Researchers tackle dangerous, but poorly understood biofilms - Science Nation

The Ren Lab at Syracuse University is conducting research on biofilms, which are colonies of microbes that can be costly and dangerous. Supported by the National Science Foundation, the team is using supercomputer models and synthetic biofilms to study their structure and behavior. Biofilms can cause issues in pipelines and medical devices, and are resistant to antibiotics. The research aims to understand cell communication and interactions to develop methods to control biofilms, including targeting persister cells that survive antibiotic treatment.

What are biofilms and why are they significant in microbial research?

What challenges do biofilms pose in medical settings?

What role does the matrix play in the communication and survival of biofilm cells?

How do persister cells differ from normal live cells in biofilms?

Describe the methods being explored by Ren and his team to disrupt biofilms.