Diverse quorum sensing systems regulate microbial communication and biogeochemical processes in deep-sea cold seeps

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Deep-sea Ecology
• Biogeochemistry

Background:

• Quorum sensing (QS) is a critical microbial communication mechanism for coordinating behavior and adaptation.
• Its role in deep-sea cold seep ecosystems, characterized by diverse microbial communities, is poorly understood.
• This study investigates the occurrence and ecological significance of QS in cold seeps.

Purpose of the Study:

• To elucidate the presence and distribution of quorum sensing genes in deep-sea cold seep environments.
• To understand the potential ecological roles of quorum sensing in microbial interactions and biogeochemical cycling.
• To identify key quorum sensing systems and proteins involved in microbial regulation within cold seeps.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 170 metagenomes and 33 metatranscriptomes from 17 global cold seep sites.
• Identification and cataloging of quorum sensing genes and associated proteins.
• Phylogenetic analysis, protein domain identification, heterologous expression, and metabolomic profiling.

Main Results:

• Identified 299,355 quorum sensing genes across 34 types and six systems, with distribution influenced by environmental factors.
• Discovered 32,500 QS genes in 3576 genomes, indicating complex intra- and interspecies communication networks.
• Found QS extensively regulates key microbial groups (e.g., sulfate-reducing bacteria, archaea) involved in biogeochemical cycling.

Conclusions:

• Quorum sensing plays a complex and significant role in microbial interactions, adaptation, and biogeochemical cycling in cold seeps.
• Findings advance the understanding of microbial communication in the deep biosphere.
• Suggests the presence of quorum sensing inhibitors in cold seep sediments.