Key terminology and definitions in biofilm structural biology, biochemistry, and molecular pharmacology
A chemical communication mechanism whereby bacteria produce, release, and detect signaling autoinducers (e.g. AHLs, AI-2, CAI-1) to coordinate gene expression in a cell density-dependent manner.
The self-secreted matrix scaffold composed of polysaccharides (Pel, Psl, alginate), extracellular DNA (eDNA), proteins, and lipids that encases biofilm cells and provides physical defense.
A universal bacterial second messenger synthesized by diguanylate cyclases (GGDEF domains) and degraded by phosphodiesterases (EAL/HD-GYP domains) that controls the lifestyle switch between planktonic motility and biofilm sessility.
Cell-surface filamentous polymers (type IV pili, chaperone-usher fimbriae, curli) that facilitate initial reversible and irreversible adhesion to biological surfaces or medical devices.
A measure of detail in the experimental electron density map. Lower Angstrom values indicate higher resolution, with < 2.0 Å allowing confident positioning of individual atoms, water molecules, and ligand contacts.
A 2D schematic diagram depicting protein-ligand intermolecular interactions, hydrogen bonds, and hydrophobic contacts generated through the LigPlot / LigPlot+ suite.