Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 15, 2026

In Vitro Apical-Out Enteroid Model of Necrotizing Enterocolitis
Published on: June 8, 2022
Modulatory mechanisms of enterocyte apoptosis by viral, bacterial and parasitic pathogens
1Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary , Calgary, AL , Canada.
Abstract:
Enterocyte turnover along with proper epithelial barrier function are crucial aspects of mucosal defense. Apoptosis is a highly regulated type of programmed cell death that allows for the homeostatic turnover of the epithelial layer. Recent studies have suggested that microbial modulation of enterocyte apoptosis can result in increased epithelial permeability, leading to gastrointestinal pathophysiology. In this review, we highlight key mechanisms and pathways via which various viral, bacterial and parasitic pathogens are able to modulate enterocyte apoptosis. We also discuss how these alterations to enterocyte apoptosis can result in the activation of chronic gastrointestinal disorders, such as allergies, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The role of proteinase-activated receptors in the pathogenesis of modulated apoptosis-induced pathogenesis is also discussed. Newly discovered processes, through which host epithelial cells may have evolved, rescue mechanisms from microbe-induced apoptosis are discussed. Together, these mechanisms are key to our ever-increasing understanding of host-microbe interactions in the gut.
More Related Videos
08:01Live Calcium Imaging of Virus-Infected Human Intestinal Organoid Monolayers Using Genetically Encoded Calcium Indicators
Published on: January 19, 2024
08:51Applying an Inducible Expression System to Study Interference of Bacterial Virulence Factors with Intracellular Signaling
Published on: June 25, 2015
Related Concept Videos
Regulation of Bacterial Virulence
Bacterial Gastroenteritis
The Extrinsic Apoptotic Pathway
Phagocytosis of Apoptotic Cells
Normal cells contain receptors that prevent them from being recognized by phagocytes.
Cellular Injury V: Apoptosis and Autophagy
Overview of Cell Death
Cell death was observed in the early 19th century, but there was no experimental evidence to prove it. In 1842, Carl Vogt first discovered cell death in a metamorphic toad; however, it was not termed ‘cell death.’ Scientists discovered different cell death pathways only in the 20th century...