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Journal Article
The biofilm matrix
2010
Overview
Key Points
Formation of the biofilm matrix induces a unique environment for bacteria that allows the dynamic biofilm mode of life. Biofilms, and the resulting lifestyle, are built in specific, defined steps, producing a bacterial community that is heterogeneous in space and time.
Extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) immobilize biofilm cells, keeping them in long-term close proximity and, thus, allowing intense interactions to occur, including cell–cell communication, horizontal gene transfer and the formation of synergistic microconsortia.
Owing to the retention of extracellular enzymes in the matrix, a versatile external digestive system is generated: dissolved and particulate nutrients imported through the water phase of the matrix can be sequestered, accumulated and utilized. The matrix acts as an ultimate recycling yard, keeping all the components of lysed cells available, including DNA, and possibly therefore serving as a large genetic archive. Gradient formation creates a wide range of very different habitats, contributing to biodiversity in biofilms.
The matrix protects organisms in the biofilm from desiccation, biocides, antibiotics, heavy metals, ultraviolet radiation, host immune defences and many protozoan grazers.
Eventually, EPS can serve as a nutrient source, but — as for many other structural polymers in biology — some EPS components are only slowly biodegradable. The vast variety of EPS components means that their complete degradation requires a wide range of enzymes.
Ecologically, competition and cooperation in the confined space of the EPS matrix, and competition for the limited nutrients in particular, lead to constant adaptation of population fitness.
Most bacteria live in biofilms, the structure of which depends on the biofilm matrix. This matrix is composed of extracellular polymeric substances, which are compounds that are produced by the bacteria. Here, Flemming and Wingender describe the properties of the matrix and provide an overview of the individual matrix components.
The microorganisms in biofilms live in a self-produced matrix of hydrated extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) that form their immediate environment. EPS are mainly polysaccharides, proteins, nucleic acids and lipids; they provide the mechanical stability of biofilms, mediate their adhesion to surfaces and form a cohesive, three-dimensional polymer network that interconnects and transiently immobilizes biofilm cells. In addition, the biofilm matrix acts as an external digestive system by keeping extracellular enzymes close to the cells, enabling them to metabolize dissolved, colloidal and solid biopolymers. Here we describe the functions, properties and constituents of the EPS matrix that make biofilms the most successful forms of life on earth.
Publisher
Nature Publishing Group UK,Nature Publishing Group
