Simulation of biofilm growth and drug-induced degradation (B07)

• Subject Area: Mechanics ; Medical Microbiology and Mycology, Hygiene, Molecular Infection Biology
• Term: since 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 426335750

Biofilm growth and treatment responses are simulated using finite element methods (FEM). Building on the results of the first funding period, the focus will shift from biofilm biomechanics to the biochemical processes underlying multispecies biofilm development. Biochemical cascade reactions will be modeled as interdependent differential equations and embedded within the existing FEM-based framework. By iterative simulation and experimental validation, key interspecies interactions, such as cross-feeding, cross-protection, and co-aggregation, as well as disruptive processes – including antibiotic-phage synergy, inhibition of co-aggregation, and probiotic or phage-based treatment strategies – will be systematically characterized.

• DFG Programme: CRC/Transregios
• Subproject of: TRR 298: Safety Integrated and Infection Reactive Implants
• Applicant Institution: Medizinische Hochschule Hannover
• Project Heads: Professor Dr.-Ing. Philipp Junker; Dr.-Ing. Meisam Soleimani; Dr. Szymon Piotr Szafranski; Professor Dr.-Ing. Peter Wriggers, until 12/2025