Bacterial Diseases: Gram-negative Enterics

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and important concepts related to Gram-negative enteric bacterial pathogens as discussed in the lecture.

Enteric

Relating to or occurring in the intestines.

Virulence Factors

Molecules produced by pathogens that contribute to the ability to cause disease.

Type IV Pili

Specialized pili that act as grappling hooks to tether bacterial cells to host cells.

EIEC

Enteroinvasive E. coli, an invasive strain that causes inflammation and bloody diarrhea.

EHEC

Enterohemorrhagic E. coli, a dangerous pathogen known for severe diarrhea and systemic complications.

Shiga Toxins

AB toxins that cleave host ribosomal RNA to halt protein synthesis, leading to cell death.

Cholera Toxin

A toxin released by Vibrio cholerae that induces secretion of electrolytes and water, causing severe diarrhea.

Urease

An enzyme produced by Helicobacter pylori that protects it from stomach acid and raises pH.

Fecal-Oral Route

A method of transmission for enteric pathogens, where pathogens are spread via contaminated food or water.

Phagocytosis

The process by which cells engulf particles or other cells, often used by immune cells to capture pathogens.