Biofilm dispersion technology to enhance lysol antimicrobial efficacy
A novel bacterial communication molecule, cis-2-decenoic acid, that enhances the bactericidal activity of Lysol by inducing biofilm dispersion. When added at nanomolar concentrations, this signaling molecule improves disinfection efficacy by several logs against gram-positive, gram-negative, and mixed-culture biofilms without possessing antimicrobial properties on its own.
Overview
Excelsior Biofilms LLC has developed a novel biofilm dispersion technology based on cis-2-decenoic acid, a naturally occurring bacterial signaling molecule that induces biofilm dispersion. When added to Lysol at nanomolar concentrations, this compound significantly enhances the disinfectant’s bactericidal activity by causing bacteria to release from established biofilms, making them more susceptible to killing. The technology addresses a critical challenge in disinfection: biofilms are highly resistant to conventional antimicrobials, and standard disinfectants often fail to eliminate surface-attached and biofilm-protected bacteria. By combining a dispersion inducer with an existing disinfectant, this approach offers a practical path to substantially improved disinfection outcomes across healthcare, institutional, industrial, and household settings.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- cis-2-decenoic acid acts as a signaling molecule that triggers biofilm dispersion without possessing intrinsic antimicrobial activity
- Active at nanomolar concentrations (preliminary testing used 10 nM added to 1.5% Lysol)
- Broad-spectrum activity against gram-positive bacteria, gram-negative bacteria, mixed-culture biofilms, and select fungi
- Reduces regrowth of biofilms after treatment
- Compatible with existing Lysol formulations as a direct additive
- Protected by a single-inventor patent through Binghamton University, available through Excelsior Biofilms LLC
Performance data:
Preliminary results demonstrated a 5 log increase in killing of Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm cells when 10 nM cis-2-decenoic acid was added to 1.5% Lysol for 30 minutes, compared to 1.5% Lysol alone. The proposed research targets a minimum 3 log enhancement in bactericidal activity within a 1-hour contact time using 98% pure cis-2-decenoic acid.
Technology readiness level
The technology has demonstrated proof of concept in preliminary laboratory studies at Binghamton University, showing significant enhancement of Lysol’s bactericidal activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms. The current research plan involves systematic validation testing in pure and mixed culture systems under both continuous and static culture conditions, with a target completion timeline of approximately one year. All testing and evaluation will be performed in-house by Excelsior Biofilms LLC. The underlying compound is protected by issued patent rights, positioning the technology for further development toward commercial application in disinfectant formulations.
About Excelsior Biofilms LLC
Excelsior Biofilms LLC is a biotechnology company focused on the development and research of novel anti-biofilm technologies. Founded by Ph.D. researchers with extensive experience in biofilm control, the firm creates antimicrobial solutions designed to enhance the efficiency of existing antimicrobials. Their technology platforms, which include proprietary biofilm dispersion inducers, are being developed for applications in medical, institutional, industrial, and household environments. The company also provides specialized testing services for proprietary and non-proprietary anti-biofilm technologies, operating out of the Binghamton University Innovative Technologies Complex in Vestal, New York.
The firm's primary product focus involves developing antimicrobial wound dressings, including adhesive bandages, to prevent, treat, and eliminate biofilm infections in topical wounds. By addressing the challenges of biofilm resistance, the company aims to provide solutions for healthcare providers, clinical institutions, and individual consumers for daily wound care. With a history of securing research funding, including from the NIH, the company has established a portfolio of patents and has contributed to research in various microbiological and antimicrobial scientific journals. Their work serves sectors ranging from healthcare facilities to industrial and consumer goods.
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