Innovative strategies to overcome biofilm resistance

Biomed Res Int. 2013:2013:150653. doi: 10.1155/2013/150653. Epub 2012 Dec 23.

Abstract

We review the recent literature concerning the efficiency of antimicrobial photodynamic inactivation toward various microbial species in planktonic and biofilm cultures. The review is mainly focused on biofilm-growing microrganisms because this form of growth poses a threat to chronically infected or immunocompromised patients and is difficult to eradicate from medical devices. We discuss the biofilm formation process and mechanisms of its increased resistance to various antimicrobials. We present, based on data in the literature, strategies for overcoming the problem of biofilm resistance. Factors that have potential for use in increasing the efficiency of the killing of biofilm-forming bacteria include plant extracts, enzymes that disturb the biofilm structure, and other nonenzymatic molecules. We propose combining antimicrobial photodynamic therapy with various antimicrobial and antibiofilm approaches to obtain a synergistic effect to permit efficient microbial growth control at low photosensitizer doses.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / pharmacology
  • Anti-Infective Agents / pharmacology
  • Bacteria / drug effects*
  • Bacteria / growth & development*
  • Biofilms / growth & development*
  • Drug Resistance, Bacterial*
  • Humans
  • Microbial Sensitivity Tests*
  • Photochemotherapy
  • Photosensitizing Agents / pharmacology
  • Plant Extracts / pharmacology
  • Prostheses and Implants / microbiology

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Anti-Infective Agents
  • Photosensitizing Agents
  • Plant Extracts