Abstract
The biofilm mode of life is by many scientists acknowledged as a successful, bacterial survival strategy in hostile environments. When bacteria invade their hosts, they encounter harsh conditions such as low levels of iron, oxidative stress, macerating enzymes, phagocytic cells, and host-derived as well as administered antimicrobials. Experimental evidence has accumulated over the years showing that biofilms tolerate antimicrobial properties of the immune system and antibiotics. This multifaceted tolerance relies to a certain extend on general resistance mechanisms including efflux pumps and enzymatic modifications in addition to innate tolerances offered by integral structure-functions of the biofilm.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Biofilm Infections |
| Number of pages | 19 |
| Publisher | Springer |
| Publication date | 1 Dec 2011 |
| Pages | 231-249 |
| ISBN (Print) | 9781441960832 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 1 Dec 2011 |