Biofilm mode of growth of Streptococcus intermedius favored by a competence-stimulating signaling peptide

N-acyl homoserine lactone signaling modulates bacterial community associated with human dental plaque

N-acyl homoserine lactones (AHLs) are small diffusible signaling molecules that mediate a cell density-dependent bacterial communication system known as quorum sensing (QS). AHL-mediated QS regulates gene expression to control many critical bacterial behaviors including biofilm formation, pathogenicity, and antimicrobial resistance. Dental plaque is a complex multispecies oral biofilm formed by successive colonization of the tooth surface by groups of commensal, symbiotic, and pathogenic bacteria, which can contribute to tooth decay and periodontal diseases. While the existence and roles of AHL-mediated QS in oral microbiota have been debated, recent evidence indicates that AHLs play significant roles in oral biofilm development and community dysbiosis. The underlying mechanisms, however, remain poorly characterized. To better understand the importance of AHL signaling in dental plaque formation, we manipulated AHL signaling by adding AHL lactonases or exogenous AHL signaling molecules. We find that AHLs can be detected in dental plaque grown under 5% CO2 conditions, but not when grown under anaerobic conditions, and yet anaerobic cultures are still responsive to AHLs. QS signal disruption using lactonases leads to changes in microbial population structures in both planktonic and biofilm states, changes that are dependent on the substrate preference of the used lactonase but mainly result in the increase in the abundance of commensal and pioneer colonizer species. Remarkably, the opposite manipulation, that is the addition of exogenous AHLs increases the abundance of late colonizer bacterial species. Hence, this work highlights the importance of AHL-mediated QS in dental plaque communities, its potential different roles in anaerobic and aerobic parts of dental plaque, and underscores the potential of QS interference in the control of periodontal diseases.

Drugs for the Quorum Sensing Inhibition of Oral Biofilm: New Frontiers and Insights in the Treatment of Periodontitis

Chemical molecules are used by microorganisms to communicate with each other. Quorum sensing is the mechanism through which microorganisms regulate their population density and activity with chemical signaling. The inhibition of quorum sensing, called quorum quenching, may disrupt oral biofilm formation, which is the main etiological factor of oral diseases, including periodontitis. Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disorder of infectious etiology involving the hard and soft periodontal tissues and which is related to various systemic disorders, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and obesity. The employment of adjuvant therapies to traditional scaling and root planing is currently being studied to further reduce the impact of periodontitis. In this sense, using antibiotics and antiseptics involves non-negligible risks, such as antibiotic resistance phenomena and hinders the re-establishment of eubiosis. Different quorum sensing signal molecules have been identified in periodontal pathogenic oral bacteria. In this regard, quorum sensing inhibitors are emerging as some interesting solutions for the management of periodontitis. Therefore, the aim of this review is to summarize the current state of knowledge on the mechanisms of quorum sensing signal molecules produced by oral biofilm and to analyze the potential of quorum sensing inhibitors for the management of periodontitis.

How Streptococcus suis escapes antibiotic treatments

Streptococcus suis is a zoonotic agent that causes sepsis and meningitis in pigs and humans. S. suis infections are responsible for large economic losses in pig production. The lack of effective vaccines to prevent the disease has promoted the extensive use of antibiotics worldwide. This has been followed by the emergence of resistance against different classes of antibiotics. The rates of resistance to tetracyclines, lincosamides, and macrolides are extremely high, and resistance has spread worldwide. The genetic origin of S. suis resistance is multiple and includes the production of target-modifying and antibiotic-inactivating enzymes and mutations in antibiotic targets. S. suis genomes contain traits of horizontal gene transfer. Many mobile genetic elements carry a variety of genes that confer resistance to antibiotics as well as genes for autonomous DNA transfer and, thus, S. suis can rapidly acquire multiresistance. In addition, S. suis forms microcolonies on host tissues, which are associations of microorganisms that generate tolerance to antibiotics through a variety of mechanisms and favor the exchange of genetic material. Thus, alternatives to currently used antibiotics are highly demanded. A deep understanding of the mechanisms by which S. suis becomes resistant or tolerant to antibiotics may help to develop novel molecules or combinations of antimicrobials to fight these infections. Meanwhile, phage therapy and vaccination are promising alternative strategies, which could alleviate disease pressure and, thereby, antibiotic use.

The role of extracellular DNA in the formation, architecture, stability, and treatment of bacterial biofilms

Advances in biotechnology to treat and cure human disease have markedly improved human health and the development of modern societies. However, substantial challenges remain to overcome innate biological factors that thwart the activity and efficacy of pharmaceutical therapeutics. Until recently, the importance of extracellular DNA (eDNA) in biofilms was overlooked. New data reveal its extensive role in biofilm formation, adhesion, and structural integrity. Different approaches to target eDNA as anti-biofilm therapies have been proposed, but eDNA and the corresponding biofilm barriers are still difficult to disrupt. Therefore, more creative approaches to eradicate biofilms are needed. The production of eDNA often originates with the genetic material of bacterial cells through cell lysis. However, genomic DNA and eDNA are not necessarily structurally or compositionally identical. Variations are noteworthy because they dictate important interactions within the biofilm. Interactions between eDNA and biofilm components may as well be exploited as alternative anti-biofilm strategies. In this review, we discuss recent developments in eDNA research, emphasizing potential ways to disrupt biofilms. This review also highlights proteins, exopolysaccharides, and other molecules interacting with eDNA that can serve as anti-biofilm therapeutic targets. Overall, the array of diverse interactions with eDNA is important in biofilm structure, architecture, and stability.

Singularities of Pyogenic Streptococcal Biofilms - From Formation to Health Implication

Biofilms are generally defined as communities of cells involved in a self-produced extracellular matrix adhered to a surface. In biofilms, the bacteria are less sensitive to host defense mechanisms and antimicrobial agents, due to multiple strategies, that involve modulation of gene expression, controlled metabolic rate, intercellular communication, composition, and 3D architecture of the extracellular matrix. These factors play a key role in streptococci pathogenesis, contributing to therapy failure and promoting persistent infections. The species of the pyogenic group together with Streptococcus pneumoniae are the major pathogens belonging the genus Streptococcus, and its biofilm growth has been investigated, but insights in the genetic origin of biofilm formation are limited. This review summarizes pyogenic streptococci biofilms with details on constitution, formation, and virulence factors associated with formation.

In vitro Interactions between Streptococcus intermedius and Streptococcus salivarius K12 on a Titanium Cylindrical Surface

Peri-implantitis is a steadily rising disease and is caused by oral bacterial pathogens able to form biofilm on implant surfaces and peri-implant tissues, making antibiotics treatment less effective. The use of commercial probiotics against oral pathogens could serve as an alternative to prevent biofilm formation. Streptococcus intermedius is one of the early colonizers of biofilm formation in dental implants. The aim of this study was to model the interaction between S. intermedius and Streptococcus salivarius strain K12, a probiotic bacterium producing bacteriocins. S. intermedius was co-cultured with S. salivarius K12 in an in vitro model simulating the biofilm formation in a dental implant composed by a titanium cylinder system. Biofilm formation rate was assessed by Real-Time PCR quantification of bacterial count and expression levels of luxS gene, used in response to cell density in the biofilm. Biofilm formation, bacteriocin production, luxS expression patterns were found to be already expressed within the first 12 h. More importantly, S. salivarius K12 was able to counter the biofilm formation in a titanium cylinder under the tested condition. In conclusion, our dental implant model may be useful for exploring probiotic-pathogen interaction to find an alternative to antibiotics for peri-implantitis treatment.

Deciphering Streptococcal Biofilms

Streptococci are a diverse group of bacteria, which are mostly commensals but also cause a considerable proportion of life-threatening infections. They colonize many different host niches such as the oral cavity, the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and urogenital tract. While these host compartments impose different environmental conditions, many streptococci form biofilms on mucosal membranes facilitating their prolonged survival. In response to environmental conditions or stimuli, bacteria experience profound physiologic and metabolic changes during biofilm formation. While investigating bacterial cells under planktonic and biofilm conditions, various genes have been identified that are important for the initial step of biofilm formation. Expression patterns of these genes during the transition from planktonic to biofilm growth suggest a highly regulated and complex process. Biofilms as a bacterial survival strategy allow evasion of host immunity and protection against antibiotic therapy. However, the exact mechanisms by which biofilm-associated bacteria cause disease are poorly understood. Therefore, advanced molecular techniques are employed to identify gene(s) or protein(s) as targets for the development of antibiofilm therapeutic approaches. We review our current understanding of biofilm formation in different streptococci and how biofilm production may alter virulence-associated characteristics of these species. In addition, we have summarized the role of surface proteins especially pili proteins in biofilm formation. This review will provide an overview of strategies which may be exploited for developing novel approaches against biofilm-related streptococcal infections.

Quorum sensing systems as a new target to prevent biofilm-related oral diseases

OBJECTIVE

The present study summarizes the current knowledge on the role of bacterial extracellular signaling systems, known as quorum sensing (QS), in oral biofilm formation, and on the possibility of blocking these microbial communication systems as a potential approach to prevent and treat oral infectious diseases.

METHODS

A detailed literature review of the current knowledge of QS in the oral cavity was performed, using the databases MEDLINE (through PubMed) and Web of Science.

RESULTS

Accumulating direct and indirect evidence indicates an important role of QS molecules in the oral microbial ecosystem.

CONCLUSIONS

The mechanisms regulating gene expression through bacterial communication systems constitute a promising target to control oral biofilm formation. Although cell-to-cell communication is pivotal for biofilm formation of many pathogenic bacteria, knowledge concerning microbial interactions and signaling processes within multispecies biofilms in the oral cavity is still limited.

Short-Chain N-Acylhomoserine Lactone Quorum-Sensing Molecules Promote Periodontal Pathogens in In Vitro Oral Biofilms

Acylhomoserine lactones (AHLs), the quorum-sensing (QS) signals produced by a range of Gram-negative bacteria, are involved in biofilm formation in many pathogenic and environmental bacteria. Nevertheless, the current paradigm excludes a role of AHLs in dental plaque formation, while other QS signals, such as AI-2 and autoinducer peptides, have been demonstrated to play an important role in biofilm formation and virulence-related gene expression in oral pathogens. In the present work, we have explored the effect of externally added AHLs on in vitro oral biofilm models for commensal, cariogenic, and periodontal dental plaque. While little effect on bacterial growth was observed, some AHLs specifically affected the lactic acid production and protease activity of the biofilms. Most importantly, the analysis of bacterial diversity in the biofilms showed that the addition of C₆-homoserine lactone (C₆-HSL) results in a shift toward a periodontal bacterial composition profile by increasing the relative presence of the orange-complex bacteria Peptostreptococcus and Prevotella These results point to a relevant role of AHL-mediated QS in dental plaque formation and might be involved in the development of dysbiosis, the mechanism of which should be further investigated. This finding potentially opens new opportunities for the prevention or treatment of the periodontal disease.IMPORTANCE Dental plaque is omnipresent in healthy oral cavities and part of our commensal microbial colonization. At the same time, dental plaque is the cause of the most common human diseases, caries and gum disease. Dental plaque consists of billions of microbes attached to the surface of your teeth. Communication among these microbes is pivotal for development of these complex communities yet poorly studied in dental plaque. In the present study, we show that a specific communication molecule induces changes within the community related to the development of gum disease. This finding suggests that interfering with microbial communication may represent an interesting novel strategy to prevent gum disease that should be further investigated.

Designing cyclic competence-stimulating peptide (CSP) analogs with pan-group quorum-sensing inhibition activity in Streptococcus pneumoniae

Streptococcus pneumoniae is an opportunistic human pathogen that utilizes the competence regulon, a quorum-sensing circuitry, to acquire antibiotic resistance genes and initiate its attack on the human host. Interception of the competence regulon can therefore be utilized to study S. pneumoniae cell-cell communication and behavioral changes, as well as attenuate S. pneumoniae infectivity. Herein we report the design and synthesis of cyclic dominant negative competence-stimulating peptide (dnCSP) analogs capable of intercepting the competence regulon in both S. pneumoniae specificity groups with activities at the low nanomolar range. Structural analysis of lead analogs provided important insights as to the molecular mechanism that drives CSP receptor binding and revealed that the pan-group cyclic CSPs exhibit a chimeric hydrophobic patch conformation that resembles the hydrophobic patches required for both ComD1 and ComD2 binding. Moreover, the lead cyclic dnCSP, CSP1-E1A-cyc(Dap6E10), was found to possess superior pharmacological properties, including improved resistance to enzymatic degradation, while remaining nontoxic. Lastly, CSP1-E1A-cyc(Dap6E10) was capable of attenuating mouse mortality during acute pneumonia caused by both group 1 and group 2 S. pneumoniae strains. This cyclic pan-group dnCSP is therefore a promising drug lead scaffold against S. pneumoniae infections that could be administered individually or utilized in combination therapy to augment the effects of current antimicrobial agents.

Identification potential inhibitors against the Streptococcus quorum-sensing signal pathway

Streptococcal infections are common in human and antibiotics are frequently prescribed in clinical practice. However, infections caused by drug-resistant strains are particularly difficult to treat using common antibiotics. Hence, there is an urgent need for new antibiotics. Quorum sensing is a regulatory mechanism involving cell communication that is thought to play an important role in various bacterial infections, including those caused by Streptococcus. The ATP-binding cassette transporter ComA of Streptococcus is essential for quorum-sensing signal production. The inhibition of the ComA peptidase domain (ComA PEP) suppresses the quorum-sensing pathway and resulting changes in phenotype and/or behavior. Using virtual screening and molecular dynamics simulations, two promising candidate compounds, ZINC32918029 and ZINC6751571, were found. These compounds had similar binding modes and interactions to the experimentally determined reference inhibitor 6CH. However, a significantly stronger negative binding energy was achieved (-113.501 ± 15.312 KJ/mol and -103.153 ± 11.912 KJ/mol for ZINC32918029 and ZINC6751571, respectively). Molecular dynamics simulations also revealed that ZINC32918029 and ZINC6751571 had a strong affinity for ComA PEP. These results indicate that ZINC32918029 and ZINC6751571 are promising candidate inhibitors of the Streptococcus quorum-sensing pathway.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Biofilms and their properties

Bacteria within the oral cavity live primarily as complex, polymicrobial biofilms. Dental biofilms are necessary etiological factors for dental caries and periodontal diseases but have also been implicated in diseases outside the oral cavity. Biofilm is the preferred lifestyle for bacteria, and biofilms are found on almost any surface in nature. Bacteria growing within a biofilm exhibit an altered phenotype. Substantial changes in gene expression occur when bacteria are in close proximity or physical contact with one another or with the host. This may facilitate nutritional co-operation, cell-cell signaling, and gene transfer, including transfer of antibiotic-resistance genes, thus rendering biofilm bacteria with properties other than those found in free-floating, planktonic bacteria. We will discuss biofilm properties and possible consequences for future prophylaxis.

Effects of 7S globulin 3 derived from the adzuki bean [Vigna angularis] on the CSP- and eDNA- dependent biofilm formation of Streptococcus mutans

OBJECTIVE

Streptococcus mutans is a principal bacterium that forms pathogenic biofilm involved in the development of dental caries. S. mutans possesses a quorum sensing system (QS) stimulated by competence stimulating peptide (CSP), which is associated with bacteriocin production, genetic competency and biofilm formation. Inhibiting CSP-dependent QS is one of the aims leading to the inhibition of biofilm formation and is useful for establishing new prevention systems for dental caries.

DESIGN

In this study, we selected adzuki bean [Vigna angularis] extract as a candidate component to inhibit CSP-dependent biofilm formation among various foods. To purify an inhibitory component from the adzuki extracts, we performed the salting-out method, two rounds of ion-exchange chromatography, and SDS and native PAGE.

RESULTS

A primary protein band that inhibits CSP-dependent biofilm formation appeared at approximately 50 kDa and was identified as 7S globulin 3 (7S3), a major seed storage protein in adzuki bean. To determine the characteristics of 7S3 as an inhibitory component, aggregated proteins were extracted from the adzuki crude extracts at pH values lower than 6. The aggregated proteins inhibited CSP- and eDNA-dependent biofilm formation and showed 50 kDa band, which is identical with 7S3 in the purified sample. Moreover, 7S globulin 3 in the adzuki bean extract directly interacted with CSP at low pH conditions but not at neutral conditions, and inhibited CSP-dependent bacteriocin production.

CONCLUSION

It was suggested that 7S3 might be a safe and useful material to prevent pathogenic activities in the biofilm formation of S. mutans.

Competence in Streptococcus pneumoniae and Close Commensal Relatives: Mechanisms and Implications

The mitis group of streptococci comprises species that are common colonizers of the naso-oral-pharyngeal tract of humans. Streptococcus pneumoniae and Streptococcus mitis are close relatives and share ~60–80% of orthologous genes, but still present striking differences in pathogenic potential toward the human host. S. mitis has long been recognized as a reservoir of antibiotic resistance genes for S. pneumoniae, as well as a source for capsule polysaccharide variation, leading to resistance and vaccine escape. Both species share the ability to become naturally competent, and in this context, competence-associated killing mechanisms such as fratricide are thought to play an important role in interspecies gene exchange. Here, we explore the general mechanism of natural genetic transformation in the two species and touch upon the fundamental clinical and evolutionary implications of sharing similar competence, fratricide mechanisms, and a large fraction of their genomic DNA.

Hidden Gems in the Transcriptome Maps of Competent Streptococci

Natural transformation is regarded as an important mechanism in bacteria that allows for adaptation to different environmental stressors by ensuring genome plasticity. Since the discovery of this phenomenon in Streptococcus pneumoniae, remarkable progress has been made in the understanding of the molecular mechanisms and pathways coordinating this process. Recently, the advent of high-throughput sequencing allows the posing of questions that address the system at a larger scale but also allow for the creation of high-resolution maps of transcription. Thus, while much is already known about genetic competence in streptococci, recent studies continue to reveal intricate novel regulation pathways and components. In this perspective article, we highlight the use of transcriptional profiling and mapping as a valuable resource in the identification and characterization of “hidden gems” pertinent to the natural transformation system. Such strategies have recently been employed in a variety of different species. In S. mutans, for example, genome editing combined with the power of promoter mapping and RNA-Seq allowed for the identification of a link between the ComCDE and the ComRS systems, a ComR positive feedback loop mediated by SigX, and the XrpA peptide, encoded within sigX, which inhibits competence. In S. pneumoniae, a novel member of the competence regulon termed BriC was found to be directly under control of ComE and to promote biofilm formation and nasopharyngeal colonization but not competence. Together these new technologies enable us to discover new links and to revisit old pathways in the compelling study of natural genetic transformation.

Quorum sensing and quenching in membrane bioreactors: Opportunities and challenges for biofouling control

Membrane biofouling, due to biofilm growth after planktonic bacteria attachment to a membrane, is a major bottleneck limiting the energy-efficient operation and maintenance of membrane bioreactors (MBRs). Microbial communications, known as quorum sensing (QS), are responsible for this biofouling behavior. Novel strategies for stopping this communication, known as quorum quenching (QQ), appear to be successful for biofouling control in MBRs used for wastewater treatment. This review describes recent information regarding the signal molecules and mechanisms responsible for QS behaviors, promising approaches for QQ (enzymatic, bacterial, fungal, photocatalytic, mimicking, and biostimulating methods), and efficient fabrication and use of QQ media for MBR applications. We discuss the opportunities and challenges of QQ techniques for their further improvement and practical use in MBRs.

Identification of Streptococcus gallolyticus subsp. gallolyticus (Biotype I) Competence-Stimulating Peptide Pheromone

Streptococcus gallolyticus subsp. gallolyticus, a member of the group D streptococci, is normally found in the bovine rumen and human gut. It is an opportunistic pathogen that was recently determined to be a bacterial driver of colorectal cancer, in addition to causing other diseases, such as infective endocarditis, bacteremia, neonatal meningitis, and septicemia. As an emerging pathogen, not much is known about this bacterium, its virulence mechanisms, or its virulence regulatory pathways. Previous studies suggest that S. gallolyticus subsp. gallolyticus uses a ComRS pathway, one of many Streptococcus quorum-sensing circuitries, for competence. However, thus far, the ubiquitous ComABCDE pathway has not been studied, nor has its regulatory role in S. gallolyticus subsp. gallolyticus We therefore sought to study the S. gallolyticus subsp. gallolyticus ComABCDE quorum-sensing pathway and have identified its peptide pheromone, which is termed the competence-stimulating peptide (CSP). We further determined that this peptide regulates the production of bacteriocin-like inhibitory substances (BLISs), a phenotype that has been linked with the ComABCDE pathway in both Streptococcus pneumoniae and Streptococcus mutans Our data show that S. gallolyticus subsp. gallolyticus TX20005 produces a 21-mer CSP signal, which differs from CSP signals of other Streptococcus species in that its active form begins three residues after the double-glycine leader signal of the ComC precursor peptide. Additionally, our data suggest that this peptide might not be related to competence induction, as opposed to CSP signaling peptides in other Streptococcus species. This study provides the first evidence that S. gallolyticus subsp. gallolyticus utilizes quorum sensing to eliminate competitors, presenting a potential pathway to target this emerging human pathogen.IMPORTANCEStreptococcus gallolyticus subsp. gallolyticus is an emerging human pathogen known as a causative agent of infective endocarditis, and recently, of colorectal cancer. In this work, we revealed a functional quorum-sensing circuitry in S. gallolyticus subsp. gallolyticus, including the identification of the central signaling peptide pheromone, competence-stimulating peptide (CSP), and the regulatory role of this circuitry in the production of bacteriocin-like inhibitory substances (BLISs). This work uncovered a mechanism by which this bacterium outcompetes other bacterial species and thus provides a potential tool to study this opportunistic pathogen.

Inhibition of Steptococcus mutans biofilm formation by extracts of Tenacibaculum sp. 20J, a bacterium with wide-spectrum quorum quenching activity

Background: Previous studies have suggested the quorum sensing signal AI-2 as a potential target to prevent the biofilm formation by Streptococcus mutans, a pathogen involved in tooth decay.

Objective: To obtain inhibition of biofilm formation by S. mutans by extracts obtained from the marine bacterium Tenacibaculum sp. 20J interfering with the AI-2 quorum sensing system.

Design: The AI-2 inhibitory activity was tested with the biosensors Vibrio harveyi BB170 and JMH597. S. mutans ATCC25175 biofilm formation was monitored using impedance real-time measurements with the xCELLigence system®, confocal laser microscopy, and the crystal violet quantification method.

Results: The addition of the cell extract from Tenacibaculum sp. 20J reduced biofilm formation in S. mutans ATCC25175 by 40–50% compared to the control without significantly affecting growth. A decrease of almost 40% was also observed in S. oralis DSM20627 and S. dentisani 7747 biofilms.

Conclusions: The ability of Tenacibaculum sp. 20J to interfere with AI-2 and inhibit biofilm formation in S. mutans was demonstrated. The results indicate that the inhibition of quorum sensing processes may constitute a suitable strategy for inhibiting dental plaque formation, although additional experiments using mixed biofilm models would be required.

Therapeutic Potential of Biofilm-Dispersing Enzymes

Surface-attached colonies of bacteria known as biofilms play a major role in the pathogenesis of medical device infections. Biofilm colonies are notorious for their resistance to antibiotics and host defenses, which makes most device infections difficult or impossible to eradicate. Bacterial cells in a biofilm are held together by an extracellular polymeric matrix that is synthesized by the bacteria themselves. Enzymes that degrade biofilm matrix polymers have been shown to inhibit bio film formation, detach established bio film colonies, and render biofilm cells sensitive to killing by antimicrobial agents. This review discusses the potential use of biofilm matrix-degrading enzymes as anti-biofilm agents for the treatment and prevention of device infections. Two enzymes, deoxyribonuclease I and the glycoside hydrolase dispersin B, will be reviewed in detail. In vitro and in vivo studies demonstrating the anti-biofilm activities of these two enzymes will be summarized, and the therapeutic potential and possible drawbacks of using these enzymes as clinical agents will be discussed.

Mechanisms and Regulation of Extracellular DNA Release and Its Biological Roles in Microbial Communities

The capacity to release genetic material into the extracellular medium has been reported in cultures of numerous species of bacteria, archaea, and fungi, and also in the context of multicellular microbial communities such as biofilms. Moreover, extracellular DNA (eDNA) of microbial origin is widespread in natural aquatic and terrestrial environments. Different specific mechanisms are involved in eDNA release, such as autolysis and active secretion, as well as through its association with membrane vesicles. It is noteworthy that in microorganisms, in which DNA release has been studied in detail, the production of eDNA is coordinated by the population when it reaches a certain cell density, and is induced in a subpopulation in response to the accumulation of quorum sensing signals. Interestingly, in several bacteria there is also a relationship between eDNA release and the development of natural competence (the ability to take up DNA from the environment), which is also controlled by quorum sensing. Then, what is the biological function of eDNA? A common biological role has not been proposed, since different functions have been reported depending on the microorganism. However, it seems to be important in biofilm formation, can be used as a nutrient source, and could be involved in DNA damage repair and gene transfer. This review covers several aspects of eDNA research: (i) its occurrence and distribution in natural environments, (ii) the mechanisms and regulation of its release in cultured microorganisms, and (iii) its biological roles. In addition, we propose that eDNA release could be considered a social behavior, based on its quorum sensing-dependent regulation and on the described functions of eDNA in the context of microbial communities.

Peptides as Quorum Sensing Molecules: Measurement Techniques and Obtained Levels In vitro and In vivo

The expression of certain bacterial genes is regulated in a cell-density dependent way, a phenomenon called quorum sensing. Both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria use this type of communication, though the signal molecules (auto-inducers) used by them differ between both groups: Gram-negative bacteria use predominantly N-acyl homoserine lacton (AHL) molecules (autoinducer-1, AI-1) while Gram-positive bacteria use mainly peptides (autoinducer peptides, AIP or quorum sensing peptides). These quorum sensing molecules are not only involved in the inter-microbial communication, but can also possibly cross-talk directly or indirectly with their host. This review summarizes the currently applied analytical approaches for quorum sensing identification and quantification with additionally summarizing the experimentally found in vivo concentrations of these molecules in humans.

Natural Transformation of Oral Streptococci by Use of Synthetic Pheromones

The discovery that Streptococcus pneumoniae uses a competence-stimulating peptide (CSP) to induce competence for natural transformation, and that other species of the mitis and the anginosus streptococcal groups use a similar system, has expanded the tools to explore gene function and regulatory pathways in streptococci. Two other classes of pheromones have been discovered since then, comprising the bacteriocin-inducing peptide class found in Streptococcus mutans (also named CSP, although different from the former) and the SigX-inducing peptides (XIP), in the mutans, salivarius, bovis, and pyogenes groups of streptococci. The three classes of peptide pheromones can be ordered from peptide synthesis services at affordable prices, and used in transformation assays to obtain competent cultures consistently at levels usually higher than those achieved during spontaneous competence. In this chapter, we present protocols for natural transformation of oral streptococci that are based on the use of synthetic pheromones, with examples of conditions optimized for transformation of S. mutans and Streptococcus mitis.

Mutation of the Streptococcus gordonii Thiol-Disulfide Oxidoreductase SdbA Leads to Enhanced Biofilm Formation Mediated by the CiaRH Two-Component Signaling System

Streptococcus gordonii is a commensal inhabitant of human oral biofilms. Previously, we identified an enzyme called SdbA that played an important role in biofilm formation by S. gordonii. SdbA is thiol-disulfide oxidoreductase that catalyzes disulfide bonds in secreted proteins. Surprisingly, inactivation of SdbA results in enhanced biofilm formation. In this study we investigated the basis for biofilm formation by the ΔsdbA mutant. The results revealed that biofilm formation was mediated by the interaction between the CiaRH and ComDE two-component signalling systems. Although it did not affect biofilm formation by the S. gordonii parent strain, CiaRH was upregulated in the ΔsdbA mutant and it was essential for the enhanced biofilm phenotype. The biofilm phenotype was reversed by inactivation of CiaRH or by the addition of competence stimulating peptide, the production of which is blocked by CiaRH activity. Competition assays showed that the enhanced biofilm phenotype also corresponded to increased oral colonization in mice. Thus, the interaction between SdbA, CiaRH and ComDE affects biofilm formation both in vitro and in vivo.

Chamaecyparis obtusa Essential Oil Inhibits Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Biofilm Formation and Expression of Virulence Factors

The emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria has caused difficulty in treating infectious diseases. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is one of the most commonly recognized antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Novel antibiotics are urgently required to treat these bacteria. Raw materials derived from natural sources can be used for the development of novel antibiotics, such as Chamaecyparis obtusa (C. obtusa), which has been traditionally used in treating asthmatic disease. In this study, the antibacterial activity of the essential oil (EO) extracted from C. obtusa leaves against MRSA was investigated. MRSA growth and acid production from glucose metabolism were inhibited at concentrations greater than 0.1 mg/mL C. obtusa EO. MRSA biofilm formation was observed using scanning electron microscopy and safranin staining. C. obtusa EO inhibited MRSA biofilm formation at concentrations greater than 0.1 mg/mL. Using real-time polymerase chain reaction, mRNA expression of virulence factor genes, sea, agrA, and sarA, was observed. agrA expression was inhibited with C. obtusa EO concentrations greater than 0.2 mg/mL, whereas inhibition of sea and sarA expression was also observed at a concentration of 0.3 mg/mL. C. obtusa EO was analyzed by gas chromatography (GC) and GC coupled for mass spectrometry, which identified 59 constituents, accounting to 98.99% of the total EO. These findings suggest that C. obtusa EO has antibacterial effects against MRSA, which might be associated with the major components of C. obtusa EO, such as sabinene (19.06%), α-terpinyl acetate (16.99%), bornyl acetate (10.48%), limonene (8.54%), elemol (7.47%), myrcene (5.86%), γ-terpinene (4.04%), and hibaene (3.01%).

Intercellular communications in multispecies oral microbial communities

The oral cavity contains more than 700 microbial species that are engaged in extensive cell–cell interactions. These interactions contribute to the formation of highly structured multispecies communities, allow them to perform physiological functions, and induce synergistic pathogenesis. Co-adhesion between oral microbial species influences their colonization of oral cavity and effectuates, to a large extent, the temporal and spatial formation of highly organized polymicrobial community architecture. Individual species also compete and collaborate with other neighboring species through metabolic interactions, which not only modify the local microenvironment such as pH and the amount of oxygen, making it more suitable for the growth of other species, but also provide a metabolic framework for the participating microorganisms by maximizing their potential to extract energy from limited substrates. Direct physical contact of bacterial species with its neighboring co-habitants within microbial community could initiate signaling cascade and achieve modulation of gene expression in accordance with different species it is in contact with. In addition to communication through cell–cell contact, quorum sensing (QS) mediated by small signaling molecules such as competence-stimulating peptides (CSPs) and autoinducer-2 (AI-2), plays essential roles in bacterial physiology and ecology. This review will summarize the evidence that oral microbes participate in intercellular communications with co-inhabitants through cell contact-dependent physical interactions, metabolic interdependencies, as well as coordinative signaling systems to establish and maintain balanced microbial communities.

Pherotype influences biofilm growth and recombination in Streptococcus pneumoniae

In Streptococcus pneumoniae the competence-stimulating peptide (CSP), encoded by the comC gene, controls competence development and influences biofilm growth. We explored the influence of pherotype, defined by the two major comC allelic variants (comC1 and comC2), on biofilm development and recombination efficiency. Among isolates recovered from human infections those presenting comC1 show a higher capacity to form in vitro biofilms. The influence of pherotype on biofilm growth was confirmed by experiments with isogenic strains differing in their comC alleles. Biofilm architecture evaluated by confocal laser scanning microscopy showed that strains carrying comC1 form biofilms that are denser and thicker than those carrying the comC2 allele. Isogenic strains carrying the comC1 allele yielded more transformants than those carrying the comC2 allele in both planktonic and biofilm growth. Transformation assays with comC knockout strains show that ComD1 needs lower doses of the signaling peptide to reach the same biological outcomes. In contrast to mixed planktonic growth, within mixed biofilms inter-pherotype genetic exchange is less frequent than that occurring between bacteria of the same pherotype. Since biofilms are a major bacterial lifestyle, these observations may explain the genetic differentiation between populations with different pherotypes reported previously. Considering that biofilms have been associated with colonization our results suggest that strains carrying the comC1 allele may be more transmissible and more efficient at persisting in carriage. Both effects may help explain the higher prevalence of the comC1 allele in the pneumococcal population.

Mini-review: Microbial coaggregation: ubiquity and implications for biofilm development

Coaggregation is the specific recognition and adherence of genetically distinct microorganisms. Because most biofilms are polymicrobial communities, there is potential for coaggregation to play an integral role in spatiotemporal biofilm development and the moderation of biofilm community composition. However, understanding of the mechanisms contributing to coaggregation and the relevance of coaggregation to biofilm ecology is at a very early stage. The purpose of this review is to highlight recent advances in the understanding of microbial coaggregation within different environments and to describe the possible ecological ramifications of such interactions. Bacteria that coaggregate with many partner species within different environments will be highlighted, including oral streptococci and oral bridging organisms such as fusobacteria, as well as the freshwater sphingomonads and acinetobacters. Irrespective of environment, it is proposed that coaggregation is essential for the orchestrated development of multi-species biofilms.

The role of extracellular DNA in the establishment, maintenance and perpetuation of bacterial biofilms

The significance of extracellular DNA (eDNA) in biofilms was overlooked until researchers added DNAse to a Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm and watched the biofilm disappear. Now, a decade later, the widespread importance of eDNA in biofilm formation is undisputed, but detailed knowledge about how it promotes biofilm formation and conveys antimicrobial resistance is only just starting to emerge. In this review, we discuss how eDNA is produced, how it aids bacterial adhesion, secures the structural stability of biofilms and contributes to antimicrobial resistance. The appearance of eDNA in biofilms is no accident: It is produced by active secretion or controlled cell lysis - sometimes linked to competence development. eDNA adsorbs to and extends from the cell surface, promoting adhesion to abiotic surfaces through acid-base interactions. In the biofilm, is it less clear how eDNA interacts with cells and matrix components. A few eDNA-binding biomolecules have been identified, revealing new concepts in biofilm formation. Being anionic, eDNA chelates cations and restricts diffusion of cationic antimicrobials. Furthermore, chelation of Mg(2+) triggers a genetic response that further increases resistance. The multifaceted role of eDNA makes it an attractive target to sensitize biofilms to conventional antimicrobial treatment or development of new strategies to combat biofilms.

The roles of extracellular DNA in the structural integrity of extracellular polymeric substance and bacterial biofilm development

Bacteria adhere to natural and engineered surfaces and develop into mature biofilms encased in self-produced extracellular polymeric substances (EPSs). EPS consists of polysaccharides, proteins, metabolites and extracellular DNA (eDNA). Extracellular DNA release by bacteria is mediated by both quorum-sensing (QS)-dependent and -independent mechanisms. Quorum-sensing-independent mechanisms are responsible for basal levels of eDNA release, whereas QS-dependent mechanisms control the production of prophages, phenazines and proteins involved in cell lysis and subsequent release of elevated amounts of eDNA. Extracellular DNA binds with other biopolymers such as polysaccharides, proteins or metabolites like phenazines, thereby providing structural integrity to EPS. Extracellular DNA promotes attractive acid-base interactions between bacterial cells and between bacteria and surfaces. It therefore plays an essential structural role in stabilising biofilms and protecting bacterial cells from physical and chemical challenges. Accordingly, with current knowledge, it becomes clear that targeting and destroying eDNA in bacterial EPS is a promising strategy for treatment of bacterial-associated infections in a medical context and biofilm control on surfaces to prevent biocorrison in an engineering context. In contrast, the addition of DNA can be applied to engineering of biofilms for beneficial purposes such as remediation of environmental pollutants and electricity or fuel production in bioelectrochemical systems or bioreactors.

Antibacterial Activity of Rhus javanica against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus

In the present study, the leaves of Rhus javanica (R. javanica) were extracted with ethanol, and we investigated the antimicrobial activity of the ethanol extract of R. javanica against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Control groups were treated with media containing 0.1% DMSO. The ethanol extract of R. javanica inhibited the growth of MRSA at concentrations ranging from 0.05 to 0.2 mg/mL and inhibited acid production at concentrations higher than 0.1 mg/mL (P < 0.05). MRSA biofilm formation was determined by scanning electron microscopy and safranin staining. The ethanol extract of R. javanica inhibited the formation of MRSA biofilms at concentrations higher than 0.05 mg/mL. In confocal laser scanning microscopy, high concentration (0.4–1.6 mg/mL) of R. javanica extract showed bactericidal effect in a dose-dependent manner. In real-time PCR analysis, R. javanica extract showed the inhibition of the genetic expression of virulence factors such as mecA, sea, agrA, and sarA in MRSA. Preliminary phytochemical analysis revealed the strong presence of phenolics. These results suggest that R. javanica may be a useful medicinal plant for inhibiting MRSA, which may be related to the presence of phenolics in the R. javanica extract.

Effects of extracellular DNA and DNA-binding protein on the development of a Streptococcus intermedius biofilm

AIMS

The aim of this study was to clarify the effects of homologous and heterologous extracellular DNAs (eDNAs) and histone-like DNA-binding protein (HLP) on Streptococcus intermedius biofilm development and rigidity.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Formed biofilm mass was measured with 0·1% crystal violet staining method and observed with a scanning electron microscope. The localizations of eDNA and extracellular HLP (eHLP) in formed biofilm were detected by staining with 7-hydoxyl-9H-(1,3-dichloro-9,9-dimethylacridin-2-one) and anti-HLP antibody without fixation, respectively. DNase I treatment (200 U ml(-1)) markedly decreased biofilm formation and cell density in biofilms. Colocalization of eHLP and eDNA in biofilm was confirmed. The addition of eDNA (up to 1 μg ml(-1)) purified from Strep. intermedius, other Gram-positive bacteria, Gram-negative bacteria, or human KB cells into the Strep. intermedius culture increased the biofilm mass of all tested strains of Strep. intermedius, wild-type, HLP-downregulated strain and control strains. In contrast, the addition of eDNA (>1 μg ml(-1)) decreased the biofilm mass of all Strep. intermedius strains.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings demonstrated that eDNA and eHLP play crucial roles in biofilm development and its rigidity.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

eDNA- and HLP-targeting strategies may be applicable to novel treatments for bacterial biofilm-related infectious diseases.

Boundary of the nucleotide-binding domain of Streptococcus ComA based on functional and structural analysis

The ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter ComA is a key molecule essential for the first step of the quorum-sensing system of Streptococcus. The nucleotide binding domains (NBD) of Streptococcus mutans ComA with different N termini, NBD1 (amino acid residues 495-760), NBD2 (517-760), and NBD3 (528-760), were expressed, purified, and characterized. The shortest NBD3 corresponds to the region commonly defined as NBD in the database searches of ABC transporters. A kinetic analysis showed that the extra N-terminal region conferred a significantly higher ATP hydrolytic activity on the NBD at a neutral pH. Gel-filtration, X-ray crystallography, and mutational analyses suggest that at least four to five residues beyond the N-terminal boundary of NBD3 indeed participate in stabilizing the protein scaffold of the domain structure, thereby facilitating the ATP-dependent dimerization of NBD which is a prerequisite to the catalysis. These findings, together with the presence of a highly conserved glycine residue in this region, support the redefinition of the N-terminal boundary of the NBD of these types of ABC exporters.

Kaurenoic Acid from Aralia continentalis Inhibits Biofilm Formation of Streptococcus mutans

We isolated a single chemical compound from A. continentalis and identified it to be kaurenoic acid (KA) and investigated the influence of anticariogenic properties. Inhibitory effects of KA on cariogenic properties such as growth, acid production, biofilm formation, and the adherence of S. mutans were evaluated. Furthermore, real-time PCR analysis was performed to evaluate the influence of KA on the genetic expression of virulence factors. KA significantly inhibited the growth and acid production of S. mutans at 2–4 μg/mL and 4 μg/mL of KA, respectively. Furthermore, the adherence onto S-HAs was inhibited at 3-4 μg/mL of KA and biofilm formation was significantly inhibited when treated with 3 μg/mL KA and completely inhibited at 4 μg/mL. Also, the inhibitory effect of KA on biofilm formation was confirmed by SEM. In confocal laser scanning microscopy, bacterial viability gradually decreased by KA in a dose dependent manner. Real-time PCR analysis showed that the expressions of gtfB, gtfC, gbpB, spaP, brpA, relA, and vicR were significantly decreased in S. mutans when it was treated with KA. These results suggest that KA from A. continentalis may be a useful agent for inhibiting the cariogenic properties of S. mutans.

Pyocyanin facilitates extracellular DNA binding to Pseudomonas aeruginosa influencing cell surface properties and aggregation

Pyocyanin is an electrochemically active metabolite produced by the human pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. It is a recognized virulence factor and is involved in a variety of significant biological activities including gene expression, maintaining fitness of bacterial cells and biofilm formation. It is also recognized as an electron shuttle for bacterial respiration and as an antibacterial and antifungal agent. eDNA has also been demonstrated to be a major component in establishing P. aeruginosa biofilms. In this study we discovered that production of pyocyanin influences the binding of eDNA to P. aeruginosa PA14 cells, mediated through intercalation of pyocyanin with eDNA. P. aeruginosa cell surface properties including cell size (hydrodynamic diameter), hydrophobicity and attractive surface energies were influenced by eDNA in the presence of pyocyanin, affecting physico-chemical interactions and promoting aggregation. A ΔphzA-G PA14 mutant, deficient in pyocynain production, could not bind with eDNA resulting in a reduction in hydrodynamic diameter, a decrease in hydrophobicity, repulsive physico-chemical interactions and reduction in aggregation in comparison to the wildtype strain. Removal of eDNA by DNase I treatment on the PA14 wildtype strain resulted in significant reduction in aggregation, cell surface hydrophobicity and size and an increase in repulsive physico-chemical interactions, similar to the level of the ΔphzA-G mutant. The cell surface properties of the ΔphzA-G mutant were not affected by DNase I treatment. Based on these findings we propose that pyocyanin intercalation with eDNA promotes cell-to-cell interactions in P. aeruginosa cells by influencing their cell surface properties and physico-chemical interactions.

Extracellular DNA shields against aminoglycosides in Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms

Within recent years, it has been established that extracellular DNA is a key constituent of the matrix of microbial biofilms. In addition, it has recently been demonstrated that DNA binds positively charged antimicrobials such as aminoglycosides and antimicrobial peptides. In the present study, we provide evidence that extracellular DNA shields against aminoglycosides in Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms. We show that exogenously supplemented DNA integrates into P. aeruginosa biofilms and increases their tolerance toward aminoglycosides. We provide evidence that biofilms formed by a DNA release-deficient P. aeruginosa quorum-sensing mutant are more susceptible to aminoglycoside treatment than wild-type biofilms but become rescued from the detrimental action of aminoglycosides upon supplementation with exogenous DNA. Furthermore, we demonstrate that exposure to lysed polymorphonuclear leukocytes, which are thought to be a source of extracellular DNA at sites of infections, increases the tolerance of P. aeruginosa biofilms toward aminoglycosides. Although biofilm-associated aminoglycoside tolerance recently has been linked to extracellular DNA-mediated activation of the pmr genes, we demonstrate that the aminoglycoside tolerance mediated by the presence of extracellular DNA is not caused by activation of the pmr genes in our P. aeruginosa biofilms but rather by a protective shield effect of the extracellular DNA.

Effects of the peptide pheromone plantaricin A and cocultivation with Lactobacillus sanfranciscensis DPPMA174 on the exoproteome and the adhesion capacity of Lactobacillus plantarum DC400

This study aimed at investigating the extracellular and cell wall-associated proteins (exoproteome) of Lactobacillus plantarum DC400 when cultivated on modified chemically defined medium (CDM) supplemented with the chemically synthesized pheromone plantaricin A (PlnA) or cocultured with L. plantarum DPPMA20 or Lactobacillus sanfranciscensis DPPMA174. Compared to monoculture, two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) analysis showed that the exoproteome of L. plantarum DC400 was affected by PlnA and cocultivation with strains DPPMA20 and, especially, DPPMA174. The highest similarity of the 2-DE maps was found between DC400 cells cultivated in monoculture and in coculture with strain DPPMA20. Almost all extracellular proteins (22 spots) and cell wall-associated proteins (40 spots) which showed decreased or increased levels of synthesis during growth in CDM supplemented with PlnA and/or in coculture with strain DPPMA20 or DPPMA174 were identified. On the basis of the sequences in the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes database, changes to the exoproteome concerned proteins involved in quorum sensing (QS), the transport system, stress response, carbohydrate metabolism and glycolysis, oxidation/reduction processes, the proteolytic system, amino acid metabolism, cell wall and catabolic processes, and cell shape, growth, and division. Cultivation with PlnA and cocultivation with strains DPPMA20 and, especially, DPMMA174 markedly increased the capacity of L. plantarum DC400 to form biofilms, to adhere to human Caco-2 cells, and to prevent the adhesion of potential intestinal pathogens. These phenotypic traits were in part related to oversynthesized moonlighting proteins (e.g., DnaK and GroEL, pyruvate kinase, enolase, and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase) in response to QS mechanisms and interaction with L. plantarum DPPMA20 and, especially, L. sanfranciscensis DPPMA174.

An extracelluar protease, SepM, generates functional competence-stimulating peptide in Streptococcus mutans UA159

Cell-cell communication in Gram-positive bacteria often depends on the production of extracellular peptides. The cariogenic bacterium Streptococcus mutans employs so-called competence-stimulating peptide (CSP) to stimulate mutacin (bacteriocin) production and competence development through the activation of the ComDE two-component pathway. In S. mutans, CSP is secreted as a 21-residue peptide; however, mass spectrometric analysis of culture supernatant indicates the presence of an 18-residue proteolytically cleaved species. In this study, using a transposon mutagenesis screening, we identified a cell surface protease that is involved in the processing of 21-residue CSP to generate the 18-residue CSP. We named this protease SepM for streptococcal extracellular protease required for mutacin production. We showed that the truncated 18-residue peptide is the biologically active form and that the specific postexport cleavage is a prerequisite to activate the ComDE two-component signal transduction pathway. We also showed that the CSP and the mutacins are exported outside the cell by the same ABC transporter, NlmTE. Our study further confirmed that the ComDE two-component system is absolutely necessary for mutacin production in S. mutans.

Extracellular identification of a processed type II ComR/ComS pheromone of Streptococcus mutans

The competence-stimulating peptide (CSP) and the sigX-inducing peptide (XIP) are known to induce Streptococcus mutans competence for genetic transformation. For both pheromones, direct identification of the native peptides has not been accomplished. The fact that extracellular XIP activity was recently observed in a chemically defined medium devoid of peptides, as mentioned in an accompanying paper (K. Desai, L. Mashburn-Warren, M. J. Federle, and D. A. Morrison, J. Bacteriol. 194:3774-3780, 2012), provided ideal conditions for native XIP identification. To search for the XIP identity, culture supernatants were filtered to select for peptides of less than 3 kDa, followed by C(18) extraction. One peptide, not detected in the supernatant of a comS deletion mutant, was identified by tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) fragmentation as identical to the ComS C-terminal sequence GLDWWSL. ComS processing did not require Eep, a peptidase involved in processing or import of bacterial small hydrophobic peptides, since eep deletion had no inhibitory effect on XIP production or on synthetic XIP response. We investigated whether extracellular CSP was also produced. A reporter assay for CSP activity detection, as well as MS analysis of supernatants, revealed that CSP was not present at detectable levels. In addition, a mutant with deletion of the CSP-encoding gene comC produced endogenous XIP levels similar to those of a nondeletion mutant. The results indicate that XIP pheromone production is a natural phenomenon that may occur in the absence of natural CSP pheromone activity and that the heptapeptide GLDWWSL is an extracellular processed form of ComS, possibly the active XIP pheromone. This is the first report of direct identification of a ComR/ComS pheromone.

Microbial chemical signaling: a current perspective

Communication among microorganisms is mediated through quorum sensing. The latter is defined as cell-density linked, coordinated gene expression in microbial populations as a response to threshold signal concentrations followed by induction of a synchronized population response. This phenomenon is used by a variety of microbes to optimize their survival in a constantly challenging, dynamic milieu, by correlating individual cellular functions to community-based requirements. The synthesis, secretion, and perception of quorum-sensing molecules and their target response play a pivotal role in quorum sensing and are tightly controlled by complex, multilayered and interconnected signal transduction pathways that regulate diverse cellular functions. Quorum sensing exemplifies interactive social behavior innate to the microbial world that controls features such as, virulence, biofilm maturation, antibiotic resistance, swarming motility, and conjugal plasmid transfer. Over the past two decades, studies have been performed to rationalize bacterial cell-to-cell communication mediated by structurally and functionally diverse small molecules. This review describes the theoretical aspects of cellular and quorum-sensing mechanisms that affect microbial physiology and pathobiology.

Hydrogen peroxide-dependent DNA release and transfer of antibiotic resistance genes in Streptococcus gordonii

Certain oral streptococci produce H(2)O(2) under aerobic growth conditions to inhibit competing species like Streptococcus mutans. Additionally, H(2)O(2) production causes the release of extracellular DNA (eDNA). eDNA can participate in several important functions: biofilm formation and cell-cell aggregation are supported by eDNA, while eDNA can serve as a nutrient and as an antimicrobial agent by chelating essential cations. eDNA contains DNA fragments of a size that has the potential to transfer genomic information. By using Streptococcus gordonii as a model organism for streptococcal H(2)O(2) production, H(2)O(2)-dependent eDNA release was further investigated. Under defined growth conditions, the eDNA release process was shown to be entirely dependent on H(2)O(2). Chromosomal DNA damage seems to be the intrinsic signal for the release, although only actively growing cells were proficient eDNA donors. Interestingly, the process of eDNA production was found to be coupled with the induction of the S. gordonii natural competence system. Consequently, the production of H(2)O(2) triggered the transfer of antibiotic resistance genes. These results suggest that H(2)O(2) is potentially much more than a simple toxic metabolic by-product; rather, its production could serve as an important environmental signal that facilitates species evolution by transfer of genetic information and an increase in the mutation rate.