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Interaction of Listeria monocytogenes with the intestinal epithelium
J J Daniels1, I B Autenrieth, W Goebel
1Lehrstuhl für Mikrobiologie, Biozentrum der Universität Würzburg, Germany.
Abstract:
Listeria monocytogenes is a food-borne pathogen that must cross the intestinal epithelial barrier to reach its target organs. We have investigated the importance of M cells in translocation using an experimental mouse model and a novel, recently described in vitro coculture system that mimics the follicle-associated epithelium (FAE). Our data demonstrate that L. monocytogenes does not require, nor specifically use, M cells of the FAE to cross the gut. We also show that bacterial translocation is rapid and L. monocytogenes can attach very efficiently to exposed basal lamina of the small intestine indicating an important role for extracellular matrix proteins.
Insights
Listeria monocytogenes bypasses M cells for gut translocation. This food-borne pathogen efficiently attaches to exposed basal lamina, highlighting the role of extracellular matrix proteins in bacterial invasion.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Listeria monocytogenes is a significant food-borne pathogen.
- Pathogen translocation across the intestinal barrier is crucial for infection.
- M cells within the follicle-associated epithelium (FAE) are potential entry points.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of M cells in Listeria monocytogenes translocation.
- To determine if L. monocytogenes specifically utilizes M cells for gut penetration.
- To elucidate the mechanisms of rapid bacterial translocation.
Main Methods:
- Utilized an experimental mouse model for in vivo studies.
- Employed a novel in vitro coculture system mimicking the FAE.
- Observed bacterial attachment and translocation dynamics.
Main Results:
- Listeria monocytogenes does not require M cells for intestinal barrier crossing.
- Bacterial translocation was found to be rapid.
- Efficient attachment of L. monocytogenes to exposed basal lamina was observed.
Conclusions:
- M cells are not essential for L. monocytogenes translocation across the gut.
- Extracellular matrix proteins, particularly basal lamina, play a critical role in bacterial adhesion and invasion.
- The findings suggest alternative pathways for L. monocytogenes intestinal entry.