Unraveling the Biofilm Matrix for Targeted Treatment Strategies

Biofilm-associated infections continue to be an increasing global public health problem. The biofilm matrix that encases the bacterial cells within biofilms serves as a protective barrier, shielding the bacteria from antimicrobial therapeutics and host immune responses. In an attempt to combat biofilm-associated infections, novel therapeutics targeting specific components of the biofilm matrix have been investigated. This chapter gives a brief overview of the biofilm matrix components, specific examples of successfully targeting those components, and potential hurdles that one may encounter while degrading specific biofilm components. One promising target is the exopolysaccharide structures within the biofilm matrix. Many studies have shown supportive evidence that treating biofilms with glycoside hydrolases to degrade the exopolysaccharides or modulating capsule polysaccharides can improve antibiotic clearance or reduce aggregation, respectively. Additionally, utilizing DNase to degrade eDNA within the biofilm matrix has also shown therapeutic promise with an FDA-approved drug, Pulmozyme®, currently on the market. However, recent studies have shown that DNase is highly effective against young, immature biofilms, but it loses efficacy against more developed biofilm matrices. Protein degradation either through heat or proteases also has shown therapeutic potential. Lastly, physical disruption of the biofilm matrix utilizing ultrasound or magnetic therapy as well as improving drug delivery into the biofilm with systems such as microbubbles has been investigated. Targeting the biofilm matrix has shown promising results, but further research needs to be conducted to understand the safety and optimal drug delivery systems of these novel approaches.