AI-2 Signaling: A Potential Driver of Bacteremia in Non-Typhoidal Salmonella Infections

Our analysis revealed that genes distinguishing the bloodstream <i>Salmonella</i> isolates from the fecal <i>Salmonella</i> isolates were primarily involved in the AI-2 quorum sensing pathway and biofilm-associated protein transport. Subsequent biofilm formation assays demonstrated that the bloodstream isolates exhibited significantly higher biofilm formation capacity compared to the fecal isolates. Upon the addition of quercetin, biofilm formation was equally inhibited in both groups. Collectively, these findings suggest that genes involved in the AI-2 pathway and biofilm-associated protein transport may be key factors contributing to the development of bacteremia in NTS infections.