A brief review of biofilm matrix in structured microbial communities

Abstract:

Bacterial biofilm is a structured community of microbial cells attached to biological or non-biological surfaces, which is composed of bacteria cells and their extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), including exopolysaccharides, protein, nucleic acid. Biofilms become one of the important causes of persistent infection, virulence and antimicrobial tolerance of pathogenic microorganisms. The biofilm matrix, as complex extracellular polymers, affect the structure and functional properties of biofilms. This article describes the composition and functions of two major categories of EPS, including cell surface components and extracellular components from some pathogenic bacteria. The physical and chemical properties of EPS matrixs and their roles in the biofilm virulence were mainly focused. Control strategies of biofilm matrix via multitargeted sites are also discussed. The aim of this review will provide theoretical support to explore biofilm forming mechanism and combating technologies in bacterial structured community.