Biofilms: Survival Mechanisms of Clinically Relevant Microorganisms
TL;DR
Biofilm bacteria survive 10-1,000x antibiotic concentrations that kill individuals—collective defense through chemical coordination.
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Landmark review establishing the scientific framework for understanding biofilm resistance—how bacteria collectively survive conditions that kill individuals. Cited thousands of times; foundational to both clinical microbiology and organizational resilience theory. Central to the book's treatment of collective defense and cultural entrenchment.
Key Findings from Donlan & Costerton (2002)
- Biofilm bacteria exhibit 10-1000x greater antibiotic resistance than planktonic cells
- Approximately 80% of chronic and recurrent human infections involve biofilms
- Horizontal gene transfer occurs 16,000x more frequently in biofilms
- Multiple resistance mechanisms compound: matrix barrier, microenvironment, slow growth, persisters
- Persister cells enter dormant state surviving antibiotic exposure without genetic changes