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Biofilms

Biofilms. Jim Goebl. A Biofilm. What are Biofilms?. Biofilms are collections of microorganisms (ie bacteria, yeasts, and protozoa) that form on a hard surface Some examples of biofilms are the plaque that forms on teeth and the slime that forms on surfaces in watery areas

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Biofilms

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  1. Biofilms Jim Goebl

  2. A Biofilm

  3. What are Biofilms? • Biofilms are collections of microorganisms (ie bacteria, yeasts, and protozoa) that form on a hard surface • Some examples of biofilms are the plaque that forms on teeth and the slime that forms on surfaces in watery areas • Surrounded by slimy secretions

  4. More about Biofilms • Over 90% of all bacteria live in biofilms

  5. Uses of Biofilms • Often used to purify water in water treatment plants • Used to break down toxic chemicals • Used to produce useful biological compounds, including medicines

  6. Problems Caused by Biofilms • Tend to clog pipes and water filters • Can cause numerous diseases, including many diseases prevalent in hospitals • Extra-resistant to antibiotics • Can form almost anywhere that water is present, including catheters, kitchen counters, etc.

  7. Formation of Biofilms • Form in places with access to water • Attach to a solid surface using several means: Flagella Hydrophobic Cell Walls Sticky Polymers

  8. Altruism among microorganisms • Biofilms encourage altruism • Bacteria will often sacrifice their maximum growth rate in an effort to use the available community resources more efficiently • While individuals are disadvantaged, community as a whole benefits

  9. Altruism continued • Biofilms like small cities • Have many very close neighbors that remain together for extended periods of time

  10. Simulation • http://www.theobio.uni-bonn.de/people/jan_kreft/bacsim.html

  11. Sources • http://www.edstrom.com/Resources.cfm?doc_id=23 • http://www.biofilm.org/whatis_biofilm.htm • http://www.biofilmsonline.com • Kreft, Jan-Ulrich. “Biofilms Promote Altruism.” Microbiology (2004), 150. 2751-2760.

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