The Bacterial Biofilm Matrix as a Platform for Protein Delivery

Surface-associated bacterial structures known as biofilms are the target of intense antimicrobial research efforts. We recently identified several secreted proteins that are retained in the bacterial biofilm matrix by their association with the biofilm exopolysaccharide scaffold. Based on our findings, we hypothesized that these problematic bacterial structures might be reengineered to serve as reservoirs for surface-active secreted proteins of biomedical, bioengineering, or biotechnological importance. By piggybacking onto one of these scaffold-associated proteins, we were able to sequester a functional enzyme to the biofilm matrix. We hypothesize that this technology may have diverse applications in vaccine design, digestive disease, and bioremediation.