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Updated: Aug 9, 2026

In Vitro Assay of Bacterial Adhesion onto Mammalian Epithelial Cells
Published on: May 16, 2011
Cellular adhesion molecules as targets for bacterial infection
Christof R Hauck1, Franziska Agerer, Petra Muenzner
1Zentrum für Infektionsforschung, Universität Würzburg, Röntgenring 11, D-97070 Würzburg, Germany. christof.hauck@mail.uni-wuerzburg.de
Abstract:
A large number of bacterial pathogens targets cell adhesion molecules to establish an intimate contact with host cells and tissues. Members of the integrin, cadherin and immunoglobulin-related cell adhesion molecule (IgCAM) families are frequently recognized by specific bacterial surface proteins. Binding can trigger bacterial internalization following cytoskeletal rearrangements that are initiated upon receptor clustering. Moreover, signals emanating from the occupied receptors can result in cellular responses such as gene expression events that influence the phenotype of the infected cell. This review will address recent advances in our understanding of bacterial engagement of cellular adhesion molecules by discussing the binding of integrins by Staphylococcus aureus as well as the exploitation of IgCAMs by pathogenic Neisseria species.
Insights
Bacterial pathogens exploit host cell adhesion molecules like integrins and immunoglobulin-related cell adhesion molecules (IgCAMs) to infect cells. This binding can lead to bacterial entry and altered host cell behavior.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Cell Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Bacterial pathogens frequently target host cell adhesion molecules for invasion.
- Integrins, cadherins, and immunoglobulin-related cell adhesion molecules (IgCAMs) are common targets.
- Bacterial binding can trigger host cell internalization and signaling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advances in understanding bacterial adhesion molecule engagement.
- To discuss specific examples of bacterial targeting of integrins and IgCAMs.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent scientific publications.
- Focus on Staphylococcus aureus interaction with integrins.
- Focus on pathogenic Neisseria species interaction with IgCAMs.
Main Results:
- Staphylococcus aureus binds to host cell integrins.
- Pathogenic Neisseria species exploit IgCAMs for host cell interaction.
- Bacterial engagement leads to receptor clustering, cytoskeletal changes, and host cell responses.
Conclusions:
- Bacterial pathogens utilize diverse strategies to engage host cell adhesion molecules.
- Understanding these interactions is crucial for developing novel therapeutic interventions.
- Further research will elucidate the intricate mechanisms of host-pathogen adhesion.
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