Project Leader: Dr. Lachlan Yee (UNSW)

Project Advisor: Prof. Staffan Kjelleberg (UNSW)

Researchers: Dr. Nicolas Barraud, Dr. Scott Rice(UNSW)

The development of biofilm control applications is directly linked to the previously discovered and patented nitric oxide technologies. EBCRC strengths will be utilised in five main areas including: biofilm control in pipes and membranes, cleaning and disinfection of surfaces, produce washing and medical applications.

The outcomes from this commercialisation project include products such as surface coatings, new polymer formulations and new cleaning methods that directly address industry needs.

Problems associated with biofilms can led to significant infrastructure replacement or increased operational costs. These applications will improve efficiency as well as human, animal and environmental health.

Project Leader: Dr. Diane McDougald (UNSW)

PhD student: Ms. Zoe Moore (UNSW)

Linkages: The University of New South Wales, The University of Queensland, Macquarie University, Murdoch University, Ecowise Environmental, ActewAGL and CRC for Water Quality and Treatment.

The project uses EBCRC's molecular based platform technologies in combination with analytical tools to assess and control laboratory and full-scale biofilms.

The outcomes are expected to closely address theree of EBCRC's objectives: to rapidly detect bacteria and other micro-organisms, control and manage biological processes and to restore the environment.

Project Leader: Prof. Staffan Kjelleberg (UNSW)

Project Advisors: Assoc. Prof. Peter Steinberg (UNSW), Prof. Linda Blackall (AWMC)

Researchers: Dr. Mike Manefield, Dr. Diane McDougald, Dr. Scott Rice, Dr. Janosch Klebensberger

PhD Students: Ms. Grace Chong, Ms. Ana-Maria Moreno, Ms. Leesia Tan (UNSW)

Linkages: The University of Queensland, Macquarie University, The University of New South Wales, Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA)

Using knowledge of cell-to-cell signalling within biofilms, EBCRC is developing biofilm control compounds that stimulate or regulate programmed cell death and natural microbial dispersal events.

Key multicellular behavioural traits are emerging as novel and exciting targets for further investigation. These included cell-to-cell signalling control of biofilm development and programmed cell death induced by reactive oxygen species.

Current technologies in this area are based on the use of toxic biocides, and are expected to be phased out in the future due to environmental safety targets.

The proposed technologies will provide significant improvements to many industries in performance and cost.