Biofilm: A Sticky Community of Bacteria

Presenting itself in the form of a shiny film, biofilm is a colony consisting of one or more types of microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, and protists, that attach themselves to each other and to moist or wet surfaces. Biofilms are extremely common as they can form in almost any environment since they only need water to grow.

The initial formation of biofilm involves the attachment of bacteria to moist or wet surfaces, such as shower heads, river rocks, and implanted medical devices. As more and more bacteria cluster together and reproduce, the accumulated bacteria secrete sticky, goo-like substances called extracellular polymeric substances, which hold the bacterial colony together. Once the biofilm matures, the shedding of small amounts of bacteria occurs and supports the development of new biofilms.

As unpleasant as this may sound, bacterial biofilms can be found on many surfaces of the human body. Our mouth, for instance, is a warm, wet environment, making it a perfect breeding ground for bacteria. As a result, plaque forms on the surface of teeth quite easily, especially after a meal that was high in sugar and starch. Without routinely and properly brushing and flossing your teeth, the accumulation of plaque can lead to severe periodontal diseases/infections. Biofilm infections in most cases are chronic and more difficult to treat due to its resilience to antibiotics and immune system responses.

Biofilm life cycle

Picture Source: biofilm.montana.edu