Trends in Quorum Sensing and Quorum Quenching

Abstract

Quorum sensing (QS), controls the characteristics of microbe populations through the detection of the concentrations of signal molecules, which are not only released but also produced by bacteria. QS regulates both biochemical and physiological functions viz., release of quorum signal molecules, biofilm formation, reduction in virulence, production of bacteriocins and pathogenesis. The approach of hindering QS and impeding the formation and release of virulence factors, degrading biofilms, is termed quorum sensing inhibition (QSI) or quorum quenching (QQ). This tactic weakens the virulence, bypassing the elimination of pathogens, in so doing reducing the pressure on those pathogens and deferring the progress of resistance to drugs which are quorum quencher-mediated. Currently, there are striking developments, both practically and theoretically in the arena of QS and QQ. This chapter focusses on the most prominent studies on the diversity of QS and QQ signals, mechanisms related to QQ and QS, detection and measurement, recent trends in the field of QS and their ensuing applications in diverse fields of wide-reaching interests viz., industries, medicine, agriculture and food production, besides throwing a spotlight on the approaches used to technologically advance novel applications of QQ in diverse arenas.