Novel Targets for Treatment of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Biofilms

Morten Alhede, Maria Alhede, Thomas Bjarnsholt

    Abstract

    Pseudomonas aeruginosa causes infection in all parts of the human body. The bacterium is naturally resistant to a wide range of antibiotics. In addition to resistance mechanisms such as efflux pumps, the ability to form aggregates, known as biofilm, further reduces Pseudomonas aeruginosa’s susceptibility to antibiotics. The presence of such biofilms is acknowledged to equal a persistent infection due to their inherent high tolerance to all antimicrobials and immune cells. In this chapter we discuss the mechanisms of biofilm tolerance. The latest biofilm research is reviewed and future treatment strategies such as quorum sensing inhibitors, silver, and antibodies are thoroughly evaluated.
    Original languageEnglish
    Title of host publicationAntibiofilm Agents
    EditorsKendra Rumbaugh
    Number of pages16
    Volume8
    PublisherSpringer Publishing Company
    Publication date1 Jan 2014
    Pages257-272
    ISBN (Print) 978-3-642-53832-2
    ISBN (Electronic)978-3-642-53833-9
    Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2014
    SeriesSpringer Series on Biofilms
    Volume8

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