Planktonic cells, cells that are free-floating in an aquatic environment, begin biofilm formation when they attach to a surface, reversibly, also known as becoming sessile. 

Stage 1: Attachment of Planktonic Cells 

During the colonizer attachment stage, the pioneer cells become fixed to the surface and coated with a film of organic material. 

Stage 2: Colonizer Attachment 

The pioneer cells begin to grow and divide, increasing the population and size of the biofilm.

Stage 3: Biofilm Microbial Growth

In order to facilitate production of an EPS, cells begin to express new phenotypes, which in turn produces the matrix and water channels. Interactions with bacterial structures like fimbriae, pili, and flagella are essential for the formation of a mature biofilm. 

Stage 4: EPS Production and Formation

After the biofilm becomes mature, the outermost cells revert back to planktonic, allowing them to come off the original structure and disperse to colonize new areas. 

Stage 5: Secondary Colonizer Attachment and Dispersion 

The formation of a biofilm progresses through five key stages: first, the initial attachment of planktonic cells to a surface; second, irreversible attachment and colonization; third, maturation through microbial growth and the enlargement of cell clumps; fourth, continued maturation with the production of extrapolymeric substances (EPS) and fusion of clumps; and finally, the dispersal of cells from the mature biofilm to colonize new areas.

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Biofilms are complex, surface-attached colonies of microbes that form in layered communities. Living within a biofilm provides microbes with significant survival advantages in nature, as the structure retains water to prevent desiccation and offers protection against predation. Furthermore, biofilms hinder the effectiveness of antibiotics and disinfectants, making these microbial communities particularly challenging to eradicate in clinical settings.

Biofilms

https://openstax.org/details/books/microbiology/

Microbiology covers the scope and sequence requirements for a single-semester microbiology course for non-majors. The book presents the core concepts of microbiology with a focus on applications for careers in allied health. The pedagogical features of the text make the material interesting and accessible while maintaining the career-application focus and scientific rigor inherent in the subject matter. Microbiology’s art program enhances students’ understanding of concepts through clear and effective illustrations, diagrams, and photographs.

Microbiology is produced through a collaborative publishing agreement between OpenStax and the American Society for Microbiology Press. The book aligns with the curriculum guidelines of the American Society for Microbiology.

OpenStax Microbiology Textbook

The structure of biofilms are dependent on the environment in which they exist and nutrient availability. The collection of microorganisms within a biofilm are all embedded in an extracellular matrix with water channels. 

Structure of Biofilms

Quorum sensing is how different cell species in biofilms can communicate with one another, specifically about cell density. This is an essential response to environmental stimuli facilitated by autoinducers. 

Quorum Sensing

Biofilms are prevalent inside of human bodies and on many of the devices we use. While few biofilms are helpful for example in our intestinal and respiratory tracts, many can be harmful to our health.

Applications of Biofilms to Human Health

Biofilms form complex three-dimensional shapes, such as cones and mushrooms, which contain channels for fluid movement. Researchers can observe and track the water currents flowing through these biofilm structures by recording video of the movement of fluorescently coated beads.

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