Linguistics of microbiota – Quorum sensing in anaerobic digestion, biochemistry, characteristics, and perspectives of future research – A mini-review

Abstract

This manuscript discusses the mechanism of quorum sensing, provides a brief description of the phenomenon, biochemistry properties, and quorum quenching mechanism, and provides a perspective for future research with some implications regarding its use in industry. Particular emphasis was placed on using these signal molecules in anaerobic digestion. A proper understanding of the processes occurring during methane fermentation could be crucial to in the prospects of increasing biogas production. The types of signaling molecules vary between microorganisms, and the way they are synthesized or secreted (active or passive) differs. This type of communication could induce biofilm formation, bioluminescence, metabolite synthesis, motility, and conjugation. Appropriate knowledge and understanding of the operation of signaling molecules might be essential to increasing the efficiency of anaerobic digestion processes. The phenomenon of quorum sensing itself can be successfully used in medicine, renewable energy (biogas plants), or the chemical industry.