: SignificanceStreamers, filamentous bacterial biofilms formed in flowing systems, are ubiquitous in natural and artificial environments, where they cause clogging of devices and spreading of infections. Despite their impact, little is known about the nature and properties of streamers and their response to fluid flow. Here, we uncover the specific contribution of bacterial secreted extracellular DNA and exopolysaccharide Pel, two important components in Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms, to the formation and the mechanical properties of the streamers. We then show how this knowledge can be used to control biofilm streamer formation, both to inhibit or to promote it.
The structural role of bacterial eDNA in the formation of biofilm streamers
Rusconi, Roberto
2022-01-01
Abstract
: SignificanceStreamers, filamentous bacterial biofilms formed in flowing systems, are ubiquitous in natural and artificial environments, where they cause clogging of devices and spreading of infections. Despite their impact, little is known about the nature and properties of streamers and their response to fluid flow. Here, we uncover the specific contribution of bacterial secreted extracellular DNA and exopolysaccharide Pel, two important components in Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms, to the formation and the mechanical properties of the streamers. We then show how this knowledge can be used to control biofilm streamer formation, both to inhibit or to promote it.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
