Table 3 Functions of polysaccharides in biofilms formation [61]
EPS function | Effect on biofilm |
|---|---|
Adhesion | Allows the initial steps and the long-term attachment of whole biofilms to surfaces |
Aggregation of bacterial cells | Enables bridging between cells and cell–cell recognition |
Cohesion of biofilms | Determines biofilm architecture and allows cell–cell communication |
Protective barrier | Confers resistance to nonspecific and specific host defense |
Sink for excess energy | Stores excess carbon under unbalanced carbon to nitrogen ratios |