Microbial Extracellular Polymeric Substances Characterization, Structure and Function

Microbial extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) are the key components for the aggregation of microorganisms in biofilms, flocs and sludge. They are composed of polysaccharides, proteins, nucleic acids, lipids and other biological macromolecules. EPS provide a highly hydrated gel matrix in which microbial cells can establish stable synergistic consortia. Cohesion and adhesion as well as morphology, structure, biological function and other properties such as mechanical stability, diffusion, sorption and optical properties of microbial aggregates are determined by the EPS matrix. Also, the protection of biofilm organisms against biocides is attributed to the EPS. Their matrix allows phase separation in biofiltration and is also important for the degradation of particulate material which is of great importance for the self purification processes in surface waters and for waste water treatment.

J. Wingender, H.-C. Flemming, Th.R. Neu: Introduction - What are Bacterial Extracellular Polymeric Substances?- Th.R. Neu, J.R. Lawrence: In Situ Characterization of Extracellular Polymeric Substances (EPS) in Biofilm Systems.- P.H. Nielsen, A. Jahn: Extraction of EPS.- I.W. Sutherland: Biofilm Exopolysaccharides.- D.G. Davies: Regulation of Matrix Polymer in Biofilm Formation and Dispersion.- I.B. Beech, R.C. Tapper: Exopolymers of Sulphate-Reducing Bacteria.- W. Sand, T. Gehrke: Analysis and Function of the EPS from the Strong Acidophile Thiobacillus ferrooxidans.- B.E. Christensen: Physical and Chemical Properties of Extracellular Polysaccharides Associated with Biofilms and Related Systems.- A.W. Decho: Chemical Communication Within Microbial Biofilms: Chemotaxis and Quorum Sensing in Bacterial Cells.- G.M. Wolfaardt, J.R. Lawrence, D.R. Korber: Function of EPS.- I.W. Sutherland: Polysaccharases in Biofilms - Sources - Action - Consequences!- M. Hoffman, A.W. Decho: Extracellular Enzymes Within Microbial Biofilms and the Role of the Extracellular Polymer Matrix.- J. Wingender, K.-E. Jaeger, H.-C. Flemming: Interaction Between Extracellular Polysaccharides and Enzymes.