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Fungal quorum sensing molecules: Role in fungal morphogenesis and pathogenicity
Author(s) -
Wongsuk Thanwa,
Pumeesat Potjaman,
Luplertlop Natthanej
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
journal of basic microbiology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.58
H-Index - 54
eISSN - 1521-4028
pISSN - 0233-111X
DOI - 10.1002/jobm.201500759
Subject(s) - quorum sensing , biology , biofilm , microbiology and biotechnology , morphogenesis , hypha , aspergillus nidulans , yeast , candida albicans , conidium , secretion , botany , bacteria , biochemistry , gene , genetics , mutant
When microorganisms live together in high numbers, they need to communicate with each other. To achieve cell–cell communication, microorganisms secrete molecules called quorum‐sensing molecules (QSMs) that control their biological activities and behaviors. Fungi secrete QSMs such as farnesol, tyrosol, phenylethanol, and tryptophol. The role of QSMs in fungi has been widely studied in both yeasts and filamentous fungi, for example in Candida albicans , C. dubliniensis , Aspergillus niger , A. nidulans , and Fusarium graminearum . QSMs impact fungal morphogenesis (yeast‐to‐hypha formation) and also play a role in the germination of macroconidia. QSMs cause fungal cells to initiate programmed cell death, or apoptosis, and play a role in fungal pathogenicity. Several types of QSMs are produced during stages of biofilm development to control cell population or morphology in biofilm communities. This review article emphasizes the role of fungal QSMs, especially in fungal morphogenesis, biofilm formation, and pathogenicity. Information about QSMs may lead to improved measures for controlling fungal infection.