Depending on the bacteria’s physiologic state the antibiotic sensitivity can be highly variable. Originally, bacteria were believed to exist in two physiologic states: planktonic and biofilm. However, the research team based their methods on two additional but transient physiologic states they believe exist: Biofilm Non-Associated (BNA) and Newly-Released (NRel). BNA characterizes bacteria associated with but not physically resident in biofilm; this bacterium likely mimics the free-living state native bacteria. Newly-Released bacteria from the biofilm are more operationally sensitive to antibiotics than planktonic bacteria.

The technology will target bacterium whose virulence depends on the biofilm state through understanding antibiotic sensitivites of BNA, methods of releasing bacteria and changes in gene expression.