Physical Chemistry

Towards a better understanding of the formation of biofilms that can lead to nosocomial infections.

To strengthen the prevention of the nosocomial infections that can occur during hospitalization, the Institut Curie has set up an Incitative and Cooperative Program (PIC) devoted to that problem. In the framework of this PIC, Pascal Silberzan and his group have been interested in the steps preceding the formation of the biofilms (biofilms are aggregates of bacteria, glued together by macromolecules, that develop on the surface of catheters, implants or tools).

How do these biofilms form? One of the questions is whether they originate from the adhesion of a single bacterium or if they are the consequence of a concerted action of the cells. In their latest publication published in PNAS, Pascal Silberzan’s group reports that this second scenario may indeed be closer to the actual mechanism. The bacterium that they have studied is Escherichia coli that uses its flagella to propel itself.