Year: 2018
Type: review
Abstract: Here, we review the multiple mechanisms that the Gram-positive bacterium Bacillus subtilis uses to allow it to communicate between cells and establish community structures. The modes of action that are used are highly varied and include routes that sense pheromone levels during quorum sensing and control gene regulation, the intimate coupling of cells via nanotubes to share cytoplasmic contents, and long-range electrical signalling to couple metabolic processes both within and between biofilms. We explore the ability of B. subtilis to detect 'kin' (and 'cheater cells') by looking at the mechanisms used to potentially ensure beneficial sharing (or limit exploitation) of extracellular 'public goods'. Finally, reflecting on the array of methods that a single bacterium has at its disposal to ensure maximal benefit for its progeny, we highlight that a large future challenge will be integrating how these systems interact in mixed-species communities.
Source: Molecular Microbiology
DOI: 10.1111/mmi.14127
Institutions: University of Dundee, University of Ljubljana
Language: English
Subfield: Molecular Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $4,430
Awards: Investigations of cell-cell communications in multi cellular groups composed of different Bacillus isolates, G3787103481, Investigations of bacterial social interactions in biotechnologically and medically important microbial biofilms, National Biofilms Innovation Centre, G5930237882, Microbiology and biotechnology of food and environment, Architecture of a biofilm, G7364135712, G8589965465, G9000197626
OpenAlex ID: W2892170270