An In-Depth Study on the Inhibition of Quorum Sensing by Bacillus velezensis D-18: Its Significant Impact on Vibrio Biofilm Formation in Aquaculture

Abstract

Amid growing concerns about antibiotic resistance, innovative strategies are imperative in addressing bacterial infections in aquaculture. Quorum quenching (QQ), the enzymatic inhibition of quorum sensing (QS), has emerged as a promising solution. This study delves into the QQ capabilities of the probiotic strain Bacillus velezensis D-18 and its products, particularly in Vibrio anguillarum 507 communication and biofilm formation. Chromobacterium violaceum MK was used as a biomarker in this study, and the results confirmed that B. velezensis D-18 effectively inhibits QS. Further exploration into the QQ mechanism revealed the presence of lactonase activity by B. velezensis D-18 that degraded both long- and short-chain acyl homoserine lactones (AHLs). PCR analysis demonstrated the presence of a homologous lactonase-producing gene, ytnP, in the genome of B. velezensis D-18. The study evaluated the impact of B. velezensis D-18 on V. anguillarum 507 growth and biofilm formation. The probiotic not only controls the biofilm formation of V. anguillarum but also significantly restrains pathogen growth. Therefore, B. velezensis D-18 demonstrates substantial potential for preventing V. anguillarum diseases in aquaculture through its QQ capacity. The ability to disrupt bacterial communication and control biofilm formation positions B. velezensis D-18 as a promising eco-friendly alternative to conventional antibiotics in managing bacterial diseases in aquaculture.