Adding a new dimension: Multi-level structure and organization of mixed-species and biofilms in a 4-D wound microenvironment.

Biofilms in wounds typically consist of aggregates of bacteria, most often and , in close association with each other and the host microenvironment. Given this, the interplay across host and microbial elements, including the biochemical and nutrient profile of the microenvironment, likely influences the structure and organization of wound biofilms. While clinical studies, and model systems have provided insights into the distribution of and in wounds, they are limited in their ability to provide a detailed characterization of biofilm structure and organization across the host-microbial interface.

Milieu matters: An wound milieu to recapitulate key features of, and probe new insights into, mixed-species bacterial biofilms.

Bacterial biofilms are a major cause of delayed wound healing. Consequently, the study of wound biofilms, particularly in host-relevant conditions, has gained importance. Most studies employ refined laboratory media to study biofilms, representing conditions that are not relevant to the infection state.