Immersed Boundary Approach to Biofilm Spread on Surfaces

We propose a computational framework to study the growth and spread of bacterial biofilms on interfaces, as well action antibiotics them. Bacterial membranes are represented by boundaries immersed in fluid matrix subject interaction forces. Growth, division death cells follow dynamic energy budget rules, response variations environmental concentrations nutrients, toxicants substances released cells. In this way, we create, destroy enlarge boundaries, either spherical or rod-like. Appropriate forces represent details between cells, with environment. Numerical simulations illustrate evolution top views diametral slices small biofilm seeds, antibiotics. show that cocktails targeting active dormant can entirely eradicate biofilm.