Dormancy

Definition

A low-activity state in which cells slow metabolism and reduce uptake to wait out hostile conditions.

Cells under stress slow their metabolism and dormant cells reduce uptake, so biofilm-associated organisms may simply wait out a biocide exposure and resume activity once concentrations fall. What appears to be resistance is often patience. Dormancy especially limits non-oxidizing biocides that rely on active metabolic uptake.

Related concepts

Viable-but-nonculturable organisms · Biocide selection · Non-oxidizing biocides

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Part of The Blueprint of Water · 🦠 biology