Biofilms: Formation, Development & Properties

A biofilm is an aggregate of microorganisms in which cells adhere to each other and/or to a surface. These adherent cells are frequently embedded within a self-produced matrix of extracellular polymeric substance (EPS). Biofilms may form on living or non-living surfaces, and represent a prevalent mode of microbial life in natural, industrial and hospital settings. This book presents research in the study of biofilms including bateriophages and biofilms, dynamic models for in vitro biofilm formation, symbiotic biofilms and brain neurochemistry and mineralisation of sedimentary biofilms. Also discussed herein are biofilms in urology, virulence properties in biofilms, biofilms and the upper respiratory system and microbial biofilms in the food industry.