In wound healing, and in many areas of medicine, one of the most persistent and challenging obstacles to recovery is the formation of biofilms. A biofilm is a structured community of microorganisms, primarily bacteria and sometimes fungi, that adhere to a surface and become embedded within a self-produced matrix of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS).
This matrix is made up of polysaccharides, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, forming a protective barrier around the microbial community.
Biofilms are a major barrier to effective wound healing.
They can:
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Protect bacteria from antibiotics and the immune system — bacteria within a biofilm are up to 1,000 times more resistant to antimicrobial treatments.
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Prolong inflammation by continuously triggering an immune response.
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Delay granulation tissue formation, re-epithelialization, and overall wound closure
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Contribute to the development of chronic, non-healing wounds.
Once established, biofilms are notoriously difficult to eradicate and often require physical debridement, targeted antimicrobials, and advanced wound care strategies.
Innovative wound care materials can help prevent biofilm formation and disrupt established biofilms by:
✅ Creating physical barriers to bacterial adhesion
✅ Releasing antimicrobial agents locally
✅ Modulating the immune response to support biofilm clearance
✅ Facilitating wound debridement
At Asclepii, understanding the biology of biofilms informs the way we design materials - including how our products can help maintain a clean, protected wound environment that supports healthy tissue regeneration.
📄 References:
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Costerton, J. W., et al. (1999). Bacterial biofilms: A common cause of persistent infections. Science, 284(5418), 1318–1322.
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Percival, S. L., et al. (2012). Biofilms and chronic wound inflammation. Journal of Wound Care, 21(8), 349–353.
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James, G. A., et al. (2008). Biofilms in chronic wounds. Wound Repair and Regeneration, 16(1), 37–44.