Quorum sensing inhibition and antibiofilm action of triterpenoids: An updated insight

Development of biofilm is a protective strategy for invading bacterial pathogens against host immune response and administered antimicrobials. Quorum sensing (QS) mediated alteration of gene expression profile have been identified as the key modulator of biofilm dynamics. In the context of rapid and prompt emergence of antimicrobial resistance and tolerance, there is an urgent demand to develop alternatives to available interventions to control biofilm associated infections. Exploring phytochemicals products remains a viable approach to find new hits. Various plant extracts and purified phyto-compounds have been explored against model biofilm formers and clinical isolates for QS-inhibition and prospective anti-biofilm action. Triterpeniods, with the potential to perturb QS and impairing biofilm formation and stability against a number of bacterial pathogens, have been explored and profiled systemically in recent years. Along with the identification of bioactive derivatives and scaffolds, mechanistic insights have also been revealed for antibiofilm action of several triterpenoids. This review offers a comprehensive account of recent studies on QS inhibition and biofilm impairment by triterpenoids and their derivatives.

Automated summary

The development of biofilms is a protective strategy used by bacterial pathogens against the immune response and antimicrobial treatments. Quorum sensing, which alters gene expression profiles, has been identified as a key regulator of biofilm dynamics. With the rapid emergence of antimicrobial resistance, it is urgent to find alternative interventions to control biofilm infections. Exploring phytochemical products has shown promise in inhibiting quorum sensing and preventing biofilm formation. Recent studies have focused on triterpenoids and their derivatives, which have been found to disrupt quorum sensing and impair biofilm formation against bacterial pathogens.