2025, Number 6
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Rev Fac Med UNAM 2025; 68 (6)
Microscopic Cities Where Bacteria and Yeasts Coexist
Ricardez-García C, Uribe-Carvajal S
Language: Spanish
References: 22
Page: 50-56
PDF size: 254.38 Kb.
ABSTRACT
Biofilms are structures produced by several microorganisms
that secrete carbohydrates and protein polymers, which together
constitute the “extracellular polymeric substance”
(EPS). EPS is essential for microorganisms to adhere to different
surfaces and plays a key role in the organization and
functioning of the biofilm. A mature biofilm contains 80 to
90% EPS plus 10 to 20% microorganisms. Within the biofilm,
microorganisms have different functions that depend on
their species and location. Some are exposed to the host’s
immune response and must resist adverse conditions, others
focus on surface adhesion, while some produce more
EPS to maintain stability and cohesion in the biofilm. EPS
not only provides structural support but also contains communication
paths that coordinate these functions. Biofilms
may protect some surfaces from corrosion or attack by other
microorganisms. In medicine, biofilms are a serious problem,
as they protect microorganisms from antibiotics and antiseptics,
perpetuating infections. Additionally, biofilms can
release toxins and bacteria into the bloodstream, leading to
systemic conditions that worsen the patient’s health. Due
to these challenges, various innovative strategies have been
developed. Some of these include designing coarse surfaces
to prevent microbial attachment, using bacteriophages that
target microorganisms within the biofilm, applying ultrasonic
vibrations to destabilize EPS structure, and, more recently,
the use of biosensors that release antimicrobial agents in a
controlled manner. These new approaches aim to overcome
the limitations of conventional treatments for infections and
decrease rejection of surgical implants
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