate (PMS) on Waste Lubricating Oil (WLO) removal by P. aeruginosa. Microcosms were contaminated with WLO containing 448,000 mg·kg[-1] of TPH. WLO: aqueous phase ratios of 1:40, 1:20, and 1:10 were tested, all supplemented with PMS at 5 µg·mL[-1]. After 20 days of incubation at 29°C, greater WLO removal was observed in microcosms without PMS (33.8-37.8%), whereas PMS-amended systems removed only 9.9-15.3% (p > 0.05) possibly due to WLO composition or PMS interacting with alternative cell pathways. In both treatments, the inoculated cells were not adversely affected by the stressful conditions and established stable biofilms. This is the first report describing the effect of PMS on P. aeruginosa biofilm formation during WLO biodegradation under recent-contamination conditions. These findings indicate that combining bioaugmentation with exogenous phenazine addition should be avoided in the initial treatment phase.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
Biodegradation, Environmental/drug effects
*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/metabolism
*Phenazines/pharmacology
*Water Pollutants, Chemical/metabolism
*Petroleum/metabolism
*Lubricants/metabolism

@article {pmid42020691,
year = {2026},
author = {Vávrová, P and Janďourek, O and Coraça-Huber, DC and Spiegel, C and Nachtigal, P and Krátký, M and Konečná, K},
title = {Host soluble plasma factors increase dual-species Staphylococcus epidermidis and Candida albicans biofilm biomass without enhancing stress tolerance.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41598-026-49557-1},
pmid = {42020691},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {SVV 260 664//Univerzita Karlova v Praze, Czechia/ ; NW24-05-00539//Ministerstvo Zdravotnictví Ceské Republiky/ ; },
}

@article {pmid42008411,
year = {2026},
author = {Tuon, FF and Suss, PH and Dantas, LR and Ortis, GB},
title = {Comparative In Vitro Staphylococcus aureus Biofilm Evaluation on 3D-Printed Polylactic Acid and Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol-modified Surfaces.},
journal = {Journal of visualized experiments : JoVE},
volume = {},
number = {230},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3791/70394},
pmid = {42008411},
issn = {1940-087X},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; *Polyesters/chemistry/pharmacology ; *Printing, Three-Dimensional ; *Staphylococcus aureus/physiology/drug effects ; *Polyethylene Glycols/chemistry/pharmacology ; *Polyethylene Terephthalates/chemistry ; *Lactic Acid/chemistry ; *Polymers/chemistry ; },
abstract = {Three-dimensional (3D) printing has accelerated the development of customized medical devices, but biofilm formation on printed materials remains a major threat to implant safety and performance. Because material chemistry and print-dependent surface features can influence bacterial attachment and antibiotic tolerance, standardized in vitro approaches that enable meaningful comparisons across commonly used 3D-printing polymers are needed. Here, we compare biofilm development on polylactic acid (PLA) and polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG) using a multi-model in vitro evaluation framework that captures complementary aspects of biofilm biology, including early adhesion, maturation, and antimicrobial tolerance, under both static and flow conditions. S. aureus biofilms were established and assessed using quantitative (viable bacterial load and minimal biofilm eradication concentration [MBEC]) and qualitative (scanning electron microscopy) endpoints. Both PLA and PETG supported biofilm formation across models; however, PLA tended to show higher early adhesion and greater biofilm density. In static assays, PLA demonstrated higher CFU values than PETG, whereas vancomycin MBEC values were similar between materials. Assay-dependent differences in MBEC were observed across platforms, underscoring how model structure can influence apparent antimicrobial susceptibility. Under dynamic flow, biofilm burden increased relative to static conditions, with minimal material-dependent differences. Collectively, these results highlight the susceptibility of both polymers to biofilm formation and demonstrate the value of a multi-model framework for evaluating material-associated biofilm behavior and benchmarking antimicrobial performance on 3D-printed device-relevant substrates.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
*Polyesters/chemistry/pharmacology
*Printing, Three-Dimensional
*Staphylococcus aureus/physiology/drug effects
*Polyethylene Glycols/chemistry/pharmacology
*Polyethylene Terephthalates/chemistry
*Lactic Acid/chemistry
*Polymers/chemistry