Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 13, 2026

Non-invasive Imaging of the Innate Immune Response in a Zebrafish Larval Model of Streptococcus iniae Infection
Published on: April 21, 2015
Yersinia's stratagem: targeting innate and adaptive immune defense
Jürgen Heesemann1, Andreas Sing, Konrad Trülzsch
1Max von Pettenkofer-Institut, Pettenkoferstrasse 9 a, D-80336 Muenchen, Germany. Heesemann@m3401.mpk.med.uni-muenchen.de
Abstract:
In contrast to Salmonella and Shigella, enteropathogenic Yersinia species are extracellular multiplying Gram-negative bacteria. This life style requires a sophisticated anti-host strategy, which is implemented by the Yersinia virulence plasmid. This plasmid encodes the type 3 secretion system (injectisome), at least six microinjected anti-host effector proteins, a trimeric coiled coil outer membrane protein (Yersinia adhesin) with cell adhesin and protective functions against complement and defensins, and the released V antigen, which has Toll-like receptor 2 agonist activity.
Related Concept Videos
Defense Against Bacterial Pathogens
Phagocytes
Phagocytes are the frontline soldiers of the immune system. They include neutrophils and macrophages. Neutrophils are the most abundant type of white blood cell and are quickly mobilized to the site of infection. Macrophages are larger cells that patrol...
Introduction to Innate and Adaptive Immunity
Innate immunity is the body's natural, nonspecific defense system that acts quickly to protect against pathogens. It incorporates physical barriers like skin and mucous membranes and cellular elements such as phagocytes and natural killer cells. This part of our immune system provides an immediate,...
Cells of the Innate Immune Response
Phagocytes
Phagocytes police the peripheral tissues by removing cellular debris and responding to the invasion of foreign substances or pathogens. Many phagocytes attack and remove microorganisms even before lymphocytes detect them. The human body has two general...
Defense Mechanism Against Infection
In addition, many body organ systems have unique defenses against infection. The skin is an intact, multilayered surface preventing invasion by microorganisms unless impaired. Mucous membranes lining the mouth, nose, and eyelids are barriers...
Inhibitors of Viral Protein Synthesis
Determinants of Bacterial Pathogenicity and Virulence

