Quorum Sensing in Oral Biofilms: Influence on Host Cells

Abstract

Quorum sensing molecules (QSMs) in the oral cavity regulate biofilm formation, the acquisition of iron, stress responses, and the expression of virulence factors. However, knowledge of the direct QSM–host interactions in the oral environment is limited, although their understanding could provide greater insight into the cross-kingdom communication occurring during oral disease development. This review aims to explore the literature on oral QSM–host interactions and to highlight areas of advancement in this field. The studies included in this review encompass an array of cell types and oral QSMs, with particular emphasis on immune cells and their relationship to periodontal diseases. It can be inferred from the current literature that QSMs are utilised by host cells to detect bacterial presence and, in the majority of cases, elicit an immune response towards the environmental QSMs. This may provide a base to target QSMs as a novel treatment of oral diseases. However, N-acyl homoserine lactone (AHL) detection methods remain an area for development, through which a greater understanding of the influence of oral QSMs on host cells could be achieved.