PqsR-specific quorum sensing inhibitors targeting <i>Pseudomonas aeruginosa</i>: current advances and future directions

The emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Pseudomonas aeruginosa is driven by diverse resistance mechanisms, including quorum sensing (QS) and biofilm formation. QS regulates virulence, antibiotic tolerance, efflux pumps, and biofilm development, enhancing the pathogen's adaptability. Among QS systems, the Pseudomonas quinolone signal regulator (PqsR) plays a central role in controlling virulence and biofilm-associated genes. This review critically examines the PqsR-regulated network and highlights the potential of PqsR inhibitors to reduce pathogenicity. Disrupting QS instead of targeting bacterial viability can enhance antibiotic efficacy, making this combinatorial approach a promising strategy to combat MDR <i>P. aeruginosa</i>.