Glossary

Antimicrobial screening (biofilms)

Definition

Testing compounds against microbes/biofilms, ideally with real-time imaging and quantitative readouts under relevant flow.

Why it matters

For scientific teams:

  • Biofilm responses differ from planktonic cells.
  • Enables realistic assessment of antimicrobial efficacy.
  • Supports time-dependent kill studies.

For decision-makers:

  • Improves predictive value of screening data.
  • Supports development of anti-biofilm therapies.
  • Differentiates screening platforms.

FAQ

Q: Why screen biofilms separately?

A: They respond differently due to matrix and physiology.

Q: What readouts are common?

A: Biomass, viability, detachment, and kinetics.