A model for signal transduction during quorum sensing in \emph{Vibrio harveyi}

TL;DR

This paper introduces a simplified model for the quorum sensing signal transduction in Vibrio harveyi, identifying key parameters that explain luminescence regulation and generating testable predictions.

Contribution

The study provides a new simplified framework for analyzing quorum sensing in Vibrio harveyi, linking experimental data to model parameters and predictions.

Findings

Model parameters estimated from experimental data

Predictions align with independent experimental results

Framework suggests new experiments for luminescence control

Abstract

We present a framework for analyzing luminescence regulation during quorum sensing in the bioluminescent bacterium \emph{Vibrio harveyi}. Using a simplified model for signal transduction in the quorum sensing pathway, we identify key dimensionless parameters that control the system's response. These parameters are estimated using experimental data on luminescence phenotypes for different mutant strains. The corresponding model predictions are consistent with results from other experiments which did not serve as inputs for determining model parameters. Furthermore, the proposed framework leads to novel testable predictions for luminescence phenotypes and for responses of the network to different perturbations.