Explain why biofilms are a concern in medicine

What will be an ideal response?


Answer: Organisms on the surface of a biofilm can be difficult to break apart due to the presence of an extracellular matrix, which means antimicrobials are often not as effective. Another issue is the organisms embedded within the biofilm are protected from antimicrobial exposure, so they are especially well protected and capable of surviving an antimicrobial treatment. This also means it is also very difficult for an immune system to rid of a biofilm.

Biology & Microbiology

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ATP-binding cassette transport systems have high substrate affinity and thus help microorganisms survive in low nutrient environments

Indicate whether the statement is true or false.

Biology & Microbiology

The energy in chemical bonds is a type of ___________________ energy

Fill in the blank(s) with correct word

Biology & Microbiology

Daily and seasonal fluctuations in temperature, salinity, and dissolved gases are most extreme in

A) the intertidal zone. B) sandy beaches. C) the estuary. D) the open ocean.

Biology & Microbiology

The process of natural selection is based on the assumption that

a. environmental changes will cause change in body structure in individuals b. most changes from generation to generation are the result of mutations. c. part of the population of organisms always remain stable d. different traits inherited by offspring have different survival value

Biology & Microbiology