Part of a major quorum-sensing system that regulates the development of genetic competence (PubMed:25855042, PubMed:26276536, PubMed:29665236). Acts through the activation of the two-component regulatory system ComP/ComA composed of a sensor histidine kinase, ComP, and a response regulator, ComA (By similarity). Activates the expression of the genes for biosynthesis of poly-gamma-glutamic acid (gamma-PGA), which is involved in biofilm formation in B.subtilis natto (PubMed:25855042, PubMed:26276536). Interacts directly with the sensor histidine kinase ComP and stimulates its activity. Trp-54 is modified by farnesylation, which is essential for activity (PubMed:25855042, PubMed:26276536, PubMed:29665236). Modified by the tryptophan prenyltransferase ComQ before export to the extracellular environment (PubMed:25855042, PubMed:29665236).