Modulation of quorum sensing, biofilm formation, and migration of Vibrio harveyi by curcumin-mediated photo/sonodynamic treatment

Abstract

Vibrio harveyi, a Gram-negative bacterium ubiquitous in marine environments, is recognized as an opportunistic pathogen affecting various aquatic organisms such as fish, shrimp, and shellfish. To enhance its environmental resilience and adaptive capacity, V. harveyi employs a complex quorum sensing mechanism to modulate its virulence factors, such as bioluminescence, biofilm formation, and motility. Therefore, targeting the quorum sensing of V. harveyi could be a promising strategy to develop novel approaches to ensure the microbial safety of seafood products. This study aims to evaluate the impact of curcumin-mediated photo/ sonodynamic treatment on quorum sensing in V. harveyi and its regulated functions. The results indicate a significant decrease of luminescence in V. harveyi following curcumin-mediated photo/sonodynamic treatment. Correspondingly, the biofilm formation ability and bacterial motility of V. harveyi were also greatly impaired by the treatment. Notably, the production of reactive oxygen species in bacteria induced by the photo/ sonodynamic treatment could be the underlying mechanism involved in the observed disruption of quorum sensing. These findings underscore the great potential of photo/sonodynamic treatment as a promising strategy to disrupt quorum sensing and mitigate the virulence of V. harveyi, thereby contributing to the development of effective control strategies against this pervasive pathogen.