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Sikdar R, Beauclaire MV, Lima BP, Herzberg MC, Elias MH. N-acyl homoserine lactone signaling modulates bacterial community associated with human dental plaque. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.15.585217. [PMID: 38559107 PMCID: PMC10980036 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.15.585217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakesh Sikdar
- Biotechnology Institute, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN 55108, USA
| | - Mai V. Beauclaire
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN 55108, USA
| | - Bruno P. Lima
- Department of Diagnostic and Biological Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Mark C. Herzberg
- Department of Diagnostic and Biological Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Mikael H. Elias
- Biotechnology Institute, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN 55108, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN 55108, USA
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The Role of Quorum Sensing Molecules in Bacterial-Plant Interactions. Metabolites 2023; 13:metabo13010114. [PMID: 36677039 PMCID: PMC9863971 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13010114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Quorum sensing (QS) is a system of communication of bacterial cells by means of chemical signals called autoinducers, which modulate the behavior of entire populations of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. Three classes of signaling molecules have been recognized, Al-1, Al-2, Al-3, whose functions are slightly different. However, the phenomenon of quorum sensing is not only concerned with the interactions between bacteria, but the whole spectrum of interspecies interactions. A growing number of research results confirm the important role of QS molecules in the growth stimulation and defense responses in plants. Although many of the details concerning the signaling metabolites of the rhizosphere microflora and plant host are still unknown, Al-1 compounds should be considered as important components of bacterial-plant interactions, leading to the stimulation of plant growth and the biological control of phytopathogens. The use of class 1 autoinducers in plants to induce beneficial activity may be a practical solution to improve plant productivity under field conditions. In addition, researchers are also interested in tools that offer the possibility of regulating the activity of autoinducers by means of degrading enzymes or specific inhibitors (QSI). Current knowledge of QS and QSI provides an excellent foundation for the application of research to biopreparations in agriculture, containing a consortia of AHL-producing bacteria and QS inhibitors and limiting the growth of phytopathogenic organisms.
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Parga A, Muras A, Otero-Casal P, Arredondo A, Soler-Ollé A, Àlvarez G, Alcaraz LD, Mira A, Blanc V, Otero A. The quorum quenching enzyme Aii20J modifies in vitro periodontal biofilm formation. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1118630. [PMID: 36816581 PMCID: PMC9932050 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1118630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Recent studies have revealed the presence of N-acyl-homoserine lactones (AHLs) quorum sensing (QS) signals in the oral environment. Yet, their role in oral biofilm development remains scarcely investigated. The use of quorum quenching (QQ) strategies targeting AHLs has been described as efficient for the control of pathogenic biofilms. Here, we evaluate the use of a highly active AHL-targeting QQ enzyme, Aii20J, to modulate oral biofilm formation in vitro. Methods The effect of the QQ enzyme was studied in in vitro multispecies biofilms generated from oral samples taken from healthy donors and patients with periodontal disease. Subgingival samples were used as inocula, aiming to select members of the microbiota of the periodontal pocket niche in the in vitro biofilms. Biofilm formation abilities and microbial composition were studied upon treating the biofilms with the QQ enzyme Aii20J. Results and Discussion The addition of the enzyme resulted in significant biofilm mass reductions in 30 - 60% of the subgingival-derived biofilms, although standard AHLs could not be found in the supernatants of the cultured biofilms. Changes in biofilm mass were not accompanied by significant alterations of bacterial relative abundance at the genus level. The investigation of 125 oral supragingival metagenomes and a synthetic subgingival metagenome revealed a surprisingly high abundance and broad distribution of homologous of the AHL synthase HdtS and several protein families of AHL receptors, as well as an enormous presence of QQ enzymes, pointing to the existence of an intricate signaling network in oral biofilms that has been so far unreported, and should be further investigated. Together, our findings support the use of Aii20J to modulate polymicrobial biofilm formation without changing the microbiome structure of the biofilm. Results in this study suggest that AHLs or AHL-like molecules affect oral biofilm formation, encouraging the application of QQ strategies for oral health improvement, and reinforcing the importance of personalized approaches to oral biofilm control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Parga
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, CIBUS-Faculty of Biology, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Andrea Muras
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, CIBUS-Faculty of Biology, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Paz Otero-Casal
- Department of Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine and Odontology, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Unit of Oral Health, Santa Comba-Negreira, (CS) SERGAS, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Alexandre Arredondo
- Department of Microbiology, Dentaid Research Center, Cerdanyola Del Vallès, Spain
| | - Agnès Soler-Ollé
- Department of Microbiology, Dentaid Research Center, Cerdanyola Del Vallès, Spain
| | - Gerard Àlvarez
- Department of Microbiology, Dentaid Research Center, Cerdanyola Del Vallès, Spain
| | - Luis D. Alcaraz
- Department of Cellular Biology, Faculty of Sciences, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Coyoacán, Mexico
| | - Alex Mira
- Department of Genomics and Health, FISABIO Foundation, Valencia, Spain
| | - Vanessa Blanc
- Department of Microbiology, Dentaid Research Center, Cerdanyola Del Vallès, Spain
| | - Ana Otero
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, CIBUS-Faculty of Biology, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- *Correspondence: Ana Otero,
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Lazar V, Holban AM, Curutiu C, Chifiriuc MC. Modulation of Quorum Sensing and Biofilms in Less Investigated Gram-Negative ESKAPE Pathogens. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:676510. [PMID: 34394026 PMCID: PMC8359898 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.676510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Pathogenic bacteria have the ability to sense their versatile environment and adapt by behavioral changes both to the external reservoirs and the infected host, which, in response to microbial colonization, mobilizes equally sophisticated anti-infectious strategies. One of the most important adaptive processes is the ability of pathogenic bacteria to turn from the free, floating, or planktonic state to the adherent one and to develop biofilms on alive and inert substrata; this social lifestyle, based on very complex communication networks, namely, the quorum sensing (QS) and response system, confers them an increased phenotypic or behavioral resistance to different stress factors, including host defense mechanisms and antibiotics. As a consequence, biofilm infections can be difficult to diagnose and treat, requiring complex multidrug therapeutic regimens, which often fail to resolve the infection. One of the most promising avenues for discovering novel and efficient antibiofilm strategies is targeting individual cells and their QS mechanisms. A huge amount of data related to the inhibition of QS and biofilm formation in pathogenic bacteria have been obtained using the well-established gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and gram-negative Pseudomonas aeruginosa models. The purpose of this paper was to revise the progress on the development of antibiofilm and anti-QS strategies in the less investigated gram-negative ESKAPE pathogens Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Enterobacter sp. and identify promising leads for the therapeutic management of these clinically significant and highly resistant opportunistic pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Lazar
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
- The Research Institute of the University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Alina Maria Holban
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
- The Research Institute of the University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Carmen Curutiu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
- The Research Institute of the University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mariana Carmen Chifiriuc
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
- The Research Institute of the University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
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Muras A, Mallo N, Otero-Casal P, Pose-Rodríguez JM, Otero A. Quorum sensing systems as a new target to prevent biofilm-related oral diseases. Oral Dis 2020; 28:307-313. [PMID: 33080080 DOI: 10.1111/odi.13689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Muras
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Biology-CIBUS, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Natalia Mallo
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Biology-CIBUS, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Paz Otero-Casal
- Department of Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialty, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.,Unit of Oral Health, C.S. Santa Comba-Negreira, SERGAS, Santa Comba, Spain
| | - José M Pose-Rodríguez
- Department of Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialty, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Ana Otero
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Biology-CIBUS, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
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Muras A, Otero-Casal P, Blanc V, Otero A. Acyl homoserine lactone-mediated quorum sensing in the oral cavity: a paradigm revisited. Sci Rep 2020; 10:9800. [PMID: 32555242 PMCID: PMC7300016 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-66704-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Acyl homoserine lactones (AHLs), the quorum sensing (QS) signals produced by Gram-negative bacteria, are currently considered to play a minor role in the development of oral biofilm since their production by oral pathogens has not been ascertained thus far. However, we report the presence of AHLs in different oral samples and their production by the oral pathogen Porphyromonas gingivalis. The importance of AHLs is further supported by a very high prevalence of AHL-degradation capability, up to 60%, among bacteria isolated from dental plaque and saliva samples. Furthermore, the wide-spectrum AHL-lactonase Aii20J significantly inhibited oral biofilm formation in different in vitro biofilm models and caused important changes in bacterial composition. Besides, the inhibitory effect of Aii20J on a mixed biofilm of 6 oral pathogens was verified using confocal microscopy. Much more research is needed in order to be able to associate specific AHLs with oral pathologies and to individuate the key actors in AHL-mediated QS processes in dental plaque formation. However, these results indicate a higher relevance of the AHLs in the oral cavity than generally accepted thus far and suggest the potential use of inhibitory strategies against these signals for the prevention and treatment of oral diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Muras
- Departamento de Microbioloxía e Parasitoloxía, Facultade de Bioloxía-CIBUS, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Paz Otero-Casal
- Departamento de Ciruxía e Especialidade Médico-Cirúrxica, Facultade de Medicina e Odontoloxía, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Unit of Oral Health, C.S. Santa Comba-Negreira, SERGAS, Spain
| | - Vanessa Blanc
- Department of Microbiology, Dentaid Research Center, Dentaid S.L., Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Otero
- Departamento de Microbioloxía e Parasitoloxía, Facultade de Bioloxía-CIBUS, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
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Miller C, Gilmore J. Detection of Quorum-Sensing Molecules for Pathogenic Molecules Using Cell-Based and Cell-Free Biosensors. Antibiotics (Basel) 2020; 9:antibiotics9050259. [PMID: 32429345 PMCID: PMC7277912 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics9050259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the discovery and subsequent use of penicillin, antibiotics have been used to treat most bacterial infections in the U.S. Over time, the repeated prescription of many antibiotics has given rise to many antibiotic-resistant microbes. A bacterial strain becomes resistant by horizontal gene transfer, where surviving microbes acquire genetic material or DNA fragments from adjacent bacteria that encode for resistance. In order to avoid significant bacterial resistance, novel and target therapeutics are needed. Further advancement of diagnostic technologies could be used to develop novel treatment strategies. The use of biosensors to detect quorum-sensing signaling molecules has the potential to provide timely diagnostic information toward mitigating the multidrug-resistant bacteria epidemic. Resistance and pathogenesis are controlled by quorum-sensing (QS) circuits. QS systems secrete or passively release signaling molecules when the bacterial concentration reaches a certain threshold. Signaling molecules give an early indication of virulence. Detection of these compounds in vitro or in vivo can be used to identify the onset of infection. Whole-cell and cell-free biosensors have been developed to detect quorum-sensing signaling molecules. This review will give an overview of quorum networks in the most common pathogens found in chronic and acute infections. Additionally, the current state of research surrounding the detection of quorum-sensing molecules will be reviewed. Followed by a discussion of future works toward the advancement of technologies to quantify quorum signaling molecules in chronic and acute infections.
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Short-Chain N-Acylhomoserine Lactone Quorum-Sensing Molecules Promote Periodontal Pathogens in In Vitro Oral Biofilms. Appl Environ Microbiol 2020; 86:AEM.01941-19. [PMID: 31757829 DOI: 10.1128/aem.01941-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
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.
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Reen FJ, Gutiérrez-Barranquero JA, McCarthy RR, Woods DF, Scarciglia S, Adams C, Fog Nielsen K, Gram L, O'Gara F. Quorum Sensing Signaling Alters Virulence Potential and Population Dynamics in Complex Microbiome-Host Interactomes. Front Microbiol 2019; 10:2131. [PMID: 31572336 PMCID: PMC6749037 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.02131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the discovery of the first N-acyl homoserine lactone (AHL) based quorum sensing (QS) in the marine environment, relatively little is known about the abundance, nature and diversity of AHL QS systems in this diverse ecosystem. Establishing the prevalence and diversity of AHL QS systems and how they may influence population dynamics within the marine ecosystem, may give a greater insight into the evolution of AHLs as signaling molecules in this important and largely unexplored niche. Microbiome profiling of Stelletta normani and BD1268 sponge samples identified several potential QS active genera. Subsequent biosensor-based screening of a library of 650 marine sponge bacterial isolates identified 10 isolates that could activate at least one of three AHL biosensor strains. Each was further validated and profiled by Ultra-High Performance Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry, with AHLs being detected in 8 out of 10 isolate extracts. Co-culture of QS active isolates with S. normani marine sponge samples led to the isolation of genera such as Pseudomonas and Paenibacillus, both of which were low abundance in the S. normani microbiome. Surprisingly however, addition of AHLs to isolates harvested following co-culture did not measurably affect either growth or biofilm of these strains. Addition of supernatants from QS active strains did however impact significantly on biofilm formation of the marine Bacillus sp. CH8a sporeforming strain suggesting a role for QS systems in moderating the microbe-microbe interaction in marine sponges. Genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of a QS positive Psychrobacter isolate identified several QS associated systems, although no classical QS synthase gene was identified. The stark contrast between the biodiverse sponge microbiome and the relatively limited diversity that was observed on standard culture media, even in the presence of QS active compounds, serves to underscore the extent of diversity that remains to be brought into culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Jerry Reen
- BIOMERIT Research Centre, School of Microbiology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.,School of Microbiology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Ronan R McCarthy
- BIOMERIT Research Centre, School of Microbiology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - David F Woods
- BIOMERIT Research Centre, School of Microbiology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Sara Scarciglia
- BIOMERIT Research Centre, School of Microbiology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Claire Adams
- BIOMERIT Research Centre, School of Microbiology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Kristian Fog Nielsen
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Lone Gram
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Fergal O'Gara
- BIOMERIT Research Centre, School of Microbiology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.,Telethon Kids Institute, Perth Children's Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia.,School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
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10
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Gutiérrez‐Barranquero JA, Reen FJ, Parages ML, McCarthy R, Dobson ADW, O'Gara F. Disruption of N-acyl-homoserine lactone-specific signalling and virulence in clinical pathogens by marine sponge bacteria. Microb Biotechnol 2019; 12:1049-1063. [PMID: 29105344 PMCID: PMC6680641 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.12867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2017] [Accepted: 08/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the marine environment has been the subject of increasing attention from biotechnological and pharmaceutical industries. A combination of unique physicochemical properties and spatial niche-specific substrates, in wide-ranging and extreme habitats, underscores the potential of the marine environment to deliver on functionally novel bioactivities. One such area of ongoing research is the discovery of compounds that interfere with the cell-cell signalling process called quorum sensing (QS). Described as the next generation of antimicrobials, these compounds can target virulence and persistence of clinically relevant pathogens, independent of any growth-limiting effects. Marine sponges are a rich source of microbial diversity, with dynamic populations in a symbiotic relationship. In this study, we have harnessed the QS inhibition (QSI) potential of marine sponge microbiota and through culture-based discovery have uncovered small molecule signal mimics that neutralize virulence phenotypes in clinical pathogens. This study describes for the first time a marine sponge Psychrobacter sp. isolate B98C22 that blocks QS signalling, while also reporting dual QS/QSI activity in the Pseudoalteromonas sp. J10 and ParacoccusJM45. Isolation of novel QSI activities has significant potential for future therapeutic development, of particular relevance in the light of the pending perfect storm of antibiotic resistance meeting antibiotic drug discovery decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- José A. Gutiérrez‐Barranquero
- BIOMERIT Research CentreSchool of MicrobiologyUniversity College CorkNational University of IrelandCorkIreland
- Present address:
Instituto de Hortofruticultura Subtropical y Mediterránea La MayoraDepartamento de MicrobiologíaFacultad de CienciasUniversidad de Málaga29071MálagaSpain
| | - F. Jerry Reen
- BIOMERIT Research CentreSchool of MicrobiologyUniversity College CorkNational University of IrelandCorkIreland
| | - María L. Parages
- BIOMERIT Research CentreSchool of MicrobiologyUniversity College CorkNational University of IrelandCorkIreland
- Present address:
Departamento de EcologíaFacultad de CienciasUniversidad de Málaga29071MálagaSpain
| | - Ronan McCarthy
- BIOMERIT Research CentreSchool of MicrobiologyUniversity College CorkNational University of IrelandCorkIreland
| | - Alan D. W. Dobson
- School of MicrobiologyUniversity College CorkNational University of IrelandCorkIreland
| | - Fergal O'Gara
- BIOMERIT Research CentreSchool of MicrobiologyUniversity College CorkNational University of IrelandCorkIreland
- Human Microbiome ProgrammeSchool of Biomedical SciencesCurtin Health Innovation Research InstituteCurtin UniversityPerthWAAustralia
- Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute (CHIRI)Curtin UniversityPerthWAAustralia
- School of Biomedical SciencesFaculty of Health SciencesCurtin UniversityPerthWAAustralia
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11
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Genome Sequence of Paracoccus sp. JM45, a Bacterial Strain Isolated from a Marine Sponge with a Dual Quorum Sensing Inhibition Activity. Microbiol Resour Announc 2019; 8:MRA01496-18. [PMID: 30643895 PMCID: PMC6328668 DOI: 10.1128/mra.01496-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The draft genome sequence of Paracoccus sp. strain JM45, isolated from a marine sponge harvested off the west coast of Ireland, is reported here. Quorum sensing and quorum sensing inhibition activities have been reported recently for this bacterium, and genomic analysis supports its potential use for novel therapeutic development.
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12
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Kalia VC, Patel SKS, Kang YC, Lee JK. Quorum sensing inhibitors as antipathogens: biotechnological applications. Biotechnol Adv 2018; 37:68-90. [PMID: 30471318 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2018.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 167] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2018] [Revised: 10/19/2018] [Accepted: 11/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The mechanisms through which microbes communicate using signal molecules has inspired a great deal of research. Microbes use this exchange of information, known as quorum sensing (QS), to initiate and perpetuate infectious diseases in eukaryotic organisms, evading the eukaryotic defense system by multiplying and expressing their pathogenicity through QS regulation. The major issue to arise from such networks is increased bacterial resistance to antibiotics, resulting from QS-dependent mediation of the formation of biofilm, the induction of efflux pumps, and the production of antibiotics. QS inhibitors (QSIs) of diverse origins have been shown to act as potential antipathogens. In this review, we focus on the use of QSIs to counter diseases in humans as well as plants and animals of economic importance. We also discuss the challenges encountered in the potential applications of QSIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vipin Chandra Kalia
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea.
| | - Sanjay K S Patel
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun Chan Kang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Korea University, Anam-Dong, Seongbuk-Gu, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Kul Lee
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea.
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Chan XY, How KY, Yin WF, Chan KG. N-Acyl Homoserine Lactone-Mediated Quorum Sensing in Aeromonas veronii biovar sobria Strain 159: Identification of LuxRI Homologs. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2016; 6:7. [PMID: 26909339 PMCID: PMC4754395 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2016.00007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2015] [Accepted: 01/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Yue Chan
- Division of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Science, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Malaya Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kah-Yan How
- Division of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Science, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Malaya Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Wai-Fong Yin
- Division of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Science, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Malaya Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kok-Gan Chan
- Division of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Science, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Malaya Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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14
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How KY, Hong KW, Chan KG. Whole genome sequencing enables the characterization of BurI, a LuxI homologue of Burkholderia cepacia strain GG4. PeerJ 2015; 3:e1117. [PMID: 26290785 PMCID: PMC4540015 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.1117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2015] [Accepted: 06/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Quorum sensing is a mechanism for regulating proteobacterial gene expression in response to changes in cell population. In proteobacteria, N-acyl homoserine lactone (AHL) appears to be the most widely used signalling molecules in mediating, among others, the production of extracellular virulence factors for survival. In this work, the genome of B. cepacia strain GG4, a plasmid-free strain capable of AHL synthesis was explored. In silico analysis of the 6.6 Mb complete genome revealed the presence of a LuxI homologue which correspond to Type I quorum sensing. Here, we report the molecular cloning and characterization of this LuxI homologue, designated as BurI. This 609 bp gene was cloned and overexpressed in Escherichia coli BL21(DE3). The purified protein was approximately 25 kDa and is highly similar to several autoinducer proteins of the LuxI family among Burkholderia species. To verify the AHL synthesis activity of this protein, high resolution liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis revealed the production of 3-oxo-hexanoylhomoserine lactone, N-octanoylhomoserine lactone and 3-hydroxy-octanoylhomoserine lactone from induced E. coli BL21 harboring the recombinant BurI. Our data show, for the first time, the cloning and characterization of the LuxI homologue from B. cepacia strain GG4 and confirmation of its AHL synthesis activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kah Yan How
- Division of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya , Kuala Lumpur , Malaysia
| | - Kar Wai Hong
- Division of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya , Kuala Lumpur , Malaysia
| | - Kok-Gan Chan
- Division of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya , Kuala Lumpur , Malaysia
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15
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How KY, Hong KW, Sam CK, Koh CL, Yin WF, Chan KG. Unravelling the genome of long chain N-acylhomoserine lactone-producing Acinetobacter sp. strain GG2 and identification of its quorum sensing synthase gene. Front Microbiol 2015; 6:240. [PMID: 25926817 PMCID: PMC4396500 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2015.00240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2014] [Accepted: 03/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Myriad proteobacteria use N-acyl homoserine lactone (AHL) molecules as quorum sensing (QS) signals to regulate different physiological functions, including virulence, antibiotic production, and biofilm formation. Many of these proteobacteria possess LuxI/LuxR system as the QS mechanism. Recently, we reported the 3.89 Mb genome of Acinetobacter sp. strain GG2. In this work, the genome of this long chain AHL-producing bacterium was unravelled which led to the molecular characterization of luxI homologue, designated as aciI. This 552 bp gene was cloned and overexpressed in Escherichia coli BL21(DE3). The purified protein was ∼20.5 kDa and is highly similar to several autoinducer proteins of LuxI family among Acinetobacter species. To verify the AHL synthesis activity of this protein, high-resolution liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis revealed the production of 3-oxo-dodecanoyl-homoserine lactone and 3-hydroxy-dodecanoyl-homoserine lactone from induced E. coli harboring the recombinant AciI. Our data show for the first time, the cloning and characterization of the luxI homologue from Acinetobacter sp. strain GG2, and confirmation of its AHLs production. These data are of great significance as the annotated genome of strain GG2 has provided a valuable insight in the study of autoinducer molecules and its roles in QS mechanism of the bacterium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kah Yan How
- Division of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kar-Wai Hong
- Division of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Choon-Kook Sam
- Natural Sciences and Science Education Academic Group, National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chong-Lek Koh
- Natural Sciences and Science Education Academic Group, National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wai-Fong Yin
- Division of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kok-Gan Chan
- Division of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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16
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McCarthy R, O'Gara F. The impact of phytochemicals present in the diet on microbial signalling in the human gut. J Funct Foods 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2015.02.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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17
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Gutiérrez-Barranquero JA, Reen FJ, McCarthy RR, O'Gara F. Deciphering the role of coumarin as a novel quorum sensing inhibitor suppressing virulence phenotypes in bacterial pathogens. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2015; 99:3303-16. [PMID: 25672848 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-015-6436-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2014] [Revised: 01/06/2015] [Accepted: 01/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The rapid unchecked rise in antibiotic resistance over the last few decades has led to an increased focus on the need for alternative therapeutic strategies for the treatment and clinical management of microbial infections. In particular, small molecules that can suppress microbial virulence systems independent of any impact on growth are receiving increased attention. Quorum sensing (QS) is a cell-to-cell signalling communication system that controls the virulence behaviour of a broad spectrum of bacterial pathogens. QS systems have been proposed as an effective target, particularly as they control biofilm formation in pathogens, a key driver of antibiotic ineffectiveness. In this study, we identified coumarin, a natural plant phenolic compound, as a novel QS inhibitor, with potent anti-virulence activity in a broad spectrum of pathogens. Using a range of biosensor systems, coumarin was active against short, medium and long chain N-acyl-homoserine lactones, independent of any effect on growth. To determine if this suppression was linked to anti-virulence activity, key virulence systems were studied in the nosocomial pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Consistent with suppression of QS, coumarin inhibited biofilm, the production of phenazines and swarming motility in this organism potentially linked to reduced expression of the rhlI and pqsA quorum sensing genes. Furthermore, coumarin significantly inhibited biofilm formation and protease activity in other bacterial pathogens and inhibited bioluminescence in Aliivibrio fischeri. In light of these findings, coumarin would appear to have potential as a novel quorum sensing inhibitor with a broad spectrum of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- José A Gutiérrez-Barranquero
- BIOMERIT Research Centre, School of Microbiology, University College Cork, National University of Ireland, Cork, Ireland
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18
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Tan WS, Yunos NYM, Tan PW, Mohamad NI, Adrian TGS, Yin WF, Chan KG. Freshwater-borne bacteria isolated from a Malaysian rainforest waterfall exhibiting quorum sensing properties. SENSORS 2014; 14:10527-37. [PMID: 24932870 PMCID: PMC4118381 DOI: 10.3390/s140610527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2014] [Revised: 06/04/2014] [Accepted: 06/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
One obvious requirement for concerted action by a bacterial population is for an individual to be aware of and respond to the other individuals of the same species in order to form a response in unison. The term "quorum sensing" (QS) was coined to describe bacterial communication that is able to stimulate expression of a series of genes when the concentration of the signaling molecules has reached a threshold level. Here we report the isolation from aquatic environment of a bacterium that was later identified as Enterobacter sp.. Chromobacterium violaceum CV026 and Escherichia coli [pSB401] were used for preliminary screening of N-acyl homoserine lactone (AHL) production. The Enterobacter sp. isolated was shown to produce two types of AHLs as confirmed by analysis using high resolution tandem mass spectrometry. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first documentation of an Enterobacter sp. that produced both 3-oxo-C6-HSL and 3-oxo-C8-HSL as QS signaling molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Si Tan
- Division of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia.
| | - Nina Yusrina Muhamad Yunos
- Division of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia.
| | - Pui-Wan Tan
- Division of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia.
| | - Nur Izzati Mohamad
- Division of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia.
| | - Tan-Guan-Sheng Adrian
- Division of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia.
| | - Wai-Fong Yin
- Division of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia.
| | - Kok-Gan Chan
- Division of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia.
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19
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Ngeow YF, Cheng HJ, Chen JW, Yin WF, Chan KG. Short chain N-acylhomoserine lactone production by clinical multidrug resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae strain CSG20. SENSORS 2013; 13:15242-51. [PMID: 24284772 PMCID: PMC3871072 DOI: 10.3390/s131115242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2013] [Revised: 10/23/2013] [Accepted: 10/31/2013] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Klebsiella pneumoniae is one of the most common Gram-negative bacterial pathogens in clinical practice. It is associated with a wide range of disorders, ranging from superficial skin and soft tissue infections to potentially fatal sepsis in the lungs and blood stream. Quorum sensing, or bacterial cell-cell communication, refers to population density-dependent gene expression modulation. Quorum sensing in Proteobacteria relies on the production and sensing of signaling molecules which are mostly N-acylhomoserine lactones. Here, we report the identification of a multidrug resistant clinical isolate, K. pneumoniae strain CSG20, using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry. We further confirmed quorum sensing activity in this strain with the use of high resolution tandem liquid chromatography quadrupole mass spectrometry and provided evidence K. pneumoniae strain CSG20 produced N-hexanoyl-homoserine lactone (C6-HSL). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the production of N-hexanoylhomoserine lactone (C6-HSL) in clinical isolate K. pneumoniae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Fong Ngeow
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; E-Mail:
| | - Huey Jia Cheng
- Division of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; E-Mails: (H.J.C.); (J.W.C.); (W.-F.Y.)
| | - Jian Woon Chen
- Division of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; E-Mails: (H.J.C.); (J.W.C.); (W.-F.Y.)
| | - Wai-Fong Yin
- Division of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; E-Mails: (H.J.C.); (J.W.C.); (W.-F.Y.)
| | - Kok-Gan Chan
- Division of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; E-Mails: (H.J.C.); (J.W.C.); (W.-F.Y.)
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel.: +603-7967-5162; Fax: +603-7967-4509
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20
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Chen JW, Chin S, Tee KK, Yin WF, Choo YM, Chan KG. N-acyl homoserine lactone-producing Pseudomonas putida strain T2-2 from human tongue surface. SENSORS 2013; 13:13192-203. [PMID: 24084113 PMCID: PMC3859058 DOI: 10.3390/s131013192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2013] [Revised: 08/28/2013] [Accepted: 09/22/2013] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Bacterial cell-to-cell communication (quorum sensing) refers to the regulation of bacterial gene expression in response to changes in microbial population density. Quorum sensing bacteria produce, release and respond to chemical signal molecules called autoinducers. Bacteria use two types of autoinducers, namely autoinducer-1 (AI-1) and autoinducer-2 (AI-2) where the former are N-acylhomoserine lactones and the latter is a product of the luxS gene. Most of the reported literatures show that the majority of oral bacteria use AI-2 for quorum sensing but rarely the AI-1 system. Here we report the isolation of Pseudomonas putida strain T2-2 from the oral cavity. Using high resolution mass spectrometry, it is shown that this isolate produced N-octanoylhomoserine lactone (C8-HSL) and N-dodecanoylhomoserine lactone (C12-HSL) molecules. This is the first report of the finding of quorum sensing of P. putida strain T2-2 isolated from the human tongue surface and their quorum sensing molecules were identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Woon Chen
- Division of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; E-Mails: (J.-W.C.); (S.C.); (W.-F.Y.)
| | - Shenyang Chin
- Division of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; E-Mails: (J.-W.C.); (S.C.); (W.-F.Y.)
| | - Kok Keng Tee
- Centre of Excellence for Research in AIDS (CERiA), Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; E-Mail:
| | - Wai-Fong Yin
- Division of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; E-Mails: (J.-W.C.); (S.C.); (W.-F.Y.)
| | - Yeun Mun Choo
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; E-Mail:
| | - Kok-Gan Chan
- Division of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; E-Mails: (J.-W.C.); (S.C.); (W.-F.Y.)
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel.: +603-7967-5162; Fax: +603-7967-4509
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Tay SB, Yew WS. Development of quorum-based anti-virulence therapeutics targeting Gram-negative bacterial pathogens. Int J Mol Sci 2013; 14:16570-99. [PMID: 23939429 PMCID: PMC3759926 DOI: 10.3390/ijms140816570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2013] [Revised: 07/25/2013] [Accepted: 08/01/2013] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Quorum sensing is a cell density-dependent signaling phenomenon used by bacteria for coordination of population-wide phenotypes, such as expression of virulence genes, antibiotic resistance and biofilm formation. Lately, disruption of bacterial communication has emerged as an anti-virulence strategy with enormous therapeutic potential given the increasing incidences of drug resistance in pathogenic bacteria. The quorum quenching therapeutic approach promises a lower risk of resistance development, since interference with virulence generally does not affect the growth and fitness of the bacteria and, hence, does not exert an associated selection pressure for drug-resistant strains. With better understanding of bacterial communication networks and mechanisms, many quorum quenching methods have been developed against various clinically significant bacterial pathogens. In particular, Gram-negative bacteria are an important group of pathogens, because, collectively, they are responsible for the majority of hospital-acquired infections. Here, we discuss the current understanding of existing quorum sensing mechanisms and present important inhibitory strategies that have been developed against this group of pathogenic bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song Buck Tay
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117599, Singapore.
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