Biofilm and Quorum Sensing inhibitors: the road so far

Expert Opin Ther Pat. 2020 Dec;30(12):917-930. doi: 10.1080/13543776.2020.1830059. Epub 2020 Oct 10.

Abstract

Introduction: Biofilm is a complex aggregation of microorganisms characterized by the presence of a dynamic, adhesive and protective extracellular matrix composed of polysaccharides, proteins and nucleic acids. It is estimated that the vast majority of human infections are related to the biofilm in which the microorganisms reside and communicate with each other (Quorum Sensing), surviving in hostile environmental conditions.

Areas covered: This review provides a comprehensive focus on the development state of promising strategies against biofilm production and eradication describing chemical structures, results, administration routes, pharmaceutical compositions, and SARs as well as their shortcomings within the 2019-2020 range.

Expert opinion: New pharmacological targets have been explored in the past years, allowing a broader therapeutic arsenal against biofilm-related pathologies. The Quorum Sensing system was targeted as well in order to avoid the development of intrinsically antibiotic-resistant bacteria and to enhance a proper host defense.

Keywords: Biofilm; LasR inhibitors; Quorum Sensing; RelA inhibitors; SspB adherence region; bismuth-thiol; drug resistance; natural compounds; wound biofilm.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / chemistry
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / pharmacology*
  • Biofilms / drug effects*
  • Drug Development
  • Drug Resistance, Bacterial
  • Humans
  • Patents as Topic
  • Quorum Sensing / drug effects*
  • Structure-Activity Relationship

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents