Modulation of the Sporulation Dynamics in the Plant-Probiotic Bacillus velezensis 83 via Carbon and Quorum-Sensing Metabolites.

Spore-forming Bacilli, such as the plant-associated Bacillus velezensis strains, are widely used as probiotics, known for their safety and substantial health benefits for both animal and plant species. Through differentiation pathways mediated by quorum-sensing metabolites (QSMs), these bacteria develop multiple isogenic subpopulations with distinct phenotypes and ecological functions, including motile cells, matrix-producing/cannibalistic cells, competent cells, spores, and others. However, the heterogeneity in Bacillus populations is a significant limitation for the development of spore-based probiotics, as nutrients supplied during fermentation are consumed through non-target pathways.