Biofilm formation and microscopic analysis of biofilms formed by Listeria monocytogenes in a food processing context

Piezoelectric materials for anti-infective bioapplications

Bacterial infection severely limits the effectiveness of biomaterials for tissue repair, posing a major challenge to modern medicine. Despite advances in novel antibiotics and their application in treatment, challenges remain in clinical practice. To address this issue, biomaterials are engineered to achieve desirable anti-infective performance and compatibility via adjusting their surface physicochemical properties. Recently, numerous studies on piezoelectric materials have been performed for anti-infective and regenerative therapies, but a comprehensive review is still lacking. This article provides a brief overview of the different types of piezoelectric materials and their characteristics. Building on this understanding, this review highlights the antibacterial mechanisms including orchestrating electric field and optimizing piezoelectric catalysis, which promote infective tissue regeneration, as well as discusses the anti-infective bioapplication of piezoelectric materials. Furthermore, this review concludes with perspectives into the challenges and future research directions of piezoelectric biomaterials.

Characterization of emetic Bacillus cereus biofilm formation and cereulide production in biofilm

Bacillus cereus is a well-known foodborne pathogen that can cause human diseases, including vomiting caused by emetic toxin, cereulide, requiring 105-108 cells per gram to cause the disease. The bacterial cells may be eliminated during processing, but cereulide can survive in most processing techniques due to its resistance to high temperatures, extreme pH and proteolytic enzymes. Herein, we reported dynamic processes of biofilm formation of four different types and cereulide production within the biofilm. Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) images revealed that biofilms of the four different types reach each stage at different time points. Among the extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) components of the four biofilms formed by the emetic B. cereus F4810/72 strain, proteins account for the majority. In addition, there are significant differences (p < 0.05) in the EPS components at the same stage among biofilms of different types. The time point at which cereulide was first detected in the four types of biofilms was 24 h. In the biofilm of B. cereus formed in ultra-high-temperature (UHT) milk, the first peak of cereulide appeared at 72 h. The cereulide content of the biofilms formed in BHI was mostly higher than that of the biofilms formed in UHT milk. This study contributes to a better understanding of food safety issues in the industry caused by biofilm and cereulide toxin produced by B. cereus.

Environmental persistence of Listeria monocytogenes and its implications in dairy processing plants

Listeriosis, an invasive illness with a fatality rate between 20% and 30%, is caused by the ubiquitous bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. Human listeriosis has long been associated with foods. This is because the ubiquitous nature of the bacteria renders it a common food contaminant, posing a significant risk to the food processing sector. Although several sophisticated stress coping mechanisms have been identified as significant contributing factors toward the pathogen's persistence, a complete understanding of the mechanisms underlying persistence across various strains remains limited. Moreover, aside from genetic aspects that promote the ability to cope with stress, various environmental factors that exist in food manufacturing plants could also contribute to the persistence of the pathogen. The objective of this review is to provide insight into the challenges faced by the dairy industry because of the pathogens' environmental persistence. Additionally, it also aims to emphasize the diverse adaptation and response mechanisms utilized by L. monocytogenes in food manufacturing plants to evade environmental stressors. The persistence of L. monocytogenes in the food processing environment poses a serious threat to food safety and public health. The emergence of areas with high levels of L. monocytogenes contamination could facilitate Listeria transmission through aerosols, potentially leading to the recontamination of food, particularly from floors and drains, when sanitation is implemented alongside product manufacturing. Hence, to produce safe dairy products and reduce the frequency of outbreaks of listeriosis, it is crucial to understand the factors that contribute to the persistence of this pathogen and to implement efficient control strategies.

Anti-Biofilm Activity of Chlorogenic Acid against Pseudomonas Using Quorum Sensing System

Chlorogenic acid is a secondary metabolite produced by many traditional Chinese medicines. Its physiological activities (antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant activities, etc.) have been well described. This study aimed to investigate the effects of chlorogenic acid on the biofilm of drinking water bacteria. The effects of chlorogenic acid on the metabolites of the biofilms were also evaluated. Chlorogenic acid was found to have an anti-biofilm effect against Pseudomonas, resulting in biofilm formation in a dose-dependent manner (0.53-25.4 mM CGA). Moreover, the biofilm structure was visibly attenuated. Furthermore, we identified and characterized 23 differential metabolites and associated two metabolic pathways involving beta-alanine metabolism and pyrimidine metabolism that were altered mostly during biofilm formation. A quantitative real-time PCR assay revealed that chlorogenic acid interfered with the signaling molecule synthesis and transcription regulators using the Las, Pqs and Rhl systems. These findings suggest that chlorogenic acid can be a quorum sensing (QS) inhibitor and inhibit biofilm formation. It may be a promising natural product for the prevention of contaminated drinking water.

The global regulator SpoVG regulates Listeria monocytogenes biofilm formation

Biofilms provide a suitable environment for L. monocytogenes and are the cause of enormous risks in the food industry. SpoVG is a global regulatory factor that plays a vital role in physiological activity of L. monocytogenes. We constructed spoVG mutant strains to investigate the effects of these mutants on L. monocytogenes biofilms. The results show that L. monocytogenes biofilm formation was decreased by 40%. Furthermore, we measured biofilm related phenotypes to study the regulation of SpoVG. The motility capacity of L. monocytogenes was found to decrease after the deletion of spoVG. The cell surface properties changed in the spoVG mutant strains, with an increase in both the cell surface hydrophobicity and the auto-aggregation capacity after spoVG deletion. SpoVG mutant strains were found to be more sensitive to antibiotics, and had a reduced tolerance to inappropriate pH, salt stress and low temperature. The RT-qPCR results showed that SpoVG effectively regulated the expression of genes related to quorum sensing, flagella, virulence and stress factors. These findings suggest that spoVG has potential as a target to decrease biofilm formation and control L. monocytogenes contamination in the food industry.

Different cellular fatty acid pattern and gene expression of planktonic and biofilm state Listeria monocytogenes under nutritional stress

Listeria monocytogenes is a Gram-positive bacterium frequently involved in food-borne disease outbreaks and is widely distributed in the food-processing environment. This work aims to depict the impact of nutrition deficiency on the survival strategy of L. monocytogenes both in planktonic and biofilm states. In the present study, cell characteristics (autoaggression, hydrophobicity and motility), membrane fatty acid composition of MRL300083 (Lm83) in the forms of planktonic and biofilm-associated cells cultured in TSB-YE and 10-fold dilutions of TSB-YE (DTSB-YE) were investigated. Additionally, the relative expression of related genes were also determined by RT-qPCR. It was observed that cell growth in different bacterial life modes under nutritional stress rendered the cells a distinct phenotype. The higher autoaggression (AAG) and motility of the planktonic cells in DTSB-YE is associated with better biofilm formation. An increased proportion of unsaturated fatty acid/saturated fatty acid (USFA/SFA) indicates more fluidic biophysical properties for cell membranes of L. monocytogenes in planktonic and biofilm cells in DTSB-YE. Biofilm cells produced a higher percentage of USFA and straight fatty acids than the corresponding planktonic cells. An appropriate degree of membrane fluidity is crucial for survival, and alteration of membrane lipids is an essential adaptive response. The adaptation of bacteria to stress is a multifactorial cellular process, the expression of flagella-related genes fliG, fliP, flgE and the two-component chemotactic system cheA/Y genes of planktonic cells in DTSB-YE significantly increased compared to that in TSB-YE (p < 0.05). This study provides new information on the role of the physiological adaptation and gene expression of L. monocytogenes for planktonic and biofilm growth under nutritional stress.

Mini-Review of Biofilm Interactions with Surface Materials in Industrial Piping System

The growth of biofilm, which is caused by microorganism accumulation and growth on wetted surfaces, may damage industrial piping systems, increase maintenance and cleaning costs for the system sterilization, and even divulge the immune system into high risk. This article systematically analyzes the biofilm interactions with piping surface materials from the perspectives of physical convection, and biological and chemical adhesion. The thermodynamics of the flow, bacterial surface sensing, and bio-communication are the most critical factors for biofilm attachment. Furthermore, experimental analysis methods as well as biofilm control and removal approaches, are also included in this study. Finally, the resistance and growth of biofilm, as well as the practical and advanced methodology to control the biofilm and challenges associated with technology, are also discussed. Moreover, this paper may also offer a significant reference for the practice and strategic applications to address the biofilm resistance issues in industrial piping.

Listeria monocytogenes exposed to antimicrobial peptides displays differential regulation of lipids and proteins associated to stress response

With the onset of Listeria monocytogenes resistance to the bacteriocin nisin, the search for alternative antimicrobial treatments is of fundamental importance. In this work, we set out to investigate proteins and lipids involved in the resistance mechanisms of L. monocytogenes against the antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) nisin and fengycin. The effect of sub-lethal concentrations of nisin and lipopeptide fengycin secreted by Bacillus velezensis P34 on L. monocytogenes was investigated by mass spectrometry-based lipidomics and proteomics. Both AMPs caused a differential regulation of biofilm formation, confirming the promotion of cell attachment and biofilm assembling after treatment with nisin, whereas growth inhibition was observed after fengycin treatment. Anteiso branched-chain fatty acids were detected in higher amounts in fengycin-treated samples (46.6%) as compared to nisin-treated and control samples (39.4% and 43.4%, respectively). In addition, a higher relative abundance of 30:0, 31:0 and 32:0 phosphatidylglycerol species was detected in fengycin-treated samples. The lipidomics data suggest the inhibition of biofilm formation by the fengycin treatment, while the proteomics data revealed downregulation of important cell wall proteins involved in the building of biofilms, such as the lipoteichoic acid backbone synthesis (Lmo0927) and the flagella-related (Lmo0718) proteins among others. Together, these results provide new insights into the modification of lipid and protein profiles and biofilm formation in L. monocytogenes upon exposure to antimicrobial peptides.

Probing antimicrobial resistance and sanitizer tolerance themes and their implications for the food industry through the Listeria monocytogenes lens

The development of antibiotic resistance is a serious public health crisis, reducing our ability to effectively combat infectious bacterial diseases. The parallel study of reduced susceptibility to sanitizers is growing, particularly for environmental foodborne pathogens, such as Listeria monocytogenes. As regulations demand a seek-and-destroy approach for L. monocytogenes, understanding sanitizer efficacy and its uses are critical for the food industry. Studies have reported the ability of L. monocytogenes to survive in sanitizer concentrations 10-1000 times lower than the manufacturer-recommended concentration (MRC). Notably, data show that at MRC and when applied according to the label instructions, sanitizers remain largely effective. Studies also report that variables such as the presence of organic material, application time/temperature, and bacterial attachment to surfaces can impact sanitizer effectiveness. Due to the lack of standardization in the methodology and definitions of sanitizer resistance, tolerance, and susceptibility, different messages are conveyed in different studies. In this review, we examine the diversity of definitions, terminology, and methodologies used in studies examining L. monocytogenes resistance and susceptibility to antimicrobials. Research available to date fails to demonstrate "resistance" of L. monocytogenes to recommended sanitizer treatments as prescribed by the label. As such, sanitizer tolerance would be a more accurate description of L. monocytogenes response to low sanitizer concentrations (i.e., sub-MRC). Conservative use of word "resistance" will reduce confusion and allow for concise messaging as sanitizer research findings are communicated to industry and regulators.

Metal Complexes—A Promising Approach to Target Biofilm Associated Infections

Microbial biofilms are represented by sessile microbial communities with modified gene expression and phenotype, adhered to a surface and embedded in a matrix of self-produced extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). Microbial biofilms can develop on both prosthetic devices and tissues, generating chronic and persistent infections that cannot be eradicated with classical organic-based antimicrobials, because of their increased tolerance to antimicrobials and the host immune system. Several complexes based mostly on 3D ions have shown promising potential for fighting biofilm-associated infections, due to their large spectrum antimicrobial and anti-biofilm activity. The literature usually reports species containing Mn(II), Ni(II), Co(II), Cu(II) or Zn(II) and a large variety of multidentate ligands with chelating properties such as antibiotics, Schiff bases, biguanides, N-based macrocyclic and fused rings derivatives. This review presents the progress in the development of such species and their anti-biofilm activity, as well as the contribution of biomaterials science to incorporate these complexes in composite platforms for reducing the negative impact of medical biofilms.

Genomic characteristics of Listeria monocytogenes isolated during mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) production and processing

Listeria monocytogenes is a foodborne pathogen ubiquitously found in nature and which has been isolated from food and food processing environments. This study aimed to characterize L. monocytogenes strains isolated from the production and processing environments of frozen sliced mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus). An analysis was executed along the mushroom processing chain including one mushroom grower and two mushroom processing factories. A total of 153 L. monocytogenes strains were isolated, which could be grouped in three PCR serogroups, namely, serogroup 1/2a-3a (39.2%), serogroup 1/2b-3b-7 (34.0%) and serogroup 4b-4d-4e (26.8%). A selection of 44 L. monocytogenes strains isolated from the processing environment after cleaning and disinfection (C&D) and from frozen sliced mushrooms was genotyped by whole genome sequencing (WGS), because these strains pose a potential risk for product contamination after C&D and for human consumption. Multilocus sequence typing (MLST) revealed 11 clonal complexes (CCs), with strains belonging to CC1, CC4, CC37 and CC87 being detected in both processing factories. Comparative WGS analysis of the 44 strains showed the presence of Listeria pathogenicity island 1 (LIPI-1) with a disrupted version of actA in all CC1, CC4, CC5, CC59 strains, and all but one CC224 strains. Notably, both inlA and inlB were detected as full-length loci in every strain, except for inlA in a CC6 strain that harbored a three amino acid deletion. LIPI-3 was detected in all CC1, CC4, CC6 and CC224 strains, while LIPI-4 was detected in all CC4 and CC87 strains. In addition, antibiotic susceptibility tests showed susceptibility towards fourteen antibiotics tested. The bcrABC operon was found in one CC5 strain, that showed a higher tolerance towards benzalkonium chloride than any other strain tested with confluent growth till 12.5 μg/ml for the CC5 strain compared to 2.5 μg/ml for the other strains. This study highlights that the ecology of L. monocytogenes in the frozen sliced mushroom production chain is highly diverse, and shows the importance of hygienic measures to control L. monocytogenes along the frozen sliced mushroom production chain.

Antibiofilm and antioxidant activity of Rosmarinus officinalis essential oil

The aim of the work was to explore the antioxidant potential and antibiofilm activity of the Rosmarinus officinalis essential oil. The DPPH method was used to determine the antioxidant activity. The agar microdilution method was used to determine the minimum biofilm inhibiting concentration (MBIC). The MALDI-TOF MS Biotyper was used to evaluate the antibiofilm activity on the wood and glass surface. Vapor phase antimicrobial analysis was used to determine the effect on the food model. The antioxidant activity was 28.76 % ± 2.68 %. The MBIC for Stenotrophomonas maltophilia was 25 µL.mL-1 and for Bacillus subtilis 12.5 µL.mL-1. Analysis of the mass spectra of S. maltophilia revealed an inhibitory effect from the 5th, which persisted until the end of the experiment. Analysis of the mass spectra of B. subtilis showed an inhibitory effect from the 7th of the experiment. The experiments showed an effect on both tested surfaces. The food model showed a more pronounced effect of the Rosmarinus officinalis essential oil against B. subtilis. We assume that the effect of the essential oil is to disrupt the polysaccharide structure of the biofilm and consequently reduce the resistance of the biofilm. We have established that MALDI-TOF MS Biotyper is a suitable tool for evaluating changes in biofilm structure and could find more significant application for the study of biofilms in food and clinical practice.

Conditions of In Vitro Biofilm Formation by Serogroups of Listeria monocytogenes Isolated from Hass Avocados Sold at Markets in Mexico

Listeria monocytogenes is an important pathogen that has been implicated in foodborne illnesses and the recall of products such as fruit and vegetables. This study determines the prevalence of virulence-associated genes and serogroups and evaluates the effects of different growth media and environmental conditions on biofilm formation by L. monocytogenes. Eighteen L. monocytogenes isolates from Hass avocados sold at markets in Guadalajara, Mexico, were characterized by virulence-associated genes and serogroup detection with PCR. All isolates harbored 88.8% actA, 88.8% plcA, 83.3% mpl, 77.7% inlB, 77.7% hly, 66.6% prfA, 55.5% plcB, and 33.3% inlA. The results showed that 38.8% of isolates harbored virulence genes belonging to Listeria pathogenicity island 1 (LIPI-1). PCR revealed that the most prevalent serogroup was serogroup III (1/2b, 3b, and 7 (n = 18, 66.65%)), followed by serogroup IV (4b, 4d-4e (n = 5, 27.7%)) and serogroup I (1/2a-3a (n = 1, 5.5%)). The assessment of the ability to develop biofilms using a crystal violet staining method revealed that L. monocytogenes responded to supplement medium TSBA, 1/10 diluted TSBA, and TSB in comparison with 1/10 diluted TSB (p < 0.05) on polystyrene at 240 h (p < 0.05). In particular, the biofilm formation by L. monocytogenes (7.78 ± 0.03-8.82 ± 0.03 log₁₀ CFU/cm²) was significantly different in terms of TSBA on polypropylene type B (PP) (p < 0.05). In addition, visualization by epifluorescence microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and treatment (DNase I and proteinase K) revealed the metabolically active cells and extracellular polymeric substances of biofilms on PP. L. monocytogenes has the ability to develop biofilms that harbor virulence-associated genes, which represent a serious threat to human health and food safety.

Colonisation dynamics of Listeria monocytogenes strains isolated from food production environments

Listeria monocytogenes is a ubiquitous bacterium capable of colonising and persisting within food production environments (FPEs) for many years, even decades. This ability to colonise, survive and persist within the FPEs can result in food product cross-contamination, including vulnerable products such as ready to eat food items. Various environmental and genetic elements are purported to be involved, with the ability to form biofilms being an important factor. In this study we examined various mechanisms which can influence colonisation in FPEs. The ability of isolates (n = 52) to attach and grow in biofilm was assessed, distinguishing slower biofilm formers from isolates forming biofilm more rapidly. These isolates were further assessed to determine if growth rate, exopolymeric substance production and/or the agr signalling propeptide influenced these dynamics and could promote persistence in conditions reflective of FPE. Despite no strong association with the above factors to a rapid colonisation phenotype, the global transcriptome suggested transport, energy production and metabolism genes were widely upregulated during the initial colonisation stages under nutrient limited conditions. However, the upregulation of the metabolism systems varied between isolates supporting the idea that L. monocytogenes ability to colonise the FPEs is strain-specific.

Tolerance of Listeria monocytogenes to biocides used in food processing environments

Listeria monocytogenes is a foodborne pathogen that causes a life-threatening disease in humans known as listeriosis. Contamination of food during processing is the main route of transmission of Listeria monocytogenes. Therefore, biocides play a crucial role in food processing environments as they act as the first line of defense in the prevention and control of L. monocytogenes. Residues of biocides may be present at sublethal concentrations after disinfection. This, unfortunately, subjects L. monocytogenes to selection pressure, giving rise to tolerant strains, which pose a threat to food safety and public health. This review will give a brief description of L. monocytogenes, the clinical manifestation, treatment of listeriosis as well as recently recorded outbreaks. The article will then discuss the current literature on the ability of L. monocytogenes strains to tolerate biocides especially quaternary ammonium compounds as well as the mechanisms of tolerance towards biocides including the activation of efflux pump systems.

The role of biofilm in the development and dissemination of ubiquitous pathogens in drinking water distribution systems: an overview of surveillance, outbreaks, and prevention

A variety of pathogenic microorganisms can survive in the drinking water distribution systems (DWDS) by forming stable biofilms and, thus, continually disseminating their population through the system's dynamic water bodies. The ingestion of the pathogen-contaminated water could trigger a broad spectrum of illnesses and well-being-related obstacles. These waterborne diseases are a significant concern for babies, pregnant women, and significantly low-immune individuals. This review highlights the recent advances in understanding the microbiological aspects of drinking water quality, biofilm formation and its dynamics, health issues caused by the emerging microbes in biofilm, and approaches for biofilm investigation its prevention and suppression in DWDS.

Inhibition of Biofilm Formation and Related Gene Expression of Listeria monocytogenes in Response to Four Natural Antimicrobial Compounds and Sodium Hypochlorite

The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of four natural antimicrobial compounds (cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, resveratrol and thymoquinone) plus a control chemical disinfectant (sodium hypochlorite) in inhibiting biofilm formation by Listeria monocytogenes CMCC54004 (Lm 54004) at a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and sub-MICs. Crystal violet staining assay and microscopic examination were employed to investigate anti-biofilm effects of the evaluated compounds, and a real-time PCR assay was used to investigate the expression of critical genes by Lm 54004 biofilm. The results showed that five antimicrobial compounds inhibited Lm 54004 biofilm formation in a dose dependent way. Specifically, cinnamaldehyde and resveratrol showed better anti-biofilm effects at 1/4 × MIC, while sodium hypochlorite exhibited the lowest inhibitory rates. A swimming assay confirmed that natural compounds at sub-MICs suppressed Lm 54004 motility to a low degree. Supporting these findings, expression analysis showed that all four natural compounds at 1/4 × MIC significantly down-regulated quorum sensing genes (agrA, agrC, and agrD) rather than suppressing the motility- and flagella-associated genes (degU, motB, and flaA). This study revealed that sub-MICs of natural antimicrobial compounds reduced biofilm formation by suppressing the quorum sensing system rather than by inhibiting flagella formation.

A review of bacterial biofilm control by physical strategies

Biofilms are multicellular communities of microorganisms held together by a self-produced extracellular matrix, which contribute to hygiene problems in the food and medical fields. Both spoilage and pathogenic bacteria that grow in the complex structure of biofilm are more resistant to harsh environmental conditions and conventional antimicrobial agents. Therefore, it is important to develop eco-friendly preventive methodologies to eliminate biofilms from foods and food contact equipment. The present paper gives an overview of the current physical methods for biofilm control and removal. Current physical strategies adopted for the anti-biofilm treatment mainly focused on use of ultrasound power, electric or magnetic field, plasma, and irradiation. Furthermore, the mechanisms of anti-biofilm action and application of different physical methods are discussed. Physical strategies make it possible to combat biofilm without the use of biocidal agents. The remarkable microbiocidal properties of physical strategies are promising tools for antimicrobial applications.

Occurrence and molecular characteristics of Listeria monocytogenes isolated from ready-to-eat meats in Hanoi, Vietnam

Listeria monocytogenes represents one of the most serious threats to food safety. Several studies have shown that Ready-To- Eat (RTE) meats are an important vehicle responsible for listeriosis in human. In Vietnam, little is known about the occurrence and molecular characteristics of L. monocytogenes in meat products, which are essential for developing monitoring plans and control measures. In the present study, we investigated the occurrence of L. monocytogenes in 258 sausage and sliced meat samples collected during the period of 2013-2015 and determined the genetic diversity of the isolates using multi-locus sequence typing (MLST). Overall, L. monocytogenes was present in 19/129 (14.7 %) and 40/129 (31.0 %) sausage and sliced meat samples respectively, with the peak of occurrence being in summer. Furthermore, a minimum spanning tree was constructed based on MLST data of 47 isolates. A total of 15 sequence types were found, with five being novel. Notably, the majority of the isolates (34/47) belonged to the hypervirulent clonal complexes 1, 2, and 3.

One-step and DNA amplification-free detection of Listeria monocytogenes in ham samples: Combining magnetic relaxation switching and DNA hybridization reaction

Early screening of L. monocytogenes in ready-to-eat food can prevent and control its harmful effects. In this study, we propose a highly sensitive magnetic DNA sensor based on nucleic acid hybridization reaction and magnetic signal readout. We design the L. monocytogenes specific probe₁ and probe₂ and label them on the 30 and 250 nm magnetic nanoparticles, respectively. The hybridization reaction between the magnetic probes and DNA of L. monocytogenes could form a sandwich nanocomplex. After magnetic separation, the unbound MNP₃₀-probe₂ can act as the transverse relaxation time (T₂) signal readout probe. This assay allows the one-step detection of L. monocytogenes as low as 50 CFU/mL within 2 h without DNA amplification, and the average recovery in the spiked ham sausage samples can reach 92.6%. This system integrates the high sensitivity of magnetic sensing and high efficiency of hybridization reaction, providing a promising detection platform for pathogens.

Antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of tyrosol and derivative-compounds in the presence of vitamin B2. Assays of synergistic antioxidant effect with commercial food additives

The main causes of food spoilage come from the process of oxidation and the contamination by microorganisms. For the purpose of increasing food shelf-life the industries employ different techniques, being the addition of preservatives, one of the most used. The aim of this contribution was to investigate the potential antioxidant properties of tyrosol (4-hydroxyphenethyl alcohol, 4-OH) and tyrosol derived isomers (2-hydroxyphenethyl alcohol, 2-OH and 3-hydroxyphenethyl alcohol, 3-OH) against reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the antimicrobial effect on Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Furthermore, the type of antioxidant effect of substrates and commercial antioxidants mixtures was studied. Upon visible-light, the substrates interacted with the vitamin B2 and different ROS were generated. All the compounds deactivated O₂(¹Δ_g) and O₂^●-, whereas only 2-OH and 3-OH inhibited H₂O₂ and HO^●. The substrates exhibited a synergistic antioxidant effect when combined with commercial antioxidants. 2-OH showed antimicrobial activity against strains tested.

Scanning electrochemical microscopy and its potential for studying biofilms and antimicrobial coatings

Biofilms are known to be well-organized microbial communities embedded in an extracellular polymeric matrix, which supplies bacterial protection against external stressors. Biofilms are widespread and diverse, and despite the considerable large number of publications and efforts reported regarding composition, structure and cell-to-cell communication within biofilms in the last decades, the mechanisms of biofilm formation, the interaction and communication between bacteria are still not fully understood. This knowledge is required to understand why biofilms form and how we can combat them or how we can take advantage of these sessile communities, e.g. in biofuel cells. Therefore, in situ and real-time monitoring of nutrients, metabolites and quorum sensing molecules is of high importance, which may help to fill that knowledge gap. This review focuses on the potential of scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) as a versatile method for in situ studies providing temporal and lateral resolution in order to elucidate cell-to-cell communication, microbial metabolism and antimicrobial impact, e.g. of antimicrobial coatings through the study of electrochemical active molecules. Given the complexity and diversity of biofilms, challenges and limitations will be also discussed.

Genetic Subtyping, Biofilm-Forming Ability and Biocide Susceptibility of Listeria monocytogenes Strains Isolated from a Ready-to-Eat Food Industry

Listeria monocytogenes is a foodborne pathogen of special concern for ready-to-eat food producers. The control of its presence is a critical step in which food-grade sanitizers play an essential role. L. monocytogenes is believed to persist in food processing environments in biofilms, exhibiting less susceptibility to sanitizers than planktonic cells. This study aimed to test the susceptibility of L. monocytogenes in planktonic culture and biofilm to three commercial food-grade sanitizers and to benzalkonium chloride; together with the genetic subtyping of the isolates. L. monocytogenes isolates were collected from raw materials, final products and food-contact surfaces during a 6-year period from a ready-to-eat meat-producing food industry and genetically characterized. Serogrouping and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) revealed genetic variability and differentiated L. monocytogenes isolates in three clusters. The biofilm-forming ability assay revealed that the isolates were weak biofilm producers. L. monocytogenes strains were susceptible both in the planktonic and biofilm form to oxidizing and ethanol-based compounds and to benzalkonium chloride, but not to quaternary ammonium compound. A positive association of biofilm-forming ability and LD₉₀ values for quaternary ammonium compound and benzalkonium chloride was found. This study highlights the need for preventive measures improvement and for a conscious selection and use of sanitizers in food-related environments to control Listeria monocytogenes.

Strain variability in biofilm formation: A food safety and quality perspective

The inherent differences in microbial behavior among identically treated strains of the same microbial species, referred to as "strain variability", are regarded as an important source of variability in microbiological studies. Biofilms are defined as the structured multicellular communities with complex architecture that enable microorganisms to grow adhered to abiotic or living surfaces and constitute a fundamental aspect of microbial ecology. The research studies assessing the strain variability in biofilm formation are relatively few compared to the ones evaluating other aspects of microbial behavior such as virulence, growth and stress resistance. Among the available research data on intra-species variability in biofilm formation, compiled and discussed in the present review, most of them refer to foodborne pathogens as compared to spoilage microorganisms. Molecular and physiological aspects of biofilm formation potentially related to strain-specific responses, as well as information on the characterization and quantitative description of this type of biological variability are presented and discussed. Despite the considerable amount of available information on the strain variability in biofilm formation, there are certain data gaps and still-existing challenges that future research should cover and address. Current and future advances in systems biology and omics technologies are expected to aid significantly in the explanation of phenotypic strain variability, including biofilm formation variability, allowing for its integration in microbiological risk assessment.

The Effects of Eugenol, Trans-Cinnamaldehyde, Citronellol, and Terpineol on Escherichia coli Biofilm Control as Assessed by Culture-Dependent and -Independent Methods

Bacterial biofilms contribute to problems with preserving food hygiene, jeopardizing any conventional intervention method used by the food industry. Hence, the approach of using essential oil (EO) compounds effective in biofilm control has considerable merit and deserves in-depth research. In this study, the effect of selected EO compounds (eugenol, trans-cinnamaldehyde, citronellol, and terpineol) was assessed on Escherichia coli biofilm control by plate count, resazurin assay, and Syto^® 9/PI (-/propidium iodide) staining coupled with flow cytometry (FCM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). The selected EO compounds effectively inhibited the growth of planktonic E. coli at low concentrations of 3–5 mM, revealing a high antimicrobial activity. EO compounds markedly interfered with biofilms too, with trans-cinnamaldehyde causing the most prominent effects. Its antibiofilm activity was manifested by a high reduction of cell metabolic activity (>60%) and almost complete reduction in biofilm cell culturability. In addition, almost 90% of the total cells had perturbed cell membranes. Trans-cinnamaldehyde further impacted the cell morphology resulting in the filamentation and, thus, in the creation of a mesh network of cells. Citronellol scored the second in terms of the severity of the observed effects. However, most of all, it strongly prevented native microcolony formation. Eugenol and terpineol also affected the formation of a typical biofilm structure; however, small cell aggregates were still repeatedly found. Overall, eugenol caused the mildest impairment of cell membranes where 50% of the total cells showed the Syto^® 9+/PI– pattern coupled with healthy cells and another 48% with injured cells (the Syto^® 9+/PI+). For terpineol, despite a similar percentage of healthy cells, another 45% was shared between moderately (Syto^® 9+PI+) and heavily (Syto^® 9–PI+) damaged cells. The results highlight the importance of a multi-method approach for an accurate assessment of EO compounds’ action against biofilms and may help develop better strategies for their effective use in the food industry.

Listeria monocytogenes in Export-approved Beef from Mato Grosso, Brazil: Prevalence, Molecular Characterization and Resistance to Antibiotics and Disinfectants

The Brazilian state of Mato Grosso is the largest producer and exporter of beef in the country, but few studies of relevance have been conducted to evaluate the microbiological safety of its products. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of Listeria monocytogenes (LM) in export-approved beef from Mato Grosso and to characterize the isolates in terms of molecular properties and antimicrobial resistance. From a total of 50 samples analyzed, Listeria sp. was isolated in 18 (36% prevalence). Listeria monocytogenes was confirmed in 6 (12% prevalence). Among the serotype groups assessed by multiplex PCR, serotype 4 (4b, 4d or 4e) was the most prevalent. Although antibiotic resistance was not an issue, two strains isolated from different plants showed high resistance to sodium hypochlorite. Overall, this scenario causes concern because it puts at risk not only the Brazilian customer, but also the population of countries that import beef from Mato Grosso.

Reverse transcription – loop-mediated isothermal amplification assay for the rapid detection of pathogenic Listeria monocytogenes in meat products

This study reports the use of reverse transcription – loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT–LAMP) to detect Listeria monocytogenes in meat. The assay was designed to target the iap gene of L. monocytogenes, to which four primers, recognizing six distinct iap sites, were designed. We optimized the RT–LAMP conditions and established the following optimal systems: 60 min, 63 °C, 2.0 mmol/L MgSO4, 1.0 mol/L betaine, 2.0 mmol/L dNTPs, 320 U/mL Bst DNA polymerase, 0.4 μmol/L outer primers, and 0.8 μmol/L inner primers. The RT–LAMP amplification products were identified by a visible white Mg2P2O7 precipitate or electrophoresis on a 2% agarose gel. RT–LAMP has a sensitivity of 7.3 × 101 CFU/mL, which is 2-fold higher than that of LAMP. When commercially available raw meat samples (including beef, pork, mutton, and rabbit) were analyzed simultaneously with RT–LAMP and the Chinese National Standard GB 4789.30-2016, their abilities to detect L. monocytogenes were the same. Samples containing L. monocytogenes killed by 15 psi at 121 °C for 15 min were used to confirm the specificity of RT–LAMP for live microorganisms. Thus, we used RT–LAMP to efficiently detect L. monocytogenes in meat products.

Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) and Their Bacteriocins as Alternative Biotechnological Tools to Control Listeria monocytogenes Biofilms in Food Processing Facilities

Bacteriocins are antimicrobial peptides produced by bacteria Gram-negative and Gram-positive, including lactic acid bacteria (LAB), organisms that are traditionally used in food preservation practices. Bacteriocins have been shown to have an aptitude as biofilm controlling agents in Listeria monocytogenes biofilms, a major risk for consumers and the food industry. Biofilms protect pathogens from sanitization procedures, allowing them to survive and persist in processing facilities, resulting in the cross-contamination of the end products. Studies have been undertaken on bacteriocinogenic LAB, their bacteriocins, and bioengineered bacteriocin derivatives for controlling L. monocytogenes biofilms on different surfaces through inhibition, competition, exclusion, and displacement. These alternative strategies can be considered promising in preventing the development of resistance to conventional sanitizers and disinfectants. Bacteriocins are "friendly" antimicrobial agents, and with high prevalence in nature, they do not have any known associated public health risk. Most trials have been carried out in vitro, on food contact materials such as polystyrene and stainless steel, while there have been few studies performed in situ to consolidate the results observed in vitro. There are strategies that can be employed for prevention and eradication of L. monocytogenes biofilms (such as the establishment of standard cleaning procedures using the available agents at proper concentrations). However, commercial cocktails using alternatives compounds recognized as safe and environmental friendly can be an alternative approach to be applied by the industries in the future.

Listeria monocytogenes Colonizes Pseudomonas fluorescens Biofilms and Induces Matrix Over-Production

In food facilities, biofilms or their debris might act as helpers for attracting free floating microorganisms. In this sense, Pseudomonas fluorescens, a dense biofilm producer frequently isolated from food contact surfaces, could be a good candidate for sheltering other microorganisms, such as Listeria monocytogenes. The main objective of this work was to evaluate the ability of L. monocytogenes to colonize pre-established Pseudomonas biofilms. For this, the movement throughout mature Pseudomonas biofilms of a green fluorescent protein (GFP) - tagged strain of L. monocytogenes was tracked for 24 h by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Moreover, in order to check the effect of the incorporation of Listeria on the overall matrix production, attached populations of both microorganisms and total biomass (cells + matrix) of the resulting biofilms were measured over time. Planktonic cells of L. monocytogenes efficiently migrated to preformed P. fluorescens biofilms. Moreover, they moved preferentially toward the bottom layers of these structures, suggesting some kind of tropism. When preformed P. fluorescens biofilms were conditioning the surfaces, the L. monocytogenes attached population was on average, 1-2 Log higher than when this organism grew on bare coupons. Furthermore, the arrival of L. monocytogenes to the already established P. fluorescens biofilms led to a matrix over-production. Indeed, biomass values [optical density (OD595nm)] of the resulting biofilms were double those of the ordinary L. monocytogenes-P. fluorescens mixed biofilms (1.40 vs. 0.6). The fact that L. monocytogenes cells accumulate in the bottom layers of preformed biofilms provides this microorganism an extra protection toward physical-chemical damages. This might partly explain why this microorganism can persist in food industry environments.