Microbiology Video: Biofilm Profiling Services – Minimal Biofilm Eradicating Concentration (MBEC)
In this Emery Pharma microbiology video, our scientist provides an overview of our advanced biofilm testing services, with a particular focus on the Minimum Biofilm Eradication Concentration (MBEC) assayThis brief introduction outlines how Emery Pharma supports the development and evaluation of antimicrobial agents with specialized assays targeting one of the most persistent challenges in infectious disease management: biofilm.
Biofilms are complex, structured communities of microorganisms, often bacteria or fungi, that adhere to surfaces and secrete a protective extracellular matrix composed of polysaccharides, proteins, and DNA. This matrix acts as a shield, dramatically increasing the resistance of the encased microorganisms to antibiotics, disinfectants, and even the body’s immune responses. While biofilms naturally form in many environmental settings, their presence becomes particularly problematic in clinical contexts, especially when they form on or within implanted or indwelling medical devices.
Devices such as central venous catheters, urinary (Foley) catheters, pacemakers, orthopedic implants, and artificial heart valves are especially susceptible to biofilm formation. Once a biofilm develops on these surfaces, it can become a persistent source of infection that is extremely difficult to eradicate with standard antibiotic therapy. This often leads to chronic infections, device failure, or systemic complications like sepsis, necessitating device removal or replacement and significantly increasing healthcare costs and risks to the patient.
The MBEC assay is performed using the Calgary Biofilm Device, a 96-well platform that facilitates controlled biofilm growth on pegs, enabling reproducible and comparative testing. In addition to MBEC, Emery Pharma also offers the Minimum Biofilm Inhibitory Concentration (MBIC) assay, which assesses a compound’s ability to prevent biofilm formation at early stages.
If you are working on therapies, coatings, or materials that aim to combat biofilm-associated infections, you can schedule a complimentary one-hour consultation on the phone at 1-888-98-EMERY(36379) or through our Contact Us page.
About the Author
Originally authored by Camron Noorbakhash. This article was reviewed and updated on June 6, 2025 by Dr. Janet Liu, current Director of Biology.
