Biofilm and antimicrobial resistance

Abstract

Biofilm-forming bacteria cause severe health problems in patients with implanted devices by attachment of cells to surface matrix. Antibiotics can act on planktonic bacteria more easily than biofilm bacteria. Biofilm bacteria have several mechanisms for combatting antibiotic action on them. Poor penetration of antibiotics, exopolysaccharide, eDNA in matrix degradation has a role in antibiotic resistance. Limited nutrient, slow growth, the response of adaptive stress and persister cell formation also cause multilevel protections for antibiotic resistance. Genetically horizontal gene transfer and higher mutation frequency also show a pivotal role in antimicrobial resistance in biofilm bacteria.