Abstract
Bacteria produce a virulence-related polysaccharide exocellular slime (the glycocalyx), which preferentially adheres to the surfaces of biomaterials and compromised tissues. This biofilm resists antibiotic penetration and provides a degree of protection from antibodies and macrophages. Similar adhesive cell-to-substrate phenomena have been noted in natural environments and in bacterial-animal cell disease states. The adherent glycocalyx is one of the fundamental reasons for increased susceptibility to infection in the presence of biomaterials and compromised tissues and a significant factor in the persistence of such infection until the removal of the prosthetic device.
Publication types
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Case Reports
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
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Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
MeSH terms
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Aged
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Bacteria / isolation & purification
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Bacteria / pathogenicity*
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Bacteria / ultrastructure
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Bacterial Infections / etiology*
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Bacterial Infections / microbiology
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Biocompatible Materials
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Bone Diseases / etiology*
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Bone Diseases / microbiology
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Female
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Femoral Fractures / microbiology
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Glycoproteins / physiology*
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Hip Fractures / microbiology
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Humans
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Male
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Microscopy, Electron
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Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
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Middle Aged
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Muscular Diseases / etiology*
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Muscular Diseases / microbiology
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Osteomyelitis / microbiology
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Polysaccharides / physiology*
Substances
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Biocompatible Materials
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Glycoproteins
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Polysaccharides