Batting Biofilms Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Batting Biofilms - Assignment Example If genes which are responsible for the formation of these adhering protein molecules are deleted the bacteria are unable to form biofilms. However, it is now proved that bacteria form biofilms after communicating with each other through signal molecules, for e.g. in P. aeruginosa the relevant signaling molecules are acylated homoserine lactones which each cell produces at a low level, when enough cells assemble the concentration of these compounds increases which in turn trigger the activation of certain genes, the mechanism is known as quorum sensing, which is critical for the formation of biofilms. Since biofilms formed by P. aeruginosa is responsible for causing cystic fibrosis pneumonia, i.e. they turn virulent (disease causing). algC gene is responsible to synthesize alginate, the gelatinous polymer that makes extracellular matrix. Thus, signaling molecules to control the genes that code for virulence. During stage 1 when the bacterial cells move or swim freely and arrange themselves in cluster in order to form a biofilm; Attack strategy is employed that coats the molecules and block or disrupt microbial arrangement or attachment. During stage 2- when the collected cells begin producing a gooey matrix; Attack strategy is employed which coat the surfaces with substances that interfere with the matrix production so that film is not formed. During stage 4- when chemical gradient arise and promote the coexistence of diverse species and metabolic states; Attack strategy is employed which delivers multiple antibiotics or disinfectants to undermine the varied survival strategies of biofilm cells. Microbiologists took a very long time to size up the microbes in the biofilm. Since the establishment of germ theory, in the late 19th century by Robert Koch, bacteria were envisioned as single cells that float or swim through some kind of watery