A description is given of the cloning, sequencing and characterization of the gene responsible for quorum quenching (QQ) activity in the face of quorum sensing (QS) signals of the strain Tenacibaculum sp. 20J (Spanish Type Culture Collection Deposit CECT7426). Said gene encodes a peptide that exhibits at least lactonase activity with a percentage identity of less than 38% with the lactonases described hitherto for other species, and also the sequences of the homologous genes present in other species of the genus Tenacibaculum. Said peptide exhibits a broad spectrum of activity, degrading N-acyl homoserine lactones (AHLs) having 4-14 carbon atoms in the side chain thereof, which are optionally substituted, is active at a pH of between 3 and 9, resistant on proteinase K and chymotrypsin, and does not interact with β-lactam antibiotics.
