Biofilms are structured communities of microbial cells embedded in a self-produced extracellular matrix, adhering to each other and/or to surfaces. These biofilms are ubiquitous in natural, industrial, and clinical settings, making their formation and stability a significant area of study. Extracellular components such as extracellular DNA (eDNA), extracellular polysaccharides, and proteins play critical roles in the architecture and resilience of biofilms. These biofilm matrices confer protective advantages to the microbial community, including enhanced resistance to antibiotics and immune system evasion in clinical contexts, and contribute to persistent infections and contamination issues.

The primary aim of this Research Topic is to elucidate the structural and functional roles of extracellular components in biofilm formation and stability. By understanding these roles, we aim to address the persistent issue of biofilm-associated infections and contamination by identifying potential therapeutic targets to disrupt or prevent biofilm integrity. Achieving this will require a comprehensive investigation into the composition, regulation, and interaction of these extracellular substances. The application of generative AI and machine learning (ML) approaches to understand biofilm composition and interactions of extracellular substances could lead to the development of sequential, multi-modal, multi-scale models to predict the potential stages and agents that will disintegrate the extracellular biofilm matrix.

This collection will cover a range of themes to provide a holistic understanding of the extracellular components in biofilms. Contributors are invited to submit original research articles, reviews, methods, and perspectives focusing on, but not limited to:

1. Structural and Functional Analysis of Extracellular Components

2. Regulation of Extracellular Component Production

3. Role in Biofilm Formation and Stability

4. Techniques for Studying Extracellular Matrix Components

5. Therapeutic and Industrial Implications

6. Generative AI and ML methods to understand the Biofilm, composition, stages, extracellular matrix, and interactions of biomolecules in biofilm

This Research Topic will compile cutting-edge research and comprehensive reviews to advance our understanding of biofilm biology. By shedding light on the intricate roles of extracellular matrix components, we aspire to pave the way for innovative solutions to mitigate the challenges posed by biofilms in both healthcare and industrial environments.

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Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology

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