Strategies For Effective Testing And Prevention of Biofilms
Biofilms are one of the most common reasons for bacterial and microbial infections in humans, contributing to 65-80% of all infections. These slimy textures are an entire thriving community of bacteria, fungi, algae, and several other microorganisms. If not identified and treated properly and in time, they can pose a risk of contamination in industries such as healthcare, food processing, and water systems.
Hence, to minimise the risk, we will go over the key strategies of testing, detecting and prevention of biofilms. We will also discuss the common challenges that may occur. However, we must first address why it is important.
A] Why Is Biofilm Detection and Prevention Critical?
Biofilms are a diverse community of pathogenic microbes that stick to a surface and multiply rapidly. Unlike free-floating bacteria, these microbes are protected by an extracellular matrix, known as EPS, which also gives the structure a slimy texture. Due to this, they are extremely difficult to get rid of once they grow larger.
Once biofilms form on a surface, they can easily spread to and contaminate other surfaces as well as humans. Infections caused by biofilms are more resilient to antibiotics, causing chronic problems. Biofilm detection addresses this problem at the source by not letting biofilms form and develop.
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B] Methods for Biofilm Testing and Detection
1. Microscopy Techniques
Microscopy techniques like scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) are some of the most common methods for the testing of biofilms. These techniques allow for the visualisation of bacterial growth and detailed observation. This information can be used to determine the right solution for treating the surface.
2. Biochemical & Molecular Methods
Biochemical and molecular techniques like the microtiter plate test (MtP) and Congo Red Agar (CRA) test check for the presence of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), DNA, and metabolic activity. This approach helps to understand the morphology of the colony and the rate at which it is growing.
3. Sensor Technologies
Sensor-based biofilm testing techniques include electrochemical, optical, mechanical, and microfluidic approaches. This technique uses tools that allow real-time monitoring on surfaces such as pipes or medical devices. It is a non-destructive method for detection that speeds up the process. As a result, it is particularly viable for healthcare and manufacturing industries.
4. UV Lamp
Ultraviolet (UV) lamps are among the latest tools for testing and detection of biofilms. Under their light, bacteria fluoresce, becoming visible to the naked eye. This method allows for rapid, non-destructive assessment of surfaces for contamination, making UV lamps the most effective biofilm testing solutions in today’s day and age.
C] Methods for Removal and Prevention of Biofilms
Physical Removal:
Physical removal refers to the process of manually or mechanically disrupting and removing the biofilm from the surface. Several methods can be used for physically removing the biofilm, including fluid shear, sound-based methods, and other energy-based approaches. The fluid shear method uses high-pressure water jets to flush away biofilms. Sometimes ultrasound waves are used to dislodge the colony from the surface. Lastly, laser-induced shockwaves or electrical currents can also be used to dislodge biofilms and disrupt them.
Chemical Removal:
Chemical removal of biofilm refers to the process of removing biofilms through specific chemical agents. These cleaning agents are much stronger than ordinary detergents, causing the biofilm matrix to detach and disrupt, killing the microbes within. Common chemicals include chlorine, hydrogen peroxide, and quaternary ammonium compounds. These treatments target both the EPS layer and the microbial cells. The choice of chemical depends on the specific application, the type of biofilm, and the material being treated.
Prevention:
Prevention of biofilms is a completely different process from removing them. It involves surface modification, routine sanitation, and environmental control. To prevent biofilms from forming in the first place, you must apply antimicrobial coatings and sterilise the surface. In addition to surface modification, you can also disinfect the surface regularly using antibiotics and detergents. Turbulent flow of air or water can also help to prevent bacteria from attaching in the first place.
D] Common Challenges in Biofilm Testing
- Outdated Testing Model: Using outdated testing models can diminish the effectiveness of biofilm detection, leading to frequent contamination. Biofilm UV lamps are amongst the most effective tools for detection today.
- Limited Specialisation: Having limited knowledge about the specific type of biofilms can make it challenging to remove them. Biofilms have a higher tolerance for antibiotics, and certain types of bacteria can be completely immune to certain treatments.
- Difference in Biofilm Behaviour: Each biofilm is different due to the unique bacterial species, surface material, and environmental conditions. This makes it difficult to treat it using a standard method.
Conclusion
Biofilms pose a serious risk to human health and can cause reputational and mechanical damage to any industry. Hence, regular, effective biofilm testing is necessary for treating them at an early stage. While there are many ways to test biofilm formation, UV lamps stand out as the most effective and modern solution. Once the biofilm is detected, it can be removed either through physical or chemical methods.
BioDtex is one of the leading names in biofilm inspection tools, making bacteria visible to the naked eye, making it easier to manage. Contact us today for a quote.
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FAQs
Routine testing helps to identify bacterial growth and biofilm formation at an early stage. This helps to manage and remove them more efficiently and effectively.
Yes, surface texture like surface roughness, hydrophobicity, and the surface’s free energy can affect how the bacteria attach and develop on the surface. Regularly disinfecting and treating the surface can help prevent biofilm formation.
Biofilms tend to have a higher resistance to antibiotics and disinfecting solutions; hence, they can be difficult to completely eradicate. However, you can completely eradicate them through a combination of physical and chemical methods. Using preventive techniques also helps to neutralise them.
Chemical agents like peracids, acids, alkaline solutions, quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs), and certain enzymes can be used to effectively remove biofilms. The choice of chemical agents depends on the type and size of the biofilm.
Common biofilm prevention techniques include surface modification, flushing, heat treatment, and hygiene and infection control.
