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Mathematical Modeling of Quorum-Sensing Control in Biofilms

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Control of Biofilm Infections by Signal Manipulation

Part of the book series: Springer Series on Biofilms ((BIOFILMS,volume 2))

Abstract

This chapter begins with an overview of the relevant literature on theoretical approaches to modeling biofilms, quorum sensing in bacteria, and anti-quorum-sensing treatment. Following this, new mathematical models are proposed to investigate anti-quorum-sensing treatment in batch cultures and in biofilm environments. Details for the models' derivation are aimed so that readers with a nonmathematical background will have a good idea of how such models are constructed and studied. Three anti-quorum-sensing targets are investigated, and a wide variety of outcomes in terms of successful treatment are predicted depending on treatment type, strength, and timing. The many interesting conclusions that can be drawn from the presented results are discussed in detail, including ideas for new experiments, many of which would be considered routine, that will provide deeper insights into how anti-quorum-sensing treatments could be highly effective means of controlling bacterial behavior in a variety of situations and environments.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Mathematical Sciences, Loughborough University, Leicestershire, UK

    John Ward

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  1. John Ward
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Correspondence to John Ward .

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Naomi Balaban

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© 2008 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg

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Ward, J. (2008). Mathematical Modeling of Quorum-Sensing Control in Biofilms. In: Balaban, N. (eds) Control of Biofilm Infections by Signal Manipulation. Springer Series on Biofilms, vol 2. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/7142_2007_010

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