Approaches to Enhance Therapeutic Activity of Drugs against Bacterial Biofilms

Abstract

Biofilm may be a consortium of microbial species where the cells of microbes attach to both life form and inanimate surfaces inside a self-made matrix of extracellular polymeric substance (EPS). Biofilm matrix surrounding the polymicrobial environment makes them highly resistant to harsh conditions and antibacterial treatments. The two significant factors that differentiate planktonic from biofilm resident microbes are EPS containing a variety of macromolecules and a diffusible molecule for transferring signals known as quorum sensing (QS). Against this backdrop of microbial resistance and cell signaling, different approaches have been developed to interfere with the specific mechanisms of intracellular and extracellular targets that include herbal active compounds and synthetic nanoparticles. This chapter outlines the features of biofilm development and the approaches with the evidence that can be incorporated into clinical usage.

Quorum Quenching

“…48 Also, environmental pH could play an active part in the attachment strength of biofilms during the early stages of development. 57 Secretion of slime in a biofilm matrix depends on the medium pH, this might affect enzymatic function. 7 For instance, secretion of polysaccharide in most bacteria occurs at around pH 7, although, it is a function of the media in relation to the organisms.…”

“…46 By and large, minimal temperatures could enhance uniformity in polysaccharide properties, which sometimes influences the likelihood of biofilm adhesion, but high temperatures in some microbes promote the adherence capability of the biofilm. 57…”