Abstract

Microbial metabolism plays a significant role in seafood spoilage, with quorum sensing (QS) systems potentially influencing bacterial spoilage abilities. In this study, we conducted genome sequencing of Morganella psychrotolerans GWT 901, which was isolated from spoiled yellowfin tuna. Genes related to QS and spoilage, including those involved in biogenic amines production, lipase and protease secretion, sulfur metabolism, and stress responses were identified. Furthermore, we observed the presence of AI-2 signal molecules and found that the LuxS/AI-2 QS system regulates the spoilage potential of M. psychrotolerans GWT 901 by monitoring the changes of total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N) levels, biogenic amine concentrations, and the expression of spoilage-related genes. This study provides novel insights into the role of QS in bacterial spoilage, offering potential avenues for the development of novel strategies to control seafood spoilage through QS target.