CELL-CELL COMMUNICATION IN GRAM-POSITIVE BACTERIA

In gram-positive bacteria, many important processes are controlled by cell-to-cell communication, which is mediated by extracellular signal molecules produced by the bacteria. Most of these signaling molecules are peptides or modified peptides. Signal processing, in most cases, i nvolves either transduction across the cytoplasmic membrane or import of the signal and subsequent interaction with intracellular effecters. Concentrations of signal in the nanomolar range or below are frequent ly sufficient for biological activity. The microbial processes control led by extracellular signaling include the expression of virulence fac tors, the expression of gene transfer functions, and the production of antibiotics.