Biofilm Biofilms are encased microcolonies of bacterial cells attached to a surface by way of adhesive polysaccharides excreted by the cells; Functions: trap nutrients for growth of the enclosed microbial population and help prevent detachment of cells on surfaces in flowing systems Significance. in the human body, bacterial cells within a biofilm are made unavailable for attack by the immune system; dental plaque, a typical biofilm, contains acid-producing bacteria responsible for dental caries; In industry, biofilms can slow the flow of water or oil through pipelines, accelerate the corrosion of the pipes themselvesBiofilm Biofilms are encased microcolonies of bacterial cells attached to a surface by way of adhesive polysaccharides excreted by the cells; Functions: trap nutrients for growth of the enclosed microbial population and help prevent detachment of cells on surfaces in flowing systems; Significance: in the human body, bacterial cells within a biofilm are made unavailable for attack by the immune system; dental plaque, a typical biofilm, contains acid-producing bacteria responsible for dental caries; In industry, biofilms can slow the flow of water or oil through pipelines, accelerate the corrosion of the pipes themselves