HealthAugust 26, 2026

biofilms

BY-oh-filz

Definition

A dense, protective community of bacteria encased in a self-produced matrix of slime, sugars, and proteins that makes them highly resistant to immune responses and antibiotics.

Etymology

The term is a compound of the Greek 'bios' (life) and the English 'film' (a thin layer or coating). It was coined in the late 20th century to describe these organized microbial colonies.

In the news

The article focuses on how biofilms formed by dangerous pathogens like A. baumannii create physical barriers on wounds, necessitating new enzymatic strategies to break them down.

Enzyme from Cow Guts Could Help Tackle Antibiotic Resistance

Read the full article ↗

Technology Networks

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