quorum sensing

{
  "id": "MLC-T-ENV-022962",
  "term": "quorum sensing",
  "field": "Environment",
  "definition": "Form of communication between bacteria based on the use of signalling molecules that allows bacteria to coordinate their behaviour. The accumulation of signalling molecules in the environment enables a single cell to sense the number of bacteria (cell density). Behavioural responses include adaptation to availability of nutrients, defence against other microorganisms that may compete for the same nutrients, and the avoidance of toxic compounds potentially dangerous for the bacteria. For example, it is very important for pathogenic bacteria during infection of a host (e.g., humans, other animals or plants) to coordinate their virulence in order to escape the immune response of the host in order to be able to establish a successful infection. [FAO/WHO 2003b]",
  "references": [
    "Thesaurus of Terms Used in Microbial Risk Assessment"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/environment/quorum-sensing/"
}