ABSTRACT
Physical and chemical methods for the removal of biofilms are rapidly being taken over by milder alternatives such as biofilm-degrading enzymes. Enzymes have gained increased importance in the degradation of biofilms associated with sensitive medical devices and in vivo implants in health care, especially with the advent of multidrug-resistant biofilm-forming bacteria. Several enzymes, targeting a wide range of molecules within a biofilm, such as proteases, DNase I, amylase, cellulase and alginate lyase have been employed for the dispersion of biofilms. This chapter reviews biofilm-degrading enzymes and the factors affecting their efficacy. In addition, we shall explore the recent advances in the production of such enzymes, their applications in health care and the industry, as well as the challenges associated with their use.
Light and electron microscopy are a few common techniques used to study biofilms. Here, we will also discuss the role of quantitative imaging in the assessment of the growth and dispersion of a biofilm.
