Chapter 5 - Quorum Sensing in Phytopathogenesis

Abstract

Pathogenesis of microorganisms mostly relies on quorum sensing, a plethora of population density–dependent chemical signaling molecules. Plants interact with pathogenic and symbiotic microorganisms via the recognition of microbe-associated molecular patterns (MAMPs) such as chitin, lipopolysaccharides, or fructans, but they can also detect bacterial quorum sensing molecules such as N-acyl homoserine lactones (AHLs). Signaling events between microorganisms and their host plants are multifaceted, and understanding these modes of action is of the utmost importance to reduce detrimental effects of phytopathogenesis, and to favor beneficial symbiotic relationships. One of the most promising strategies to prevent phytopathogenesis is quorum quenching, including the elimination of pathogenic signaling molecules. Disrupting the communication between pathogens instead of killing them avoids a selection pressure over the pathogen community, thus preventing the emergence of resistant strains. This review deals with the mechanisms of phytopathogenesis from a quorum sensing perspective, with a focus on quorum quenching strategies.