Across
- 3. A communication mechanism used by bacteria within biofilms to coordinate their activities.(2 words)
- 6. A condition where biofilms on damaged heart valves lead to a bacterial infection in the heart.(2 words)
- 10. A biofilm that forms on teeth when bacteria in the mouth adhere to tooth surfaces. (2 words)
- 12. A slimy substance produced by biofilm-forming bacteria that surrounds and protects the microbial community.(3 words)
- 14. communities of microorganisms that adhere to surfaces to form a self-produced protective matrix
- 15. Proteins or molecules on the surface of bacteria that enable them to stick to surfaces, initiating the biofilm formation process.(2 words)
- 17. The process of breaking down or disrupting a biofilm's structure, which can be a goal in treating bacterial infections.
Down
- 1. A molecular biology technique used to detect and identify specific bacteria within biofilms.(3 words)
- 2. The ability of biofilms to resist the effects of antibiotics, which is a key characteristic that makes them difficult to treat.(2 words)
- 4. Groups of microoganisms that cluster together within a biofilm, often contributing to the structure's complexity.(2 words)
- 5. serious infection that affects the inner lining of the heart(two words)
- 7. the process by which bacteria adhere to surfaces, like a heart valve to form a biofilm.
- 8. The main function of a biofilm, shielding bacteria from external threats.
- 9. the ability of biofilms to withstand the body's immune response and antibiotics, making infections difficult to treat.
- 11. Tiny living organisms, including bacteria, that make up the biofilm community.
- 13. Biofilms often lead to chronic, long-lasting infections due to their resistance to the host's immune system and antibiotics.(2 words)
- 16. the protective structure produced by bacteria in a biofilm