Quorum Sensing
Process of cell-cell communication by which bacteria monitor the density of members of their species and other species in an environment.
-biofilm formation, virulence, conjugation.
Lux I
makes signaling molecule/inducer
-can freely diffuse
Lux R
receptor, response regulator/gene expression activator
Gram -
signal molecule can freely diffuse across membranes
Acyl homoserine lactone (AHL)
Gram +
Oligopeptide mediated
Requires transporter
species specific
R/ RR two separate units
Lux S/AI-2
Not specie specific
Made by 30+ different G-/G+species
QS and biofilm
QS neccesary to initiate exopolysaccharide production
block qs and block biofilm