Autoinducers

Definition

Autoinducers are small signaling molecules produced by bacteria to communicate with each other in a process called quorum sensing. They regulate gene expression based on the density of the bacterial population.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Autoinducers accumulate in the environment as the bacterial population grows.
2. Different species of bacteria can have unique autoinducers or share common ones.
3. Quorum sensing allows bacteria to coordinate behaviors such as biofilm formation, virulence, and bioluminescence.
4. The concentration of autoinducers must reach a threshold level to trigger changes in gene expression.
5. There are two main types of autoinducers: Acyl-homoserine lactones (AHLs) used by Gram-negative bacteria and oligopeptides used by Gram-positive bacteria.

Review Questions

• What role do autoinducers play in quorum sensing?
• How do autoinducer concentrations influence bacterial behavior?
• Name two main types of autoinducers and their corresponding bacterial groups.

Related terms

Quorum Sensing:

A cell-to-cell communication process that enables bacteria to collectively regulate gene expression based on population density.

Biofilm:

A complex community of microorganisms adhering to surfaces, often embedded within a self-produced extracellular matrix.

Gene Expression:

The process by which information from a gene is used to synthesize functional gene products like proteins.