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Autoinducer-2 (AI-2) is a bacterial signaling molecule involved in quorum sensing (QS). This study categorizes bacteria based on AI-2 synthesis and reception, revealing its widespread distribution and evolutionary links to chemotaxis proteins.

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Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Bacterial Communication
  • Evolutionary Biology

Background:

  • Autoinducer-2 (AI-2) is a key signaling molecule in bacterial quorum sensing (QS).
  • QS regulates bacterial communication in diverse ecological niches.
  • Understanding AI-2's role is crucial for microbial ecology and biotechnology.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze the distribution and evolution of AI-2 quorum sensing proteins in bacteria.
  • To categorize bacteria based on their AI-2 signaling capabilities.
  • To investigate AI-2 regulatory networks within the human gut microbiome.

Main Methods:

  • Bioinformatic analysis of bacterial genomes for AI-2 synthases and receptors.
  • Phylogenetic analysis to trace the evolution of AI-2 receptors.
  • Metagenomic data analysis of the human gut microbiome to study AI-2 signaling networks.

Main Results:

  • AI-2 QS proteins are found in 17 bacterial phyla (~36.80% of genomes).
  • Bacteria were categorized into Prosumer, Producer, Monitor, and Immunizer based on AI-2 roles.
  • Gram-positive bacteria primarily produce AI-2; Gram-negative bacteria tend to respond.
  • AI-2 receptor CahR evolved from methyl-accepting chemotaxis proteins (MCPs).
  • AI-2 signaling shows a strong correlation with c-di-GMP signaling in the human gut.

Conclusions:

  • AI-2 signaling is widespread across bacterial domains with diverse functional roles.
  • Evolutionary analysis provides insights into the development of AI-2 receptor mechanisms.
  • The interplay between AI-2 and c-di-GMP signaling in the gut microbiome warrants further investigation.