A review of microbiological factors on surfaces associated with infection transmission and microbial biofilms
Subject Areas : Biotechnological Journal of Environmental MicrobiologyAmirhossein Khorramian 1 * , Sara Sojoodi Korabbaslu 2 , Arezoo Hashemi Khademlu 3 , Hannaneh Amadeh 4
1 - Department of Microbiology, Ardabil Branch, Islamic Azad University, Ardabil, Iran
2 - Department of Microbiology, Ardabil Branch, Islamic Azad University, Ardabil, Iran
3 - Department of Microbiology, Ardabil Branch, Islamic Azad University, Ardabil, Iran
4 - Department of Microbiology, Ardabil Branch, Islamic Azad University, Ardabil, Iran
Keywords: Microbial biofilm, Infection transmission, Antibiotic resistance, Quorum sensing, Extracellular polymers, Infection control, Surface microorganisms,
Abstract :
The transfer of harmful microorganisms via environmental surfaces, particularly in hospitals and healthcare environments, is a crucial factor in the dissemination of acquired infections that pose significant risks to public health. This review article explores the microbiological aspects of surfaces, the elements that influence the establishment and growth of microbes, along with the function of microbial biofilms as resilient and stable substrates. Biofilms are intricate multicellular structures supported by matrices of polysaccharides, proteins, and nucleic acids, which enhance the resistance of microbes to both antibiotics and disinfectants. An in-depth analysis of the molecular processes involved in biofilm formation, including quorum sensing mechanisms, regulation of gene expression related to extracellular polymer production (EPS), and cellular interactions, constitutes a significant component of this article. Additionally, the impact of environmental factors such as humidity, surface characteristics, and temperature on the stability of the surface microbiome is examined. Following this, innovative biological and nanobiotechnological approaches for the swift detection and elimination of biofilms are presented, including the application of antimicrobial nanoparticles, bioactive coatings, and strategies involving drug combinations, which can play a vital role in preventing the spread of drug-resistant infections. Furthermore, strategies for management and prevention are suggested to control the microbial load on surfaces and diminish the occurrence of infectious diseases within healthcare settings. This review article aims to aid in the development of more effective methods for managing surface-associated infections and opens new avenues in the realm of environmental and medical biotechnology.
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