ABSTRACT
Quorum sensing (QS) is a mechanism through which bacterial cells communicate with each other by releasing signaling molecules called acyl-homoserine lactones that are responsible for the increase in virulence gene expression, biofilm formation, and antibiotic resistance. The excess use of antibiotics led to the emergence of multidrug-resistant bacteria, which are difficult to treat. Therefore, it is important to develop novel strategies to combat antibiotic resistance. One such phenomenon that exists in nature is quorum quenching (QQ), which has the ability to degrade or alter quorum-sensing signaling molecules without adding selective pressure. These quenching molecules are widespread in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes. QQ enzymes include AHL lactonases, acylases, and oxidoreductases. Recent reports suggest the role of antibodies, antibiotics, and nanoparticles as QQ agents. The existence of a wide variety of signaling molecules among various species is a big challenge for QQ-based drug development. However, attempts are being made to develop recombinant QQ molecules that can act on the QS signaling of pathogenic bacteria by target specificity.
