Biofilms are complex communities of microorganisms that grow on surfaces and are embedded in a matrix of extracellular polymeric substances. These are prevalent in various natural and man-made environments, ranging from industrial settings to medical devices, where they can have both positive and negative impacts. This review explores the diverse applications of microbial biofilms, their clinical consequences, and alternative therapies targeting these resilient structures. We have discussed beneficial applications of microbial biofilms, including their role in wastewater treatment, bioremediation, food industries, agriculture, and biotechnology. Additionally, we have highlighted the mechanisms of biofilm formation and clinical consequences of biofilms in the context of human health. We have also focused on the association of biofilms with antibiotic resistance, chronic infections, and medical device-related infections. To overcome these challenges, alternative therapeutic strategies are explored. The review examines the potential of various antimicrobial agents, such as antimicrobial peptides, quorum-sensing inhibitors, phytoextracts, and nanoparticles, in targeting biofilms. Furthermore, we highlight the future directions for research in this area and the potential of phytotherapy for the prevention and treatment of biofilm-related infections in clinical settings.

Bacterial biofilms pose a substantial challenge in healthcare and industrial and environmental settings because of their resilience and antibiotic resistance. Biofilm formation is a complex process involving microbial communities encased in an extracellular matrix that contributes to increased resistance and persistent infections. This review explores the emerging roles of bacteriophages and their derived enzymes as promising alternatives or adjunct therapies to combat bacterial biofilms. Bacteriophages, viruses that infect bacteria, exhibit marked specificity and diverse mechanisms for targeting and lysing bacterial cells within biofilms. Enzymes, including endolysins and depolymerases, have demonstrated efficacy in disrupting biofilm matrices. Moreover, the potential synergy between bacteriophages and antibiotics enhances their antimicrobial activity, providing a multifaceted approach for combating biofilm-associated infections. This review critically evaluates the current research, highlighting the successes and limitations of bacteriophage-based strategies in biofilm control, and underscores the potential of these alternatives in shaping future therapeutic interventions against biofilm-related bacterial infections.

The Quorum Sensing (QS) system plays a central role in regulating several processes that influence bacterial physiology, communication, and pathogenesis. It governs the production of virulence factors, facilitates biofilm formation, and contributes to the development of antibiotic resistance, all of which are critical to bacterial survival and pathogenicity. QS enables both intraspecies and inter-species bacterial communication, operating through distinct pathways in Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the major families of quorum-sensing proteins involved in the working of the signalling molecules. It examines the structural features, functional roles, and mechanisms of action of these proteins, highlighting their significance in bacterial behaviour. Furthermore, the study explores the potential of plant-derived secondary metabolites as natural inhibitors targeting QS systems to disrupt bacterial pathogenicity. Finally, it discusses the implications of exploiting these inhibitors as promising strategies to address the growing challenge of antibiotic resistance in bacterial infections.