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Analysis of Yersinia enterocolitica Effector Translocation into Host Cells Using Beta-lactamase Effector Fusions
Published on: October 13, 2015
Yersinia virulence: more than a plasmid.
1Department of Molecular Microbiology and Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Ave, Campus Box 8208, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
FEMS Microbiology Letters
|December 26, 2001
Summary
This review details chromosomally encoded virulence factors (CEVF) in pathogenic Yersinia species. It explores their roles in diseases like plague and gastroenteritis, and proposes a model for Yersinia enterocolitica pathogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Pathogenesis research
Background:
- The genus Yersinia includes 11 species, with three being significant human pathogens: Yersinia pestis, Yersinia enterocolitica, and Yersinia pseudotuberculosis.
- These pathogens cause diverse diseases, including pneumonic plague and acute gastroenteritis.
- Full virulence in these Yersinia species depends on a large, well-defined plasmid and numerous chromosomally encoded virulence factors (CEVF).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the chromosomally encoded virulence factors (CEVF) in pathogenic Yersinia species.
- To elucidate the specific roles of CEVF in bacterial virulence.
- To propose a model for key events in Yersinia enterocolitica pathogenesis based on CEVF analysis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing research on Yersinia virulence factors.
- Analysis of chromosomally encoded virulence factors (CEVF) and their functions.
- Synthesis of information to develop a pathogenetic model for Yersinia enterocolitica.
Main Results:
- Identification and description of various chromosomally encoded virulence factors (CEVF) in pathogenic Yersinia.
- Elucidation of the contribution of these CEVF to the virulence of Yersinia pestis, Yersinia enterocolitica, and Yersinia pseudotuberculosis.
- Development of a proposed model for Yersinia enterocolitica pathogenesis.
Conclusions:
- Chromosomally encoded virulence factors (CEVF) are essential for the pathogenicity of Yersinia species, complementing plasmid-encoded factors.
- Understanding CEVF is crucial for comprehending the spectrum of diseases caused by Yersinia.
- The proposed model offers insights into the intricate mechanisms of Yersinia enterocolitica infection.
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