Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 10, 2026

Using a Bacterial Pathogen to Probe for Cellular and Organismic-level Host Responses
Published on: February 22, 2019
Genetic regulation of host resistance to bacterial infection
Abstract:
Genetic analysis of host resistance to microbes represents a valuable tool for studies of the pathogenesis of infection. Marked intraspecies differences in resistance or susceptibility among inbred mice are invariably the result of a particular genetic makeup of the host. Appropriate breeding experiments can be designed for the study of the mode of inheritance and of the chromosomal location of the resistance genes. Phenotypic expression of such genetic control can formally be proven by analysis of the linkage of the traits of resistance or susceptibility to their candidate cellular and molecular mechanisms in segregating progeny and in recombinant, mutant, and congenic inbred strains. By division of the course of infection into discrete phases, the genetic control of multiple steps of host response becomes apparent and can be analyzed.
Related Concept Videos
Factors Affecting the Risk of Infection
The integrity and count of the white blood cells help the body resist pathogens and fight infection. When impaired, it reduces the body's resistance to pathogens. The acidic pH levels of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary tracts, and skin create...
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...
Gene Regulation in Microbial Communities: Quorum Sensing
Development of Antibiotic Resistance
Microbiota Modulation by Antibiotics
Regulation of Bacterial Virulence

