Big Impact of the Tiny: Bacteriophage–Bacteria Interactions in Biofilms

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Bacteriophages (phages) have been shaping bacterial ecology and evolution for millions of years, for example, by selecting for defence strategies. Evidence supports that bacterial biofilm formation is one such strategy and that biofilm-mediated protection against phage infection depends on maturation and composition of the extracellular matrix. Interestingly, studies have revealed that phages can induce and strengthen biofilms. Here we review interactions between bacteria and phages in biofilms, discuss the underlying mechanisms, the potential of phage therapy for biofilm control, and emphasize the importance of considering biofilms in future phage research. This is especially relevant as biofilms are associated with increased tolerance towards antibiotics and are implicated in the majority of chronic infections.

Original languageEnglish
JournalTrends in Microbiology
Volume27
Issue number9
Pages (from-to)739-752
Number of pages14
ISSN0966-842X
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2019

    Research areas

  • bacteriophage–bacteria interactions, biofilms, evolution, extracellular matrix, phage therapy, quorum sensing

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