Which process enables bacteria within a biofilm to coordinate gene expression in response to cell density?

• A. Phagocytosis
• B. Conjugation
• C. Quorum sensing
• D. Binary fission

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the question is asking about a process that allows bacteria in a biofilm to coordinate gene expression based on how many bacteria are present (cell density).
2. Recall that phagocytosis is a process where cells engulf particles, which is unrelated to bacterial communication.
3. Recognize that conjugation is a form of genetic material transfer between bacteria, but it does not directly coordinate gene expression based on population density.
4. Identify that binary fission is the method by which bacteria reproduce, not a communication mechanism.
5. Focus on quorum sensing, which is the process bacteria use to produce, release, and detect signaling molecules called autoinducers, allowing them to regulate gene expression collectively in response to population density.