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Attachment of Streptococcus pneumoniae to human pharyngeal epithelial cells
1Department of Clinical Immunology, University of Göteborg, Sweden.
Abstract:
Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae are major respiratory pathogens. They attach to the mucosal surfaces of the respiratory tract. This attachment is the first contact with the host tissues and may determine whether the bacteria will colonize the mucosa and cause infection. Conversely, if attachment is inhibited, the infection may be prevented. Our studies have defined the mechanisms of pneumococcal attachment as a specific interaction between bacterial proteins and epithelial cell glycoconjugates. The free oligosaccharide blocks adhesion. So does human milk, which contains the receptor oligosaccharides. The accessibility of receptors is likely to be influenced by secreted substances like mucins, surfactant, etc. The effect of such components has not been evaluated. Ambroxol, bromhexin, as well as secretions from individuals treated with the substances may have such activity.
Insights
Bacterial attachment to respiratory tract surfaces is key for infection. Inhibiting this adhesion, potentially with substances like ambroxol, could prevent infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Respiratory Medicine
Background:
- Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae are significant bacterial pathogens causing respiratory tract infections.
- Bacterial attachment to mucosal surfaces is a critical initial step in colonization and subsequent infection.
- Understanding adhesion mechanisms is vital for developing strategies to prevent respiratory infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mechanisms of bacterial attachment to respiratory epithelial cells.
- To explore the role of epithelial cell glycoconjugates as receptors for bacterial adhesion.
- To evaluate the potential of inhibiting bacterial attachment as a preventive measure against respiratory infections.
Main Methods:
- Characterization of specific interactions between bacterial adhesins and host cell glycoconjugates.
- Assessment of the inhibitory effects of free oligosaccharides and human milk on bacterial adhesion.
- Exploration of the influence of secreted substances like mucins and surfactant on receptor accessibility.
Main Results:
- Bacterial attachment involves specific interactions between bacterial proteins and epithelial cell glycoconjugates.
- Free oligosaccharides and human milk, containing receptor oligosaccharides, were found to block bacterial adhesion.
- The accessibility of bacterial receptors is likely modulated by secreted substances, an effect not previously evaluated.
Conclusions:
- Inhibiting the attachment of Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae to respiratory mucosa is a potential strategy for infection prevention.
- Further research is warranted to evaluate the activity of secreted substances, including ambroxol and bromhexin, in modulating bacterial adhesion.