Browsing by Author "Greenberg, E. P."

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Bacterial biofilms: A common cause of persistent infections
(1999-05) Costerton, J. William; Stewart, Philip S.; Greenberg, E. P.
Bacteria that attach to surfaces aggregate in a hydrated polymeric matrix of their own synthesis to form biofilms. Formation of these sessile communities and their inherent resistance to antimicrobial agents are at the root of many persistent and chronic bacterial infections. Studies of biofilms have revealed differentiated, structured groups of cells with community properties. Recent advances in our understanding of the genetic and molecular basis of bacterial community behavior point to therapeutic targets that may provide a means for the control of biofilm infections.
The involvement of cell-to-cell signals in the development of a bacterial biofilm
(1998-04) Davies, David Gwilym; Parsek, Matthew R.; Pearson, J.; Iglewski, Barbara H.; Costerton, J. William; Greenberg, E. P.
Bacteria in nature often exist as sessile communities called biofilms. These communities develop structures that are morphologically and physiologically differentiated from free-living bacteria. A cell-to-cell signal is involved in the development of Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms. A specific signaling mutant, alasI mutant, forms flat, undifferentiated biofilms that unlike wild-type biofilms are sensitive to the biocide sodium dodecyl sulfate. Mutant biofilms appeared normal when grown in the presence of a synthetic signal molecule. The involvement of an intercellular signal molecule in the development of P. aeruginosa biofilms suggests possible targets to control biofilm growth on catheters, in cystic fibrosis, and in other environments where P. aeruginosa biofilms are a persistent problem.
The use of signal molecules to manipulate the behavior of biofilm bacteria
(1999) Davies, David Gwilym; Parsek, Matthew R.; Pearson, J.; Iglewski, Barbara H.; Costerton, J. William; Greenberg, E. P.