@article {pmid41076142,
year = {2025},
author = {Bento, CM and Gomes, MS and Silva, T},
title = {The use of double-reporter Mycobacterium abscessus strains to improve anti-biofilm drug screening.},
journal = {Journal of microbiological methods},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {107290},
doi = {10.1016/j.mimet.2025.107290},
pmid = {41076142},
issn = {1872-8359},
abstract = {Pulmonary infections caused by Mycobacterium abscessus are a pressing health issue due to the bacterium's high antibiotic resistance. Developing effective treatments is imperative, but conventional in vitro antibiotic susceptibility assays often do not correspond to clinical efficacy. M. abscessus easily aggregates and forms biofilms in various environments, where the protection conferred by an extracellular matrix, together with the mycobacteria's ability to enter a non-replicative persistent stage, highly hampers the activity of antibiotics. We developed a protocol to grow M. abscessus biofilms in a setup that allows high-throughput drug screening. The mycobacteria's luminescence is used as a readout of biofilm viability and its fluorescence as a measure of bacterial load, without the need for additional stains and maintaining the biofilm's integrity throughout the protocol. The use of imaging equipment allows a visual representation of the viability and bacterial load of each biofilm per well, and appropriate software can be used to quantify the luminescence and fluorescence signals. Quantification of biofilm mass can be done afterwards, using the same plate, by crystal violet staining. Although luminescent reporter assays have been used before, we believe this is the first time that a mycobacteria luminescent strain has been applied to assess drug activity against biofilms. This protocol enables the simultaneous screening of multiple compounds and identification of hits against M. abscessus biofilms in a fast, easy, and reliable manner. Most importantly, by mimicking the biofilm status that M. abscessus assumes in vivo, this assay will give more predictive information regarding compound efficacy.},
}

@article {pmid41074722,
year = {2025},
author = {Wu, YF and Sheu, SY and Cheng, NC and Cheng, CM},
title = {Promising Biomarkers for Chronic Wound Healing: A Pilot Cohort Study on Wound Cytokines and a Novel Biofilm Detection Kit for Predicting 90-Day Outcomes.},
journal = {Wound repair and regeneration : official publication of the Wound Healing Society [and] the European Tissue Repair Society},
volume = {33},
number = {5},
pages = {e70100},
doi = {10.1111/wrr.70100},
pmid = {41074722},
issn = {1524-475X},
support = {111HCH092//National Taiwan University Hospital Hsin-Chu Branch/ ; 111HCH099//National Taiwan University Hospital Hsin-Chu Branch/ ; 113QF025E1//National Tsing Hua University/ ; 110-2222-E-002-013//National Science and Technology Council/ ; 112-2314-B-002-111//National Science and Technology Council/ ; 113-2314-B-002-098//National Science and Technology Council/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; *Wound Healing/physiology ; Male ; Female ; Biomarkers/metabolism ; Pilot Projects ; Prospective Studies ; *Cytokines/metabolism ; Middle Aged ; Aged ; Chronic Disease ; C-Reactive Protein/analysis ; *Wound Infection/microbiology/diagnosis ; Predictive Value of Tests ; *Wounds and Injuries ; },
abstract = {Early identification of chronic wounds is essential for clinical decision-making in wound care. Biofilm infection is a well-known risk factor for delayed healing, while cytokines in the wound microenvironment play critical regulatory roles throughout the healing cascade. This single-centre prospective cohort study enrolled 66 patients with chronic wounds between 2020 and 2023 to evaluate cytokine biomarkers and biofilm detection tools for predicting wound outcomes. Clinical signs of biofilm (CSB) alone demonstrated limited predictive value, with accuracies of 66.7% for 30-day and 45.5% for 90-day healing. In contrast, the Wound Biofilm Detection Kit (WBDK) showed superior performance, achieving predictive accuracies of 92.4% and 60.6% for 30- and 90-day outcomes, respectively, outperforming both CSB and MolecuLight i:X. Cytokine analysis identified serum CRP, wound CRP and wound MCP-1 as significant predictors, with ROC analysis demonstrating good discriminative ability for wound CRP (AUC = 0.863) and wound MCP-1 (AUC = 0.830). A simplified Lasso regression model incorporating diabetes mellitus, peripheral arterial disease, wound location and WBDK grade achieved an AUC of 0.77 and an accuracy of 76% for 90-day outcomes. External validation was performed in 17 additional patients yielding a predictive accuracy of 76.5%, supporting the robustness of the model. These findings highlight the limited reliability of clinical signs alone and emphasise the value of objective biofilm detection and cytokine profiling in wound prognosis. Our high-accuracy prediction model, based on readily accessible clinical variables and WBDK results, may facilitate precision wound care and improve real-time management.},
}

Humans
*Biofilms/growth & development
*Wound Healing/physiology
Male
Female
Biomarkers/metabolism
Pilot Projects
Prospective Studies
*Cytokines/metabolism
Middle Aged
Aged
Chronic Disease
C-Reactive Protein/analysis
*Wound Infection/microbiology/diagnosis
Predictive Value of Tests
*Wounds and Injuries

@article {pmid41074464,
year = {2025},
author = {Odewale, G and Makanjuola, OB and Ojedele, RO and Abdulrahman, AA and Olowe, RA and Adefioye, OJ and Ojeniyi, FD and Ojurongbe, O and Olowe, OA},
title = {Characterization of Klebsiella pneumoniae Virulence and Biofilm Formation Patterns in Southwestern Nigeria.},
journal = {Frontiers in bioscience (Elite edition)},
volume = {17},
number = {3},
pages = {37263},
doi = {10.31083/FBE37263},
pmid = {41074464},
issn = {1945-0508},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Klebsiella pneumoniae/pathogenicity/genetics/physiology ; Nigeria ; Humans ; Virulence/genetics ; Virulence Factors/genetics ; *Klebsiella Infections/microbiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Klebsiella pneumoniae possesses a range of virulence factors that enable this bacterium to colonize, persist, adhere to host tissues, invade, and cause disease. The pathogen poses a significant risk to immunocompromised individuals and those with pre-existing health conditions. This research focused on assessing the virulence traits and biofilm-forming abilities of K. pneumoniae isolates in Nigeria.

METHODS: Clinical samples were collected from 420 patients across seven tertiary hospitals in Southwestern Nigeria between February 2018 and July 2019. Standard microbiological procedures were employed to identify Klebsiella isolates. The presence of six specific virulence genes was determined using polymerase chain reaction (PCR): fimH, kfu, rmpA, uge, wcaG, and aero_1. Additionally, PCR was utilized to identify capsular serotypes K1, K2, and K5.

RESULTS: A substantial proportion (82%) of K. pneumoniae isolates demonstrated the ability to form biofilms. Of these, 51 isolates (39.8%) were classified as strong biofilm producers, 54 (42.2%) as moderate, and 23 (17.9%) showed no biofilm production. Among the virulence genes detected, uge was the most common (68.0%), followed by fimH (65.6%), aero_1 (63.3%), kfu (29.7%), rmpA (28.1%), and wcaG (14.1%). Statistically significant correlations were found between biofilm formation and the presence of aero_1, fimH, kfu, and rmpA. In terms of capsular serotypes, the majority of isolates were non-K1/K2/K5 (84.4%), with lower frequencies observed for K2 (7.0%), K1 (5.5%), and K5 (3.1%).

CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights that the aero_1, fimH, and uge genes are frequently present in K. pneumoniae isolates from this region, and that these strains often carry multiple virulence genes. The strong virulence potential and biofilm-forming capacity of these isolates underscore a significant public health threat, particularly in vulnerable populations.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Klebsiella pneumoniae/pathogenicity/genetics/physiology
Nigeria
Humans
Virulence/genetics
Virulence Factors/genetics
*Klebsiella Infections/microbiology

@article {pmid41074349,
year = {2025},
author = {Yuan, L and Zhang, B and Dai, H and Miao, Y and Xu, Z and Yang, Z and Jiao, XA},
title = {Starvation-induced metabolic adaptation of Bacillus cereus during biofilm formation: Phenotypic characterization and proteomic analysis.},
journal = {Food research international (Ottawa, Ont.)},
volume = {220},
number = {},
pages = {117167},
doi = {10.1016/j.foodres.2025.117167},
pmid = {41074349},
issn = {1873-7145},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Bacillus cereus/metabolism/physiology/growth & development ; *Proteomics/methods ; Bacterial Proteins/metabolism ; *Adaptation, Physiological ; Phenotype ; Spores, Bacterial/growth & development ; Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial ; Food Microbiology ; },
abstract = {Bacillus cereus forms robust biofilms that enhance its persistence in food processing environments, leading to substantial safety risks and deterioration of dairy products. Nutrient availability is a vital factor to regulate biofilm formation; however, adaptive strategies of B. cereus under nutrient stress remain poorly understood. This study employs integrated phenotypic characterization and label-free quantitative proteomics to systematically decode the starvation-induced (in 1/10 TSB and 1/100 TSB) biofilm formation mechanism in B. cereus 12-1. The results showed that nutrient stress inhibited the growth of B. cereus 12-1 in its planktonic state, but increased its spore formation by 1.04 (1/10 TSB) and 1.79 (1/100 TSB) Log CFU/mL, protease production by 76.7 (1/10 TSB) and 140.37 U (1/100 TSB), cell surface hydrophobicity by 35.2 % (1/100 TSB), and self-aggregation capacity by 7.39 % (1/10 TSB) and 1.98 % (1/100 TSB). In addition, starvation induced its biofilm formation on stainless steel, resulting in elevated bacterial cell density within biofilms by 1.23 Log CFU/cm[2] (1/10 and 1/100 TSB), enhanced metabolic activity by 36.7 % (1/10 TSB) and 60.1 % (1/100 TSB). The confocal laser scanning microscopy results revealed more complex biofilm architectures with increased thickness by 3.54 % (1/10 TSB) and 35.2 % (1/100 TSB) and greater surface coverage of 52.46 (1/10 TSB) and 52.44 μm (1/100 TSB). Proteomics analysis identified 589 (in 1/10 TSB) and 442 (in 1/100 TSB) differentially expressed proteins (DEPs). These DEPs were mainly involved in 11 upregulated pathways, including quorum sensing, ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters, fatty acid degradation, several amino acid metabolic pathways, and oxidative phosphorylation, but were also significantly enriched in 12 downregulated pathways like ribosome, HIF-1 signaling pathway, nucleotide metabolism, and several carbohydrate metabolic pathways. In this regard, this investigation provides initial insights into the survival adaptation of B. cereus under nutrient stress conditions, serving as a foundational step toward understanding its stress responses and offering a preliminary scientific basis to inform future efforts aimed at mitigating biofilm-related risks in dairy processing environments.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Bacillus cereus/metabolism/physiology/growth & development
*Proteomics/methods
Bacterial Proteins/metabolism
*Adaptation, Physiological
Phenotype
Spores, Bacterial/growth & development
Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial
Food Microbiology

@article {pmid41074327,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, Z and Feng, J and Cui, H and Wu, Y and Wang, Y and Xu, W and Lu, Y and Duan, M and Yang, H and Cheng, S and Cai, X and Zhang, C and Shi, C},
title = {Slightly acidic electrolyzed water induces Staphylococcus aureus to enter the VBNC state: differences between planktonic and biofilm states bacteria.},
journal = {Food research international (Ottawa, Ont.)},
volume = {220},
number = {},
pages = {117124},
doi = {10.1016/j.foodres.2025.117124},
pmid = {41074327},
issn = {1873-7145},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/growth & development/physiology/metabolism/genetics ; *Plankton/drug effects ; Electrolysis ; *Water/pharmacology/chemistry ; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration ; Food Microbiology ; Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism ; Adenosine Triphosphate/metabolism ; Microbial Viability/drug effects ; },
abstract = {S. aureus is a common foodborne pathogen that poses a great danger to the food industry and human health. Slightly acidic electrolytic water (SAEW) is characterized by strong antimicrobial effect and high potential for application. In this study, the effect of SAEW on the formation of VBNC state of S. aureus was systematically evaluated, and the differences in the formation of VBNC state of S. aureus in planktonic and biofilm states were also analyzed by flow cytometry. The results showed that treatment of S. aureus in planktonic and biofilm states with 0.8 mg/L SAEW resulted in complete loss of culturability at 2.5 h and 2.0 h, respectively, with 3.56 ± 0.28 % and 4.81 ± 0.13 % of cells formed VBNC state. And both states of VBNC S. aureus could be resuscitated, and the planktonic VBNC state S. aureus resuscitated faster. ATP concentration, ROS level and respiration intensity of different states of bacteria were examined, compared with uninduced bacteria, VBNC S. aureus showed increased ATP concentration and ROS level, and decreased catalase activity, esterase activity, and respiratory intensity. Meanwhile, the overall metabolic level of the biofilm VBNC state bacteria was lower than that of the planktonic VBNC state bacteria, and its ROS level was higher than that of the planktonic VBNC state bacteria. Gene expression was determined by RT-qPCR, and the results showed that the transcript levels of genes regulating N-acetylglucosamine metabolism were up-regulated and those related to lipid metabolism, antioxidant and respiratory metabolism were down-regulated in the VBNC state S. aureus. This study comprehensively evaluates the application effect of SAEW in the food industry to provide a scientific basis for its safe and effective use; deepens the understanding of the mechanism of the formation of VBNC states by bacteria in different states, and provides theoretical support for the control of VBNC bacteria.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/growth & development/physiology/metabolism/genetics
*Plankton/drug effects
Electrolysis
*Water/pharmacology/chemistry
Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
Food Microbiology
Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism
Adenosine Triphosphate/metabolism
Microbial Viability/drug effects

@article {pmid41072755,
year = {2025},
author = {Flores-Maldonado, O and Garza-Velásquez, MF and Becerril-García, MA and Ríos-López, AL},
title = {Candida auris promotes Pseudomonas aeruginosa tolerance to meropenem in a mature dual-species biofilm.},
journal = {Microbes and infection},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {105566},
doi = {10.1016/j.micinf.2025.105566},
pmid = {41072755},
issn = {1769-714X},
abstract = {Co-infections involving Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Candida auris are becoming increasingly common in hospitals and represent an emerging clinical challenge, as these pathogens can form mixed biofilms during catheter-associated infections, which complicates treatment, prolongs the disease and poses a significant threat to public health. In this study, we formed individual- and dual-species biofilms with Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Candida auris, and then treated mature biofilms with or without meropenem to determine the number of viable cells (colony-forming units). Moreover, Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms plus total or fractionated Candida auris supernatant were exposed to meropenem to calculate biofilm-associated viable cells. The results showed that Pseudomonas aeruginosa exhibits increased survival to meropenem in dual-species biofilms compared to individual-species biofilms. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the molecule that promotes meropenem tolerance is present in the supernatant of Candida auris biofilms with a molecular mass <10 kDa. In conclusion, Candida auris induces meropenem tolerance in Pseudomonas aeruginosa during mixed biofilms.},
}

@article {pmid41072690,
year = {2025},
author = {Fattahi, N and Tabassum, N and Khan, F and Kim, NG and Kim, YM and Lee, B and Lee, SJ and Je, JY and Park, WS and Choi, IW and Linh, NV and Jung, WK},
title = {Inhibition of biofilm formation and virulence factors of Pseudomonas aeruginosa by ciprofloxacin-loaded ZnO@lignin@chitosan nanoparticles.},
journal = {International journal of biological macromolecules},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {148193},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2025.148193},
pmid = {41072690},
issn = {1879-0003},
abstract = {The rapid development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in bacterial infections leads to increased mortality and reduced treatment effectiveness. Given the urgent need for multifunctional therapeutic agents capable of overcoming AMR, we developed a novel ZnO@lignin@chitosan nanocomposite loaded with ciprofloxacin (CIP), in which the synergistic combination of ZnO, lignin, and chitosan enhances antibacterial, antibiofilm, antivirulence, and antioxidant performance. The synthesized nanocomposite was characterized using various techniques, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), UV-visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis, elemental mapping (MAP), field emission transmission electron microscopy (FE-TEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The ZnO@lignin@chitosan@CIP nanocomposite exhibited pH-responsive drug release, with accelerated release in acidic environments mimicking infection sites. The synergistic combination of its components enhanced multifunctional performance: lignin acted as an antioxidant, chitosan improved drug loading, biocompatibility, and inherent antibacterial activity against Gram-positive, Gram-negative, and the fungal strain Candida albicans, while ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) contributed additional antimicrobial effects. Furthermore, the nanocomposite effectively inhibited Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) biofilm formation and suppressed virulence factors, including protease, pyocyanin, and pyoverdine at sub-minimum inhibitory concentrations (sub-MICs). Moreover, gene expression analysis revealed downregulation of key quorum-sensing regulators (lasI, lasR, rhlI, and rhlR), indicating the composite's molecular antivirulence potential. These findings demonstrate that the unique synergy of ZnO, lignin, and chitosan provides multifunctional advantages, making ZnO@lignin@chitosan@CIP a promising candidate for combating drug-resistant and biofilm-associated infections.},
}

@article {pmid41071864,
year = {2025},
author = {Larson, JM and Johnson, MS and Myint, JA and Gupta, SC},
title = {Improving Biofilm Prevention in Implant-Based Breast Surgery: Hyaluronic Acid as an Implant Submersion Adjunct.},
journal = {Annals of plastic surgery},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41071864},
issn = {1536-3708},
abstract = {PURPOSE: Capsular contracture is a common major complication of implant-based breast surgery. Although its etiology is incompletely understood, biofilm formation on implant surfaces is considered a central factor. Plastic surgeons have adopted many risk-reducing measures; however, these measures are heterogeneous, and capsular contracture rates remain high. Recent studies have demonstrated the antibiofilm effects of hyaluronic acid on various surgical prostheses. Our study tests the in vitro antibiofilm properties of hyaluronic acid as a breast implant submersion adjunct.

METHODS: Six-millimeter-diameter silicone disks were cut from smooth tissue expanders and treated with different concentrations of hyaluronic acid alone or combined with triple antibiotic solution (clindamycin, cefazolin, and gentamicin at 450, 1000, and 80 mg/mL, respectively). Following treatment, the disks were submerged in tryptic soy broth inoculated with Staphylococcus epidermidis strain RP62A and incubated for 60 hours to allow biofilm formation. Biofilms were stained with crystal violet, and the stain was extracted to measure optical density as a marker of biofilm formation.

RESULTS: Hyaluronic acid submersion exerted dose-dependent antibiofilm effects; hyaluronic acid 1.2% (wt/vol) solution produced a biofilm reduction similar to that achieved by the triple antibiotic solution. Synergistic effects were observed in the combination treatments, with hyaluronic acid 0.8% (wt/vol) in triple antibiotic solution producing the greatest biofilm reduction. This treatment produced a mean optical density of 0.313, which is significantly lower than that of the positive control (2.539; P < 0.001) and triple antibiotic solution alone (0.877; P < 0.001). These findings represent biofilm reductions of 87.7% and 64.3%, respectively.

CONCLUSION: Hyaluronic acid shows potential as an adjunct to triple antibiotic breast implant submersion. Pretreating silicone disks with hyaluronic acid 0.8% (wt/vol) in triple antibiotic solution led to biofilm reductions of 87.7% and 64.3% compared with the positive control and the triple antibiotic solution, respectively. These effects, combined with hyaluronic acid's biocompatibility, resorbability, and viscosity, demonstrate its promise for the prevention of capsular contracture in implant-based breast surgery.},
}

@article {pmid41071745,
year = {2025},
author = {Yao, MC and Huang, Q and Xie, HX and Zhang, X and Sheng, GP},
title = {Aquatic Biofilm as a Hotspot for Manganese Oxidation Enabled by Microbial Extracellular Matrix-Mediated Dual-Pathway Electron Transfer.},
journal = {Environmental science & technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acs.est.5c09864},
pmid = {41071745},
issn = {1520-5851},
abstract = {Manganese(II) oxidation governs the geochemical cycles of numerous elements owing to the exceptional oxidation and adsorption properties of resultant manganese oxide minerals. This process is predominantly thought to be driven by microorganisms using cellular oxidoreductases. Herein, we uncovered a new pathway for microbial manganese(II) oxidation mediated by a biofilm extracellular matrix, i.e., extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) secreted by microorganisms. Owing to abundant EPS, the biofilm emerged as a hotspot for manganese(II) oxidation in a sunlit aquatic system, and its ability to oxidize manganese(II) was 2.9 times higher than that of free microorganisms when normalized by the cell number. Both oxidoreductases such as NAD(P)H-oxidizing enzymes and nonenzymatic redox components like flavins and quinones in the EPS mediated electron transfer from intracellular NADPH to oxygen to produce superoxide. Additionally, quinones within the EPS under light irradiation mediated electron transfer from reducing moieties (e.g., thiols and phenols) in the extracellular matrix to oxygen to generate superoxide. As a result, EPS boosted manganese(II) oxidation via superoxide generated by these two electron transfer pathways. This biofilm-driven rapid manganese(II) oxidation process was found to be prevalent across diverse sunlit aquatic environments. This study expands the framework of microbe-driven cycling of manganese as well as other elements in nature.},
}

@article {pmid41071733,
year = {2025},
author = {Paul, P and Dolui, S and Ireen, S and Bisoi, S and Palai, S and Biswas, P and Mazumder, K and Biswas, K},
title = {Inhibition of Biofilm Formation and Cell Wall Targeting Activity of Endophytic Nocardiopsis Strain KDCGRAW Isolated From the Indian Sundarbans.},
journal = {Chemistry & biodiversity},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e01947},
doi = {10.1002/cbdv.202501947},
pmid = {41071733},
issn = {1612-1880},
support = {IIRP/SG-7856/2023//Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), New Delhi/ ; },
abstract = {The discovery of new antimicrobials is one of the most crucial approaches to tackling the antimicrobial resistance crisis. Strain KDCGRAW was isolated from the root of Rhizophora apiculata (Garjan tree) from the Bonnie camp subdivision of Sundarbans, West Bengal, India. 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis revealed that the strain belongs to the genus Nocardiopsis. The strain was subjected to fermentation, and the crude extract was analyzed using GC-MS. The extract inhibited Escherichia coli MTCC 1195 biofilm formation and showed a percentage biofilm remaining of 77.69% for 1/2 MIC, 69.18% for MIC, and 51.56% for 2 MIC, respectively. However, MIC and 2 MIC doses of the extract showed a significant biofilm formation inhibition and the percentage biofilm remaining determined was 51.89% and 43.97%, respectively, as compared to the 1/2 MIC 74.93% against Staphylococcus aureus MTCC 2940. The in silico docking and molecular dynamics study revealed that compound 1 and compound 9 exhibited the best docking energies with the two selected biofilm-associated proteins, achieving binding energies of -6.84 and -7.7 kcal/mol on 5XP0 and 7C7R, respectively. In vivo toxicity analysis using brine shrimp revealed that the extract was nontoxic at all the concentration ranges, namely, 1/2 MIC, MIC, and 2 MIC.},
}

@article {pmid41070941,
year = {2025},
author = {Cecil, RE and Ornelas, E and Phan, A and Medina-Chavez, NO and Travisano, M and Yoder-Himes, DR},
title = {Long-term culturing of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in static, minimal nutrient medium results in increased pyocyanin production, reduced biofilm production, and loss of motility.},
journal = {Applied and environmental microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0097525},
doi = {10.1128/aem.00975-25},
pmid = {41070941},
issn = {1098-5336},
abstract = {Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a multidrug-resistant opportunistic human pathogen that can survive in many natural and anthropogenic environments. It is a leading cause of morbidity in individuals with cystic fibrosis and is one of the most prevalent pathogens associated with nosocomial infections in the United States. It has been shown that this organism can survive and persist in low-nutrient environments, such as sink drains. How adaptation to these types of environments influences the phenotypic traits of this organism has not been well studied. Here, we implemented an experimental evolution system in which six strains of P. aeruginosa were subjected to low-nutrient conditions over the course of 12 weeks and assessed phenotypic and genotypic changes that occurred as a result of adaptation to such environments. We observed that adaptation to low-nutrient environments resulted in decreased generation time, reduced cell size, reduced biofilm formation, increased pyocyanin production, and decreased motility for some of the strains. Furthermore, some of the evolved isolates were significantly more virulent/competitive against a phagocytic predator. This study is significant as it allows us to predict how this organism will evolve in hospital and domestic environments and can help us improve treatment options for patients.IMPORTANCEHuman commensal and pathogenic organisms undergo dynamic cycles across human and non-human environments. Despite the crucial implications for human health, the understanding of bacterial adaptations to these diverse environments and their subsequent impact on human-bacterial interactions remains underexplored. This study shows how Pseudomonas aeruginosa, an opportunistic human pathogen, adapts phenotypically in response to a shift from high nutrients (like those found in the human body) to low nutrients (like those found in many other environments, like sink drains). This work also shows that, in some cases, resistance to predatory forces can evolve in the absence of a predator. This work is important as it contributes to the growing body of knowledge concerning how external, non-host-related abiotic conditions influence host-pathogen interactions.},
}

@article {pmid41069253,
year = {2025},
author = {Kumari, S and Bhukya, S and Upadhyay, A and Londhe, S and Nuthi, S and Patra, CR and Mukherjee, S},
title = {Development of Metal Analogues of Prussian Blue@Silver Nanocomposites for the Treatment of Biofilm and Skin-Infections.},
journal = {APMIS : acta pathologica, microbiologica, et immunologica Scandinavica},
volume = {133},
number = {10},
pages = {e70073},
doi = {10.1111/apm.70073},
pmid = {41069253},
issn = {1600-0463},
support = {CSC0302//CSC0302, sponsored by CSIR, New Delhi to CRP/ ; BT/PR49530/MED/32/839/2023//Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology, India/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Ferrocyanides/chemistry/pharmacology ; *Nanocomposites/chemistry ; *Silver/chemistry/pharmacology ; Animals ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Rats ; Humans ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Cell Survival/drug effects ; Gram-Positive Bacteria/drug effects ; *Skin Diseases, Bacterial/drug therapy ; },
abstract = {Silver-based nanocomplexes are promising antibacterial agents because of their ability to break the bacterial cell membrane, enhance oxidative stress, and damage bacterial DNA, offering potential alternatives to conventional antibiotics. Recently, Prussian blue analogues nanocomposites have gained attention due to their unique advantages, including biocompatibility, low cost, and easy structural modification to induce bioactivity. Herein, we developed different metal analogues of Prussian blue@silver [M[II]PB@Ag, M[II] = Cu, Co, and Mn] nanocomposites for antibacterial applications. In vitro assays confirmed the utility of these materials in inhibiting Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. The antibiofilm property of CuIIPB@Ag and MnIIPB@Ag was assessed by coating them on PDMS disk surfaces. The results show that CuPB@Ag (at 1600 μM) and MnPB@Ag (at 4000 μM) achieve approximately an 85% reduction in biofilm formation. In vitro cytotoxicity studies assessed by using the MTT assay support the biocompatibility of Cu[II]PB@Ag (up to 80% cell viability in 60 μM) and Mn[II]PB@Ag (up to 70% cell viability in 150 μM). Moreover, Cu[II]PB@Ag (at 1600 μM) and Mn[II]PB@Ag (at 4000 μM) eliminated in vivo skin infections in the preclinical rat model. These results highlight the potential of these metal analogues of Prussian blue@silver nanocomposites for the treatment of bacterial infections.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Ferrocyanides/chemistry/pharmacology
*Nanocomposites/chemistry
*Silver/chemistry/pharmacology
Animals
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Rats
Humans
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Cell Survival/drug effects
Gram-Positive Bacteria/drug effects
*Skin Diseases, Bacterial/drug therapy

@article {pmid41068567,
year = {2025},
author = {Mondal, P and Mallick, B and Haldar, T and Ramesh, A and Sarbajna, A and Koley, H and Das, S},
title = {Utilizing the effectiveness of phage cocktail to combat Shigella and Salmonella infections and their polymicrobial biofilm control activity.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {649},
pmid = {41068567},
issn = {1471-2180},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; Humans ; *Bacteriophages/physiology/isolation & purification ; *Salmonella Infections/therapy/microbiology ; *Salmonella/virology/physiology ; *Dysentery, Bacillary/therapy/microbiology ; *Shigella sonnei/virology/physiology ; Animals ; Phage Therapy ; *Shigella/virology/physiology ; Coinfection/therapy/microbiology ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Shigella and Salmonella are major foodborne and waterborne pathogens responsible for acute gastrointestinal infections and significant global morbidity and mortality. Both species are capable of forming bacterial biofilms in the food processing industry, a key survival mechanism that significantly reduces the effectiveness of antibacterial drugs. The global rise in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) necessitates the urgent development of new strategies. Bacteriophages, particularly phage cocktails, provide a potential alternative because of their host specificity and ability to degrade biofilms.

RESULTS: In this study, a new bacteriophage, Sspk23, infecting Shigella sonnei, was isolated from lake water and biologically characterized to assess its lytic activity and stability under varying conditions. Furthermore, this study investigates the effectiveness of a phage cocktail, including a newly isolated Sspk23 and two previously identified phages, Sfk20 and STWB21, against Shigella and Salmonella infections with a focus on its ability to combat single and polymicrobial infections. The biofilm removal potential of the phage cocktail was observed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (CLSM), and also quantitatively assessed in a microtiter plate. Cytotoxicity tests were conducted on human adherent epithelial cell line and macrophage cell line to confirm the safety of the phage and phage cocktail for therapeutic use.

CONCLUSIONS: The findings demonstrate the possibility of a phage cocktail as a substitute for conventional antibiotics in controlling Shigella and Salmonella infections. Additionally, their capacity to destroy biofilms indicates potential applications in clinical therapies, environmental remediation, and food safety. Future studies will be focused on phage-antibiotic synergy optimization and in vivo validation to combat multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
Humans
*Bacteriophages/physiology/isolation & purification
*Salmonella Infections/therapy/microbiology
*Salmonella/virology/physiology
*Dysentery, Bacillary/therapy/microbiology
*Shigella sonnei/virology/physiology
Animals
Phage Therapy
*Shigella/virology/physiology
Coinfection/therapy/microbiology
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology

@article {pmid41068088,
year = {2025},
author = {He, L and Pan, Q and Li, M and Wang, Z and Wang, L and Zhang, C and Wang, ZH and Shi, J and Li, D},
title = {Amplified copper ion interference and immunomodulation using self-thermophoretic nanomotors to treat refractory implant-associated biofilm infections.},
journal = {Nature communications},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {9009},
pmid = {41068088},
issn = {2041-1723},
support = {82102588//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; 82102936//National Natural Science Foundation of China (National Science Foundation of China)/ ; 232300421050 and 242301420068//Natural Science Foundation of Henan Province (Henan Province Natural Science Foundation)/ ; 2023M743232//China Postdoctoral Science Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {*Copper/chemistry/pharmacology ; *Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; Animals ; Mice ; Macrophages/drug effects/immunology ; *Immunomodulation/drug effects ; Gold/chemistry ; Metal Nanoparticles/chemistry ; Humans ; *Prosthesis-Related Infections/drug therapy/microbiology/immunology ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Silicon/chemistry ; RAW 264.7 Cells ; Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Orthopedic implant-associated biofilm infections (IABIs) are refractory to elimination because of the dense biofilm formation and local immunosuppressive microenvironment. Herein, we propose a copper-based therapeutic strategy to treat IABIs. Initially, the Janus bisphere nanostructure is fabricated using mesoporous silicon nanoparticle (MSN) with gold nanoparticle. Subsequently, copper peroxide (CP) nanodots are encapsulated within the MSN to form the final nanomotor Motor@CP. Our Motor@CP exhibits remarkable autonomous movement through near-infrared (NIR)-propelled self-thermophoretic propulsion, effectively penetrating dense biofilms and delivering CP. Notably, the acidic microenvironment facilitates CP decomposition into copper(II) and hydrogen peroxide. This process further generates hydroxyl radicals (•OH), extensively destroying biofilm integrity and enhancing intracellular uptake of copper ions that trigger bacterial cuproptosis-like death. Furthermore, Motor@CP markedly reprograms infiltrating macrophages toward pro-inflammatory phenotypes, thereby promoting an antimicrobial immune response. Overall, this presents a promising approach that leverages amplified copper ion interference and macrophage reprogramming to combat refractory orthopedic IABIs.},
}

*Copper/chemistry/pharmacology
*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
Animals
Mice
Macrophages/drug effects/immunology
*Immunomodulation/drug effects
Gold/chemistry
Metal Nanoparticles/chemistry
Humans
*Prosthesis-Related Infections/drug therapy/microbiology/immunology
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Silicon/chemistry
RAW 264.7 Cells
Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects

@article {pmid41067147,
year = {2025},
author = {Khandeparker, L and Hede, N and Desai, DV and D'Souza, R and Mapari, K},
title = {Marine biofilm microbial communities on deep-sea moorings as indicators of a changing environment.},
journal = {Marine environmental research},
volume = {212},
number = {},
pages = {107598},
doi = {10.1016/j.marenvres.2025.107598},
pmid = {41067147},
issn = {1879-0291},
abstract = {Marine biofilms developed on buoys encasing Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers (ADCPs), deployed on deep-sea moorings for current measurements, were characterized for the first time along the continental slope of the west coast (Off Okha, Goa, Kollam) and east coast (Off Vishakhapatnam - Vizag) of India at a depth of ∼150 m over three years. The biofilm community structure and functions were elucidated using next-generation sequencing. High-throughput sequencing revealed spatio-temporal variations in the biofilm communities with site-specific microbial signatures and metabolic functions. Moreover, biofilms from the Bay of Bengal were significantly different from those in the Arabian Sea. Interestingly, Kollam biofilms were characterized by photoautotrophic carbon cycling and dominated by several cyanobacterial communities and purple non-sulfur bacterium, and is the first report of such taxa in marine biofilms at a depth of 150 m. Functional predictions indicated enhanced expression of stress-related pathways in the Vizag and Goa biofilms. Additionally, biofilms from all sites actively contributed to the degradation of carbon, nitrogen, sulfur, and hydrocarbons, highlighting their importance in marine biogeochemical processes. Notably, certain biofilm-forming genera were consistently present across all 3 years at specific sites, indicating ecological resilience and serving as bioindicators of long-term biofilm dynamics. Moreover, the presence of plastic-associated genera (Amphritea, Crocinitomix, Ulvibacter, and Oleiphilus) across several sites reflects the widespread occurrence of plastics in the surrounding marine environment. Emergence of Desulfobacterota post-lockdown in Okha biofilms suggests anthropogenic influence from increased petroleum activity and their role as markers of hydrocarbon contamination. The detection of sulfur-cycling and corrosion-associated taxa (Sulfurovum, Sedimenticola, Photobacterium, Tenacibaculum) suggests a persistent risk of microbially induced corrosion (MIC), potentially compromising the durability of oceanographic instruments/installations. These findings on deep ocean biofilm-forming bacteria not only provide valuable insights into the ecological and biogeochemical capabilities of microbes but also highlight their relevance as site-specific microbial signatures of marine pollution. This research can also aid in developing effective strategies to mitigate biofouling and bio-corrosion on oceanographic instruments.},
}

@article {pmid41067014,
year = {2025},
author = {Ke, S and Li, G and Wang, A and Wu, H and Yu, P and Ning, M and Strappe, P and Wang, B and Blanchard, C and Zhou, Z and Zhao, G},
title = {Biofilm with a mechanically strengthened character via enhanced cross-links of soybean proteins with short-chain fatty acid-modified starch.},
journal = {Food chemistry},
volume = {495},
number = {Pt 3},
pages = {146579},
doi = {10.1016/j.foodchem.2025.146579},
pmid = {41067014},
issn = {1873-7072},
abstract = {In this study, starch modified with different chain-length of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) were prepared, followed by their corresponding interaction with soy protein isolate (SPI) and tannic acid (TA) to achieve biofilms with various structural characteristics and functionality. Current results indicated crosslinking of three composites occurred via formation of covalent Schiff base bonds, followed by an increased tensile strength of the biofilm by 2 times compared with biofilm prepared from binary composites. Importantly, this was the first time to achieve a maximum tensile strength of the biofilm up to 8.09 MPa. Furthermore, co-existence of the three components increased the elongation at break of SPI biofilm from 117.25 % to 174.50 %, demonstrating the formation of a biofilm with a mechanically strengthened character. This study highlights a novel approach for preparation of biofilms with an enhanced mechanical property via an appropriate interaction among a longer-chain SCFA modified starch, SPI and TA.},
}

@article {pmid41066943,
year = {2025},
author = {Vanniaraj, SK and Bera, S and Paul, S and Kundu, S and Jayaswal, R and Dutta, S and Das, BK},
title = {Removal of environment relevant bisphenol A concentration from the contaminated waters using freshwater pond grown microalgae biofilm.},
journal = {The Science of the total environment},
volume = {1003},
number = {},
pages = {180670},
doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2025.180670},
pmid = {41066943},
issn = {1879-1026},
abstract = {Bisphenol A (BPA), even at environmentally relevant concentration, exerts toxic effects on aquatic organisms and it requires sustainable removal strategies. Microalgae immobilization in substrate is an emerging technology for bioremediation with less practical implacability due to the high production cost of microalgae. Hence in the present study, microalgae present in the freshwater pond was grown attached to the synthetic substrates for four weeks and utilized for bioremediation. The biofilm, predominantly composed of Merismopedia sp., Cymbella sp., Nitzschia sp., Oscillatoria sp., and Pediastrum sp. was used to treat water samples spiked with environmentally relevant BPA concentration (0.015 ppm; recorded from Ganga River water, India by our team). Higher BPA concentrations (0.15, 1.5 and 15 ppm) were also used to document the toxic effect of BPA on microalgae biofilm. Results showed that microalgae biofilm removed 52.78 ± 2.38 % of BPA from the water contains 0.015 ppm concentration with a low toxic effect on growth and viability of the microalgae. Among which, microalgae biofilm accumulated 33.3 % of added BPA via adsorption and absorption, a significant portion of BPA also been removed by photo degradation and other process of degradation. The conductivity of the water significantly influenced the BPA removal efficiency of microalgae biofilm. As BPA concentration increased, the removal efficiency declined and exert toxic effect on microalgae biofilm growth and viability. The 120 h BPA exposure reduced the microalgae abundance in all treatments. The species like Nitzschia sp., Fragillaria sp. and Merismopedia sp., showed maximum reduction and the Coelastrum sp., Amphora sp., Phormidium sp., Phacus sp., Gomphonema sp. and Scenedesmus sp. showed tolerance towards BPA exposure. These findings highlight the potential of pond grown microalgae biofilm as a practical and eco-friendly solution for removing BPA from contaminated water, particularly at environment relevant concentrations.},
}

@article {pmid41066428,
year = {2025},
author = {Shrestha, P and Tandukar, S and Shrestha, M and Shrestha, S and Subedee, A and Shakya, J and Tuladhar, R},
title = {Bacteriophage as an anti-biofilm agent against Pseudomonas aeruginosa from wound infection.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {20},
number = {10},
pages = {e0334139},
doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0334139},
pmid = {41066428},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Pseudomonas aeruginosa/virology/physiology/drug effects/isolation & purification ; *Wound Infection/microbiology/therapy ; *Pseudomonas Infections/microbiology/therapy ; *Bacteriophages/physiology ; Humans ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial ; Phage Therapy ; *Pseudomonas Phages/physiology ; },
abstract = {Pseudomonas aeruginosa, an opportunistic pathogen associated with wound infections, resists many commonly available antibiotics. Its ability to form biofilm provides an additional trait to evade antibiotics. Biofilm-associated infections are difficult to treat, raising the need for alternative strategies. Thus, this research aimed to investigate the potential of bacteriophage to disrupt the biofilm produced by P. aeruginosa isolated from wound infections. Wound samples were collected aseptically, processed for the isolation of P. aeruginosa, and identified by standard microbiological methods. Antimicrobial susceptibility was determined by the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Bacteriophages were isolated using the double-layer agar method. Phenotypic assessment of biofilm formation by the isolates and its reduction by phages was conducted by the tissue culture plate assay. Out of 647 wound samples processed, 96 P. aeruginosa were isolated. Piperacillin/tazobactam was the most effective antibiotic, while doxycycline was the least effective. Among the total isolates, 86 (89.6%) were multidrug-resistant (MDR) and 69 (71.9%) were biofilm producers. Three different phages isolated from sewage demonstrated a high specificity to P. aeruginosa. Of these, phage vB_PaeP_PS2 lysed the highest number of isolates (22.9%), including 17 MDR and 21 biofilm-producing isolates. The biofilm reduction assay demonstrated that phage treatment significantly reduced biofilm formation, with vB_PaeP_PS2 achieving a 58% reduction after 6 h of treatment. In conclusion, this study highlights the high prevalence of biofilm-producing MDR P. aeruginosa in wound infections and, for the first time in Nepal, demonstrates the potential of locally isolated phages to lyse biofilm-forming MDR isolates and disrupt their biofilms.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/virology/physiology/drug effects/isolation & purification
*Wound Infection/microbiology/therapy
*Pseudomonas Infections/microbiology/therapy
*Bacteriophages/physiology
Humans
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial
Phage Therapy
*Pseudomonas Phages/physiology

@article {pmid41065963,
year = {2025},
author = {Hong, P and Zheng, N and Wei, T and Zhang, Y and Zhu, F and Chen, Y and She, X and Liu, W and Liu, M},
title = {Proteomic and Phosphoproteomic Landscapes of Azole Resistance in Aspergillus fumigatus Biofilm Exposed to Voriconazole.},
journal = {Mycopathologia},
volume = {190},
number = {6},
pages = {100},
pmid = {41065963},
issn = {1573-0832},
support = {81501726//the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2019XK320077//the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities/ ; BK20150069//the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province/ ; 2021-I2M-1-039//the CAMS Innovation Fund for Medical Sciences/ ; No. NPRC-32//the National Science and Technology Infrastructure of China/ ; },
mesh = {*Aspergillus fumigatus/drug effects/physiology/chemistry/genetics ; *Voriconazole/pharmacology ; *Antifungal Agents/pharmacology ; *Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Drug Resistance, Fungal ; Proteomics ; *Proteome/analysis ; *Azoles/pharmacology ; *Fungal Proteins/analysis ; *Phosphoproteins/analysis ; Humans ; },
abstract = {Aspergillus fumigatus, an opportunistic and allergenic pathogenic fungus, is responsible for a range of clinical disorders in humans, including invasive aspergillosis (IA), which can lead to severe infections in immunocompromised individuals. Unfortunately, the emergence of azole resistance has become a significant challenge in combating IA, necessitating further investigations into the underlying mechanisms of resistance. In this study, we conducted an integrated proteomic and phosphoproteomic analysis of biofilm proteins from both azole-resistant and wildtype strains of A. fumigatus under voriconazole pressure. Our proteomic analysis identified 148 upregulated and 146 downregulated proteins in the azole-resistant strains, while phosphoproteomic analysis revealed 316 upregulated phosphopeptides and 109 downregulated phosphopeptides, suggesting extensive phosphorylation modifications associated with azole resistance. Upon excluding the impact of protein changes, we identified 133 proteins with differential expression solely at the phosphorylation level, comprising 104 upregulated and 29 downregulated proteins. Functional annotation and analysis highlighted the significance of these differentially expressed phosphoproteins in cell wall integrity, filamentous growth, and high-osmolarity stress response, with 33 MAPK pathway-associated proteins displaying phosphopeptide level regulation. These findings provide valuable insights into the mechanisms behind azole resistance in A. fumigatus and offer potential new drug targets for combating this pathogenic fungus in humans.},
}

*Aspergillus fumigatus/drug effects/physiology/chemistry/genetics
*Voriconazole/pharmacology
*Antifungal Agents/pharmacology
*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Drug Resistance, Fungal
Proteomics
*Proteome/analysis
*Azoles/pharmacology
*Fungal Proteins/analysis
*Phosphoproteins/analysis
Humans

@article {pmid41065833,
year = {2025},
author = {Moursi, SA and Saxena, R and Haider, F and Khan, MS and Saleem, M and Ahmad, I and Ahmad, N},
title = {Vulvovaginal candidiasis in rural pregnant populations from Uttar Pradesh, India: species shift, biofilm formation, and resistance trends.},
journal = {Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's archives of pharmacology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41065833},
issn = {1432-1912},
abstract = {Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a common infection in pregnancy, with increasing concern over the emergence of non-albicans Candida (NAC) species and antifungal resistance, particularly in biofilm-forming strains. A total of 913 pregnant women with clinically suspected VVC were evaluated. Demographic and clinical data were collected, and specimens were processed using KOH mount and fungal culture. Isolates were identified to the species level using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS), assessed for biofilm formation by the tissue culture plate (TCP) method, and tested for antifungal susceptibility by Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. The highest prevalence was observed in women aged 23-28 years (35.7%) and those from rural areas (61.7%). Illiteracy (54.5%), third-trimester pregnancy (43.7%), and multigravida status (57.6%) were predominant. Mixed symptoms, especially the triad of itching, burning, and discharge (27.2%), were most common. Culture had a higher sensitivity (83.6%) than KOH microscopy (77.2%). Candida albicans was the predominant species (59.8%), followed by Candida glabrata (15.3%) and Candida tropicalis (9.8%). NAC species accounted for 40.2% of isolates. Biofilm production was highest in C. albicans (85.1%), C. tropicalis (74.7%), and C. glabrata (59.8%). Antifungal resistance was significantly higher in biofilm producers, particularly to azoles: ketoconazole (83.3% vs. 16.7%, p < 0.001) and fluconazole (81.5% vs. 18.5%, p < 0.001). Amphotericin B also showed reduced efficacy in biofilm producers (66.7% vs. 33.3%, p < 0.05). This study reports a high prevalence of VVC (83.6%) in pregnant women, predominantly in rural, less-educated, and multigravida groups. C. albicans remained the leading pathogen, but the notable presence of non-albicans species reflects a shifting epidemiology. Biofilm formation, especially by C. albicans, C. tropicalis, and C. glabrata, correlated with marked azole resistance. Routine species-level identification, biofilm evaluation, and antifungal susceptibility testing are essential for optimizing treatment in pregnancy.},
}

@article {pmid41065783,
year = {2025},
author = {Dai, H and Qin, C and Gao, Y},
title = {Exploring cinnamic acid's function in reducing the quorum sensing and biofilm formation in Pseudomonas aeruginosa: in vitro and in silico investigations.},
journal = {Archives of microbiology},
volume = {207},
number = {11},
pages = {292},
pmid = {41065783},
issn = {1432-072X},
mesh = {*Quorum Sensing/drug effects ; *Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology/genetics ; *Cinnamates/pharmacology ; Virulence Factors/metabolism ; Molecular Docking Simulation ; Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/chemistry/genetics ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Chromobacterium/drug effects ; Indoles/metabolism ; Pyocyanine/metabolism ; Glycolipids ; },
abstract = {Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has become serious global threat to the public health which is estimated to be responsible for over one million annual deaths. AMR occurs when microbes develop defence mechanism against the antibiotics. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen which is known to cause many infections, and it has developed resistance to multiple antibiotic classes. The continuous exposure of antibiotics imposes the risk of AMR development. In this case, targeting quorum sensing (QS) and biofilms becomes more reasonable. This study assessed the effect of cinnamic acid (CA) on biofilm formation and QS-regulated virulence factors in P. aeruginosa PAO1. Preliminary assays showed that CA inhibited violacein production by 63.88 ± 2.44% in C. violaceum 12472. The virulence factors of P. aeruginosa PAO1, namely pyocyanin production, pyoverdin production, elastase, exoprotease, rhamnolipid production, and swimming motility was reduced by 72.55 ± 4.05%, 58.90 ± 3.15%, 47.50 ± 5.55%, 65.86 ± 2.65%, 51.37 ± 2.43%, and 85.61 ± 2.52%, respectively. CA inhibited biofilm by > 65% and also reduced the bacterial colonization and aggregation. Molecular docking revealed that CA binds at the active site of target proteins of P. aeruginosa such as LasA, LasI, LasR, and PqsR. Molecular simulations validated the stability of complexes of these proteins with CA. The interaction of CA to these proteins was mainly favoured by van der Waals and electrostatic forces. This study shows CA's potential to interfere with QS and biofilm in P. aeruginosa, indicating its potential as a candidate molecule for developing new treatments aimed at targeting biofilm-associated infections.},
}

*Quorum Sensing/drug effects
*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology/genetics
*Cinnamates/pharmacology
Virulence Factors/metabolism
Molecular Docking Simulation
Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/chemistry/genetics
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Chromobacterium/drug effects
Indoles/metabolism
Pyocyanine/metabolism
Glycolipids

@article {pmid41064837,
year = {2025},
author = {Santajit, S and Thavorasak, T and Horpet, D and Kong-Ngoen, T and Permpoon, U and Kim, CY and Nam, TG and Indrawattana, N},
title = {Phytochemical inhibition of quorum sensing and biofilm formation by Paederia foetida Linn. against multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii: An integrated in vitro and in silico investigation.},
journal = {Veterinary world},
volume = {18},
number = {8},
pages = {2181-2193},
pmid = {41064837},
issn = {0972-8988},
abstract = {BACKGROUND AND AIM: Acinetobacter baumannii is a multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogen notorious for its biofilm formation and persistence in clinical and veterinary settings. Its resistance is exacerbated by quorum sensing (QS) pathways that regulate virulence and biofilm maturation. Disrupting QS and biofilm integrity using plant-derived compounds presents a promising alternative to traditional antibiotics. This study aimed to evaluate the antibiofilm and anti-QS potential of Paederia foetida Linn. ethanolic extract against A. baumannii, integrating gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) profiling, molecular docking, and in vitro assays.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Leaves of P. foetida were extracted with ethanol and analyzed by GC-MS to identify major bioactive constituents. Molecular docking was conducted against five QS and biofilm-associated A. baumannii proteins (AF-A0A7S8WE28-F1-v4, AF-A0A059ZL64-F1-v4, AF-Q2VSW6-F1-v4, AF-A0A2P1B9S4-F1-v4, and AF-A0A5P9VY74-F1-v4). Absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) profiles and drug-likeness of key compounds were assessed in silico. Antimicrobial activity was determined by broth microdilution (minimum inhibitory concentration [MIC]/minimum bactericidal concentration [MBC]), and biofilm inhibition was evaluated through crystal violet microtiter assays. Morphological damage was examined using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM).

RESULTS: GC-MS identified 30 phytoconstituents, with 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furaldehyde, 4H-pyran-4-one derivative, and eugenol as predominant compounds. Eugenol exhibited the highest binding affinity, particularly with AbaR (-6.3 kcal/mol). The extract showed significant antimicrobial activity (MIC = 7.81 mg/mL; MBC = 31.25 mg/mL) and dose-dependent inhibition of biofilm biomass (p < 0.001). FE-SEM imaging confirmed dose-responsive membrane damage and disruption of the biofilm. ADMET predictions revealed favorable oral bioavailability and low toxicity for selected compounds.

CONCLUSION: P. foetida extract exhibits potent antibacterial, anti-QS, and antibiofilm activity against MDR A. baumannii, supported by its phytochemical diversity, favorable pharmacokinetics, and strong protein-ligand interactions. These findings suggest its promise as a plant-derived therapeutic aligned with the One Health framework to combat antimicrobial resistance in both human and veterinary medicine.},
}

@article {pmid41064834,
year = {2025},
author = {Kanaan, MHG and Khalil, ZK and Tarek, AM},
title = {Biofilm-mediated antimicrobial resistance among meat-borne pathogens in Al-Suwaria, Iraq: A cross-species investigation from retail markets.},
journal = {Veterinary world},
volume = {18},
number = {8},
pages = {2487-2498},
pmid = {41064834},
issn = {0972-8988},
abstract = {BACKGROUND AND AIM: Biofilms formed by foodborne pathogens represent a significant threat to public health by enhancing microbial survival and facilitating antimicrobial resistance (AMR). In Iraq, data on the biofilm-producing potential of key meat-borne pathogens remain scarce, particularly for fastidious organisms such as Campylobacter, Arcobacter, and Salmonella serovars. This study investigated the prevalence and intensity of biofilm formation in selected meat-borne bacterial isolates and examined their correlation with phenotypic AMR, focusing on moderate to strong biofilm producers.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 44 bacterial isolates - including Staphylococcus aureus (methicillin-resistant S. aureus [MRSA]), Arcobacter butzleri, Arcobacter cryaerophilus, Campylobacter jejuni, Campylobacter coli, Salmonella enterica serovars Enteritidis, and Salmonella Typhimurium - were recovered from retail meat samples collected between 2018 and 2023 in Wasit, Iraq. Biofilm-forming ability was quantified using microtiter plate assays and interpreted per Stepanovic's criteria. Antimicrobial susceptibility was assessed through the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method, with resistance patterns statistically analyzed for associations with biofilm strength.

RESULTS: Among all isolates, 25% were strong and 40.91% moderate biofilm producers. Salmonella serotypes showed the highest biofilm strength (100%), followed by C. jejuni (75%) and MRSA (57.14%). A significant correlation (p ≤ 0.05) was observed between biofilm production and resistance to vancomycin, ofloxacin, gentamicin, enrofloxacin, and cefoxitin. Gram-negative isolates with strong to moderate biofilm capacity exhibited resistance rates ranging from 61.90% to 95.24%, while Gram-positive MRSA showed higher resistance to fluoroquinolones and aminoglycosides.

CONCLUSION: Biofilm production significantly contributes to increase AMR among meat-borne pathogens, compromising food safety and treatment efficacy. Enhanced surveillance, targeted biofilm control strategies, and molecular studies are crucial to mitigate the rising threat of biofilm-associated AMR in the food chain.},
}

@article {pmid41064445,
year = {2025},
author = {Jiang, N and Zhang, X and Liu, ZX and Wan, HY and Huang, MZ and Lin, QR and Liu, GQ and Chen, P and Yu, B},
title = {β-tricalcium phosphate/calcium sulfate loaded with contezolid acefosamil (MRX-4) for antimicrobial potency, prevention and killing efficacy of MRSA biofilm.},
journal = {Frontiers in pharmacology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1657099},
pmid = {41064445},
issn = {1663-9812},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial potency and duration of contezolid acefosamil (MRX-4) combined with gentamicin against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) biofilms in vitro. We also compared its performance, when delivered via calcium sulfate (CS) and β-tricalcium phosphate/calcium sulfate (β-TCP/CS) carriers, with the conventional vancomycin + gentamicin regimen.

METHODS: Antibiotic-loaded beads containing MRX-4 + gentamicin (C + G) or vancomycin + gentamicin (V + G) were prepared using CS and β-TCP/CS carriers. Antimicrobial potency and release duration were assessed using a modified Kirby-Bauer zone of inhibition (ZOI) assay. MRSA biofilm prevention and eradication were evaluated through colony forming unit (CFU) counting and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM).

RESULTS: C + G demonstrated prolonged antimicrobial activity, maintaining effective ZOIs for at least 40 days, whereas V + G lost activity by day 40 (P < 0.05). Both C + G and V + G significantly prevented biofilm formation and reduced CFUs by > 8 logs (P < 0.001), with no significant difference between carrier types. In biofilm eradication assays, both treatments reduced CFUs by 3-4 logs; however, C + G showed superior efficacy over V + G at day 3 (P < 0.01). CLSM confirmed substantial biofilm disruption and bacterial killing in C + G-treated groups.

CONCLUSION: MRX-4 combined with gentamicin, delivered via CS and β-TCP/CS carriers, exhibits superior and sustained local antimicrobial efficacy compared to vancomycin, particularly in eradicating MRSA biofilms.},
}

@article {pmid41064251,
year = {2025},
author = {Mendez, AR and Pybus, C and Greenberg, DE},
title = {Antisense phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomers retain activity in Burkholderia cepacia complex biofilm.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1660799},
pmid = {41064251},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Members of the Burkholderia cepacia complex (Bcc) are known to cause severe pulmonary infections in immunocompromised hosts, namely individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) and chronic granulomatous disease (CGD). Due to innate antibiotic-resistant phenotypes and the formation of protective biofilms, Bcc bacteria are difficult to eradicate from colonized lungs using traditional antibiotics. An alternative therapeutic approach involves the use of antisense molecules, specifically peptide-conjugated phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomers (PPMOs). Previously, we found that PPMOs targeting the acyl carrier protein (AcpP) can reduce the burden of planktonic Bcc bacteria.

METHODS: Antimicrobial activities of AcpP PPMOs were assessed against established biofilms produced by Bcc clinical isolates, in which viable cells, biomass, and metabolic activity were enumerated. Bactericidal effects were further evaluated by microscopy. Cytotoxicity of these molecules was tested in human pulmonary cell lines.

RESULTS: AcpP PPMO treatment resulted in over three-log reductions (p < 0.0001) in biofilm burden across five clinical isolates of Bcc that were tested. A dose-dependent effect was observed (5-40 μΜ). This effect was visualized using confocal and scanning electron microscopy. We further demonstrated that PPMOs associate with bacterial cells in a time-dependent fashion using a fluorescently labeled AcpP PPMO with B. cenocepacia K56-2 DsRed. Finally, alveolar cells retained viability with AcpP PPMOs at bactericidal dosages.

CONCLUSION: The Bcc biofilm setting is not a deterrent against PPMO delivery or antimicrobial activity. This is supported by the colocalization of AcpP PPMOs with cells, membrane destruction, loss of cell viability, and biomass reduction. Collectively, these data provide evidence that AcpP PPMOs are a promising therapeutic strategy in the treatment of Bcc infections.},
}

@article {pmid41062070,
year = {2025},
author = {Yu, Y and Mahdi, R and Al-Hilfy Leon, A and Vo, N and Lofgren, R and Mutabazi, JL and Piepenbrink, KH},
title = {Variation in type IV pilus stability modulates DNA-uptake and biofilm formation.},
journal = {The Journal of biological chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {110787},
doi = {10.1016/j.jbc.2025.110787},
pmid = {41062070},
issn = {1083-351X},
abstract = {Type IV pili are helical filaments composed of protein subunits which are produced by numerous taxa of bacteria, including Acinetobacter. Type IV pili are extended out from the cell by extension enzyme complexes, which extract subunits from the membrane and insert them into the base of the filament, but can also be retracted by reverse rotation catalyzed by a retraction enzyme. Type IV pili have diverse functions, including twitching motility and DNA-uptake, which require retraction, and host adhesion and bacterial aggregation, which do not. Acinetobacter bacteria, including International Clone I (IC-I) and International Clone II (IC-II) strains, show variable phenotypes in assays of type IV pilus-dependent functions. Here, we show this variation is the result of differentiation of type IV pilus subtypes in Acinetobacter, which we defined based on the sequence of the major subunit, PilA. These subtypes show variable efficiency in pilus retraction between pilus subtypes, and from that, a differential balance between retraction-dependent and retraction-independent functions. In both naturally-occurring pilA variants from the IC-I and IC-II groups and isogenic strains complemented with IC-I or IC-II pilA, the IC-I pilus subtype promotes greater twitching motility and DNA-uptake while the IC-II pilus subtype promotes biofilm formation while showing reduced capacity for DNA-uptake and twitching motility, similar to a retraction-deficient mutant and consistent with the hypothesis that pilus retraction of the IC-II pilus is naturally deficient. This defect in retraction was sufficient to increase the level of piliation on the cell surface when we compared the yields of T4P sheared from the cell surface from IC-I pilA and IC-II pilA complements in an isogenic background. Complementation with IC-II pilA results in greater levels of surface PilA per cell than equivalent complementation with an IC-I pilA gene. Additionally, direct comparisons of pilus stability between type IV pili isolated from IC-I pilA and IC-II pilA complements show greater thermostability for the IC-II pili, supporting the hypothesis that pilus stability can impede retraction and increase piliation.},
}

@article {pmid41061652,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, LD and Lai, CY and Oren, Y and Gilron, J and Ronen, Z and Zhao, HP},
title = {Anion-exchange membrane coupled with methane-fed biofilm enables efficient co-removal of perchlorate and nitrate.},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {288},
number = {Pt B},
pages = {124687},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2025.124687},
pmid = {41061652},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {Perchlorate and nitrate frequently co-occur in contaminated water posing significant risks to human health and the environment. However, their simultaneous and highly efficient removal remains a critical technical challenge. We report a high-performance hybrid system integrating Donnan exchange through an anion-exchange membrane (AEM) with reduction in methane-fed bio-reactor (AEM-MBfR), achieving high ClO4[-] and NO3[-] removal efficiencies. The AEM-MBfR attained volumetric removal fluxes up to 902.17 μg ClO4[-]·L[-1]·d[-1] and 22.74 mg N·L[-1]·d[-1], representing 9.6- and 1.6-fold increases, respectively, over a standalone MBfR. Mechanistic analysis revealed that enzyme-independent Donnan dialysis in the AEM module enriched ClO4[-] into the MBfR zone, alleviating the competitive advantage of NO3[-] reduction over ClO4[-]. This enrichment significantly enhanced bioreduction kinetics, enabling sustained high-throughput treatment. Multi-omics profiling identified a syntrophic microbial network dominated by Methylocystis, Methylosinus and Hyphomicrobium, with elevated transcription of key functional genes that drive ClO4[-] and NO3[-] reduction. Notably, VFAs-mediated electron transfer facilitated tight metabolic coupling between methanotrophs and denitrifiers. Compared to other MBfRs, the AEM-MBfR achieved one of the highest reported ClO4[-] removal fluxes. Coupled with the low cost of methane and NaCl, this study demonstrates a scalable and economically viable strategy for remediating anion-contaminated water through membrane-enhanced microbial processes.},
}

@article {pmid41061487,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, Z and Liu, M and Xu, T and Yuan, X and Liu, Z and Chen, H and Zhang, J and Ding, Y and Wu, Q and Wang, J},
title = {Characterization of a novel phage vB_YenP_WW2 for the inhibition against Yersinia enterocolitica biofilm and application in raw meat and milk.},
journal = {International journal of food microbiology},
volume = {444},
number = {},
pages = {111468},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2025.111468},
pmid = {41061487},
issn = {1879-3460},
abstract = {Yersinia enterocolitica is a significant zoonotic pathogen that causes severe gastrointestinal disease. In this study, vB_YenP_WW2 (WW2), a novel bacteriophage specific to Y. enterocolitica, was isolated and characterized. Stability analysis revealed that WW2 can retain its activity across a wide range of pH (4-12) and temperatures (4-60 °C). Host range analysis showed that WW2 exhibits broad lytic activity against various Y. enterocolitica strains, with a lysis rate of 27 %. Within 3 h, WW2 effectively reduced the bacterial load in raw meat and milk to undetectable levels. Additionally, WW2 significantly inhibited biofilm formation on polyethylene over 36 h and reduced biofilm formation by 70 % on stainless steel after 18 h of incubation. Compared to previously reported Y. enterocolitica phages, WW2 displayed a shorter latent period and stronger preventive effects against both Y. enterocolitica and its biofilms. These results suggested that WW2 holds promise as a novel antimicrobial agent against Y. enterocolitica.},
}

@article {pmid41060069,
year = {2025},
author = {Varner, E and Meyer, M and Whalen, J and Wang, Y-H and Rodriguez, C and Malik, I and Mullet, SJ and Gelhaus, SL and DePas, WH},
title = {Intracellular glutamine fluctuates with nitrogen availability and regulates Mycobacterium smegmatis biofilm formation.},
journal = {Journal of bacteriology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0025225},
doi = {10.1128/jb.00252-25},
pmid = {41060069},
issn = {1098-5530},
abstract = {Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) can form biofilms during human infection and in household plumbing systems, so understanding biofilm regulation could help us better treat and prevent NTM infections. Glucose drives NTM aggregation in vitro, and ammonium inhibits it, but the regulatory systems controlling this early step in biofilm formation are not understood. Here, in the model NTM Mycobacterium smegmatis, we show that multiple carbon and nitrogen sources have similar impacts on aggregation as glucose and ammonium , suggesting that the response to these nutrients is general and likely sensed through downstream, integrated signals. Next, we performed a transposon screen in M. smegmatis to uncover these putative regulatory nodes. Our screen revealed that mutating specific genes in the purine and pyrimidine biosynthesis pathways caused an aggregation defect, but supplementing with adenosine and guanosine had no impact on aggregation either in a purF mutant or WT. Realizing that the only genes we hit in purine or pyrimidine biosynthesis were those that utilized glutamine as a nitrogen donor, we pivoted to the hypothesis that intracellular glutamine could be a nitrogen-responsive node affecting aggregation. We tested this hypothesis in a defined M63 medium using targeted mass spectrometry. Indeed, intracellular glutamine increased with nitrogen availability and correlated with planktonic growth. Furthermore, a garA mutant, which has an artificially expanded glutamine pool in the growth phase, grew solely as planktonic cells even without nitrogen supplementation. Altogether, these results establish that intracellular glutamine controls M. smegmatis aggregation, and they introduce flux-dependent sensors as key components of the NTM biofilm regulatory system.IMPORTANCEA subset of nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM), including Mycobacterium abscessus, are opportunistic pathogens that can cause severe pulmonary infections. Biofilm formation renders M. abscessus more tolerant to antibiotics; hence, the ability to inhibit NTM biofilm formation could help us better prevent and treat NTM infections. However, the regulatory systems controlling NTM biofilm formation, which could include targets for anti-biofilm therapeutics, are poorly understood. The significance of this work is that it reveals intracellular glutamine as an important node controlling the initiation of biofilm formation in the model NTM Mycobacterium smegmatis. Building on this foundation, future studies will investigate how NTM biofilms can be dispersed by altering glutamine levels and will describe how NTM translates intracellular glutamine to the alteration of surface adhesins.},
}

@article {pmid41058107,
year = {2025},
author = {Olimpo, D and D'Angelo, C and Imbimbo, P and Morelli, M and Tutino, ML and Carpentieri, A and Monti, DM and Notomista, E and Parrilli, E},
title = {Novel Insights Into the Struggle Against Biofilm: The PsyOmp38 Protein From the Antarctic Marine Bacterium Psychrobacter sp. TAE2020.},
journal = {Microbial biotechnology},
volume = {18},
number = {10},
pages = {e70249},
doi = {10.1111/1751-7915.70249},
pmid = {41058107},
issn = {1751-7915},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Psychrobacter/genetics/metabolism/chemistry ; Antarctic Regions ; *Staphylococcus epidermidis/drug effects/physiology ; *Bacterial Proteins/genetics/pharmacology/metabolism/chemistry ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/metabolism ; Escherichia coli/genetics/metabolism ; Bacterial Adhesion/drug effects ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Vancomycin/pharmacology ; Recombinant Proteins/genetics/pharmacology/metabolism/isolation & purification ; },
abstract = {Antibiofilm molecules can enhance the effectiveness of antibiotics and prevent biofilm formation. Antarctic marine bacteria have been found to secrete antibiofilm molecules, likely as part of a strategy for competitive survival. The protein-polysaccharide complex CATASAN, produced by the Antarctic bacterium Psychrobacter sp. TAE2020, has been shown to interfere with all stages of Staphylococcus epidermidis biofilm development. This study investigates the contribution of PsyOmp38, the protein component of CATASAN, to the complex's antibiofilm activity. The protein was heterologously expressed in Escherichia coli, purified, and characterised, revealing its ability to inhibit Staphylococcus epidermidis adhesion to surfaces, interfere with biofilm formation, and disrupt mature biofilms. Following biocompatibility assessment, PsyOmp38 was tested in combination with vancomycin as a potential treatment for established infections, revealing a reduction in the minimum biofilm eradication concentration (MBEC) of vancomycin. The potential of PsyOmp38 for material functionalisation was also explored. The protein was deposited onto silicone-based surfaces, and the coated materials were tested in a continuous-flow system that simulated real-life conditions. Additionally, the three-dimensional structure of PsyOmp38 was predicted and compared with homologous proteins. The structural analysis not only revealed the unique features of PsyOmp38 but also provided important insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying its antibiofilm activity.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Psychrobacter/genetics/metabolism/chemistry
Antarctic Regions
*Staphylococcus epidermidis/drug effects/physiology
*Bacterial Proteins/genetics/pharmacology/metabolism/chemistry
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/metabolism
Escherichia coli/genetics/metabolism
Bacterial Adhesion/drug effects
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Vancomycin/pharmacology
Recombinant Proteins/genetics/pharmacology/metabolism/isolation & purification

@article {pmid41057678,
year = {2025},
author = {Mekky, AE and Saied, E and Al-Habibi, MM and Shouaib, ZA and Hasaballah, AI and Rashed, ME and Khalel, AF and Alshammari, AN and Youssef, FS and Al-Shahat, AM and Alfaifi, MY and Elbehairi, SEI and Aufy, M and Selim, TA},
title = {Correction: Eco‑friendly biosynthesis of gold nanoparticles from Amphimedon compressa with antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-biofilm, and insecticidal properties against diseases vectors.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {34847},
doi = {10.1038/s41598-025-22309-3},
pmid = {41057678},
issn = {2045-2322},
}

@article {pmid41055238,
year = {2025},
author = {Soimu, G and Parolia, A and Masiero, AV and Qian, F and Moninger, T and Banas, JA and Teixeira, FB},
title = {Efficacy of Supplementary Irrigation Methods Against Bacterial Biofilm-Infected Root Canals Prepared With Minimally Invasive and Conventional Techniques.},
journal = {Australian endodontic journal : the journal of the Australian Society of Endodontology Inc},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/aej.70024},
pmid = {41055238},
issn = {1747-4477},
support = {202404307//Univeristy of Iowa College of Dentsitry/ ; },
abstract = {This study evaluated the effectiveness of the GentleWave system (GWS), laser-activated irrigation (LAI), ultrasonic-activated irrigation (UAI) and sonic irrigation (SI) in removing a three-species biofilm from infected root canals prepared using minimally invasive techniques (MIT) and conventional instrumentation techniques (CIT). One hundred and ten single-canalled mandibular premolars were infected with the biofilm and assigned to five groups based on the supplementary irrigation method used. Biofilm removal was assessed using confocal laser scanning microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. In the CIT group, GWS resulted in a significantly higher proportion of dead cells compared to UAI and SI (p < 0.05), with no significant difference between GWS and LAI. In the MIT group, no significant differences were observed among the irrigation methods (p > 0.05). Although none of the approaches completely eliminated the biofilm, GWS and LAI were more effective than UAI and SI.},
}

@article {pmid41054241,
year = {2025},
author = {Madej-Gajewska, M and Janek, T and Gosecka, M and Gosecki, M and Urbaniak, M and Wielgus, E and John, Ł},
title = {Reversibly Cross-Linked Asymmetric Hybrid Open-Polysilsesquioxane Films Enhancing Clotrimazole Bioavailability and Anti-Candida Mature Biofilm Activity for Vaginal Therapy.},
journal = {ACS applied materials & interfaces},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acsami.5c12791},
pmid = {41054241},
issn = {1944-8252},
abstract = {Vulvovaginal candidiasis, primarily caused by Candida albicans, presents a significant therapeutic challenge due to fungal biofilm formation and the poor aqueous solubility of azole antifungals like clotrimazole, CLT. Films are increasingly favored as antimicrobial drug carriers due to their capacity to provide prolonged vaginal retention, extended shelf life, and simplified storage compared to traditional drug forms. Current film formulations, however, often suffer from nonuniform drug distribution, uncontrolled drug release, and compromised structural integrity. To overcome these limitations, we developed novel, water-swellable polymeric networks designed for enhanced clotrimazole bioavailability and potent anti-Candida biofilm activity. Our strategy involved the reversible cross-linking of unique asymmetric open-Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane (POSS) cages, functionalized with both hydrophobic, i.e., phenyl (IC-POSS[Ph]) or isobutyl (IC-POSS[iBu]) groups and bearing hydrophilic 1,2-diol moieties, with poly(dimethylacrylamide-2-acrylamidephenylboronic acid) (P(DMAM-2-AAPBA)) copolymers. We tailored the copolymer composition to achieve precise control over the network cross-linking density. Comprehensive characterization, including [11]B NMR spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, rheology, and SEM-EDS (scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy), elucidated the structure-property relationships. We demonstrated that IC-POSS[Ph] cages intrinsically prevent CLT crystallization, likely via π-π-stacking interactions, facilitating homogeneous drug distribution. Conversely, while IC-POSS[iBu] cages showed less inherent drug compatibility, the P(DMAM-2-AAPBA) copolymers were crucial for achieving uniform CLT dispersion within these networks. Our studies revealed that higher 2-AAPBA content in the copolymer increased network cross-linking density, leading to slower drug release. Moreover, π-π interactions between IC-POSS[Ph] cages in the networks contributed to a reduced swelling capacity and evidently slower drug release. Crucially, biological evaluations confirmed that these CLT-loaded polymeric films significantly enhanced antifungal efficacy against both planktonic C. albicans strains (ATCC 10231 and SC5314) and mature Candida biofilms, outperforming free CLT. This superior performance is attributed to the networks' ability to maintain CLT in the molecular state and enable its controlled release, thereby improving its bioavailability at the target site. The elaborated films also exhibited good cytocompatibility. This work highlights how subtle structural modifications in network components are crucial to achieving desired biological functions, representing a promising advance for antifungal drug delivery and, in general, hydrophobic drug carriers in various biomedical applications.},
}

@article {pmid41053638,
year = {2025},
author = {Sahin, MA and Yenidunya, OG and Kaleli, I and Atca, M},
title = {Surface roughness and biofilm formation on tooth-colored restorative materials immersed in food-simulating liquids.},
journal = {BMC oral health},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {1543},
pmid = {41053638},
issn = {1472-6831},
support = {#2023DİŞF007//Scientific Research Projects Committee of Pamukkale University with Grant/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; Surface Properties ; Composite Resins/chemistry ; Bacterial Adhesion ; *Dental Materials/chemistry ; Citric Acid/chemistry ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning ; *Food ; Materials Testing ; Saliva, Artificial/chemistry ; Dental Restoration, Permanent ; Humans ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: This study aimed to evaluate the surface roughness and biofilm formation of different restorative materials immersed in food-simulating liquids (FSLs), and to investigate the relationship between these parameters.

METHODS: A total of 220 disc-shaped specimens (8 mm diameter × 2 mm depth) were prepared using five restorative materials: alkasite [Cention N], giomer [Beautifil II], ormocer [Admira Fusion], direct composite [G-ænial A'Chord], and indirect composite [Gradia Plus] (n = 44 per material). Each material group was divided into four subgroups (n = 11), immersed in one of four solutions-heptane, ethanol, citric acid, or artificial saliva (control)-for 7 days, resulting in a total of 20 experimental subgroups. In each subgroup of 11 specimens, 10 were used for both surface roughness measurements (before and after immersion) and bacterial adhesion assessment using the colony-forming unit (CFU) method, while one was reserved for scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. Additionally, data were tested for normality using the Shapiro-Wilk test, and statistical analyses were performed using robust ANOVA and Bonferroni post hoc tests (p < 0.05).

RESULTS: Alkasite and giomer exhibited significantly higher surface roughness values, whereas indirect composite presented the lowest (p < 0.001). Regarding the immersion solutions, citric acid led to the most pronounced increase in surface roughness compared to the other solutions, while heptane had the least impact (p < 0.001). Consistent with these findings, alkasite and giomer demonstrated the highest levels of bacterial adhesion, in contrast to direct and indirect composite, which showed the lowest (p = 0.008). Furthermore, citric acid resulted in the greatest microbial retention among the solutions, and heptane the least (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS: The restorative materials exhibited varying degrees of susceptibility to the tested solutions. Alkasite and giomer showed the most pronounced surface changes, whereas the indirect composite group was the least affected. Among the solutions, citric acid caused the greatest surface alterations, while heptane had the least impact. Surface roughness emerged as a key factor influencing microbial retention on restorative materials.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
Surface Properties
Composite Resins/chemistry
Bacterial Adhesion
*Dental Materials/chemistry
Citric Acid/chemistry
Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
*Food
Materials Testing
Saliva, Artificial/chemistry
Dental Restoration, Permanent
Humans

@article {pmid41050920,
year = {2025},
author = {Tan, L and Sutton, K and Murphy, SV and Levi, N},
title = {Farnesol emulsion for elimination of Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm in a 3D airway model of cystic fibrosis.},
journal = {Biofilm},
volume = {10},
number = {},
pages = {100317},
pmid = {41050920},
issn = {2590-2075},
abstract = {Cystic fibrosis (CF), a life-shortening genetic disease, is hallmarked by mucus obstruction, respiratory deficiency, and chronic bacterial infections. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the most common virulent respiratory pathogen that is detrimental to the overall survival of CF patients. Here we evaluate the efficacy of farnesol emulsion, a broad-spectrum agent recently used to combat P. aeruginosa biofilm infections, for reducing P. aeruginosa infections in CF using a three-dimensional (3D) airway "organ tissue equivalent" (OTE) model. OTEs are fabricated using cells derived from human primary cells sourced from CF donors (CF-OTEs), which accurately recapitulate multiple key traits of human CF airways, including increased mucin accumulation and lower cilium beating frequency, compared to OTEs derived from normal donors (N-OTEs). The OTE model closely approximates the native CF condition to provide a platform where both mucoid and nonmucoid P. aeruginosa establish biofilms. Luminescence quantification and viable bacterial enumeration demonstrated that more P. aeruginosa biofilm mass developed upon CF-OTEs compared to non-CF (normal) OTEs. The capability to establish infection and biofilm formation, without acute tissue toxicity, allows for rapid discrimination of therapeutic efficacy in an accurate, human in vitro model. Farnesol emulsion disrupted P. aeruginosa biofilms in situ and also protected OTE lung cell viability. We propose that the 3D airway OTE infection model is a reliable preclinical tool for CF drug screening, with farnesol emulsion being a prospective drug candidate to treat P. aeruginosa biofilm infections in CF.},
}

@article {pmid41050759,
year = {2025},
author = {Ren, L and Yuan, Y and Farea, K and Feng, X and He, J and Liu, Y and Zheng, B},
title = {The adaptability of Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm in oxygen-limited environments.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1655335},
pmid = {41050759},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Pseudomonas aeruginosa/physiology/genetics/metabolism/drug effects ; *Oxygen/metabolism ; Quorum Sensing ; Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial ; *Adaptation, Physiological ; Humans ; Anaerobiosis ; Virulence Factors/metabolism ; Cyclic GMP/analogs & derivatives/metabolism ; Phenazines/metabolism ; Pseudomonas Infections/microbiology ; Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics ; },
abstract = {Under oxygen-limited conditions, the adaptability and underlying mechanisms of bacterial biofilms have become key areas of interest in microbiology and clinical infection research. Within biofilms-composed of bacterial communities and extracellular matrix-an oxygen gradient commonly forms, resulting in hypoxic or even anoxic microenvironments. Such conditions substantially increase biofilm antibiotic resistance and facilitate the persistence of chronic infections. This review systematically summarizes the adaptive strategies employed by biofilms in hypoxic environments, including anaerobic metabolism, phenazine-mediated electron shuttling, and virulence factor regulation. These adaptive responses are governed by genes involved in anaerobic metabolism, quorum sensing systems, and the secondary messenger 3,5-cyclic diguanylic acid (c-di-GMP), which collectively influence biofilm formation. Key transcriptional regulators such as Anr and Dnr, the two-component system NarXL, along with specific functional genes, form an intricate regulatory network. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the adaptive mechanisms of Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms under oxygen-limited conditions, providing a theoretical foundation for the development of novel anti-infective therapies, targeting the biofilm infection microenvironment in cystic fibrosis and chronic wounds.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/physiology/genetics/metabolism/drug effects
*Oxygen/metabolism
Quorum Sensing
Gene Expression Regulation, Bacterial
*Adaptation, Physiological
Humans
Anaerobiosis
Virulence Factors/metabolism
Cyclic GMP/analogs & derivatives/metabolism
Phenazines/metabolism
Pseudomonas Infections/microbiology
Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics

@article {pmid41050202,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, Z and Fu, B and Zhang, H and Li, M and Peng, X and Niu, H and Chen, Y and Zhu, C and Liu, J and Liu, D and Ying, H},
title = {Biofilm-based continuous secretion of human lysozyme through cell-surface display of FimH on Saccharomyces cerevisiae.},
journal = {Synthetic and systems biotechnology},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {28-36},
pmid = {41050202},
issn = {2405-805X},
abstract = {Biofilms enhance microbial tolerance to harsh environments while preserving cellular activity over prolonged periods. Although biofilm-based continuous fermentation is widely applied for production of small-molecule chemicals, its application to macromolecular protein production has been rarely reported. Here, FimH, an adhesin from E. coli fimbriae that is employed for mannose-specific adherence and promotes biofilm formation, was displayed on the surface of S. cerevisiae using the anchoring proteins Sag1C, Sed1, Cwp2 and Ccw12, resulting in an 80-150 % enhancement in biofilm formation. Among them, Sed1 was the most effective, followed by Sag1C. A biofilm-based fermentation system for continuous secretion of human lysozyme (hLYZ) was established via cell-surface display of FimH in S. cerevisiae, achieving stable operation for over 350 h. The engineered strain BY4742-Sag1C-hlyz achieved an average extracellular hLYZ activity of 113.1 U/mL, significantly higher than the control BY4742-hlyz (41.6 U/mL), owing to enhanced cell adhesion that increased the total cell number in biofilm-based fermentation. Its productivity reached 2.36 U/mL/h, representing a 77.4 % increase compared with free-cell fermentation of BY4742-hlyz (1.33 U/mL/h). In conclusion, this study first achieved heterologous expression of a bacterial biofilm-forming gene in S. cerevisiae, enhancing biofilm formation and providing a reference for future expression of bacterial biofilm-related genes in yeast. Furthermore, biofilm-based fermentation enabled continuous secretion of hLYZ, highlighting a promising strategy for continuous production of recombinant proteins.},
}

@article {pmid41050139,
year = {2026},
author = {Pang, X and Zhang, C and Xiao, Q and Cheng, Y and Dai, Q and Chen, H and Tan, S and Liu, G and Zeng, Y},
title = {Sonotheranostic nanosideromycin eradicates bacterial biofilm infections via ultrasound-detonated ROS generation and ferroptosis-like death.},
journal = {Bioactive materials},
volume = {55},
number = {},
pages = {241-256},
pmid = {41050139},
issn = {2452-199X},
abstract = {Biofilm formation poses a severe challenge to antibacterial stewardship. While siderophore-antibiotic conjugates (termed as sideromycins) offer a promising solution, their efficacy is inherently limited by antibiotic resistance. To transcend this barrier, we pioneer a transformative siderophore-sonosensitizer conjugate through covalent linkage of a catechol siderophore to purpurin 18 (a sonosensitizer). This novel conjugate further self-assembles with iron(III) ions, forming the first-reported carrier-free nanosideromycin-an all-in-on iron-siderophore-sonosensitizer nanoplatform. This design enables ultrasound-denotated reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and ferroptosis-like amplication. Capitalizing on bacteria-specific siderophore uptake and pH-responsive assembly/disassembly, the nanosideromycin enables precision delivery and active internalization of sonosensitizers into bacteria. This strategy permits real-time localization of infections via concurrent fluorescence/photoacoustic and magnetic resonance imaging. Upon ultrasound irradiation, dual antimicrobial mechanisms of sonosensitizer-mediated sonodynamic therapy and siderophore/iron-augmented sono-Fenton catalysis are stimuonously unleashed, synergistically tirggering an explosive ROS burst and potent ferroptosis-like bacterial death. As a result, mice with multidrug-resistant biofilm-induced pyomyositis were completely cured. Collectively, this first-in-class theranostic nanosideromycin integrates highly-targeted imaging diagnostics, cost-effective yet ultra-efficient ROS generation, and ferroptosis-like bacterial killing, establishing a paradigm-shifting strategy for biofilm therapy with spatiotemporal controllability.},
}

@article {pmid41047914,
year = {2025},
author = {Nouraei, H and Amirzadeh, N and Ahmadi, F and Pakshir, K},
title = {A Comparative Evaluation of Exoenzyme Production, Biofilm Development, and Cell Surface Hydrophobicity in Dominant Genotypes of Candida albicans.},
journal = {Journal of clinical laboratory analysis},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e70115},
doi = {10.1002/jcla.70115},
pmid = {41047914},
issn = {1098-2825},
support = {31009//Shiraz University of Medical Sciences/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Candida albicans exhibits significant genotypic diversity, and genotypes A and C are the most predominant clinical isolates. The aim of this study was to evaluate the virulence traits of these genotypes, focusing on exoenzyme production, biofilm formation, and cell surface hydrophobicity (CSH) property.

METHODS: A total of 15 genotype A and 15 genotype C clinical C. albicans isolates were evaluated for proteinase, phospholipase, and esterase activities using standard methods. Biofilm formation was quantified using a microtiter plate assay, and CSH was measured using a water-octane two-phase assay.

RESULTS: The study found that Genotype C had higher proteinase and phospholipase activity but no esterase production, while 40% of Genotype A isolates showed strong esterase activity. Biofilm formation and CSH did not differ significantly, though Genotype A trended toward stronger biofilm formation.

CONCLUSION: This study highlights how genotypic variation in C. albicans influences virulence, with Genotype C exhibiting a distinct profile (high proteinase/phospholipase, no esterase) that may enhance pathogenicity, while Genotype A shows adaptability through variable enzyme production and stronger biofilm trends. These differences underscore the need for genotype-specific diagnostics and targeted therapies to improve candidiasis treatment.},
}

@article {pmid41047754,
year = {2025},
author = {Gilmore, AL and Vu, H and Hylen, KM and Adams, J and Epperson, RT and Kawaguchi, B and Garrett, C and Ashton, NN and Cozzone, E and Florek, CA and Armbruster, DA and Rothberg, DL and Williams, DL},
title = {In Vivo Efficacy of an Antibiotic Wound Gel in a Sheep Model of Bone Trauma and Biofilm-Related Infection.},
journal = {Journal of biomedical materials research. Part B, Applied biomaterials},
volume = {113},
number = {10},
pages = {e35669},
doi = {10.1002/jbm.b.35669},
pmid = {41047754},
issn = {1552-4981},
support = {W81XWH-20-1-0378//Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; Sheep ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Tobramycin/pharmacology/chemistry ; Gels ; Disease Models, Animal ; *Wound Infection/drug therapy/microbiology/pathology ; },
abstract = {Traumatic extremity injuries suffer a high probability of infection and often amputation due to contamination and delays in treatment. Military service members are predisposed to injury while engaged in conflict, yet current military adherence to antibiotic administration protocols following traumatic injury is lacking. Moreover, systemic antibiotic prophylaxis might not effectively eradicate biofilm throughout the wound site. Previously, an antibiotic wound gel was created to address current limitations of prophylactic antibiotic treatment in austere environments, particularly the battlefield, by offering a simple solution to control the release of tobramycin over a one-week period. We hypothesized that tobramycin eluted from the gel would effectively manage biofilm-related infection when tested in a large animal model of traumatic long-bone injury. Sheep were either treated with tobramycin-loaded gel or gel alone, and the reduction in bioburden was determined by quantifying tissue and inoculation substrates after a one-week period. Results indicated the wound gel was effective at managing biofilm in this model, with no detectable growth observed in tissues collected from treated animals. Further, the antibiotic-loaded wound gel significantly reduced the severity of the inflammatory response in the surrounding tissue. Biofilm presence was confirmed in scanning electron and light microscopy images of tissues treated with gel alone. Additionally, reactive bone growth, a characteristic of biofilm infection, was consistently observed in all untreated animals but appeared effectively managed in those treated with the antibiotic wound gel. Localized delivery of a broad-spectrum antibiotic from a controlled-release gel can improve adherence to antibiotic administration guidelines and has a greater potential to stabilize biofilm-contaminated wound sites quickly after injury while also mitigating a severe inflammatory response.},
}

Animals
*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
Sheep
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
*Tobramycin/pharmacology/chemistry
Gels
Disease Models, Animal
*Wound Infection/drug therapy/microbiology/pathology

@article {pmid41047352,
year = {2025},
author = {Seraphina, K and Furukido, R and Isobe, N and Nii, T and Kurokawa, Y and Suzuki, N},
title = {Effect of lactoferrin on biofilm formation of bovine mastitis-causing Staphylococcus species.},
journal = {The Journal of veterinary medical science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1292/jvms.25-0230},
pmid = {41047352},
issn = {1347-7439},
abstract = {The most common bovine mastitis pathogen is the Staphylococcus species, consisting of Staphylococcus aureus and non-aureus staphylococci (NAS). Lactoferrin (Lf) is an iron-binding protein with antimicrobial and antibiofilm properties. Lf has a metal-free form (apo-Lf) and a natural form (native-Lf), and their differences were reported to affect their activity against bacteria. However, its effects on bovine mastitis-causing Staphylococcus spp. remain unclear. Fifteen S. aureus and 49 NAS strains were isolated from bovine mastitis cases, and their growth and biofilm-forming abilities were observed. Bacterial growth and biofilm formation were observed by culturing each strain with/without bovine milk apo-/native-lactoferrin (200 μg/mL). Without Lf treatment, the growth and biofilm formation abilities of S. aureus were significantly higher and lower, respectively, than those of NAS. The growth of S. aureus and NAS significantly decreased during apo-Lf treatment and significantly reduced the total amount of biofilm produced by S. aureus whereas native-LF treatment did not affect the growth and biofilm formation of Staphylococcus species. These results confirmed the ability of Lf to act as an antimicrobial and antibiofilm substance against mastitis-causing Staphylococcus spp., although various responses from each strain were observed. Additionally, the iron-binding state of Lf affected growth but did not affect the biofilm formation ability. Differences in the responses of Staphylococcus strains to Lf may help explain their pathogenicity, requiring further research.},
}

@article {pmid41046791,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, H and Chen, H and Ruan, C and Liao, J and Schwarz, C and Shi, B and Alvarez, PJJ and Yu, P},
title = {Nanoplastics induce prophage activation and quorum sensing to enhance biofilm mechanical and chemical resilience.},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {288},
number = {Pt B},
pages = {124712},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2025.124712},
pmid = {41046791},
issn = {1879-2448},
abstract = {Despite the prevalence of nanoplastics (NPs) in natural and engineered water systems and their association with microbial risks, bacterium-phage interactions have been largely overlooked in the context of biofilm formation. Here, we investigated the effects of positively (PS-NH2) and negatively (PS-COOH) charged polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) on dual-species biofilms composed of Escherichia coli (λ+) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. PS-NPs promoted biofilm formation and stability at environmentally relevant concentrations (e.g., 100-1000 ng/L), with PS-NH2 exhibiting higher influence. The cellular internalization of PS-NPs increased the reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels by 2.18-2.25 folds, triggered prophage λ activation followed by lysis of E. coli (λ+) after exposure to PS-NPs. Transcriptomic analyses revealed that PS-NPs, especially PS-NH2, activated the SOS response (2.35-2.63-fold), λ phage replication (2.68-3.97-fold), and interspecies quorum sensing (2.24-5.13-fold), which was verified by the proteomic analyses. Therefore, PS-NPs stimulated protective extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) secretion with eDNA content increased to 325.8-433.8 μg/cm[2]. Enhanced EPS production contributed to improved biofilm mechanical properties (1.46-1.57-fold as measured by atomic force microscopy) and increased resistance to chlorine disinfection. Metagenomic analysis of pipeline biofilm demonstrated that PS-NPs promoted bacterium-phage interactions and enhanced bacterial antiviral defense systems, which stimulated multi-species biofilm formation and enhanced environmental resilience. Overall, our findings provide novel insights into the interplay between nanoplastics and bacterium-phage dynamics, highlighting increased microbial risks associated with waterborne nanoplastics.},
}

@article {pmid41045105,
year = {2025},
author = {Jyoti, and Arya, S and Peng, X and Pumera, M},
title = {Virus Enhanced Microrobots for Biofilm Eradication.},
journal = {Advanced materials (Deerfield Beach, Fla.)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e08299},
doi = {10.1002/adma.202508299},
pmid = {41045105},
issn = {1521-4095},
support = {EXPRO: 25-15484X//Czech Republic/ ; CZ.02.01.01/00/22_008/0004587//ERDF/ESF project TECHSCALE/ ; CZ.10.03.01/00/22_003/0000048//European Union under the REFRESH - Research Excellence For REgion Sustainability and High-tech Industries/ ; LM2023050//European Union under the REFRESH - Research Excellence For REgion Sustainability and High-tech Industries/ ; //MEYSCR/ ; },
abstract = {Biofilms pose significant challenges in biomedical, industrial, and environmental applications due to their inherent resistance to antimicrobial agents. This study introduced an innovative and effective strategy for biofilm eradication by employing virus-conjugated microrobots (virus@microbots). These biofunctionalized microrobots are synthesized via the hydrothermal method, followed by the functionalization of the viruses. The synergy of microrobots' active movement and the virus's specificity boosted biofilm removal by enabling targeted binding, penetration, and effective delivery into the biofilm matrices. Additionally, compared to microrobots alone, virus@microbots significantly accelerated and refined the process. By integrating biological specificity with magnetic responsiveness, this approach demonstrated the efficacy of virus@microbotsas as a viable antibacterial strategy for biofilm elimination, offering a promising antibacterial platform for combating biofilm-associated infections. Future research should focus on optimizing microrobot design and viral conjugation protocols to enhance scalability and therapeutic specificity, paving the way for clinical translation and broader applications in infection control.},
}

@article {pmid41044369,
year = {2025},
author = {Huang, M and Liu, M and Yang, W and Qin, P and Zhang, Y and Yu, D},
title = {Impact of hcp and vgrG on Acinetobacter baumannii biofilm formation during infection of human pulmonary alveolar epithelial cells.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {34632},
pmid = {41044369},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {Humans ; *Acinetobacter baumannii/physiology/metabolism/genetics ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; *Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics ; *Alveolar Epithelial Cells/microbiology/metabolism ; *Acinetobacter Infections/microbiology/metabolism ; Pulmonary Alveoli/microbiology ; Type VI Secretion Systems/metabolism/genetics ; Tandem Mass Spectrometry ; },
abstract = {The purpose of this research is to examine the impact of key type VI secretion system (T6SS) proteins hemolysin coregulated protein (Hcp) and valine-glycine repeat protein G (VgrG) on the metabolism of Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii). Homologous recombination technology was used to construct hcp knockout strain (ATCC17978Δhcp), vgrG knockout strain (ATCC17978ΔvgrG), and a combined hcp and vgrG knockout strain (ATCC17978ΔhcpΔvgrG), with the wild-type A. baumannii strain (ATCC17978) used as a control. These strains were co-cultured with human pulmonary alveolar epithelial cells (HPAEpiC), respectively. Subsequently, a non-targeted metabolomic analysis of the co-culture supernatant, bacteria, and cells was conducted using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). In the bacterial three-pair comparison groups, the major differential metabolites were organic acids and derivatives, as well as organic oxygen compounds (p < 0.05). Further analysis of the major differential metabolites in bacteria revealed five common metabolites with statistically significant differences (p < 0.05), which were N-acetyl-d-glucosamine 6-phosphate, 6-hydroxypseudooxynicotine, 3-deoxy-D-manno-octulosonate, N-Acetylneuraminic acid, and N-acetylmuramoyl-Ala. The annotation of the above five differential metabolites identified five common metabolic pathways with statistically significant differences (p < 0.05). Among these, phosphotransferase system (PTS) showed significant statistical differences (p = 0.01, p = 0.04, p = 0.03) in ATCC17978Δhcp, ATCC17978ΔvgrG, and ATCC17978ΔhcpΔvgrG. The deletion of hcp and the combined deletion of hcp and vgrG led to a downregulation of PTS overall expression, while the deletion of vgrG did not show a significant change in the overall expression level of PTS. The PTS shows a correlation with biofilm formation. The validation experiments demonstrated that ATCC17978Δhcp exhibited significant phenotypic defects, including reduced biofilm formation capacity and visible surface damage under scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In contrast, ATCC17978ΔvgrG maintained wild-type levels of biofilm formation and intact bacterial morphology. Notably, ATCC17978ΔhcpΔvgrG displayed a unique phenotypic reversal, characterized by enhanced biofilm formation, intact bacterial structure, and increased extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) secretion. However, all mutant strains exhibited decreased adhesion ability. The expression levels of biofilm-related genes in each strain showed a positive correlation with their biofilm formation capacity. These results demonstrate that while the PTS influences biofilm formation, it does not serve as the sole regulatory mechanism. The hcp gene plays a crucial role in biofilm formation, whereas the vgrG gene exhibits minimal impact on biofilm formation. Their co-deletion triggers compensatory pathways enhancing biofilm production.},
}

Humans
*Acinetobacter baumannii/physiology/metabolism/genetics
*Biofilms/growth & development
*Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics
*Alveolar Epithelial Cells/microbiology/metabolism
*Acinetobacter Infections/microbiology/metabolism
Pulmonary Alveoli/microbiology
Type VI Secretion Systems/metabolism/genetics
Tandem Mass Spectrometry

@article {pmid41043260,
year = {2025},
author = {Gambardella, C and Basili, M and Castelli, F and Miroglio, R and Manini, E and Quero, GM and Almeda, R and Regoli, F and Faimali, M and Garaventa, F},
title = {Early biofilm colonization on traditional and biodegradable plastics in the Baltic Sea using a mesocosm approach.},
journal = {Marine environmental research},
volume = {212},
number = {},
pages = {107592},
doi = {10.1016/j.marenvres.2025.107592},
pmid = {41043260},
issn = {1879-0291},
abstract = {Bioplastics are promising alternatives to conventional plastics, but their potential entry into marine ecosystems highlights the need for a better understanding of their interactions with microbial communities, including their role in the plastisphere. Here, we characterized the early biofilm formation on traditional plastics and bioplastics using a mesocosm approach. We tested the hypothesis that distinct bacterial communities selectively colonize traditional and biodegradable plastics in the marine environment. Specifically, fragments of the petroleum-based plastic polypropylene (PP) and the bioplastics Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate)- hydroxyvalerate (PHBv) and polylactic acid (PLA) were submerged in Baltic Sea mesocosms for three weeks. Biofilm colonization, prokaryotic abundance, and community composition were assessed through scanning electronic microscopy analysis, epifluorescence microscopy and 16S rRNA gene metabarcoding, respectively. Biofilm development increased over time on both traditional and bioplastics, with photosynthetic organisms appearing after 3 weeks. However, prokaryotic abundance decreased over time except on PLA surfaces. Prokaryotic communities' composition differed among biofilms formed on the different polymers. The microbial community associated with conventional plastic PP was more similar to that of the seawater in the control treatment, while biofilms on PLA and PHBv shared a higher degree of similarity with each other. These findings suggest that microbial communities selectively colonize different plastic types, with bioplastics supporting distinct and specific bacterial biofilm assemblages over three-week exposure. The great diversity observed in bioplastics, particularly PLA, suggests they may support more complex and potentially active plastisphere communities after only three weeks of exposure to the Baltic Sea.},
}

@article {pmid41042408,
year = {2025},
author = {Singh, J and Agrawal, RK and Bankoti, K and Sarkar, R and Saini, M and Kashyap, K and Kumar, D and Sharma, GK and Jha, PN and Jain, S and Singh, BR},
title = {Antibacterial, anti-biofilm and anti-virulence activity of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles against drug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.},
journal = {Veterinary research communications},
volume = {49},
number = {6},
pages = {345},
pmid = {41042408},
issn = {1573-7446},
support = {CRG/2021/003683/BHS//Department of Science and Technology, Ministry of Science and Technology, India/ ; NAHEP CAAST-ACLH//Indian Council of Agricultural Research/ ; },
mesh = {*Silver/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Biofilms/drug effects ; *Metal Nanoparticles/chemistry ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Plant Extracts/chemistry/pharmacology ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology/pathogenicity ; Virulence/drug effects ; Plant Leaves/chemistry ; },
abstract = {Antibiotic resistance in bacteria has become a major concern for the effective treatment of infections; therefore, alternatives to antibiotics are being extensively researched to combat drug-resistant microbes. In this study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were biosynthesized using aqueous extracts of papaya leaves (Carica papaya), cannabis leaves (Cannabis sativa), and cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) and characterized by field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and UV-visible spectrophotometry. Biosynthesized AgNPs were evaluated for their antibacterial, anti-biofilm, and anti-virulence potential by phenotypic and genotypic methods. AgNPs biosynthesized by all three extracts had spherical morphology and sizes in the nanoscale, average diameter ranging from 46.05 to 94.12 nm. Antibacterial susceptibility testing of S. aureus field isolates under study revealed 48% (24/50) and 38% (19/50) to be resistant to methicillin and amoxycillin-clavulanic acid, respectively. Antibacterial activity of biosynthesized AgNPs against S. aureus strains was determined by the well diffusion method. AgNPs were found to be effective on 90.90% (50/55) S. aureus strains with a zone of inhibition varying from 10 to 21 mm. The AgNPs were also found to be effective on other important bacterial pathogens (viz. Bacillus cereus ATCC 10876, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853, Salmonella Enteritidis ATCC 13070, Escherichia coli ATCC 43888, and Listeria monocytogenes MTCC 657) screened in the study with a ZOI of 15-18 mm. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of AgNPs against S. aureus ranged between 0.015625-0.125 mg/mL and 0.015625-0.25 mg/mL, respectively. In the time kill assay, AgNPs were able to kill S. aureus rapidly within 0.5-1.0 h. In the haemolytic assay, 4-9% haemolysis was observed at concentrations ranging from 0.015625 to 0.25 mg/mL of AgNPs. Biofilm-forming ability of all strains of S. aureus (n = 55) determined by crystal violet assay revealed that 87.27% (48/55) were biofilm formers, while 12.73% (7/55) were non-biofilm formers. Out of 48 biofilm-forming strains, 81.25% (39/48) were strong biofilm producers, 10.41% (5/48) were moderate biofilm producers, and 8.33% (4/48) were weak biofilm producers. Anti-biofilm effect of AgNPs was found at sub-MIC (0.03125 mg/mL), phenotypically. Exopolysaccharide production was found to be reduced by 53.38% indicating the anti-virulence potential of AgNPs at sub-MIC. Relative expression analysis revealed that AgNPs downregulated the expression of biofilm-related genes, namely icaC, icaD, and spa, by 14.2, 10.6, and 8.7-fold, respectively, compared to the control at 3 h of incubation. Other biofilm-related and virulence genes, including icaA, icaB, icaR, agr, ebps, fnb-B, sar-A, and katA, were also found to be downregulated by 7.4, 7.5, 6.2, 5, 4.2, 7.3, 4, and 3.6-fold, respectively, at 3 h. All the target genes were also found to be downregulated at 24 h post-treatment with AgNPs, except icaD, icaR, and agr, which were slightly upregulated. In the present study, AgNPs were successfully biosynthesized and found to possess broad-spectrum antibacterial activity, reduce biofilm formation, and EPS production. Biosynthesized AgNPs has potential to be utilized as antibacterial, anti-biofilm, and anti-virulence agents against S. aureus, as alternative to conventional antibacterial agents.},
}

*Silver/pharmacology/chemistry
*Biofilms/drug effects
*Metal Nanoparticles/chemistry
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Plant Extracts/chemistry/pharmacology
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology/pathogenicity
Virulence/drug effects
Plant Leaves/chemistry

@article {pmid41041227,
year = {2025},
author = {Sahai, S and Das, NK},
title = {Antibiotic resistance and biofilm formation in Klebsiella pneumoniae: A global health threat.},
journal = {Journal of family medicine and primary care},
volume = {14},
number = {8},
pages = {3610-3611},
pmid = {41041227},
issn = {2249-4863},
}

@article {pmid41041072,
year = {2025},
author = {You, W and Xiao, F and Cai, Z and Zhao, J and Zhang, Z and Hu, W and Chen, Y and Choy, KL and Wang, Z},
title = {Biofilm-disrupting heterojunction microneedles: dual ROS amplification and glucose deprivation for accelerated diabetic wound healing.},
journal = {Theranostics},
volume = {15},
number = {18},
pages = {9757-9774},
pmid = {41041072},
issn = {1838-7640},
mesh = {Animals ; *Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Wound Healing/drug effects ; *Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism ; Rats ; Glucose Oxidase/metabolism ; *Needles ; *Glucose/metabolism ; Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/complications ; Male ; Rats, Sprague-Dawley ; Anti-Bacterial Agents ; },
abstract = {Rationale: Diabetic wound healing process is critically hindered by bacterial infection, bacterial biofilm formation, and persistent hyperglycemia. Biomolecular microneedles represent a promising alternative to conventional therapies such as antibiotics and antibiotic-loaded wound dressings, owing to the advantages like reduced risk of drug resistance and enhanced long-term efficacy. However, the microneedles that fulfill the clinical needs of diabetic wounds have rarely been reported. Methods: A glucose oxidase (GOx)-laden Ti3C2/In2O3 (INTG) heterojunction was engineered as a nano-micro platform for reactive oxygen species (ROS) amplification and glucose deprivation, and subsequently immobilized onto the gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) microneedle tips to obtain double-layer microneedles (GITG microneedles). Their physiochemical properties and biomedical applications were comprehensively investigated. Results: For INTG heterojunction, the formation of Schottky structure significantly improved the oxygen absorption capacity, facilitated the generation and migration of photogenerated electron-hole pairs, thereby promoting the ROS generation. Besides, under near-infrared (NIR) irradiation, GITG microneedles effectively inhibited bacterial proliferation and survival by generating ROS, thereby preventing the formation of bacterial biofilm. Additionally, GITG microneedles accelerated wound closure and facilitated skin tissue regeneration in a rat model through multiple mechanisms. Conclusion: This study developed an advanced microneedle platform enabling on-demand multimodal treatment, demonstrating significant potential for clinical diabetic wound management.},
}

Animals
*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Wound Healing/drug effects
*Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism
Rats
Glucose Oxidase/metabolism
*Needles
*Glucose/metabolism
Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/complications
Male
Rats, Sprague-Dawley
Anti-Bacterial Agents

@article {pmid41040988,
year = {2025},
author = {Chen, Y and Lin, S and Huang, X and Zhou, W},
title = {From biofilm control to biomimetic remineralization: Hydrogels in prevention and treatment of dental caries.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1663563},
pmid = {41040988},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {*Hydrogels/therapeutic use/chemistry/pharmacology ; *Dental Caries/prevention & control/microbiology/therapy/drug therapy ; *Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; Humans ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; Probiotics/therapeutic use ; Saliva/microbiology ; Biomimetics/methods ; Tooth Remineralization/methods ; Biomineralization ; },
abstract = {Dental caries, a prevalent chronic bacterial disease globally, poses a significant threat to public health due to its complex pathogenesis involving demineralization and microbial dysbiosis. Hydrogels, with their unique three-dimensional network structures and diverse properties, have shown great potential in prevention and treatment of dental caries. This article systematically reviews recent advances in anti-caries hydrogel development. It first introduces the basis of anti-caries hydrogels, covering the applications of natural and semi-synthetic polymers as hydrogel matrices. Then, it elaborates on the mechanisms and research status of different types of anti-caries hydrogels, including probiotic formulations, antibacterial hydrogels, remineralization-inducing hydrogels, and saliva-related caries-reducing hydrogels. Finally, it summarizes the current research achievements and limitations and looks ahead to future research directions.},
}

*Hydrogels/therapeutic use/chemistry/pharmacology
*Dental Caries/prevention & control/microbiology/therapy/drug therapy
*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
Humans
Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology
Probiotics/therapeutic use
Saliva/microbiology
Biomimetics/methods
Tooth Remineralization/methods
Biomineralization

@article {pmid41040982,
year = {2025},
author = {Bennett, AN and Maziarz, JF and Laipply, B and Cole, AL and Woolard, KJ and Sorge, A and Zeiler, MJ and Melander, RJ and Melander, C and Gunn, JS},
title = {Mechanisms of antibiofilm compounds JG-1 and M4 across multiple species: alterations of protein interactions essential to biofilm formation.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1631575},
pmid = {41040982},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; *Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics ; Enterobacter cloacae/drug effects/physiology ; Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects ; Salmonella typhimurium/drug effects/physiology ; Acinetobacter baumannii/drug effects ; Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects ; Humans ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Enterococcus faecium/drug effects ; },
abstract = {The majority of human bacterial pathogens have the ability to form biofilms in vivo on body tissues and implantable medical devices. Biofilm-mediated chronic bacterial infections are difficult to treat due to their recalcitrance to antimicrobials and immune effectors, often requiring invasive surgical intervention to clear the infection. The difficulty in effectively executing these treatment strategies underscores the need for therapeutic agents that specifically target the biofilm state. To this end, we previously identified two small molecules, JG-1 and M4, that in vitro effectively inhibit and disperse biofilms of Salmonella Typhimurium and members of the ESKAPE pathogen group, including Enterobacter cloacae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Acinetobacter baumannii. In addition to its antibiofilm effects, M4 has a bactericidal effect on Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecium. While these compounds have promising utility as antimicrobial agents, their mechanism of action remains unknown. By employing multiple techniques including RNAseq, thermal proteome profiling, and site directed mutagenesis, we identified multiple proteins essential to biofilm formation and evaluated their role in the presence of JG-1 and M4 in mutant and wildtype backgrounds. We report that the JG-1 and M4 actions are influenced by proteins important to biofilm maintenance, including OmpA, OmpC, and TrxA. Compound-bacteria interactions cause transcriptional changes that result in biofilm dispersal, and modulation of other virulence mechanisms, including invasion and motility. Additionally, we report that M4 interacts with S. aureus CodY, which promotes cell death, while the specific targets in S. Typhimurium and E. cloacae remain elusive. Collectively, this study presents an empirical investigation into JG-1 and M4's mechanism of action in S. Typhimurium, E. cloacae, and S. aureus, and how the antibiofilm compounds disrupt microbial community dynamics, ultimately driving biofilm dispersal or cell death.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
*Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/genetics
Enterobacter cloacae/drug effects/physiology
Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects
Salmonella typhimurium/drug effects/physiology
Acinetobacter baumannii/drug effects
Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects
Humans
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Enterococcus faecium/drug effects

@article {pmid41040157,
year = {2025},
author = {Withorn, JM and Ramcharan, K and Alfano, NE and Mendoza, AG and Fu, J and Guercio, D and MacDermott, A and Byrne, KE and Boon, EM},
title = {Pseudomonas aeruginosa uses kinases NahK and RetS to control the motile-biofilm switch.},
journal = {bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1101/2025.09.24.678285},
pmid = {41040157},
issn = {2692-8205},
abstract = {The multidrug-resistant bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Pa) poses a significant threat to public health. This Gram-negative bacterium establishes pathogenicity through formation of multicellular communities, known as biofilms, that result in significant resistance to antibiotics and host immune systems. In Pa , the motile-to-biofilm transition is regulated through an interconnected signaling network known as the Gac Multikinase Network (Gac-MKN). This network comprises two regulatory branches: the HptB signaling network and GacS/A signaling network. In the Gac-MKN, several histidine kinases converge to regulate the activity of the post-transcriptional regulator protein, RsmA. Although previous studies have assessed the role of individual kinases in this network, the role of each Gac-MKN kinase in regulating RsmA activity has not been quantitatively characterized and compared in side-by-side experiments in the same reference strain, which is presented here. In this study, we show that kinases NahK and RetS are the predominant regulators of the Gac-MKN. Through controlled testing of RsmA-dependent phenotypes, we demonstrate loss of nahK or retS leads to complete inactivation of RsmA, triggering biofilm formation. Our results support previous findings that RetS regulates RsmA through the GacS/A network but present the new finding that NahK is the central kinase involved in HptB phosphorylation; previous studies have attributed HptB phosphorylation to PA1611 and SagS. Our findings demonstrate that NahK signaling controls RsmA activity to rapidly transition between the motile and biofilm states. We anticipate the results of this study will facilitate the use of targeting the Gac-MKN to trigger biofilm dispersal for improved antibiotic treatment.},
}

@article {pmid41039685,
year = {2025},
author = {García, C and Saralegui, L and Morales, B and Jurado, P and Bes, MT and Marín, C and Arenas, J},
title = {Identification of ShgH as a dual histidine/glutamine transporter component essential for Streptococcus suis virulence and biofilm modulation.},
journal = {Microbiological research},
volume = {302},
number = {},
pages = {128354},
doi = {10.1016/j.micres.2025.128354},
pmid = {41039685},
issn = {1618-0623},
abstract = {Streptococcus suis is a zoonotic pathogen that affects pigs and humans. In this study, we characterised ShgH, a predicted substrate-binding component of an ABC transporter. Immunoassays confirmed that ShgH is expressed, secreted and surface-exposed in S. suis, in agreement with its proposed transporter function. Isothermal titration calorimetry demonstrated that ShgH binds glutamine and histidine, with a higher affinity for histidine. Deletion of the shgH gene significantly impaired uptake of both radiolabelled amino acids confirming its role as part of a transporter. Functional analysis revealed that shgH deletion results in a marked reduction in virulence in a murine infection model, while host colonization remained unaffected. ShgH contributes to infection by facilitating evasion of phagocytosis and resistance to oxidative stress through impaired nutrient acquisition and reduced capsule production. In addition, ShgH regulates biofilm formation and architecture. Notably, ShgH is highly conserved among pathogenic streptococci, suggesting a broader functional relevance. Altogether, our findings identify ShgH as a dual glutamine/histidine- binding protein essential for nutrient uptake and virulence in S. suis, and a promising target for future therapeutic interventions.},
}

@article {pmid41039565,
year = {2025},
author = {Sato, Y and Hatayama, N and Suzuki, Y and Yugeta, N and Yoshino, Y},
title = {Urinary tract infection due to Staphylococcus schleiferi biofilm formation in the subcutaneous ureteral bypass system in a cat.},
journal = {BMC veterinary research},
volume = {21},
number = {1},
pages = {566},
pmid = {41039565},
issn = {1746-6148},
support = {24K11641//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; 22-72//ACRO Incubation Grants from Teikyo University/ ; 23-93//ACRO Incubation Grants from Teikyo University/ ; },
mesh = {Cats ; Animals ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; Female ; *Staphylococcus/physiology/isolation & purification ; *Cat Diseases/microbiology/drug therapy ; *Urinary Tract Infections/veterinary/microbiology/drug therapy ; *Staphylococcal Infections/veterinary/microbiology/drug therapy ; Ureter/surgery ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Staphylococcus schleiferi is mainly isolated from dogs and occasionally infects cats. We recently encountered a case of a biofilm-related urinary tract infection (UTI) caused by S. schleiferi in a cat with a subcutaneous ureteral bypass (SUB) system. This report presents a case of biofilm formation by S. schleiferi in the SUB system and discusses the causes of UTIs.

CASE PRESENTATION: A 9-year-old female cat had been using the SUB system since 4 years-of-age. The cat had no significant clinical history or UTIs for 4 years after the first implantation of the SUB system. The SUB system was flushed once per month. When the cat was 8 years-of-age, the subcutaneous port of the SUB system was contaminated with Staphylococcus pseudintermedius and replaced with a new one. Subsequently, the SUB system had no particular problem for 8 months. The SUB system was flushed once every 2 months. However, the cat occasionally developed gross haematuria. Additionally, S. schleiferi was detected in urine. Although doxycycline was administered to the cat, 6 weeks later, the cat had cutaneous wounds with abscesses caused by excessive grooming of the skin in contact with the subcutaneous port of the SUB system. S. schleiferi was detected in a severe abscess in the cutaneous wound, and skin necrosis was observed. As bacterial contamination of the SUB system was suspected, the SUB system was removed from the cat. Scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed biofilm formation inside the locking loop catheters and outside the subcutaneous port of the SUB system. In an in vitro assay, S. schleiferi isolated from a catheter of the SUB system had low biofilm-forming ability. After the SUB system was removed, S. schleiferi was not detected in the urine and the infection was completely cured.

CONCLUSION: Considering these results, bacterial infections in cats with SUB systems should be carefully monitored, as contamination by biofilm-forming bacteria can occur regardless of flushing frequency.},
}

Cats
Animals
*Biofilms/growth & development
Female
*Staphylococcus/physiology/isolation & purification
*Cat Diseases/microbiology/drug therapy
*Urinary Tract Infections/veterinary/microbiology/drug therapy
*Staphylococcal Infections/veterinary/microbiology/drug therapy
Ureter/surgery

@article {pmid41039201,
year = {2025},
author = {Jabrodini, A and Yazdanpanah, S and Malekzadeh, M and Shabanzadeh, S and Ahmadyan, M and Pakshir, K and Zomorodian, K},
title = {Virulence factors of Candida spp. isolated from COVID-19 patients: hydrolytic enzyme activity and biofilm formation.},
journal = {BMC microbiology},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {611},
pmid = {41039201},
issn = {1471-2180},
abstract = {During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, an increased prevalence of Candida co-infections has been reported. However, data on the virulence factors of Candida spp. isolated from COVID-19 patients remain scarce. This study aimed to assess the virulence factors of Candida spp. isolated from COVID-19 patients and to explore their potential associations with clinical parameters. A total of 71 Candida (C.) strains were analyzed, representing four species: 49 (69.01%) C. albicans strains, 14 (19.71%) C. glabrata strains, 7 (9.85%) C. tropicalis strains, and 1 (1.40%) C. dubliniensis strain. The activities of proteinase, phospholipase, and hemolysin, as well as biofilm-forming capacity, were evaluated. All C. albicans strains and 21 (95.45%) non-albicans Candida (NAC) strains produced proteinase. Phospholipase activity was detected in 46 (93.87%) C. albicans strains and 10 (45.45%) NAC strains. High hemolytic activity was observed in all Candida strains. Biofilm formation was detected in 31 (43.66%) Candida strains, with variable intensities. These findings highlight high levels of hydrolytic enzyme activity among Candida spp. isolated from COVID-19 patients and contribute to the growing understanding of Candida pathogenesis in immunocompromised populations, providing insights for patient management.},
}

@article {pmid41038924,
year = {2025},
author = {Chowdhury, SR and Hosen, M and Hossain, H and Islam, R and Uddin, B and Rahman, M and Hossain, M and Rahman, M},
title = {Biofilm production and virulence traits among extensively drug-resistant and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus from buffalo subclinical mastitis in Bangladesh.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {34425},
pmid = {41038924},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {UGC-2021-22//University Grants Commission of Bangladesh/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/pathogenicity/drug effects/genetics/isolation & purification/physiology ; *Buffaloes/microbiology ; *Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; Bangladesh/epidemiology ; Female ; *Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology/veterinary/epidemiology ; Virulence/genetics ; *Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/genetics ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Milk/microbiology ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; *Mastitis/microbiology/veterinary/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a critical pathogen implicated in subclinical mastitis (SCM), a hidden threat to dairy productivity. This study investigated the prevalence, antibiotic resistance profiles, and virulence traits of MRSA from SCM-affected riverine buffaloes in Jamalpur, Bangladesh. A total of 344 milk samples were screened using the California Mastitis Test (CMT) and Modified Whiteside Test (MWST). Among the milk samples, 46.5% were positive for SCM by CMT. Culture, biochemical tests, and PCR confirmed 73 (21.2%) Staphylococcus spp., of which 30 (41.1%) were identified as S. aureus and 43 (58.9%) as non-aureus staphylococci (NAS). Among the 30 S. aureus-positive isolates, 10 (33.3%) were identified as methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), corresponding to a prevalence of 2.9% among the total milk samples. The MRSA isolates exhibited high multidrug resistance, especially to tetracycline (80%) and cefoxitin (80%), and commonly harbored resistance genes such as tetA (80%), aac(3)-iv (70%), and sul1 (50%). Virulence genes hla (66.7%) and sea (50%) were frequently detected, while icaA was found in 23.3% of MRSA. Notably, 60% of MRSA isolates were categorized as XDR based on international standard definitions, while 60% were biofilm producers with high MARI values up to 0.92, indicating severe resistance potential. These findings underscore a significant burden of MDR/XDR MRSA with virulence potential in buffalo SCM, posing serious risks to animal and public health.},
}

Animals
*Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus/pathogenicity/drug effects/genetics/isolation & purification/physiology
*Buffaloes/microbiology
*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
Bangladesh/epidemiology
Female
*Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology/veterinary/epidemiology
Virulence/genetics
*Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/genetics
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Milk/microbiology
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
*Mastitis/microbiology/veterinary/epidemiology

@article {pmid41038100,
year = {2025},
author = {Mei, N and Jia, F and Liu, Y and Li, Y and Qi, X and Han, B and Zhang, X and Liu, T and Yao, H},
title = {Achieving partial nitritation-anammox in membrane-aerated biofilm reactor by hydroxylamine addition.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {394},
number = {},
pages = {127404},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.127404},
pmid = {41038100},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {The membrane-aerated biofilm reactor (MABR) is naturally suitable for partial nitritation-anammox (PN/A) because aerobic and anaerobic microorganisms can grow in different biofilm layers. However, suppressing nitrite-oxidizing bacteria (NOB) in the oxygen-rich inner MABR biofilms remains challenging, while anammox bacteria (AnAOB) in the outer layer are more vulnerable to many harsh treatments. This study demonstrated the strategy of applying hydroxylamine (NH2OH) to achieve stable PN/A in MABR. Over 250 days, long-term experiments showed that low dissolved oxygen (0.06-0.20 mg L[-1]) could not suppress NOB, while both continuous and intermittent 10 mg L[-1] NH2OH addition not only achieved effective NOB suppression but also significantly promoted ammonia-oxidizing bacteria and AnAOB. Consequently, the nitrogen removal efficiency increased from 74.0 ± 1.1 % to 91.7 ± 1.6 %. Fundamentally, NH2OH addition rapidly changed the transcription levels of key functional genes in membrane biofilms, resulting in a significant decrease in nxrB transcription level by 68.6 ± 3.8 % and an increase in those of amoA and hzsB by 1835.8 ± 307.2 % and 314.2 ± 112.7 %, respectively. NH2OH addition resulted in the temporary accumulation of hydrazine and nitric oxide at low levels, which collectively contributed to NOB suppression. Particularly, Nitrospira, "Ca. Nitrotoga" and Nitrolancea (all three distinct NOB genera present in MABR biofilm) relative abundances decreased by 48.6 ± 7.5 %, 10.8 ± 2.5 %, and 75.0 ± 6.8 % respectively, which alleviated NOB adaptation risk. Therefore, NH2OH can be used to support NOB suppression in MABR.},
}

@article {pmid41038070,
year = {2025},
author = {Yang, X and Zhang, L and Xu, L and Zhuo, F and Zhang, L and Zhang, H and Wang, X},
title = {Triboelectric nanogenerator-based strategy for preventing biofilm formation in orthopedic applications.},
journal = {Biochemical and biophysical research communications},
volume = {786},
number = {},
pages = {152726},
doi = {10.1016/j.bbrc.2025.152726},
pmid = {41038070},
issn = {1090-2104},
abstract = {Orthopedic implant-associated infections constitute one of the most challenging complications in musculoskeletal surgery, largely attributable to the formation of tenacious bacterial biofilms. These biofilms demonstrate inherent resistance to conventional antibiotic therapies and evade host immune mechanisms. Current prophylactic approaches-such as systemic or localized antibiotic delivery and surface modifications-often fail to establish a durable protective barrier. Moreover, their efficacy is increasingly compromised by the escalating global crisis of antimicrobial resistance. Herein, we present a self-powered antibacterial system that integrates a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) with titanium-based orthopedic implants, capable of harvesting biomechanical energy from daily movement and delivering localized electrical stimulation. The TENG outputs peak voltages up to 140 V, sufficient to generate localized electric fields that induce bacterial migration and disrupt membrane integrity. Finite element simulations confirmed a robust electric potential difference between titanium and platinum electrodes, guiding bacterial repulsion away from the implant surface. In vitro assays demonstrated significant inhibition of Escherichia coli biofilm formation (∼34.6 % reduction), accompanied by morphological disruption of bacterial colonies. In vivo, TENG-driven stimulation accelerated wound healing, reduced bacterial coverage on implant surfaces by ∼12.6 %, and alleviated inflammatory infiltration in peri-implant tissues. Collectively, these findings establish a proof-of-concept for TENG-powered antibacterial orthopedic implants, offering a sustainable, biocompatible, and antibiotic-free strategy to combat implant-associated infections.},
}

@article {pmid41036847,
year = {2025},
author = {Kang, HJ and You, J-Y and Kim, SH and Moon, J-S and Kim, H-Y and Kim, J-M and Kang, H-M},
title = {Genetic diversity, virulence genes, antimicrobial resistance, and biofilm formation of Klebsiella pneumoniae isolated from bovine mastitis milk in South Korea.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0134325},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.01343-25},
pmid = {41036847},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {Klebsiella pneumoniae, a zoonotic agent, is a causative pathogen of bovine mastitis. Despite its clinical relevance in dairy farms, studies on K. pneumoniae in bovine mastitis remain limited. Additionally, studies on K. pneumoniae's genetic diversity and virulence characteristics in South Korea remain limited. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to elucidate the genetic diversity, antimicrobial resistance, virulence genes, and biofilm-forming capacity of 29 K. pneumoniae strains isolated from bovine mastitis milk samples in South Korea between 2017 and 2023. Multilocus sequence typing revealed 23 sequence types, four of which were novel, indicating substantial genetic heterogeneity and the absence of a dominant clonal lineage. Excluding intrinsic resistance, the highest resistance rates were observed for tetracycline (34.5%) and sulfisoxazole (31.0%), whereas resistance to the other antibiotics tested ranged from 0% to 20.7%. In addition, multidrug resistance (MDR) was noted in 20.7% of isolates. Virulence gene analysis revealed that most isolates carried the ureA, uge, wabG, and fimH genes, whereas allS, rmpA, iucB, and iroNB were not detected. Two isolates exhibited a hypermucoviscous phenotype, and one belonged to the capsular serotype K2. All isolates demonstrated biofilm-forming ability, with moderate-to-strong production observed in over 89.0% of cases, indicating potential for persistence and treatment challenges. In conclusion, K. pneumoniae isolates from mastitis milk carried multiple virulence genes and showed MDR as well as robust biofilm formation. Therefore, continued surveillance and further characterization of K. pneumoniae are needed to support mastitis control and protect public health.IMPORTANCEKlebsiella pneumoniae is an emerging environmental pathogen associated with clinical mastitis in dairy cows, raising concerns regarding antimicrobial resistance and public health. To the best of our knowledge, this study provides the first comprehensive characterization of K. pneumoniae isolates from mastitis milk in South Korea, including analyses of genetic diversity, antimicrobial resistance, virulence factors, and biofilm formation. The findings advance our current understanding of K. pneumoniae associated with bovine mastitis and highlight the need for continued surveillance that will contribute to mastitis control efforts and safeguard public health.},
}

@article {pmid41033402,
year = {2025},
author = {Pendor, O and Ukey, S and Trivedi, R and Umekar, M},
title = {Transcriptomic insights into biofilm dynamics and therapeutic targets in chronic wound infections (MIMET 107281).},
journal = {Journal of microbiological methods},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {107281},
doi = {10.1016/j.mimet.2025.107281},
pmid = {41033402},
issn = {1872-8359},
abstract = {Chronic wound infections remain a significant clinical challenge, primarily due to the formation of bacterial biofilms that hinder healing and increase antimicrobial resistance. This review explores various studies focused on biofilm development, transcriptional responses, and therapeutic strategies for combating biofilm-associated infections. Using Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 in ex vivo porcine skin wound models, RNA-seq analysis revealed key genes involved in biofilm formation, notably the lapA gene encoding alkaline phosphatase, which was upregulated, while denitrification pathway genes such as nirS were downregulated. Targeting these pathways through NO induction showed potential for biofilm disruption. Novel biofilm-inhibiting strategies, including silver nanoparticles, lactoferrin, and exopolysaccharides, demonstrated antibacterial, anti-biofilm, and wound-healing effects. Additionally, metal-based nanozymes (Ru-procyanidin nanoparticles) and microneedle patches embedded with cerium/zinc composites emerged as promising solutions for oxidative stress reduction and bacterial elimination in diabetic wounds. Omics approaches, particularly transcriptomics and metabolomics, have further elucidated biofilm differentiation mechanisms and host-pathogen interactions. Advanced detection methods such as electrochemical biosensors and peptide nucleic acid fluorescent in situ hybridization (PNA-FISH) have improved the identification of biofilm-associated infections. Furthermore, comparative analyses of mixed-species and single-species biofilms highlighted their differential impact on wound healing, with polybacterial biofilms causing more severe impairment. These findings underscore the importance of integrating RNA-based diagnostics, molecular therapies, and novel biomaterials to enhance chronic wound management. Future research should focus on translating these insights into clinical applications for more effective biofilm-targeted treatments.},
}

@article {pmid41033401,
year = {2025},
author = {Díaz-Navarro, M and Crespo, A and Muñoz, P and Guembe, M},
title = {Biomass and metabolic activity staining biofilm techniques are not reliable enough to be used in microbiology laboratories.},
journal = {Journal of microbiological methods},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {107285},
doi = {10.1016/j.mimet.2025.107285},
pmid = {41033401},
issn = {1872-8359},
abstract = {Crystal violet and XTT staining quantify biofilms but are influenced by external factors. Testing MSSA, E. coli, and C. albicans refrigerated five weeks revealed weekly variability between researchers. These methods need careful interpretation and should be supported by more reproducible techniques for reliable results.},
}

@article {pmid41033369,
year = {2025},
author = {Namazi, P and Behbahani, BA and Noshad, M and Vasiee, A and Taki, M and Joyandeh, H},
title = {Anti-Listeria Mechanisms, Safety, and Predictive Modeling of Lacticaseibacillus casei UTMB9: Probiotic Profiling Targeting Virulence Gene Expression and Biofilm Formation.},
journal = {Microbial pathogenesis},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {108071},
doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2025.108071},
pmid = {41033369},
issn = {1096-1208},
abstract = {There is growing interest in probiotics due to their potential to confer health benefits. This study aimed to explore the potential probiotic characteristics, gene expression linked to biofilm formation, and anti-biofilm properties of Lacticaseibacillus casei UTMB9. L. casei UTMB9 tolerates acidic environments, with survival rates of 6.90, 7.59, and 7.96 log CFU/mL at pH 2.5, 3.5, and 4.5, respectively, and exhibits slight growth inhibition under bile concentrations up to 0.7 %. Viability declined modestly from 8.51 to 6.61 log colony forming unit (CFU)/mL under simulated gastrointestinal conditions. Surface hydrophobicity (40.9 %), auto-aggregation (30.9 %), co-aggregation (40.8 %), and adhesion (11.9 %) support its adherence potential. Antimicrobial assays showed most potent inhibition against Listeria monocytogenes (9.70 mm) versus E. coli (4.74 mm). Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) imaging revealed pronounced damage to L. monocytogenes cells after exposure to cell-free supernatant (CFS), accompanied by significant downregulation of prfA and flaA, and marked antibiofilm suppression. It also demonstrated antioxidant activity (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) 43.6 %, 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) 47.5 %, linoleic acid oxidation inhibition 30.3 %) and moderate anticancer activity (IC50 ≈ 55-62 mg/mL). The strain reduced cholesterol uptake by 41.9 %, was broadly antibiotic-sensitive (except for partial resistance to ampicillin), and lacked biogenic amine production, DNase, or hemolytic activity. In the second part of this study, Gaussian Process Regression (GPR) was used to predict acidity and bile salt. GPR accurately predicted acidity and bile tolerance (MAPE = 0.22 % and 0.18 %; R[2]≥ 0.99). These findings position L. casei as a promising probiotic agent with robust antimicrobial, antibiofilm, antioxidant, and predictive model-supported features.},
}

@article {pmid41032695,
year = {2025},
author = {Ashrafi, B and Heydari, R and Rezaei, F and Beiranvand, B and Pajouhi, N and Rashidipour, M and Taherikalani, M and Soroush, S},
title = {Investigating the release of active compounds and cytotoxicity of thymol/gallic acid/β-cyclodextrin bio-nanocomposite: a targeted strategy with the approach of disrupting the genes involved in the quorum sensing system and biofilm formation in P. aeruginosa (PAO1).},
journal = {Preparative biochemistry & biotechnology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-17},
doi = {10.1080/10826068.2025.2563676},
pmid = {41032695},
issn = {1532-2297},
abstract = {The quorum sensing (QS) system and cell-to-cell communication have had a significant impact on biofilm formation and virulence factor increase in Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa), making this opportunistic pathogen a global concern and potentially life-threatening agent. The present study aimed to create an innovative pharmaceutical bio-nanocomposite (BNC) comprising thymol (THY) and gallic acid (GA) based on β-cyclodextrin (β-CD), which was used to investigate the release kinetics of active compounds, the level of cytotoxicity, antibacterial and anti-biofilm potential, and measuring the expression of genes effective in QS in the strain PAO1 pays P. aeruginosa. Based on this, physicochemical characteristics of the synthesized BNC were determined using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis (FTIR), UV-vis measurement, dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The BNC's antibacterial and anti-biofilm capabilities were assessed using the PAO1 reference strain of P. aeruginosa and the expression level of QS-effective genes (rhlI, rhlR, lasI, and lasR) in bacteria was also evaluated in the presence of the synthesized BNC. The results of FTIR spectroscopy show the formation of intramolecular hydrogen bonds between THY, GA and β-CD. Absorption peaks of the UV-vis spectroscopy spectrum of the synthesized BNC at wavelengths of 217 and 272 nm are confirmed successful encapsulation of the THY and GA into the β-CD. The maximum size of the synthesized BNC was recorded as 356.3 nm with a polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.816. SEM and TEM micrographs show the presence of THY/GA active compounds in the pores in β-CD and the formation of a dense polymer network. After 360 minutes of release kinetics, more than 70% of the complex's active chemicals had been released. The biological complex's low toxicity is indicated by average cell survival of more than 65% and the ability to preserve the spindle shape of normal fibroblast cells at high concentrations. The PAO1 strain has minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of 323 and 199.6 μg/mL for minimal biofilm inhibition concentration 50% (MBIC50). The decrease in rhlI and rhlR gene expression relative to the control group (without treatment) suggests that the active chemicals released from the biological complex interact and disrupt the QS pathway. Overall, the synthesized pharmaceutical complex has promise as a clever and effective option for future research and practical advances, as well as the development of complementary therapies.},
}

@article {pmid41030757,
year = {2025},
author = {Kurtzman, GM and Horowitz, RA and Johnston, R and Lanphier, L},
title = {Oral Biofilm and Gender-Specific Health Considerations.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {8},
pages = {e91289},
pmid = {41030757},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Oral biofilm plays a central role in the development of periodontal and systemic diseases, with growing evidence highlighting significant gender-specific differences. Hormonal fluctuations in women, during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, menopause, and with oral contraceptive use, may alter the composition and behavior of oral biofilm, increasing susceptibility to gingival inflammation and periodontal disease. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), osteoporosis, and pregnancy-associated gingivitis further demonstrate the influence of endocrine factors on oral health. In men, higher rates of severe periodontitis are observed, potentially linked to testosterone-related immune responses and behavioral factors with associations to lower sperm counts, increased incidence of prostate cancer, and erectile dysfunction. These distinctions underscore the importance of considering sex-specific biology in both the prevention and management of oral and systemic diseases influenced by biofilm. This study reviews the connections between gender-specific health and oral biofilm.},
}

@article {pmid41029314,
year = {2025},
author = {Jana, D and Manna, T and Guchhait, KC and Panja, S and Karmakar, A and Ballav, S and Hazra, S and Dey, S and Panda, AK and Ghosh, C},
title = {An investigation on anti-biofilm potential of Aegle marmelos fruit extract against multi-drug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.},
journal = {BMC complementary medicine and therapies},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {334},
pmid = {41029314},
issn = {2662-7671},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Plant Extracts/pharmacology ; *Aegle/chemistry ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Fruit/chemistry ; *Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects ; *Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/drug effects ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Humans ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Staphylococcus aureus, member of ESKAPEE pathogens is a noteworthy contributor to the global crisis rising due to antimicrobial resistance. Biofilms are the primary reason behind the increased antibiotic resistance and tolerance of pathogens. Hence targeting bacterial biofilms has been prioritized as an alternative strategy to counter antibiotic resistance. Aegle marmelos has gained prominence in Indian traditional medicine as seeds, fruits, leaves, bark and roots of this plant are being in use extensively in treating several kinds of ailments by the inhabitants of this subcontinent due to its ethno-pharmacological relevance. The fruit of this plant has been found with remarkable anti-bacterial properties along with other therapeutic efficacies. The present study aimed to identify the anti-biofilm potential of methanolic fruit extract of Aegle marmelos (AMFE) against multi-drug-resistant (MDR) S. aureus strains as a resort to counter the global crisis of antimicrobial resistance for alternative approaches.

RESULTS: MBIC and MBEC of AMFE ranged between 100 and 200 µg.mL[-1] and 300-500 µg.mL[-1], respectively. AMFE could substantially reduce the carbohydrate and protein content of the exo-polymeric substance (EPS), crucial for biofilm production. Expressions of major biofilm promoting genes icaAD and its accessory sarA were down-regulated upon AMFE treatment as revealed from qRT-PCR analysis whereas the quorum sensing gene agr that promotes biofilm detachment was up-regulated. Fluorescence, scanning electron and atomic force microscopic studies confirm the reduction of biofilm biomass upon AMFE treatment. Up to 10 mg.mL[-1] AMFE was non-toxic to human lymphocytes with cell viability of 75.35%. GC-MS and FT-IR studies could detect the bioactive components where 9-octadecenoic acid, n-hexadecanoic acid, 9,12-octadecadienoic acid, methyl 4,7,10- hexadecatrienoate were the major components.

CONCLUSION: Anti-biofilm activity of AMFE towards MDR S. aureus have been established through in vitro biochemical and gene expression studies that were further substantiated by microscopic studies which reveal that AMFE could be explored in the management of S. aureus-associated infections.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Plant Extracts/pharmacology
*Aegle/chemistry
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Fruit/chemistry
*Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects
*Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/drug effects
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Humans

@article {pmid41029014,
year = {2025},
author = {Soltane, R},
title = {Pubescine as a Novel Antibacterial Agent Against Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococcus: Growth Inhibition, Antibiotic Synergy, and Anti-Biofilm Activity.},
journal = {Current pharmaceutical biotechnology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.2174/0113892010399006250923063945},
pmid = {41029014},
issn = {1873-4316},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The rise of Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococcus (VRE) has become a major public health concern due to its resistance to conventional antibiotics and ability to form biofilms. The urgent need for novel therapeutic strategies has led to increased interest in natural compounds with antimicrobial potential. Pubescine (PBN), a steroidal alkaloid isolated from Holarrhena pubescens, has demonstrated antimicrobial properties, but its efficacy against VRE remains unexplored.

METHODS: PBN was isolated and purified from Holarrhena pubescens using chromatographic techniques and identified through spectroscopic analysis. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) were determined via broth microdilution assays. Time-kill assays assessed the bacteriostatic or bactericidal nature of PBN. Resistance development was evaluated through prolonged bacterial exposure to subinhibitory concentrations. Synergistic interactions with vancomycin and cefoxitin were analyzed using checkerboard microdilution assays. Biofilm formation and eradication were assessed via crystal violet staining and fluorescence imaging. Metabolic activity and oxidative stress induction were measured using the Alamar Blue assay and Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) quantification, respectively.

RESULTS: PBN exhibited concentration-dependent inhibition of VRE growth, primarily exerting a bacteriostatic effect without promoting the development of resistance. Checkerboard assays revealed strong synergy between PBN and vancomycin (FICI = 0.1875) and cefoxitin (FICI = 0.3125), suggesting that PBN enhances the efficacy of these antibiotics.

DISCUSSION: PBN significantly reduced biofilm formation and facilitated biofilm disruption at concentrations as low as 4 μg/mL. Metabolic assays demonstrated that PBN suppresses bacterial metabolic activity, while ROS quantification indicated a substantial increase in oxidative stress, suggesting a multi-targeted mechanism of action.

CONCLUSION: These findings establish PBN as a promising antimicrobial agent with potent activity against vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecalis. Its ability to enhance antibiotic efficacy, inhibit biofilm formation, and induce oxidative stress underscores its potential as a novel therapeutic strategy against multidrug-resistant infections. Further in vivo studies and pharmacokinetic evaluations are warranted to assess its clinical applicability.},
}

@article {pmid41028885,
year = {2025},
author = {Veerabathiran, A and Subramania, AK and Saikia, M and Manikandamaharaj, TS and Rajendra, SP and Duraisamy, R and Angaiah, S},
title = {Development of 3D-printed Ti-MXene incorporated chitosan/HAP nano-composite soft-bone scaffold and its mechanical, anti-biofilm and cell-viability studies.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {33762},
pmid = {41028885},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {RSPD2025R723//Researchers Supporting Project/ ; },
mesh = {*Chitosan/chemistry ; *Printing, Three-Dimensional ; *Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Titanium/chemistry ; *Nanocomposites/chemistry ; *Tissue Scaffolds/chemistry ; Cell Survival/drug effects ; *Durapatite/chemistry ; Humans ; Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology ; Tissue Engineering ; Biocompatible Materials/chemistry ; Bone and Bones ; Materials Testing ; Nitrites ; Transition Elements ; },
abstract = {The prevailing scientific literature suggests that implantable plates demand resurgery, and it will result in corrosion behaviour and the formation of biofilm on the scaffold by Staphylococcus aureus, which is capable of causing a bone surgery-related detrimental effect in two-thirds of the people suffering from osteomyelitis diseases. The development of a nanocomposite scaffold by 3D-bioprinting to improve potent mechanical features with substantial biological characteristics. By incorporating hydroxyapatite (10% w/v) into chitosan (10% w/v) at 1:1 ratio mimicking the natural structure of soft bone tissue. Furthermore, a better structural hydrogel was synthesized for 3D bio-printing through the incorporation of Ti-MXene into the Chitosan/Hydroxyapatite nanocomposite at two distinct ratios. Apart from this, 0.3 mg/mL of Ti-MXene containing 3D-printed nanocomposite scaffold revealed better structural morphology with very less biofilm formation when compared to other 3D-printed scaffolds. Furthermore, mechanical testing such as tensile revealed 23.3 MPa for 0.3 mg/mL of Ti-MXene incorporated Chitosan/HAP nanocomposite. Additionally, this scaffold exhibits a favorable contact angle (74.70°) with a low swelling ratio (27.6%) and degradation rate (1.1%). Further, an in-vitro cell viability test showed a higher cell attachment without cell death. These results find the absence of toxic effect and suggest an enhancement in cell attachment.},
}

*Chitosan/chemistry
*Printing, Three-Dimensional
*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Titanium/chemistry
*Nanocomposites/chemistry
*Tissue Scaffolds/chemistry
Cell Survival/drug effects
*Durapatite/chemistry
Humans
Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/physiology
Tissue Engineering
Biocompatible Materials/chemistry
Bone and Bones
Materials Testing
Nitrites
Transition Elements

@article {pmid41028857,
year = {2025},
author = {Kashyap, S and Rathod, Y and Biswas, S},
title = {Murraya koenigii methanolic extract inhibits bacterial growth and biofilm of Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {34056},
pmid = {41028857},
issn = {2045-2322},
support = {BT/INF/22/SP42543/2021//Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology, India/ ; BT/INF/22/SP42543/2021//Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology, India/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Enterococcus faecalis/drug effects/growth & development/physiology ; *Plant Extracts/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/growth & development/physiology ; *Murraya/chemistry ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Molecular Docking Simulation ; Methanol/chemistry ; Plant Leaves/chemistry ; Humans ; Bacterial Lysates ; },
abstract = {Hospital-acquired infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis are significant global health challenges due to their biofilm-forming ability, also contributing to the derived antibiotic resistance and environmental persistence. This growing resistance poses serious global health challenges, emphasizing the need for better surveillance and new treatments. Plant-derived bioactives have emerged as possible therapeutics to such opportunistic pathogens and they are potential alternatives to traditional antimicrobials. This study investigates the in vitro activity of Murraya koenigii's methanolic (MKM) leaf extract and its compounds against the growth and biofilm-forming ability of S. aureus and E. faecalis. Results revealed that the MKM extract effectively inhibited the growth of S. aureus and E. faecalis at their respective MIC levels. Furthermore, flow cytometry and confocal imaging demonstrated substantial membrane damage in MKM-treated cells compared to DMSO-treated and untreated controls. Additionally, the MKM extract significantly disrupts biofilm formation and leads to reduced extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) production. Scanning electron microscopy provided visual evidence of disrupted biofilm architecture following MKM extract treatment. HR-LC/MS analysis identified bioactive compounds within the extract, which were further evaluated for drug-likeness properties through ADME analysis. In silico molecular docking studies confirmed strong binding affinities of MKM-derived compounds with key biofilm-related receptor proteins, SpA in S. aureus and Esp in E. faecalis. These findings highlight the significant potential of MKM extract as a novel and effective phytotherapeutic resource for developing strategies to combat biofilm-associated infections.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Enterococcus faecalis/drug effects/growth & development/physiology
*Plant Extracts/pharmacology/chemistry
*Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/growth & development/physiology
*Murraya/chemistry
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Molecular Docking Simulation
Methanol/chemistry
Plant Leaves/chemistry
Humans
Bacterial Lysates

@article {pmid41028113,
year = {2025},
author = {Rafique, A and Baig, N and Naim, A and Rafiq, I},
title = {Utilization of clove and cinnamon essential oils as an alternative to inhibit MDR and biofilm producing E. coli from raw chicken meat.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {34079},
pmid = {41028113},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; Animals ; *Escherichia coli/drug effects/isolation & purification/physiology/genetics ; Chickens/microbiology ; *Oils, Volatile/pharmacology ; *Meat/microbiology ; *Cinnamomum zeylanicum/chemistry ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; *Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/drug effects ; *Clove Oil/pharmacology ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Syzygium/chemistry ; Food Microbiology ; },
abstract = {The microbial contamination and spoilage found in chicken meat is responsible for food-borne illnesses and outbreaks leading to hospitalizations. E. coli is the most commonly reported microorganism. The dissemination of bacterial strain with biofilm-formation ability and resistance to antimicrobials at the end of the food chain is a global concern; as well. Eco-friendly and novel means like essential oils are required to break these vicious patterns and ensure the longevity of quality food products. The study aimed to probe the prevalence, pattern of antimicrobial resistance and the biofilm formation ability in E. coli isolated from chicken meat samples. It also explored the antimicrobial and anti-biofilm formation ability of clove and cinnamon essential oils. 150 chicken meat samples from different localities of Karachi, Pakistan were isolated and identified by selective culturing and conventional microbiological techniques. Following antibiogram analysis, antibacterial activity of clove and cinnamon essential oils was evaluated. Putative biofilm production ability was also explored using the test tube, microplate reader, and scanning electron microscopy. Finally, the molecular characterization of potentially strong biofilm producers was done along with exploration of the pathogenic gene (PapC). 49 chicken meat samples out of 150 were contaminated with E. coli. 90% (44 isolates) of E. coli were multidrug resistant. 59.2% (29 isolates) were biofilm producers (BPs). Out of 29 BPs, nine (31%) were strong biofilm producers (SBPs). No significant correlations were observed between antimicrobial resistance and biofilm producing ability of E. coli isolates (p value ≥ 0.05). 40% of SBPs were inhibited when subjected to both clove (MIC: 250 to 500 µL/mL) and cinnamon (MIC: 62.5 µL/mL) EOs. Activity of both neat CO and CinO had no significant difference (p value ≥ 0.05). The identity of 3 SBPs (Strains: AR11E, AR12E and AR22E) were further confirmed by molecular identification (16SrRNA) and SEM revealed potential degradation of the bacterial cells with a reduction in count when treated with CinO and CO. Only one strain (AR22E) was positive for the papC gene. The prevalence of E. coli and strong-biofilm producers in retail chicken meat was not very high; however, the majority of the isolates were multi-drug resistant. Therefore, it is important to keep a tab on the prevalence of these commensal and pathogenic microorganisms in retail chicken meat since they are an exposure site close to the consumer. The use of alternative means like essential oils in poultry, meat and meat-products is a good strategy since they have proven efficacy against pathogenic E. coli.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
Animals
*Escherichia coli/drug effects/isolation & purification/physiology/genetics
Chickens/microbiology
*Oils, Volatile/pharmacology
*Meat/microbiology
*Cinnamomum zeylanicum/chemistry
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
*Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/drug effects
*Clove Oil/pharmacology
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Syzygium/chemistry
Food Microbiology

@article {pmid41028035,
year = {2025},
author = {Choudhary, J and Shariff, M},
title = {Characterization of carbapenem-resistant biofilm forming Acinetobacter baumannii isolates from clinical and surveillance samples.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {33892},
pmid = {41028035},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Acinetobacter baumannii/drug effects/isolation & purification/genetics/physiology ; Humans ; *Carbapenems/pharmacology ; *Acinetobacter Infections/microbiology/drug therapy/epidemiology ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; beta-Lactamases/genetics ; Cross Infection/microbiology ; Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/genetics ; Virulence Factors/genetics ; },
abstract = {Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) is an important nosocomial pathogen responsible for a wide range of human infections. The emergence of multidrug resistance (MDR) causes life-threatening nosocomial infections. Also, the formation of biofilm helps it survive on abiotic surfaces and is transferred through healthcare workers, thereby causing nosocomial infections. Hence, we study the current antibiotic resistance patterns and virulence factors in our clinical and colonizing isolates. A total of 92 isolates (44 colonizing and 48 clinical) of A. baumannii were included in the study. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed by VITEK 2. Biofilm formation was assessed by the tissue culture plate method. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for oxacillinases, MBLs and biofilm-associated genes were performed. Meropenem resistance was found in 42 (87.5%) of the clinical and 44 (97.7%) of the colonizing isolates. A strongly adherent biofilm was produced by 11 (22.91%) of the clinical and 12 (27.27%) of the colonizing isolates. Biofilm-associated genes, ompA, bap and csuE were present in 45 (93.7%), 47 (97.9%) and 44 (91.6%) of the clinical isolates, respectively and in all the colonizing isolates. blaOXA23-like was more prevalent in colonizing than clinical isolates. blaOXA-58-like and blaOXA-24-like were present in very few isolates. The presence of metallo beta-lactamase (MBLs) was observed to be lower than oxacillinases. NDM1 was present in 15.29%, SIM in 27%, GIM in 14.11%, VIM in 32.9%, SPM in 5.8%, and IMP in 1.2% of the meropenem-resistant isolates. Carbapenem resistance (XDR) is increasing in A.baumannii. Biofilm formation is an important virulence factor responsible for its survival in the hospital environment and causes nosocomial infections. Biofilm-producing isolates were also found to be carbapenem-resistant. Strict disinfection procedures are to be followed to prevent its spread in the hospital.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Acinetobacter baumannii/drug effects/isolation & purification/genetics/physiology
Humans
*Carbapenems/pharmacology
*Acinetobacter Infections/microbiology/drug therapy/epidemiology
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
beta-Lactamases/genetics
Cross Infection/microbiology
Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial/genetics
Virulence Factors/genetics

@article {pmid41026297,
year = {2025},
author = {Nebo, UC and Arotupin, DJ and Olalemi, AO},
title = {Biodegradation of heavy petroleum polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in polluted soil by biofilm-forming Bacillus tropicus UCB and Pseudomonas aeruginosa SYLI isolated from crude oil-contaminated sludge.},
journal = {Biodegradation},
volume = {36},
number = {5},
pages = {97},
pmid = {41026297},
issn = {1572-9729},
mesh = {*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/metabolism/isolation & purification/physiology/genetics ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; *Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons/metabolism ; Biodegradation, Environmental ; *Petroleum/metabolism ; *Soil Pollutants/metabolism ; *Sewage/microbiology ; *Bacillus/metabolism/isolation & purification/physiology ; Soil Microbiology ; },
abstract = {Crude oil pollution poses a threat to soil ecosystems, particularly in oil-producing regions. This study assessed the biodegradation potential of biofilm-forming Bacillus tropicus UCB and Pseudomonas aeruginosa SYLI isolated from crude oil sludge. Sludge samples were seasonally collected and bacterial counts determined using standard methods while microbial enrichment was conducted in mineral salt medium containing 1% crude oil. Biofilm formation was assessed using Congo red agar and microplate assays. Isolates were identified through cultural, biochemical, and 16S rDNA analysis. Dose-response toxicity test examined degradation across 1%, 3%, 7%, and 10% crude oil concentrations, while PAHs degradation in soil microcosm was analysed using GC-MS. Seasonal variations significantly influenced bacterial populations, with highest count (1.53 × 10[8] CFU/mL) in the dry season and the least 3.17 × 10[6] CFU/mL) during wet season. Optical density peaked at 2.86 nm in enrichment III. Results revealed molecular identities of the isolates as B. tropicus UCB and P. aeruginosa SYLI. Both isolates metabolized crude oil from 1 to 10%, with B. tropicus producing 601 mg/L CO2 with 10% at day 12 and P. aeruginosa yielding 616 mg/L with 1% at day 4. In addition, results showed over 99% removal of low molecular weight PAHs and 75% degradation of high molecular weight PAHs, upon biostimulation. These findings highlight complementary strengths of B. tropicus on high-oil loads and P. aeruginosa rapid initial degradation at lower concentrations. This study suggests that biofilm formation coupled with biostimulation may improve bacterial efficiency in bioremediation. It also represents the first in vitro report on PAHs degradation by Bacillus tropicus.},
}

*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/metabolism/isolation & purification/physiology/genetics
*Biofilms/growth & development
*Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons/metabolism
Biodegradation, Environmental
*Petroleum/metabolism
*Soil Pollutants/metabolism
*Sewage/microbiology
*Bacillus/metabolism/isolation & purification/physiology
Soil Microbiology

@article {pmid41025661,
year = {2025},
author = {Suyama, H and Luu, LDW and Zhong, L and Raftery, MJ and Lan, R},
title = {Proteomic comparison of epidemic Australian Bordetella pertussis biofilm cells.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0171525},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.01715-25},
pmid = {41025661},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {Bordetella pertussis causes whooping cough, a severe respiratory infectious disease. Studies have compared the currently dominant single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) cluster I (pertussis toxin promoter allele, ptxP3) and previously dominant SNP cluster II (ptxP1) strains as planktonic cells. Since biofilm formation is linked with B. pertussis pathogenesis in vivo, this study compared the biofilm formation capabilities of representative strains of cluster I and cluster II. Confocal laser scanning microscopy found that the cluster I strain had a denser biofilm structure compared to the cluster II strain. Differences in protein abundance of the biofilm cells were then compared using tandem mass tagging and high-resolution multiple reaction monitoring. In total, 1,453 proteins were identified, of which 40 proteins had significant differential abundance between the two strains in biofilm conditions. Of particular interest was a large increase in the abundance of energy metabolism proteins (cytochrome proteins PetABC and BP3650) in the cluster I strain. When the abundance of these proteins was compared between six additional strains from each cluster, it was found that the protein abundance varied between all strains. These findings suggest that there are large levels of individual proteomic diversity between B. pertussis strains in biofilm conditions despite the highly conserved genome of the species. Overall, this study revealed visual differences in biofilm structure between B. pertussis strains and highlighted strain-specific variation in protein abundance that dominates potential cluster-specific changes that may be linked with the dominance of cluster I strains.IMPORTANCEBordetella pertussis causes whooping cough. The currently circulating cluster I strains have taken over previously dominant cluster II strains. It is important to understand the reasons behind this evolution to develop new strategies against the pathogen. Recent studies have shown that B. pertussis can form biofilms during infection. This study compared the biofilm formation capabilities of a cluster I and a cluster II strain and identified visual differences in the biofilms. The protein abundance between these strains grown in biofilms was compared, and proteins identified with varied abundance were measured with additional strains from each cluster. It was found that despite the highly conserved genetics of the species, there was varied protein abundance between the additional strains. This study highlights that strain-specific variation in protein abundance during biofilm conditions may dominate the cluster-specific changes that may be linked to the dominance of cluster I strains.},
}

@article {pmid41023809,
year = {2025},
author = {Yang, SB and Ku, D and Moon, JH and Lee, JH and Kang, SW and Kim, HK and Kwack, KH},
title = {Complete genome sequence of Streptococcus hominis isolated from subgingival biofilm.},
journal = {BMC genomic data},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {69},
pmid = {41023809},
issn = {2730-6844},
support = {RS-2024-00358942//National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF)/ ; RS-2023-00280791//National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF)/ ; RS-2024-00404660//Korea Basic Science Institute/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms ; *Genome, Bacterial ; *Streptococcus/genetics/isolation & purification/classification ; Humans ; Whole Genome Sequencing ; *Gingiva/microbiology ; Phylogeny ; Adult ; Base Composition ; Molecular Sequence Annotation ; RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Streptococcus hominis is a recently described species within the genus Streptococcus, yet its genomic characteristics remain poorly understood, particularly in the context of the oral microbiome. Previously, only two complete genomes from non-oral sources were available. To address this gap, we sequenced and analyzed S. hominis strain KHUD_010, isolated from the subgingival biofilm of a healthy Korean adult.

DATA DESCRIPTION: Genomic DNA from KHUD_010 was extracted and confirmed as S. hominis by 16 S rRNA gene sequencing. Whole-genome sequencing using the PacBio Sequel II platform generated 135,974 HiFi reads (N50: 10,345 bp). De novo assembly with SMRT Link v11.0 produced a single circular chromosome of 1,883,665 bp with 39.04% GC content. Annotation via the NCBI Prokaryotic Genome Annotation Pipeline predicted 1,793 protein-coding genes, four rRNA operons (5 S, 16 S, 23 S), and 120 tRNAs. BUSCO analysis showed 99.1% completeness. Comparative genomics with NSJ-17 and UMB6992B revealed 1,416 core, 223 dispensable, and 398 strain-specific gene clusters. KHUD_010 harbored 18 unique gene clusters comprising 20 genes, mostly assigned to COG category L (replication, recombination, repair). This high-quality genome expands the genomic landscape of S. hominis and provides a valuable reference for future studies on oral microbiome diversity and host adaptation.},
}

*Biofilms
*Genome, Bacterial
*Streptococcus/genetics/isolation & purification/classification
Humans
Whole Genome Sequencing
*Gingiva/microbiology
Phylogeny
Adult
Base Composition
Molecular Sequence Annotation
RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics

@article {pmid41020670,
year = {2025},
author = {Lordejani, AS and Tajbakhsh, E and Khamesipour, F and Momtaz, H and Momeni Shahraki, M},
title = {Prevalence, Antibiotic Resistance, and Biofilm Formation of Proteus mirabilis in Dairy Products: Implications for Veterinary and Public Health.},
journal = {Veterinary medicine and science},
volume = {11},
number = {6},
pages = {e70600},
pmid = {41020670},
issn = {2053-1095},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; *Proteus mirabilis/physiology/drug effects ; Animals ; *Dairy Products/microbiology ; Iran/epidemiology ; *Drug Resistance, Bacterial ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Cattle ; Prevalence ; Public Health ; Milk/microbiology ; Sheep ; Goats ; *Food Microbiology ; Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial ; },
abstract = {Dairy products are essential components of human and animal nutrition, providing vital nutrients such as proteins, vitamins and minerals. However, their susceptibility to microbial contamination, particularly by pathogens like Proteus mirabilis, poses significant risks to both animal and public health. This study investigated the prevalence, antibiotic resistance patterns and biofilm-forming ability of P. mirabilis in various dairy products, with a focus on raw milk, in Shahrekord, Iran. A total of 480 samples, including raw cow, goat and sheep milk, as well as cheese, yogurt, cream, curd and a traditional Iranian fermented yogurt-based beverage (doogh), were analysed under controlled laboratory conditions. The findings revealed a 12.29% prevalence rate of P. mirabilis, with raw cow's milk showing the highest contamination rate (21.66%). Among the isolates, 88.12% were capable of forming biofilms, and 71.15% exhibited strong biofilm production. Antibiotic susceptibility testing identified a high prevalence of multidrug-resistant strains, with the highest resistance rates observed for cotrimoxazole (59.32%) and gentamicin (50.84%). In addition, 25.42% of the isolates were identified as extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producers, with blaCTX-M being the most prevalent resistance gene. A significant correlation was found between biofilm-forming ability and the presence of antibiotic resistance genes, highlighting the dual challenges of microbial persistence and antimicrobial resistance. These findings emphasize the need for improved hygiene practices in dairy production, targeted biofilm-disrupting strategies and enhanced surveillance programs to mitigate risks to both animal and public health. This study provides critical insights for veterinary professionals and policymakers to develop effective interventions aimed at reducing contamination and combating antimicrobial resistance in dairy products.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
*Proteus mirabilis/physiology/drug effects
Animals
*Dairy Products/microbiology
Iran/epidemiology
*Drug Resistance, Bacterial
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Cattle
Prevalence
Public Health
Milk/microbiology
Sheep
Goats
*Food Microbiology
Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial

@article {pmid41020610,
year = {2025},
author = {Shan, W and Du, F and Zhang, H and Zhang, J and Hu, X and Fan, X and Li, W},
title = {D-histidine exhibited anti-biofilm activity against Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans.},
journal = {Microbiology spectrum},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0121625},
doi = {10.1128/spectrum.01216-25},
pmid = {41020610},
issn = {2165-0497},
abstract = {Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans is a key pathogen implicated in periodontitis. The bacterium in biofilms exhibits significant resistance to antimicrobial agents and host immune responses compared to its planktonic form, posing a major challenge for periodontal therapy. Recently, D-histidine has emerged as a promising anti-biofilm agent against Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections. However, its potential application in the oral field remains unexplored. This study investigated the anti-biofilm effect of D-histidine on A. actinomycetemcomitans and examined its influence on the expression of virulence factor genes to elucidate possible underlying mechanisms. Our results demonstrated that D-histidine inhibited biofilm formation and disrupted established biofilms in a concentration-dependent manner, without affecting bacterial growth. Furthermore, D-histidine downregulated the expression of virulence factors by inhibiting quorum sensing (QS)-related genes. Notably, combining D-histidine with antibiotics, such as amoxicillin, minocycline, and metronidazole, synergistically enhanced biofilm eradication and enabled the use of lower antibiotic dosages. These findings support the further evaluation of D-histidine as a potential anti-biofilm agent in the treatment of periodontitis.IMPORTANCEThe increasing prevalence of antibiotic-resistant A. actinomycetemcomitans biofilms posed a significant challenge in periodontitis management. This study demonstrated that D-histidine effectively targeted A. actinomycetemcomitans biofilms by disrupting structural integrity and suppressing virulence gene expression, without exerting bactericidal effects that could promote resistance development. Notably, D-histidine showed potent synergy with minocycline, significantly enhancing biofilm eradication while potentially enabling reduced antibiotic dosages. These findings established D-histidine as a promising adjunctive therapeutic agent, addressing the urgent need for novel approaches to overcome biofilm-associated antibiotic tolerance in periodontal treatment.},
}

@article {pmid41018127,
year = {2025},
author = {Adhikari, S and Khanal, S and Marasini, A and Panthi, P and Adhikari, A and Luitel, H and Pandeya, YR},
title = {Antimicrobial resistance and biofilm-forming ability in Staphylococcus aureus causing clinical bovine mastitis in Chitwan, Nepal.},
journal = {Veterinary and animal science},
volume = {30},
number = {},
pages = {100508},
pmid = {41018127},
issn = {2451-943X},
abstract = {This cross-sectional study, conducted from August to December 2024, investigated the antimicrobial resistance and biofilm-forming abilities of Staphylococcus aureus from clinical bovine mastitis in Chitwan, Nepal. Out of 134 California Mastitis Test-positive milk samples, 32 (23.9%) were confirmed as S. aureus by biochemical tests and species-specific nuc gene PCR. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing of the 32 isolates against 12 antibiotics revealed high resistance rates, particularly to ampicillin (78.1%), nalidixic acid (75.0%), and enrofloxacin (62.5%). The prevalence of multidrug resistance (MDR), defined as resistance to ≥3 antibiotic classes, was alarmingly high, with 27 (84.4%) isolates classified as MDR. Presumptive methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), detected via cefoxitin resistance, was identified in 14 (43.8%) isolates, all of which were also MDR. Biofilm-forming abilities were assessed qualitatively and quantitatively, with 5 (15.6%) isolates classified as strong biofilm producers. Fisher's exact test revealed no significant association between biofilm formation and overall MDR status (p > 0.05). However, a statistically significant correlation was found between strong biofilm formation and high-level MDR (resistance to ≥ 4 classes) (p < 0.05), as well as between strong biofilm formation and presumptive MRSA status (p < 0.01). These findings highlight the co-existence of high-level resistance and strong virulence phenotypes in S. aureus from bovine mastitis in Nepal, underscoring the urgent need for robust antimicrobial stewardship, enhanced surveillance, and the development of strategies to mitigate biofilm-associated treatment failures.},
}

@article {pmid41016948,
year = {2025},
author = {Kim, MJ and Kim, E and Mangal, U and Seo, JY and Cha, JY and Lee, KJ and Choi, YJ and Kwon, JS and Yu, HS and Choi, SH},
title = {Biofilm-resistant zwitterionic resin-based adhesive for orthodontic bracket-tooth interfaces: an in vitro evaluation.},
journal = {Clinical oral investigations},
volume = {29},
number = {10},
pages = {478},
pmid = {41016948},
issn = {1436-3771},
support = {RS-2023-00249723//Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation (NRF) funded by the Ministry of Education/ ; S3366101//the Ministry of SMEs and Startups (MSS, Korea)/ ; RS-2023-00255335//the Ministry of Science and ICT, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, the Ministry of Health & Welfare, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety/ ; 2021R1A2C2091260//National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF)/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Orthodontic Brackets/microbiology ; Methacrylates/chemistry ; Microscopy, Electron, Scanning ; In Vitro Techniques ; Phosphorylcholine/analogs & derivatives/chemistry ; Shear Strength ; Materials Testing ; *Dental Bonding ; Microscopy, Confocal ; Surface Properties ; *Resin Cements/chemistry ; Betaine/chemistry/analogs & derivatives ; Humans ; *Dental Cements/chemistry ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: An in vitro study to verify the potential effectiveness of an orthodontic adhesive incorporating a polybetaine zwitterionic mixture in preventing biofilm formation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC) and sulfobetaine methacrylate (SBMA), were added to An adhesive at 1 wt% (MS1) And 3 wt% (MS3). The MS0 group had no zwitterions. Flowability measurement, shear bond strength (SBS), the adhesive remnant index (ARI), and the contact angle were assessed. Bracket bonding was performed, and cross-sections were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Biofilm formation was analyzed using confocal laser scanning microscopy. Statistical analyses were conducted using R software. Wilcoxon tests with the Holm correction were used for non-parametric data, and pairwise t-tests with the Bonferroni correction were used for parametric data. Significance was set at P < 0.0001.

RESULTS: Flow analysis showed no significant differences in the experimental groups compared to the MS0 group (P > 0.05). The SEM images confirmed uniform bonding in all groups. SBS decreased significantly with higher MS content (P < 0.0001), And ARI scores shifted with the addition of zwitterionic mixtures, increasing scores to 1 And 2. MS3 showed a significantly lower contact angle compared to MS0 (P < 0.05). MS3 exhibited reduced biofilm formation and lower fluorescence intensity (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS: Despite reductions in SBS, all adhesives remained at minimum acceptable levels. The 3 wt% zwitterionic adhesive effectively suppressed biofilm formation and may help prevent demineralization.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: An orthodontic adhesive containing a zwitterionic mixture can satisfy clinical properties and prevent side effects due to biofilm formation.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Orthodontic Brackets/microbiology
Methacrylates/chemistry
Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
In Vitro Techniques
Phosphorylcholine/analogs & derivatives/chemistry
Shear Strength
Materials Testing
*Dental Bonding
Microscopy, Confocal
Surface Properties
*Resin Cements/chemistry
Betaine/chemistry/analogs & derivatives
Humans
*Dental Cements/chemistry

@article {pmid41016822,
year = {2025},
author = {Shin, J and Park, DH and Jun, W and Park, OJ and Yun, CH and Im, J and Han, SH},
title = {Optimization of the Purification Process for Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Lipoteichoic Acid with Anti-Biofilm Properties against Dental Pathogens.},
journal = {Journal of microbiology and biotechnology},
volume = {35},
number = {},
pages = {e2506045},
doi = {10.4014/jmb.2506.06045},
pmid = {41016822},
issn = {1738-8872},
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects ; *Teichoic Acids/pharmacology/isolation & purification/chemistry ; *Lipopolysaccharides/pharmacology/isolation & purification/chemistry ; Streptococcus mutans/drug effects/physiology ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/isolation & purification ; Porphyromonas gingivalis/drug effects/physiology ; },
abstract = {Biofilms formed by oral pathogens play a critical role in the initiation and development of various dental diseases by enhancing resistance to dental medicaments. Previously, we reported the potent anti-biofilm activity of Lactobacillus lipoteichoic acid (LTA), a major cell wall component of Gram-positive bacteria, against various dental pathogens. Nevertheless, the practical application of LTA as an anti-biofilm agent is limited due to its complex, cost- and labor-intensive purification processes. Therefore, to minimize the purification processes required to obtain LTA with anti-biofilm activity, we isolated LTA from Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (Lp.LTA) and its intermediates following each purification step, and compared their anti-biofilm activity against dental pathogens. The Lp.LTA intermediates underwent sequential purification after butanol extraction and hydrophobic-interaction chromatography, and these were designated as LTA-Butanol and LTA-HIC, respectively. The results of Western blot analysis demonstrated that LTA-HIC has a higher concentration of LTA than LTA-Butanol. Although both LTA-Butanol and LTA-HIC dose-dependently inhibited Streptococcus mutans and Porphyromonas gingivalis biofilm formation, the anti-biofilm activity of LTA-HIC was superior to that of LTA-Butanol and comparable to Lp.LTA. Furthermore, sodium hydroxide treatment of LTA-HIC diminished its anti-biofilm activity, suggesting that LTA is a key component responsible for the anti-biofilm capacity of LTA-HIC. Collectively, these results demonstrated that LTA-HIC serves as an intermediate in the LTA purification, retaining its anti-biofilm properties and offering a viable solution to the challenges associated with the LTA purification process.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects
*Teichoic Acids/pharmacology/isolation & purification/chemistry
*Lipopolysaccharides/pharmacology/isolation & purification/chemistry
Streptococcus mutans/drug effects/physiology
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/isolation & purification
Porphyromonas gingivalis/drug effects/physiology

@article {pmid41016310,
year = {2025},
author = {Song, Y and Zhang, X and Kong, Z and Zhang, J and Fukushima, T and Hu, S and Virdis, B},
title = {Enhancing the productivity of caproic acid in open culture chain elongation: A comparative study of biofilm systems.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {394},
number = {},
pages = {127395},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.127395},
pmid = {41016310},
issn = {1095-8630},
abstract = {Growing global energy consumption and climate challenges have emphasized the need for biotechnology-based methods to synthesize valuable chemicals. Biological chain elongation (CE) shows great potential for decarbonization by producing valuable biochemicals - specifically medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) - from waste streams containing simple short-chain chemical building blocks like acetic acid and ethanol. However, one of the key parameters that impacts the commercial viability of CE, hence its integration in sustainable chemical manufacturing, is the volumetric productivity. In this study, we compared two biofilm systems using commercially available carriers (respectively AnoxK™ Z-200 and K5) with a planktonic system to examine how biofilms enhance the conversion of acetate and ethanol to caproic acid (a medium chain carboxylic acid). The results show that the Z-200 and K5 systems achieved productivity up to 3.46 ± 0.08 g caproate/L/d and 8.1 ± 0.8 g caproate/L/d, respectively, outperforming the planktonic system at 3.02 ± 0.12 g caproate/L/d. Cycle studies further proved the superior performance of the biofilm systems, as shown by short lag-time and fast reaction kinetics. We validated biofilm formation in the CE process through microscopic visualization using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), confocal laser scan microscopy (CLSM), biomass quantification, and analysis of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). Analysis of the microbial community through 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed that the biofilm systems were enriched by functional microbes (including Clostridium sensu stricto 12, Bacteroides, Lachnoclostridium, Caproiciproducens, and Proteiniphilum) previously associated with chain elongation microbiomes. The superior performance in the biofilm systems likely stems from improved biomass concentration, enriched functional microbes, and increased EPS production favouring retention of functional taxa. Overall, this work demonstrates how microbial biofilms can improve productivity of MCFA in CE systems, potentially expanding CE applications and improve decarbonization potential.},
}

@article {pmid41016202,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, Y and Huang, C and Qiu, Y and Li, R and Liu, J and Du, Y and Li, D},
title = {Synergistic elimination of bacillus Calmette-Guérin biofilm and tissue restoration facilitated by ultrasound-mediated nanoparticles and antioxidants.},
journal = {International immunopharmacology},
volume = {166},
number = {},
pages = {115582},
doi = {10.1016/j.intimp.2025.115582},
pmid = {41016202},
issn = {1878-1705},
abstract = {Biofilm formation in Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) enhances antibiotic resistance by impeding drug penetration and evading host immunity. This poses a significant challenge to conventional drug therapies, highlighting the urgent need for novel treatment strategies to overcome MTB's biofilm-mediated resistance. This study introduces the development of low-intensity ultrasound-mediated levofloxacin (LEV) and catalase (CAT) -loaded PEG-PLGA nanoparticles (LEV@CAT-NPs) for antimicrobial sonodynamic therapy (aSDT), offering an innovative strategy to combat BCG biofilm infection, by utilizing BCG as a model for MTB. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) was supplemented during the latter stages of the treatment process of anti-infection therapy to facilitate the transformation of macrophages to the M2 phenotype and to promote tissue repair. Ultrasound-mediated LEV@CAT-NPs, along with the subsequent addition of NAC not only enhanced repair at the infection site but also led to a progressive resolution of the inflammatory response in tissues. The treatment regimen induced a shift in macrophage polarization towards the M2 phenotype and modulated cytokine expression, decreasing pro-inflammatory while increasing anti-inflammatory cytokines, which contributed to the restoration of redox balance in the infected tissues. This study proposes a novel therapeutic strategy that not only targets drug-resistant MTB but also promotes tissue repair, highlighting its dual role in infection management.},
}

@article {pmid41015993,
year = {2025},
author = {Setiawan, M and Gaffar, M and Wartati, S and Qanitha, A and Sjahril, R},
title = {Correlation of bacterial biofilm profile based on optical density cut-off with clinical severity in patients with chronic suppurative otitis media tubotympanic type.},
journal = {The Medical journal of Malaysia},
volume = {80},
number = {5},
pages = {537-543},
pmid = {41015993},
issn = {0300-5283},
mesh = {Humans ; *Biofilms/growth & development ; *Otitis Media, Suppurative/microbiology ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Adult ; Male ; Female ; Chronic Disease ; Middle Aged ; Young Adult ; Adolescent ; Severity of Illness Index ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) is a middle ear infection with a high incidence in ear cases, is often recurrent, and causes hearing impairment. Bacteria in the CSOM frequently form biofilms, which enhance antibiotic resistance and contribute to disease progression. The aim of this study was to determine the correlation of bacterial biofilm profiles based on optical density cut-off with the clinical picture of patients with tubotympanic type CSOM.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study using a descriptive analytical design. The study was conducted at the tertiary teaching hospital of Hasanuddin University and the network hospital in Makassar, Indonesia, from July 2023 to July 2024. The study population consisted of patients with the CSOM tubotympanic type who met the inclusion criteria. Bacterial cultures and biofilm examinations were performed using the tissue culture plate method. Data were analyzed using SPSS® version 28.

RESULTS: A total of 53 patients with the CSOM tubotympanic type were included in this study. The mean age of the patients was 30±14 years. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was the most dominant bacterium (32.1%), with 20 other bacteria, and all these bacteria formed biofilms with either weak or moderate strength. There was a significant association between biofilm formation and nature of secretion (r=0.395, p=0.003). The chronicity of the disease (r=0.407, p=0.002) and the degree of hearing impairment (r=0.294, p=0.032) were also significant. A significant positive association was found between total clinical score and biofilm formation (r=0.429, p=0.001).

CONCLUSION: All bacteria found in the tubotympanic CSOM formed biofilms. The correlation analysis revealed a significant positive relationship between several clinical variables and biofilm formation. The substantial formation of biofilms may account for the fact that patients with elevated scores frequently experience infections that are challenging to manage with conventional antibiotic treatments.},
}

Humans
*Biofilms/growth & development
*Otitis Media, Suppurative/microbiology
Cross-Sectional Studies
Adult
Male
Female
Chronic Disease
Middle Aged
Young Adult
Adolescent
Severity of Illness Index

@article {pmid41015312,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, J and Zhu, W and Zhang, X and Liu, S and Ma, J and Xing, D},
title = {Charge-specific impacts of polystyrene nanoplastics on acidogenesis and biofilm adaptation in Ethanoligenens harbinense.},
journal = {Bioresource technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {133389},
doi = {10.1016/j.biortech.2025.133389},
pmid = {41015312},
issn = {1873-2976},
abstract = {Despite increasing awareness of the risks posed by nanoplastics (NPs) to environmental microbes, the charge-specific effects of functionalized NPs on anaerobic acidogenic bacteria remain poorly understood. This study investigated the impact of functionalized polystyrene (PS) NPs on Ethanoligenens harbinense, a model hydrogen-producing anaerobe. The growth, metabolic, and transcriptomic responses of this bacterium to non-functionalized (PS-NPs), amino-modified (PS-NH2), and carboxyl-modified (PS-COOH) variants were examined. Compared with the control group without NPs addition, PS-NH2 exerted the strongest inhibition, reducing hydrogen and ethanol production by 16% and 20%, respectively, while elevating reactive oxygen species (ROS) level by 148%. It also decreased biomass and down-regulated the expression of ribosome- and translation-related genes. In parallel, biofilm adaptation resulted in an 12% increase in polysaccharide. PS-COOH enhanced biofilm reinforcement with a 21% increase in polysaccharides and up-regulation of bapA and membrane transporter-related genes. Overall, PS-NH2 induced broad transcriptional changes, particularly in pathways related to the phosphotransferase system (PTS), ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters, genetic information processing, and signaling/regulatory systems in E. harbinense. These findings provide new insights into how surface charge modifications of NPs affect anaerobic bacterial metabolism and underscore their potential environmental risks.},
}

@article {pmid41015013,
year = {2025},
author = {Sun, H and Li, W and Zhang, S and Yuan, L and Wang, D and Sun, J and Wang, H},
title = {Differential profiles of antibiotic resistance genes in activated sludge and biofilm in wastewater treatment plants.},
journal = {Journal of hazardous materials},
volume = {498},
number = {},
pages = {139955},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhazmat.2025.139955},
pmid = {41015013},
issn = {1873-3336},
abstract = {Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) serve as significant sources of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in natural water bodies, with activated sludge and biofilm being the two most critical biological treatment processes in WWTPs. A systematic comparison of ARG composition in these two processes is essential for optimizing the design and operation of wastewater treatment systems. This study collected samples from 16 WWTPs, including one year of longitudinal monitoring data from a full-scale facility and encompassing five biofilm types. The high-throughput sequencing results revealed that the relative abundance of ARGs in activated sludge was significantly higher than in biofilms, with average relative abundances of 2075.05 ppm and 1288.78 ppm, respectively. We also identified plasmids and microbial community structure as key factors contributing to the differences in ARG composition between activated sludge and biofilm. Plasmids primarily influenced the ARGs associated with enzymatic modification mechanisms, while the microbial community structure mainly impacted the abundance of ARGs, particularly through its effect on Bacteroidia. This structural influence was particularly pronounced on ARGs related to enzymatic inactivation, enzymatic modification, efflux pumps, target modification, and target protection mechanisms. These findings provide valuable insights for improving the management of ARGs in WWTPs and contribute to the development of strategies for mitigating ARG proliferation in wastewater treatment systems.},
}

@article {pmid41014987,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhu, B and Pan, X and Guo, H and Chen, Y and Wen, Q},
title = {'Inner membrane - outer gel' PEDOT:PSS/MXene composite material enhances the extracellular electron transfer process by promoting biofilm growth.},
journal = {Biosensors & bioelectronics},
volume = {291},
number = {},
pages = {118021},
doi = {10.1016/j.bios.2025.118021},
pmid = {41014987},
issn = {1873-4235},
abstract = {Against the backdrop of surging global energy demand, microbial fuel cells (MFCs) have garnered significant attention for their potential in green energy conversion. To solve the problem of low efficiency of long-distance electron transfer by microorganisms at the anode interface of MFCs, we propose a novel 'inner membrane - outer gel' PEDOT:PSS/MXene dual-phase hydrogel electrode. The electrode is fabricated via electrochemical polymerization, which further enables it to use a flexible heterogeneous interface to promote three-dimensional (3D) biofilm generation. Experimental results indicate that the composite anode exhibits a charge transfer resistance (Rct) as low as 4.71 Ω, with a maximum power density of 4.55 ± 0.17 W m[-2], which is 1.8 times the maximum power density of a pure hydrogel (only PEDOT:PSS hydrogel). Furthermore, 16S rRNA sequencing revealed that the relative abundance of Geobacter increased to 62.22 %, indicating a significant enrichment of electrogenic microorganisms. Molecular docking simulations further elucidated the electrostatic complementarity and hydrogen bonding interactions between PEDOT and the OmcZ protein, providing theoretical support for efficient electron transfer between conductive nanowires and electrodes within biofilms. Overall, this study provides both experimental and theoretical evidence for the feasibility of the 'inner membrane - outer gel' electrode in enhancing MFC performance, offering new insights into the design of high-performance conductive bioelectrodes in microbial energy conversion devices.},
}

@article {pmid41012569,
year = {2025},
author = {do Nascimento, JL and da Costa, MCV and de Macêdo, LF and de Macêdo, LHC and de Moura, RO and de Mélo, TJA and da Rocha, WRV and de Melo Costa, ACF and Soares-Sobrinho, JL and Silva, DTCD},
title = {Laponite[®]-Based Smart Hydrogels for Sustained Topical Delivery of Silver Sulfadiazine: A Strategy for the Treatment of Contaminated or Biofilm-Forming Wounds.},
journal = {Pharmaceutics},
volume = {17},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/pharmaceutics17091234},
pmid = {41012569},
issn = {1999-4923},
support = {382074/2025-4.//National Council for Scientific and Technological Development/ ; grant #01/2025//Universidade Estadual da Paraíba/ ; },
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Silver sulfadiazine (AgSD) is widely used in the topical treatment of burns and infected wounds, but its conventional formulations present drawbacks such as poor water solubility, the need for multiple daily applications, and patient discomfort. To overcome these limitations, this study aimed to develop and evaluate Laponite[®] (LAP)-based hydrogels loaded with AgSD for controlled release and enhanced antimicrobial and antibiofilm efficacy, offering a promising alternative for the treatment of contaminated or biofilm-forming wounds. Methods: Laponite[®]-based hydrogels containing 1% and 1.2% AgSD (LAP@AgSD) were prepared using a one-pot method. The formulations were characterized rheologically, thermally, and structurally. In vitro drug release was assessed using Franz diffusion cells, and mathematical modeling was applied to determine release kinetics. Antibacterial and antibiofilm activities were evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa using standardized microbiological methods. Results: LAP@AgSD hydrogels exhibited pseudoplastic behavior, high structural integrity, and enhanced thermal stability. In vitro release assays revealed a sustained release profile, best fitted by the Weibull model, indicating diffusion-controlled mechanisms. Antibacterial assays demonstrated concentration-dependent activity, with LAP@AgSD 1.2% showing superior efficacy over LAP@AgSD 1% and comparable performance to the commercial silver sulfadiazine cream (CC-AgSD). Biofilm inhibition was significant for all formulations, with CC-AgSD 1% exhibiting the highest immediate activity, while LAP@AgSD 1.2% provided sustained antibiofilm potential. Conclusions: LAP-based hydrogels are promising smart delivery systems for AgSD, combining mechanical robustness, controlled drug release, and effective antibacterial and antibiofilm activities. These findings support their potential use in topical therapies for infected and chronic wounds, particularly where biofilm formation is a challenge.},
}

@article {pmid41011755,
year = {2025},
author = {Liang, TT and Wen, JQ and Chen, GP and Wang, R and Xu, J and Chen, WY},
title = {Identification and Validation of Promising Targets and Inhibitors of Biofilm Formation in Pseudomonas aeruginosa: Bioinformatics, Virtual Screening, and Biological Evaluation.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/pathogens14090855},
pmid = {41011755},
issn = {2076-0817},
support = {CPA:2023ZYS09//Guangdong Pharmaceutical Association/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology/genetics ; Computational Biology/methods ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Molecular Docking Simulation ; Drug Evaluation, Preclinical ; Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/antagonists & inhibitors/genetics ; Humans ; Protein Interaction Maps ; Clarithromycin/pharmacology ; Azithromycin/pharmacology ; },
abstract = {Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a member of the "ESKAPE" group of bacterial pathogens, exhibits biofilm-forming capacity, a key factor contributing to its resistance to conventional antibiotics and posing significant challenges in clinical treatment. To develop more effective therapeutics against such infections, identifying potential drug targets through bioinformatics analysis is essential. Consequently, we utilized data from the GEO database to investigate differentially expressed genes between planktonic and biofilm groups, and identified drug targets through the construction of a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and the cytoHubba algorithm. Inhibitors targeting this protein were identified through molecular docking screening of the FDA-approved drug library, and their anti-biofilm activity was validated in vitro. Through bioinformatics analysis, we identified GacS as the drug target in this study for treating biofilm-related infections. Virtual screening revealed that oxidized glutathione (GSSG) and arformoterol tartrate (ARF) are both capable of tightly binding to GacS and demonstrating good stability. In vitro experiments further confirmed that both GSSG and ARF demonstrated anti-biofilm activity, particularly when combined with azithromycin (AZM) or clarithromycin (CAM), significantly enhancing the biofilm inhibition effects of these antibiotics. This combination therapy offers a new and innovative strategy to combat biofilm-associated infections, showcasing the potential of GacS inhibitors in clinical applications. In conclusion, GSSG and ARF may serve as effective GacS inhibitors, and their combination with AZM or CAM could provide a novel approach for treating biofilm-related infections, paving the way for more effective treatment options.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects/physiology/genetics
Computational Biology/methods
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Molecular Docking Simulation
Drug Evaluation, Preclinical
Bacterial Proteins/metabolism/antagonists & inhibitors/genetics
Humans
Protein Interaction Maps
Clarithromycin/pharmacology
Azithromycin/pharmacology

@article {pmid41011744,
year = {2025},
author = {Bridi, V and do Prado, DPG and Ferreira, SRR and Pedretti, CP and Filho, EGP and Santos, WGD and Rezende, HHA},
title = {Antimicrobial Resistance and Biofilm Formation in Bacterial Species Isolated from a Veterinary Hospital.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/pathogens14090845},
pmid = {41011744},
issn = {2076-0817},
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; Hospitals, Animal ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Animals ; *Drug Resistance, Bacterial ; Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial ; Staphylococcus/drug effects/isolation & purification/genetics ; *Bacteria/drug effects/isolation & purification/genetics ; },
abstract = {Micro-organisms are abundant in nature and can also be found in hospital settings, causing high rates of infections. This study aimed to identify bacteria isolated from a veterinary hospital, as well as to perform antimicrobial susceptibility testing using the disk diffusion method (Kirby-Bauer), biofilm production tests using 96-well polystyrene microtiter plates and crystal violet dye, and genetic analysis of the ica operon of Staphylococcus isolates. Three collections were made from eleven surfaces and objects in the hospital's non-critical areas (general areas) and critical areas (surgical center), totaling thirty-three samples. A total of 66 different bacterial isolates were obtained, with 77% (51/66) Gram-positive and 23% (29/66) Gram-negative. Resistance profiles were found for multidrug-resistance (MDR), methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis (MRSE), and other unidentified species of methicillin-resistant coagulase-negative (MRCNS) and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL), as well as biofilm production rates of 57% (38/66) of the isolates. Analysis of the operon genes for Staphylococcus sp. showed divergence in some samples when compared to the phenotypic test performed. In summary, there is a high presence of micro-organisms with resistance and virulence factors spread throughout the various areas of the veterinary hospital.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development
Microbial Sensitivity Tests
Hospitals, Animal
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Animals
*Drug Resistance, Bacterial
Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial
Staphylococcus/drug effects/isolation & purification/genetics
*Bacteria/drug effects/isolation & purification/genetics

@article {pmid41011529,
year = {2025},
author = {De Plano, LM and Iaconis, A and Papasergi, S and Mediati, F and Caruso, D and Guglielmino, SPP and Franco, D},
title = {Role of NaCl and Glutamine on Biofilm Production from Pseudomonas aeruginosa.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms13092198},
pmid = {41011529},
issn = {2076-2607},
abstract = {Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen capable of forming antibiotic-resistant biofilms, contributing to persistent infections and treatment failure. Environmental factors such as osmolarity and nutrient availability are known to influence biofilm formation and virulence. In this study, we investigated the effects of NaCl depletion and glutamine supplementation on biofilm production in three P. aeruginosa strains: the laboratory strain ATCC 27853 and two clinical isolates with distinct antibiotic resistance profiles and phenazine production patterns (P. aeruginosa Pr, pyorubrin-producing, and P. aeruginosa Pc, pyocyanin-producing). Bacteria were cultured in standard Luria-Bertani (LB) medium, LB without NaCl, and LB in which yeast extract was replaced by glutamine. For each strain and condition, we assessed growth kinetics, phenazine production, and biofilm formation. Biofilm development was quantified via XTT assays and compared to secondary metabolite profiles. NaCl removal did not substantially affect growth, whereas glutamine supplementation reduced growth, especially in the laboratory strain. Both conditions modulated secondary metabolite production and biofilm formation in a strain-specific manner. In P. aeruginosa ATCC 27853, NaCl depletion significantly increased pyoverdine, pyocyanin, and QS gene expression, while biofilm formation showed significant differences only at 72 h; in contrast, glutamine supplementation affected only pyoverdine. A similar trend was observed in the clinical strain P. aeruginosa Pc, although NaCl depletion did not significantly impact pyoverdine production but already enhanced biofilm formation at 48 h. In P. aeruginosa Pr, only glutamine appeared to alter the considered parameters, increasing pyoverdine production while reducing pyocyanin and biofilm levels, although the absence of NaCl also negatively impacted biofilm formation. These findings highlight the impact of osmotic and nutritional signals on P. aeruginosa virulence traits.},
}

@article {pmid41011426,
year = {2025},
author = {Shen, J and Li, Y and Miao, H},
title = {The PP2A Catalytic Subunit PPH21 Regulates Biofilm Formation and Drug Resistance of Candida albicans.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms13092093},
pmid = {41011426},
issn = {2076-2607},
abstract = {Candida albicans (C. albicans) biofilms exhibit enhanced resistance to conventional antifungal agents; however, the underlying pathogenic mechanisms warrant deeper exploration. Protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A), especially its catalytic activity, is crucial for maintaining physiological balance. This study focused on the role of the PP2A catalytic subunit coding gene PPH21 in biofilm formation and drug resistance of C. albicans. The mutant strain (pph21Δ/Δ) was generated and identified. The oxidative stress was detected by the reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). The autophagic activity was evaluated, and the autophagosomes were observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The biofilm formation was measured by XTT reduction assay, crystal violet (CV) staining, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The susceptibility to antifungal agents was examined by XTT reduction assay and spot assay. Additionally, the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) was applied to clarify the regulatory effect of C. albicans autophagy on oxidative stress. The pathogenicity of PPH21 in oral C. albicans infection was evaluated through in vivo experiments. We found that PPH21 deletion led to increased oxidative stress and autophagic activities, but it can be reversed by the application of NAC. Moreover, PPH21 deletion also impaired the biofilm formation ability and reduced resistance to antifungal agents. Our findings revealed that PPH21 is involved in both virulence and stress adaptation of C. albicans.},
}

@article {pmid41011382,
year = {2025},
author = {Jotic, A and Cirkovic, I and Bozic, D and Savic Vujovic, K and Milovanovic, J and Folic, M and Trivic, A and Cvorovic, L and Radivojevic, N},
title = {Antibiofilm Effects of N-Acetyl Cysteine on Staphylococcal Biofilm in Patients with Chronic Rhinosinusitis.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms13092050},
pmid = {41011382},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {451-03-65/2024-03/200110//Ministry of Science, Technological Development and Innovation, the Republic of Serbia/ ; },
abstract = {Staphylococcal bacterial biofilm plays an important role in the pathogenesis and bacterial persistence of chronic rhinosinusitis. N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) has an inhibitory role in biofilm formation, suppressing adhesion and matrix production or favoring dispersal of preformed biofilm. The aim of this study was to examine the in vitro effect of NAC on Staphylococcal biofilm formation by bacterial strains isolated from tissue samples of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with or without nasal polyps (CRSwNP and CRSsNP). Prospective study included 75 patients with CRS. The biofilm-forming capacity of isolated strains was detected by microtiter-plate method and the effects of sub-inhibitory (1/2x, 1/4x, and 1/8x minimal inhibitory concentration, MIC) and supra-inhibitory minimal concentrations (2x, 4x, and 8xMIC) of NAC on biofilm production were investigated. Staphylococcal bacterial strains were isolated in 54 (72%) patients, and the most frequently isolated species were Staphylococcus aureus (40.7%). Coagulase-negative Staphylococci species were weak producers of biofilm, while S. aureus was a strong biofilm producer. Concentration of 3.1 mg/mL (1/2 MIC) was sufficient to completely prevent biofilm formation in 77.8% of the isolates, where 49.6 mg/mL (8xMIC) led to the complete eradication of formed biofilm in 81.5% of the isolates. The subinhibitory and eradication effects were dose- and strain-dependent. There were no significant differences in MIC values between isolates from patients with CRSwNP and CRSsNP isolates. NAC proved to be effective in inhibiting biofilm formation and reducing formed biofilm by Staphylococcal isolates from patients with CRS. A comparable antibiofilm effect was exhibited in both phenotypes of CRS, indicating that NAC's antibiofilm activity was independent of the underlying clinical phenotype, and more targeted on biofilm matrix components.},
}

@article {pmid41011381,
year = {2025},
author = {Hessling, M and Meulebroeck, W and Alsanius, B},
title = {A Collection and Analysis of Simplified Data for a Better Understanding of the Complex Process of Biofilm Inactivation by Ultraviolet and Visible Irradiation.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms13092048},
pmid = {41011381},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {BW8-1108//Ministerium für Wirtschaft, Arbeit und Tourismus Baden-Württemberg/ ; },
abstract = {Biofilms are communities of microorganisms that pose a problem in many areas, including the food industry, drinking water treatment, and medicine, because they can contain pathogens and are difficult to eliminate. For this reason, the possibility of biofilm reduction by ultraviolet (UV) or visible light was investigated using data from published reports. Results for different applications, spectral ranges, and microorganisms were compared by performing MANOVA tests. Approximately 140 publications were found that dealt with the irradiation of water or surfaces for biofilm reduction or reduction in biofilm formation. Irradiation of surfaces with UV or visible light in the spectral range 200-525 nm had a positive effect on biofilm reduction and reduction in biofilm formation, although the results for irradiation of water were conflicting. Most investigations were carried out on P. aeruginosa biofilms, but other Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, as well as some fungi and their biofilm sensitivities to irradiation, were also analyzed. Limited data were available for the UVB (280-315 nm) and UVA (315-400 nm) range. Most experiments to date have been carried out in the UVC (100-280 nm) or in the visible violet/blue spectral (400-500 nm) range, with the UVC range being 2-3 orders of magnitude more efficient in terms of applied irradiation dose. Other quantitative statements were difficult to make as the results from the different working groups were highly scattered. Irradiation can reduce the microorganisms in biofilms but does not completely remove biofilms. New biofilm formation can at least be delayed by surface irradiation. Whether it is also possible to prevent the formation of new biofilms in the long term is open to question. Which irradiation wavelengths are optimal for anti-biofilm measures is also still unclear.},
}

@article {pmid41011372,
year = {2025},
author = {Furnica, DT and Falkenstein, J and Dittmer, S and Steinmann, J and Rath, PM and Kirchhoff, L},
title = {Human-like Biofilm Models to Study the Activity of Antifungals Against Aspergillus fumigatus.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms13092040},
pmid = {41011372},
issn = {2076-2607},
abstract = {Aspergillus fumigatus is an opportunistic filamentous fungus that primarily affects the respiratory tract of the human body. Depending on its host's immune response, the pathogen can cause invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA). Biofilm formation by A. fumigatus increases virulence and resistance against antifungals and immune response and is one important factor in IPA development. Here, two human-like models, precision cut lung slices (PCLS) and a biofilm co-culture model, have been developed to test the anti-biofilm activity of voriconazole, amphotericin B, as well as luliconazole against A. fumigatus. In both assays, metabolically active A. fumigatus biofilms were examined at different biofilm developmental stages using an XTT assay. A decrease in the metabolic activity of the fungal biofilms was detected for each of the tested agents in both assays. Significant anti-biofilm effects exist against early-stage biofilm in the co-culture model. In the PCLS assay, amphotericin B showed the strongest inhibition after 24 h. In conclusion, the applied PCLS ex vivo model can be used to study the property and activity of certain antifungal compounds against Aspergillus biofilm. With its close resemblance to human conditions, the PCLS model has the potential for improving the current understanding of biofilm treatments in laboratory settings.},
}

@article {pmid41011371,
year = {2025},
author = {Risheq, S and Sancho, A and Friedman, M and Gati, I and Eliashar, R and Steinberg, D and Gross, M},
title = {Ciprofloxacin-Coated Tympanostomy Tubes with Sustained-Release Varnish: A Novel Strategy to Combat Biofilm Formation by Pseudomonas aeruginosa.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms13092039},
pmid = {41011371},
issn = {2076-2607},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to develop and evaluate the antibacterial and anti-biofilm efficacy of ciprofloxacin-coated tympanostomy tubes (TTs) using a sustained-release varnish (SRV-CIPRO) and introduce a novel tympanic membrane model for preclinical evaluation.

STUDY DESIGN: This was an in vitro experimental study.

SETTING: This study was conducted in a biofilm research laboratory in an academic medical center.

METHODS: Sterile fluoroplastic TTs were coated with SRV-CIPRO or placebo varnish. A novel tympanic membrane (TM) model was developed using a layered agar-plastic system. Antibacterial activity, biofilm inhibition, and bacterial viability were assessed through agar diffusion, MTT, ATP quantification, HR-SEM, and SD-CLSM.

RESULTS: SRV-CIPRO-coated TTs exhibited sustained antibacterial activity for up to 10 days. Compared to the placebo, SRV-CIPRO significantly inhibited biofilm formation, reduced metabolic activity, and decreased bacterial viability (p < 0.05). Imaging confirmed fewer bacterial colonies on SRV-CIPRO TTs. The TM model allowed realistic testing of tube insertion and infection simulation.

CONCLUSION: SRV-CIPRO-coated TTs offer sustained antibiotic delivery, potentially reducing postoperative otorrhea and biofilm-related complications. The TM model provides a platform for preclinical evaluation of middle ear devices.},
}

@article {pmid41011142,
year = {2025},
author = {Maravić-Vlahoviček, G and Kindl, M and Andričević, K and Obranić, S and Vladimir-Knežević, S},
title = {Modulatory Effects of Satureja montana L. Essential Oil on Biofilm Formation and Virulence Factors of Pseudomonas aeruginosa.},
journal = {Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {18},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ph18091269},
pmid = {41011142},
issn = {1424-8247},
support = {KK.01.1.1.02.0021 (FarmInova)//European Regional Development Fund/ ; },
abstract = {Background: Antimicrobial resistance is a major global health threat, particularly from pathogens such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, known for forming biofilms and producing virulence factors that cause persistent infections. Essential oils (EOs) offer promising alternatives to conventional antimicrobial therapy due to their antimicrobial and antibiofilm properties. This study aimed to investigate the modulatory effects of a thymol-rich EO from Satureja montana L. on planktonic growth, biofilm formation, swarming motility, proteolytic activity and pyocyanin production of P. aeruginosa PAO1. Methods: The essential oil, isolated by hydrodistillation from S. montana aerial parts, was analysed by GC-MS. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the EO and thymol was determined using the broth microdilution method. Sub-MICs were tested for planktonic growth and biofilm formation. Virulence was assessed by testing swarming motility, proteolytic activity and pyocyanin production. Results: The EO was characterised by a very high content of monoterpenes, with thymol dominating (56.47%). MIC for both EO and thymol was 4 mg/mL. They showed a biphasic effect: higher concentrations significantly inhibited planktonic growth (36-58% reduction; p < 0.05), while lower concentrations promoted it (10-17% increase; p < 0.05). Biofilm biomass varied, but the biofilm index indicated promotion at higher concentrations (0.125-0.5 mg/mL; p < 0.05). Both inhibited swarming at 0.5 mg/mL (thymol was more effective). Thymol decreased proteolytic activity, while EO increased pyocyanin production. Conclusions: S. montana essential oil and thymol show concentration-dependent modulation of P. aeruginosa growth, biofilms and virulence, suggesting their potential as anti-virulence agents, although the biphasic responses require careful dosing.},
}

@article {pmid41011138,
year = {2025},
author = {Elhawary, EA and Soltane, R and Moustafa, MH and Abdelaziz, AM and Said, MA and Zahran, EM},
title = {Sustainable MnO2/MgO Bimetallic Nanoparticles Capped with Sword Fern Methanol Extract Attain Antioxidant/Anti-Biofilm Potential: A UPLC-ESI/LC/MS and Network Pharmacology-Supported Study.},
journal = {Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {18},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ph18091262},
pmid = {41011138},
issn = {1424-8247},
support = {25UQU4331312GSSR01//Funder Grant Number Umm Al-Qura University, Saudi Arabia/ ; },
abstract = {Background: Nephrolepis exaltata (sword fern) possesses a considerable amount of phytochemicals and different biological activities. The current study investigates the anti-biofilm potential of greenly synthesized bimetallic nanoparticles of Nephrolepis exaltata leaf methanol extract (NEME-MnO2-MgO BNPs). Methods: The NEME was subjected to UPLC/MS analysis, followed by characterization of its NPs by size, zeta potential, FTIR, entrapment efficiency, and release. Then, antioxidant, antimicrobial and antibiofilm assays were employed, followed by in silico studies. Results: The UPLC/MS analysis of NEME led to the tentative identification of 27 metabolites, mostly phenolics. The MnO2-MgO BNPs presented a uniform size and distribution and exhibited IC50 values of 350 and 215.6 μg/mL, in the DPPH and ABTS assays, respectively. Moreover, the NPs exhibited antimicrobial and anti-biofilm efficacies against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumonia (ATCC-9633), Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC-6538), Escherichia coli, Bacillus cereus, and C. albicans, with MIC values of 250-500 μg/mL. The MnO2-MgO BNPs inhibited Candida albicans biofilms with a % inhibition of 66.83 ± 2.45% at 1/2 MIC. The network pharmacology highlighted epigallocatechin and hyperoside to be the major compounds responsible for the anti-biofilm potential. The ASKCOS facilitated the prediction of the redox transformations that occurred in the green synthesis, while the docking analysis revealed enhanced binding affinities of the oxidized forms of both compounds towards the outer membrane porin OprD of P. aeruginosa, with binding scores of -4.6547 and -5.7701 kcal/mol., respectively. Conclusions: The greenly synthesized Nephrolepis exaltata bimetallic nanoparticles may provide a promising, eco-friendly, and sustainable source for antimicrobial agents of natural origin with potential biofilm inhibition.},
}

@article {pmid41010524,
year = {2025},
author = {Jung, EH and Hwang, G and Kim, KR},
title = {Effect of 6-Shogaol Derived from Ginger (Zingiber officinale) on Dual-Species Biofilm Formation by Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans.},
journal = {Nutrients},
volume = {17},
number = {18},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/nu17182999},
pmid = {41010524},
issn = {2072-6643},
support = {This research was supported by Kyungpook National University Research Fund, 2022.//Kyungpook National University/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; *Candida albicans/drug effects/physiology/growth & development ; *Streptococcus mutans/drug effects/physiology/growth & development ; *Catechols/pharmacology/isolation & purification ; *Zingiber officinale/chemistry ; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration ; Plant Extracts/pharmacology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Dental plaque, a biofilm composed of accumulated oral microorganisms, is a key contributor to various oral diseases. 6-shogaol, a bioactive compound of ginger, is known to have pharmacological activities, including anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities. Therefore, we aimed to determine the effects of 6-shogaol on dual-species biofilms of Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) and Candida albicans (C. albicans).

METHODS: Dual-species oral biofilms were formed on hydroxyapatite (HA) disks for 42 h and exposed to 6-shogaol. The pH was measured in the experimental medium, and the biomass, colony-forming unit (CFU) of microbial cells, and insoluble extracellular polysaccharides (EPS) were quantified in the biofilm formed on the HA disk. Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) was used to assess biofilm morphology, and quantitative polymerase chain reaction was performed to analyze gtf gene expression.

RESULTS: 6-shogaol dose-dependently reduced insoluble EPS, CFU counts, and dry weight of biofilms. The pH was maintained above 5.5 in the 6-shogaol-treated group. CLSM images showed that S. mutans proliferation, C. albicans hyphal development, and EPS production were markedly inhibited in biofilms treated with 6-shogaol. The expression of gtfB and gtfC was significantly downregulated by 6-shogaol.

CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that 6-shogaol has the potential to be a promising natural product for the prevention and management of oral biofilm-related oral diseases.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
*Candida albicans/drug effects/physiology/growth & development
*Streptococcus mutans/drug effects/physiology/growth & development
*Catechols/pharmacology/isolation & purification
*Zingiber officinale/chemistry
Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
Plant Extracts/pharmacology

@article {pmid41009919,
year = {2025},
author = {Murray, RK and Martin, AE and Zipkowitz, S and Jahan, N and Davis, TD and Redman, WK},
title = {α-Amylase-Mediated Antibiotic Degradation and Sequestration in Pseudomonas aeruginosa Biofilm Therapy.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics14090941},
pmid = {41009919},
issn = {2079-6382},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: As of 2022, 80% of all documented microbial infections are biofilm-associated: communities of microorganisms adhered to a surface and enclosed in a complex extracellular polymeric substance (EPS). The EPS acts as a physical barrier protecting the bacteria from antimicrobial agents and host immune responses. To combat this hurdle, the application of glycoside hydrolases (GH) has been investigated due to their ability to cleave particular structural polysaccharides within the EPS, thus breaking down the protective barrier and improving antibiotic clearance. While various studies demonstrate the capacity of GHs to improve antibiotic efficacy against biofilms in combination, there is clear differential success between these treatments depending on the GH and antibiotic chosen. Due to the overlap of GH targets and antibiotic structures, it is imperative to ensure that the antibiotics in combinatorial treatments are not degraded by the GH.

METHODS: This study aimed to screen the GH α-amylase produced from Aspergillus oryzae (AO) and Bacillus subtilis (BS), combined with various antibiotics from different classes, charges, and mode of actions by determining MICs. against the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) of 6 antibiotics with or without α-amylase and treat 2-day PA biofilms with antibiotics with or without GHs. Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) stability assays and Differential Scanning Fluorimetry (DSF) were conducted to determine antibiotic and GH degradation as well as antibiotic sequestration.

RESULTS: Increased MICs in the presence of GHs as well as decreased antibiotic clearance against 2-day biofilms were suggestive of antibiotic degradation. LC-MS/MS stability assays of tetracycline and ciprofloxacin in the presence and absence of α-amylase further demonstrated the α-amylase-mediated antibiotic sequestration. Differential scanning fluorimetry (DSF) assays confirmed α-amylase-antibiotic interactions.

CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that α-amylase is capable of degrading and sequestering a variety of antibiotics, and the degree to which these phenomena occur varies depending upon the source of the GH. As a potential treatment for biofilm-associated infections, it is imperative that the GH + antibiotic combinations are determined compatible prior to clinical use.},
}

@article {pmid41009848,
year = {2025},
author = {Oliveira, MCF and Canellas, ALB and Berbert, LC and Cardoso, AM and Silva, VA and Garutti, SST and Rangel, DHF and Dias, RCS and Perini, JA and Souza, CRVM and Chagas, TPG and Laport, MS and Pellegrino, FLPC},
title = {Assessment of Antimicrobial Resistance and Virulence of Biofilm-Forming Uropathogenic Escherichia coli from Rio de Janeiro.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics14090869},
pmid = {41009848},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {88887.820714/2023-00//CAPES/ ; E-26/211.519/2019//FAPERJ/ ; E-26/211.209/2021//FAPERJ/ ; E-26/204.045/2024//FAPERJ/ ; E-26/211.284/2021//FAPERJ/ ; 405020/2023-6//CNPq/ ; 309158/2023-0//CNPq/ ; },
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) is the leading cause of urinary tract infections in both community and hospital settings worldwide. Antimicrobial-resistant UPEC strains pose a significant challenge for effective antibiotic therapy. In this study, 50 bacterial isolates recovered from urine samples of patients attended in different sectors of a public hospital in Rio de Janeiro over five months were analyzed to assess antimicrobial resistance and virulence profiles through broad gene screening. Methods: Biofilm production was assessed using a semi-quantitative adherence assay. PCR was employed to investigate 27 resistance genes, 6 virulence genes, sequence types (STs), and phylogroups. Susceptibility to 25 antimicrobial agents was determined by disk diffusion testing. Furthermore, the pathogenic potential was evaluated in vivo using the Tenebrio molitor larvae infection model. Results: Most UPEC isolates were moderate or strong biofilm producers (41/50; 82%). The sul1 and sul2 resistance genes were the most frequently detected (58%). Two virulence gene patterns were identified: fyuA, iutA, fimH, cnf1 and fyuA, iutA, fimH (13 isolates; 26%). ST131 and ST73 were the most common sequence types (16% each), and phylogroup B2 was the most prevalent (50%). Thirty isolates (60%) were multidrug-resistant, most of which belonged to phylogroup B2. UPEC exhibited dose-dependent lethality, causing 100% mortality at 2.6 × 10[8] CFU/mL within 24 h. Conclusions: These findings reinforce the urgent need for surveillance strategies and effective antimicrobial stewardship in clinical practice.},
}

@article {pmid41009836,
year = {2025},
author = {Oh, Y and Kim, TJ},
title = {Temperature Adaptive Biofilm Formation in Yersinia enterocolitica in Response to pYV Plasmid and Calcium.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics14090857},
pmid = {41009836},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {2021R1F1A1061888//National Research Foundation of Korea/ ; },
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Yersinia enterocolitica is a pathogenic bacterium that forms biofilms, enhancing its persistence and resistance to antimicrobial agents. Biofilm formation in Y. enterocolitica is influenced by environmental factors such as temperature, calcium, and the presence of the virulence plasmid pYV. This study aims to explore how temperature, calcium, and pYV modulate biofilm formation in Y. enterocolitica, with a focus on motility and extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) production as key factors. Methods: Y. enterocolitica strains with and without the pYV plasmid were cultured at two different temperatures (26 °C and 37 °C). The effect of calcium (5 mM) on biofilm formation was tested at both temperatures. Biofilm formation was measured using crystal violet staining, motility was assessed using soft agar plates, and EPS production was quantified to determine its role in biofilm stabilization. Results: At 26 °C, biofilm formation increased in pYV-negative strains, driven primarily by motility and flagellar expression. In contrast, at 37 °C, pYV-positive strains showed strong biofilm formation despite reduced growth, with EPS production as the key stabilizing factor. Calcium modulated biofilm formation in a temperature-dependent manner: at 26 °C, 5 mM calcium modestly reduced biofilm formation in pYV-negative strains, while at 37 °C, it significantly suppressed both EPS production and biofilm formation by approximately 50% in pYV-positive strains. Conclusions: This study reveals a novel regulatory switch where temperature, calcium, and pYV modulate biofilm formation in Y. enterocolitica. These findings suggest that Y. enterocolitica can adapt between motility- and EPS-dominated biofilm strategies depending on environmental conditions. Understanding these mechanisms offers potential targets for controlling biofilm-related persistence in clinical and food safety contexts.},
}

@article {pmid41009754,
year = {2025},
author = {Tegegne, DT and Abbott, IJ and Poźniak, B},
title = {Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections: Understanding the Interplay Between Bacterial Biofilm and Antimicrobial Resistance.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {18},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms26189193},
pmid = {41009754},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {N070/0011/24//Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development ; Humans ; *Urinary Tract Infections/microbiology/drug therapy/etiology ; *Catheter-Related Infections/microbiology/drug therapy ; *Drug Resistance, Bacterial ; Urinary Catheters/microbiology/adverse effects ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; Bacteria/drug effects ; },
abstract = {The increasing use of urinary catheters in healthcare, driven by an aging population and escalating antimicrobial resistance, presents both benefits and challenges. While they are essential to managing urinary retention and enabling precise urine output monitoring, their use significantly increases the risk of catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs), the most common type of healthcare-associated infection. CAUTI risk is closely linked to the duration of catheterization and the formation of bacterial biofilms on catheter surfaces. These biofilms, often composed of polymicrobial communities encased in an extracellular matrix, promote persistent infections that are highly resistant to conventional antimicrobial therapies. Common CAUTI uropathogens include E. coli, E. faecalis, P. aeruginosa, P. mirabilis, K. pneumoniae, S. aureus, and Candida spp. The complexity and resilience of these biofilm-associated infections underscore the urgent need for innovative treatment strategies. Therefore, dynamic in vitro bladder infection models, which replicate physiological conditions such as urine flow and bladder voiding, have become valuable tools for studying microbial behavior, biofilm development, and therapeutic interventions under real clinical conditions. This review provides an overview of CAUTIs, explores the role of biofilms in sub-optimal responses to antimicrobial treatment and advances in model systems, and presents promising new approaches to combating these infections.},
}

*Biofilms/drug effects/growth & development
Humans
*Urinary Tract Infections/microbiology/drug therapy/etiology
*Catheter-Related Infections/microbiology/drug therapy
*Drug Resistance, Bacterial
Urinary Catheters/microbiology/adverse effects
Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology
Bacteria/drug effects

@article {pmid41009506,
year = {2025},
author = {Liberatore, A and Bertoldi, A and Balboni, A and Gabrielli, L and Cantiani, A and Lanna, F and Sartori, M and Brogini, S and Giavaresi, G and Lazzarotto, T},
title = {Biofilm Formation, c-di-GMP Production, and Antimicrobial Resistance in Staphylococcal Strains Isolated from Prosthetic Joint Infections: A Pilot Study in Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasty Patients.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {18},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms26188929},
pmid = {41009506},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {RF-2019-12370058.//Ministero della Salute/ ; },
mesh = {*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects ; Humans ; *Cyclic GMP/analogs & derivatives/metabolism ; *Prosthesis-Related Infections/microbiology/drug therapy ; *Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology/drug therapy ; Pilot Projects ; *Arthroplasty, Replacement, Knee/adverse effects ; *Drug Resistance, Bacterial ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; Female ; *Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/isolation & purification/genetics/physiology ; Male ; *Arthroplasty, Replacement, Hip/adverse effects ; *Staphylococcus/drug effects/isolation & purification/genetics/physiology ; Aged ; Middle Aged ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests ; },
abstract = {Total joint arthroplasty (TJA) and total joint replacement (TJR) are effective treatments for end-stage osteoarthritis, but prosthetic joint infections (PJIs) remain a significant complication. These infections are often associated with bacteria that form biofilms, which contribute to their persistence and resistance to treatment. The aim of this study was to investigate the biofilm-forming ability, cyclic diguanylic acid (c-di-GMP) production, and the presence of biofilm-associated genes in Staphylococcus aureus and coagulase-negative Staphylococci (CoNS) isolates obtained from synovial fluid samples of patients with PJIs following TJA and TJR. A total of 198 samples were analyzed, with bacterial growth detected in 33 samples (16.7%). Among these, 10 strains of S. aureus and 22 strains of CoNS were identified. Biofilm formation was evaluated using the crystal violet assay, and c-di-GMP levels were measured. A statistically significant linear regression was found between biofilm formation and c-di-GMP production (p = 0.016, R[2] = 0.18). Genetic analysis revealed the presence of biofilm-associated genes, including icaA, clfA, fnbA in S. aureus, and atlE, fbe in CoNS. Furthermore, there was a statistically significant difference in c-di-GMP production between strains harboring the icaA gene and strains without icaA (p = 0.016), while oxacillin resistance was detected more frequently in strains carrying fbe gene (p = 0.031). The study emphasizes the variability in antibiotic resistance profiles among staphylococcal isolates, underscoring the complexity of managing these infections.},
}

*Biofilms/growth & development/drug effects
Humans
*Cyclic GMP/analogs & derivatives/metabolism
*Prosthesis-Related Infections/microbiology/drug therapy
*Staphylococcal Infections/microbiology/drug therapy
Pilot Projects
*Arthroplasty, Replacement, Knee/adverse effects
*Drug Resistance, Bacterial
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
Female
*Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/isolation & purification/genetics/physiology
Male
*Arthroplasty, Replacement, Hip/adverse effects
*Staphylococcus/drug effects/isolation & purification/genetics/physiology
Aged
Middle Aged
Microbial Sensitivity Tests