Biofilms in antimicrobial activity and drug resistance

Abstract

Biofilms are communistic and complex network of microorganisms concealed in an autogenic polymeric matrix made up of polysaccharides, proteins and extracellular DNA. These surface attached microbial communities are responsible for more than 65% of human infections and have emerged as a major public health concern. Owing to their high population densities and cellular proximity, biofilms act as a barrier to antibiotic diffusion and are notoriously difficult to eradicate. Hence, high resistance of biofilm-associated infections to antibiotic therapy is one of the biggest clinical challenges. Yet our understanding about them needs further research and strategies for their control remain to be elucidated. This chapter is dedicated to gain insight into biofilm architecture and to study the mechanisms for their recalcitrance to antimicrobial therapy. Given the serious and pervasive clinical impact of biofilm-related infections, most recent strategies for their treatment have also been discussed.