The human pathogen Streptococcus pyogenes secretes a short peptide (leaderless communication peptide, LCP) that mediates intercellular communication and controls bacterial virulence through interaction with its receptor, RopB. Here, we show that LCP and RopB homologues are present in other Firmicutes. We experimentally validate that LCPs with distinct peptide communication codes act as bacterial intercellular signals and regulate gene expression in Streptococcus salivarius, Streptococcus porcinus, Enterococcus malodoratus and Limosilactobacillus reuteri. Our results indicate that LCPs are more widespread than previously thought, and their characterization may uncover new signaling mechanisms and roles in coordinating diverse bacterial traits.
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