Quorum sensing is _______.
a. The ability to respond to changes in population density
b. A characteristic allowing secretion of a matrix
c. Dependent on direct contact among cells
d. Associated with colonies in broth culture

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that quorum sensing is a communication mechanism used by bacteria to coordinate behavior based on population density.
2. Recognize that quorum sensing involves the production, release, and detection of signaling molecules called autoinducers.
3. Note that as the bacterial population increases, the concentration of autoinducers increases, allowing bacteria to sense the density of their population.
4. Identify that this process enables bacteria to regulate gene expression collectively, often to coordinate activities like biofilm formation or virulence factor production.
5. Compare the given options and select the one that best describes quorum sensing as the ability to respond to changes in population density.

Key Concepts

Quorum Sensing

Quorum sensing is a communication mechanism used by bacteria to detect and respond to changes in their population density through the production and detection of signaling molecules called autoinducers. This process enables coordinated gene expression across the bacterial community.

Autoinducers and Signal Molecules

Autoinducers are chemical signals secreted by bacteria that accumulate in the environment as the population grows. When a threshold concentration is reached, these molecules trigger changes in gene expression, allowing bacteria to synchronize behaviors such as biofilm formation or virulence.

Population Density-Dependent Regulation

Quorum sensing relies on the density of bacterial cells; it is not dependent on direct physical contact but on the concentration of signaling molecules in the environment. This density-dependent regulation allows bacteria to coordinate activities only when sufficient numbers are present.