Abstract
Biofilms can produce bacteria, as well as yeast, fungi or protozoa, or small multicellular organisms that produce a mucous polysaccharide shell around them. The biofilm cells adhere to each other or are firmly attached to the surface.
This "envelope" then allows the cells to transport nutrients, communicate with each other, creates a stable environment and provides protection against toxins, radiation as well as antimicrobials. In addition to polysaccharides, nucleic acids, lipids or enzymes, it can contain a various of inorganic substances.
It follows that the biofilm is able to adhere to various surfaces. Biofilms produced in both human and animal play a very important role in the pathogenesis of a significant number of infectious diseases.
It is often the cause of very serious, chronic and often resistant infections. Innovations in the development of vaccines using antigens isolated from biofilms represent a very promising approach to the prevention of infectious diseases and may increase the protective effects of existing vaccines.