Abstract

Biofilms can be defined as an organized group of micro-organisms living within a self-produced matrix of polymeric substances that get attached to several surfaces. It becomes apparent that these microbial collectives are present in practically all environments. Planktonic bacteria can exhibit a 10-1,000-fold increase in antibiotic resistance compared to their biofilm-dwelling counterparts. These bacteria' interactions with surfaces have significant effects on a number of different domains, including the creation of biofilms, biofouling, bioenergy, and infections in plants and animals. The microbial interactions have led to differential gene expression that affects cell behavior and morphology that comprise genes responsible for surface attachment and motility. The formation of biofilm structure is controlled by growth conditions, substratum, and cell surface that ideally provides an environment for the exchange of genetic material between the cells. So far, attention has been gathered on phenotypes as the system utilized by microbes for responding to surfaces is not well known. Hence, the mechanism underlying the promotion and inhibition of cell growth on new classes of materials will help in understanding complement studies and the physiology of microbes adhering to the surfaces.

Key words: Biofilm; Biofouling; Material surfaces; Microbes; Surface attachment