Oral Biofilm Formation: Molecular Mechanisms, Host Modulators, and Emerging Anti-Biofilm Strategies

Oral biofilms are complex, structured microbial communities that colonize tooth and mucosal surfaces and play a critical role in the onset and progression of major oral diseases, including dental caries, periodontitis, and peri-implantitis. Biofilm development involves coordinated processes such as microbial adhesion, interspecies interactions, quorum sensing, and extracellular matrix production. These processes are further influenced by host factors including saliva composition, immune responses, and epithelial barriers. Recent advances in oral microbiome research, molecular biology, and high-resolution imaging have provided new insights into the ecological dynamics and pathogenic potential of oral biofilms.This Research Topic aims to advance current understanding of the molecular and ecological mechanisms governing oral biofilm formation and maturation, as well as the host modulators that shape microbial community structure and virulence. In addition, the collection seeks to highlight innovative strategies to prevent, control, or disrupt pathogenic oral biofilms. By integrating fundamental and translational research, this topic intends to promote the development of targeted and effective approaches for managing biofilm-associated oral diseases.We welcome submissions addressing themes including, but not limited to: • Molecular mechanisms of biofilm formation • Microbial adhesion, coaggregation, and quorum sensing • Extracellular polymeric matrix dynamics • Immune and salivary modulation of oral biofilms • Emerging anti-biofilm strategies such as antimicrobial peptides, probiotics, photodynamic therapy, nanotechnology-based interventions, and microbiome-modulating approaches. Studies employing advanced methodologies, including multi-omics technologies, biofilm imaging, microfluidic systems, and computational modeling, are particularly encouraged. Topic editors: Muhammad Afzal, Susanne Bloch, Christina Schäffer Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/79907/oral-biofilm-formation-molecular-mechanisms-host-modulators-and-emerging-anti-biofilm-strategies