CORR Insights^®: Does Extracellular DNA Production Vary in Staphylococcal Biofilms Isolated From Infected Implants versus Controls?

Excerpt

Biofilm formation is considered an important factor in determining the virulence of most implant-related infections [2]. Despite studies attempting to clarify its construction and role [4, 5], the nature of bacterial biofilms remain only partially revealed. Extracellular polymeric substances, an important part of biofilm, contribute to the organization of biofilms. However, recently, extracellular DNA (eDNA) has materialized as a possibly relevant structural component of biofilms [12]. eDNA stabilizes biofilm matrix and gene-transfer mechanisms, conditions innate immune responses, prevents phagocytosis, reduces inflammation and promotes antimicrobial resistance [5]. Although eDNA has been widely recognized as a critical factor in biofilm formation, its implications in clinical settings is less understood. …