Biofilm
A biofilm is a community of microorganisms that adhere to a surface or to one another and are embedded in a protective matrix they form themselves.
Detailed description
Biofilms can be formed by bacteria and fungi, among other microorganisms. The microorganisms are embedded in an extracellular matrix consisting, for example, of various sugars, proteins, and DNA. Within the biofilm, the microorganisms can interact with one another and exhibit altered properties. Biofilms can form on natural surfaces such as teeth, as well as on medical implants and catheters. They can protect microorganisms from the immune system and the effects of antimicrobial drugs, among other things, thereby complicating the treatment of infections. Medically significant biofilm-forming organisms include, for example, staphylococci and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
