Biochemistry in Microbe–Microbe Interactions

Dear Colleagues,

At the heart of microbial ecology lies a dynamic molecular landscape shaped by intricate networks of chemical interactions. Signaling molecules, antimicrobial compounds, and metabolic byproducts collectively govern communication, cooperation, and competition within microbial communities. Processes such as quorum sensing, metabolite‑mediated competition, and metabolic cross‑feeding therefore form the foundational principles that determine microbial survival, adaptation, and community organization.

Building on this molecular framework, recent advances in synthetic biology and high‑resolution analytical technologies are providing unprecedented insight into how these interactions unfold. Tools such as high‑resolution mass spectrometry, single‑cell imaging, and in situ metabolomics now enable the precise spatial and temporal profiling of microbial activity. In parallel, machine learning and network modeling offer powerful ways to interpret the resulting complex datasets and predict emergent community behaviors.

Together, these interdisciplinary developments are reshaping our understanding of how polymicrobial communities assemble, stabilize, and respond to environmental or biological perturbations. Importantly, they are also shifting the field from passive observation toward intentional design, opening new opportunities to engineer microbial consortia for applications in health, sustainable biomanufacturing, and environmental remediation. This Special Issue aims to showcase these emerging insights and innovations at the interface of microbial ecology, chemical communication, and synthetic biology.

Dr. Chong-Su Kim
Guest Editor

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