Biofilm control by ionic liquids. Issue 6 (June 2021) - Simões, Manuel
Highlights: Ionic liquids have relevant antimicrobial properties. Ionic liquids can be used to kill biofilm cells and cause their disruption/removal. More research on the role of ionic liquids in biofilms is needed. Studies on ionic liquids mode of action, toxicity and metabolic profile are insufficient. Abstract : Ionic liquids (ILs) are remarkable chemical compounds with applications in many areas of modern science. They are increasingly recognized as promising compounds to fight microorganisms in both planktonic and biofilm states, contributing to reinvent the antimicrobial pipeline. Biofilm-related infections are particularly challenging given that the scientific community has not yet identified a reliable control strategy. Understanding of the action of ILs in biofilm control is is still in a very early stage. However, given the highly tunable nature and exceptional properties of ILs, they are excellent candidates for biofilm control. Here, we review the major advances in, and challenges tothe use of ILs for effective biofilm control.