A Qualitative Description of Biofilm Formation

FIGURE 20.1 Subsequent steps in biofllm formation (a) adsorption of organic (proteinaceous) molecules leading to a conditioning film (b) initial cell adhesion (c) anchoring of adhered cells through (polymeric) exudates and (d) microbial colonization of substratum surface. 

The long-range interactions in bioadhesion may be more or less successfully predicted by applying concepts from colloid and interface science. Describing the short-range interactions requires detailed knowledge of the stereochemistry for each individual case and such subtle information is nsnaUy not available. 

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