Exploring novel virulence strategies in Escherichia coli

Abstract

Escherichia coli are characterized by harboring both commensal and / or symbiotic strains, as well as strains that are pathogenic to the intestinal and extraintestinal sites of humans and warm-blooded animals. This plurality of behavior is due, on the one hand, to the fact that most of its virulence determinants are encoded in mobile genetic elements and, on the other hand, the extreme permissiveness of E. coli in acquiring DNA via HGT (Horizontal Gene Transfer). Recent reports on the emergence of hybrid strains, that is, strains that combine virulence factors classically associated with specific pathotypes, as well as evidence of E. coli plasticity, demonstrate that there are many gaps to be filled in understanding the pathogenicity of this species. This project aims to advance the knowledge of different E. coli virulence strategies and to exceed the borders currently established in the definition of the different pathotypes. In this sense, we intend to: explore the the role of different adhesins in the interaction of pathogenic E. coli in different cell models, evaluate the implication of toxin-antitoxin systems on virulence and bacterial persistence in the host, study the role of serine proteases in the evasion of the innate immune system and the role of cytokines in modulating the induction of mucus production in infected cells and, finally, the distribution and expression of pathogenicity islands in various E. coli pathotypes. This information may contribute to improved diagnosis, typing, and disease management. (AU)