Mass Spectrometry Uncovers the Role of Surfactin as an Interspecies Recruitment Factor

Abstract

Microbes use metabolic exchange to sense and respond to their changing environment. Surfactins, produced by Bacillus subtilis are extensively studied for its attributed role in biofilm formation, biosurfactant properties and antimicrobial activity, affecting the surrounding microbial consortia. Using mass spectrometry, we reveal that Paenibacillus dendritiformis, originally isolated with B. subtilis, is not antagonized by the presence of surfactins, and is actually attracted to it. We demonstrate here for the first time, that P. dendritiformis is also actively degrading surfactins produced by B. subtilis, and accumulating the degradation products that serve as territorial marker. This new attribute as an attractant of selected microbes and the conversion it into a deterrent, highlights the diverse role natural products have in shaping the environment and establishing mixed communities.