The cis-2-Dodecenoic Acid (BDSF) Quorum Sensing System in Burkholderia cenocepacia

It has been demonstrated that quorum sensing (QS) is widely employed by bacterial cells to coordinately regulate various group behaviors. Diffusible signal factor (DSF)-type signals have emerged as a growing family of conserved cell-cell communication signals. In addition to the DSF signal initially identified in Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris, Burkhoideria diffusible signal factor (BDSF) (cis-2-dodecenoic acid) has been recognized as a conserved DSF-type signal with specific characteristics in both signal perception and transduction from DSF signals. Here, we review the history and current progress of the research on this type of signal, especially focusing on its biosynthesis, signaling pathways, and biological functions. We also discuss and explore the huge potential of targeting this kind of QS system as a new therapeutic strategy to control bacterial infections and diseases.

Automated summary

This review summarizes the history and current progress of research on diffusible signal factor (DSF)-type signals in bacterial quorum sensing (QS). Burkhoideria diffusible signal factor (BDSF), a specific DSF-type signal, has been identified in addition to the originally discovered DSF signal in Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris. The potential of targeting this QS system as a new therapeutic strategy to control bacterial infections and diseases is also discussed.