Mechanistic insights into the orthogonal functionality of an AHL-mediated quorum-sensing circuit in Yersinia pseudotuberculosis

YpsR, a pivotal regulatory protein in the quorum-sensing (QS) of <i>Yersinia pseudotuberculosis</i>(<i>Y. pstb</i>), is essential for molecular signaling, yet its molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. Herein, this study systematically investigates the interactions between YpsR and acyl-homoserine lactones (AHLs), shedding light on the selective mechanism of YpsR to various AHL molecules. Using molecular docking and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) analysis, we confirmed YpsR's binding affinities, with the strongest observed for 3OC6-HSL, which notably inhibited <i>Y. pstb</i> growth. Additionally, we engineered a whole-cell biosensor based on YpsR-AHL interaction, which exhibited sensitivity to the signal molecule 3OC6-HSL produced by <i>Y. pstb</i>. Furthermore, key YpsR residues (S32, Y50, W54, D67) involved in AHL binding were identified and validated. Overall, this research elucidates the mechanisms of QS signal recognition in <i>Y. pstb</i>, providing valuable insights that support the development of diagnostic tools for detecting <i>Y. pstb</i> infections.