Targeting quorum sensing: natural product-based inhibition and quenching for antimicrobial strategies

INTRODUCTION: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global concern, necessitating alternative strategies to fight bacterial infections. Bacteria use quorum sensing (QS) to regulate their virulence, biofilm formation, and resistance mechanisms. Quorum quenching (QQ) disrupts QS, reducing pathogenicity and potentially lowering the selective pressure for resistance compared to conventional antibiotics. Understanding QS and QQ mechanisms can aid in developing effective antimicrobial therapies. AREAS COVERED: This review examines QS and QQ mechanisms, focusing on key signaling molecules like acyl-homoserine lactones (AHLs) and autoinducer-2 (AI-2). Various QQ agents, including enzymes and phytocompounds are discussed for their roles in disrupting bacterial communication. Phytocompounds such as curcumin, resveratrol, and quercetin have shown potential in inhibiting QS-regulated biofilms and virulence factors. EXPERT OPINION: QS inhibition and QQ present promising antimicrobial strategies. By targeting bacterial communication rather than growth, these approaches help mitigate resistance development. Future research should focus on optimizing QQ therapies, integrating them with antibiotics, and enhancing their clinical applications through advanced drug delivery systems to improve treatment outcomes.