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Biofilms Jim Goebl A Biofilm What are Biofilms? Biofilms are collections of microorganisms (ie bacteria, yeasts, and protozoa) that form on a hard surface Some examples of biofilms are the plaque that forms on teeth and the slime that forms on surfaces in watery areas Surrounded by slimy secretions More about Biofilms Over 90% of all bacteria live in biofilms Uses of Biofilms Often used to purify water in water treatment plants Used to break down toxic chemicals Used to produce useful biological compounds, including medicines Problems Caused by Biofilms Tend to clog pipes and water filters Can cause numerous diseases, including many diseases prevalent in hospitals Extra-resistant to antibiotics Can form almost anywhere that water is present, including catheters, kitchen counters, etc. Formation of Biofilms Form in places with access to water Attach to a solid surface using several means: Flagella Hydrophobic Cell Walls Sticky Polymers Altruism among microorganisms Biofilms encourage altruism Bacteria will often sacrifice their maximum growth rate in an effort to use the available community resources more efficiently While individuals are disadvantaged, community as a whole benefits Altruism continued Biofilms like small cities Have many very close neighbors that remain together for extended periods of time Simulation http://www.theobio.unibonn.de/people/jan_kreft/bacsim.html Sources http://www.edstrom.com/Resources.cfm?do c_id=23 http://www.biofilm.org/whatis_biofilm.htm http://www.biofilmsonline.com Kreft, Jan-Ulrich. “Biofilms Promote Altruism.” Microbiology (2004), 150. 27512760.
