Deadly syringes: type VI secretion system activities in pathogenicity and interbacterial competition
Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 15, 2026

A Visual Assay to Monitor T6SS-mediated Bacterial Competition
Published on: March 20, 2013
1Center for Molecular Biology of the University of Heidelberg and German Cancer Research Center, DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, Universität Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 282, Heidelberg D-69120, Germany.
Abstract:
Among specialized bacterial secretion systems, the most widespread is the type VI secretion system (T6SS). This transports effector molecules into target cells in a single, cell-contact dependent step. T6SSs are structurally related to the cell-puncturing device of tailed bacteriophages and predicted to function as contractile injection machineries that perforate eukaryotic and prokaryotic target membranes for effector delivery. Activities of T6SSs can play important roles in virulence by modifying the eukaryotic host cytoskeleton through actin crosslinking. They are also efficient weaponry in interbacterial warfare and provide a fitness advantage by hydrolyzing cell walls of opponent bacteria. The role of T6SSs in interbacterial competition might enable pathogens to outcompete commensal bacteria and facilitate host colonization.
Related Concept Videos
Gram-negative Bacterial Protein Secretion Systems
Regulation of Bacterial Virulence
Bacterial Toxins
Gene Regulation in Microbial Communities: Quorum Sensing
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...
Colonisation of Pathogens

