Structure and Signal Regulation Mechanism of Interspecies and Interkingdom Quorum Sensing System Receptors

Quorum sensing (QS) is a signaling mechanism for cell-to-cell communication between bacteria, fungi, and even eukaryotic hosts such as plant and animal cells. Bacteria in real life do not exist as isolated organisms but are found in complex, dynamic, and microecological environments. The study of interspecies QS and interkingdom QS is a valuable approach for exploring bacteria-bacteria interactions and bacteria-host interaction mechanisms and has received considerable attention from researchers. The correct combination of QS signals and receptors is key to initiating the QS process. Compared with intraspecies QS, the signal regulation mechanism of interspecies QS and interkingdom QS is often more complicated, and the distribution of receptors is relatively wide. The present review focuses on the latest progress with respect to the distribution, structure, and signal transduction of interspecies and interkingdom QS receptors and provides a guide for the investigation of new QS receptors in the future.

Automated summary

Quorum sensing is an important signaling mechanism for cell-to-cell communication between bacteria, fungi, and even eukaryotic hosts. The study of interspecies and interkingdom quorum sensing is valuable for understanding bacterial interactions and host interaction mechanisms, and has received considerable attention. Compared to intraspecies quorum sensing, the regulation mechanism of interspecies and interkingdom quorum sensing is often more complex, with a wider distribution of receptors. This review focuses on the latest progress in the distribution, structure, and signal transduction of interspecies and interkingdom quorum sensing receptors and provides guidance for future research on new receptors.