Progress in design and application of quorum sensing gene circuits

Abstract:

Quorum sensing (QS) is a communication system in bacteria that coordinates group behaviors. QS systems widely found in nature enhance the reproductive capacity of microbial communities by sensing the external environment. Due to its natural properties of autonomous perception, density-dependence coupled with modularity, and ease of engineering modification, QS has achieved rapid development and application, facilitated by synthetic biology technology. The elucidation of QS mechanisms has laid the foundation for the design of genetic circuits, which are then applied to verify and perform expected biological functions. However, how to ensure the effectiveness and functional stability of QS gene circuits is a major challenge in synthetic biology applications. Therefore, this review first summarized the natural and common QS regulatory mechanisms and the development of genetic circuits. Subsequently, an analysis and summary of the assembly optimization in intercellular communication were provided, followed by an overview of its application progress in communities. Finally, suggestions and development trends were proposed for the better application of QS genetic circuits in microbial engineering.