Coordination of quorum sensing with T3SS and T6SS: Bacterial strategies for combating fungal pathogens

Abstract

ABSTRACT Bacterial-fungal interactions are essential for ecosystem balance, where secretion systems like the Type III Secretion System (T3SS) and Type VI Secretion System (T6SS) play crucial roles. T6SS acts as a multifunctional weapon by delivering antifungal effectors that disrupt fungal cell integrity and metabolism, while T3SS mediates both mutualistic and antagonistic interactions, with mutualistic roles documented primarily in plant-associated bacteria–fungi systems. Quorum sensing (QS) facilitates these interactions by allowing bacteria to adjust their secretion responses based on fungal signals. This review delves into the antifungal mechanisms of T6SS and T3SS and emphasizes QS as a regulatory framework that influences microbial community dynamics. Understanding these relationships can lead to innovative strategies for combating fungal pathogens, contributing to agricultural sustainability and paving the way for future clinical and environmental research.