Fig. 2: Components of the matrix that can hinder the absorption of antibiotics into the biofilm.

Positively charged antibiotics (such as aminoglycosides) can bind to negatively charged eDNA found in the matrix, reducing antibiotic penetration, polysaccharides can present a permeability barrier and secreted enzymes can break down antibiotics resulting in a reduced concentration of antibiotics reaching the bacteria cells^39,42.