Anti-quorum sensing properties of medicinal plants – A review

Quorum Sensing (QS) is a density dependent communication mechanism in bacteria, where communication is mediated by a signalling molecule known as autoinducers. QS plays a major role in biofilm formation which decreases the bacterial sensitivity to anti-bacterial agents and antibiotics. The inhibition of QS pathways is important since it reduces the possibility of bacterial infections in humans There has been growing research interest in medicinal plants as anti QS agents due to their diversity and structural complexity. Also, the phytochemicals present are one of the major sources of novel therapeutics. The present review mainly addresses the current state of research in dispersal of biofilm formed by bacteria with medical importance. We also discuss the mechanisms of quorum sensing inhibition and the role of QS antagonists from plant sources.