Exploring the Roles of Biofilms and Alternative Therapeutics

Abstract

Biofilm-related infections present significant challenges in modern medicine, as biofilms offer bacteria enhanced protection against antimicrobial agents and host immune responses. These infections are often persistent and difficult to treat, leading to prolonged illness, increased healthcare costs, and greater risk of complications. This study investigates the role of biofilms in chronic and device-related infections and explores the efficacy of alternative therapeutic strategies, including bacteriophage therapy, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), quorum sensing inhibitors (QSIs), and plant-derived compounds, in overcoming biofilm-associated resistance mechanisms. The results demonstrate that biofilm cells exhibit considerably higher resistance to antibiotics compared to planktonic cells, with biofilm biomass, viability, and resistance mechanisms significantly reduced by combination therapies involving bacteriophages and AMPs. Additionally, plant-derived compounds, such as garlic and turmeric extracts, were found to reduce biofilm viability and EPS production, highlighting their potential as adjunct therapies. The study also reveals that combination therapies, particularly those targeting efflux pumps and quorum sensing, significantly enhance antibiotic efficacy against biofilm-associated infections. These findings support the potential of alternative treatments in overcoming biofilm-related antimicrobial resistance, offering promising strategies for more effective therapeutic interventions. Further research, including clinical trials and in vivo validation, is essential to confirm the clinical applicability and safety of these alternative treatments.