Pseudomonas aeruginosa Secreted Biomolecules and Their Diverse Functions in Biofilm Formation and Virulence

Abstract

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic Gram-negative bacterium accountable for causing life-threatening infections in humans. According to the World Health Organization, P. aeruginosa classified as a critical pathogen. Specifically, P. aeruginosa in its colonized or biofilm state presents a major infection threat to immunocompromised (HIV) patients, Cystic fibrosis, burns, wounds and surgery associated infection. It is also a common pathogen responsible for causing hospital acquired/nosocomial infection and Urinary tract infections. P. aeruginosa biofilm is made up of bacterial self-synthesized biomolecules includes extracellular DNA, polysaccharides, proteins, RNA, siderophores and metabolites such as pyocyanin. This chapter will elaborate the manifold functions of P. aeruginosa secreted biomolecules in establishing and stabilizing biofilms, triggering virulence and pathogenicity in host, and resisting antibiotics and antibacterial agents.