Biofilms of Campylobacter concisus: a potential survival mechanism in the oral cavity

Abstract

Campylobacter concisus, a member of the human’s oral microflora, is a Gram-negative, fastidious, microaerophilic bacterium. However, it is debatable whether it should be recognised as a commensal of the human oral cavity, or an opportunistic pathogen as it has been linked to oral and gastrointestinal infections. But there is no doubt that its biofilm-forming capacity has enhanced its survival mechanism whether as a commensal or a pathogen. Hence, through our investigation to assess C. concisus biofilms, we believe that its survival strategy in the oral cavity is enhanced by being protected in the biofilm environment with other oral microbes. Our hypothesis is supported by the findings that oral isolates of this bacterium possess a significantly higher biofilm forming capability than those isolated from the gastrointestinal tract.

Keywords

• biofilm formation
• Campylobacter concisus
• extracellular polymeric substances
• hydrogen-requiring campylobacters
• luxS gene