How Do Bacteria Talk To Each Other?

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Bonnie Bassler, a renowned microbiologist from Princeton and recent National Medal of Science recipient, dives into the intriguing world of bacterial communication. She reveals how bacteria use chemical signals to 'talk' and form complex societal behaviors that remain largely unexplored. Bonnie explains the concept of quorum sensing as a means of reaching consensus among bacteria and shares fascinating insights on how these microbes can detect their environment and even outsmart hosts. Her passion for these tiny organisms shines through as she discusses their potential applications in fighting diseases by disrupting their communication.