Virulence Factors of Bacterial Pathogens

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to the virulence factors of bacterial pathogens and their mechanisms of disease.

Pathogenesis

The process by which a pathogen causes disease, typically involving four stages: exposure, adhesion, invasion, and infection.

Adhesin

A protein or glycoprotein on the surface of a pathogen that attaches to receptors on the host cell.

Fimbriation

The process by which bacteria use fimbriae (pili) for colonization and adhesion to host tissues.

Hyaluronidase

An enzyme produced by some pathogens that degrades hyaluronic acid, facilitating tissue invasion.

Collagenase

An exoenzyme that breaks down collagen, allowing pathogenic bacteria to invade tissues or gain access to blood vessels.

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)

A molecule found in the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, acting as an endotoxin that can provoke strong immune responses.

Exotoxin

A toxic protein secreted by bacteria, often with specific effects on host cells.

Antigenic Variation

The process by which pathogens alter surface proteins to evade host immune recognition.

Biofilm

A complex aggregate of microorganisms adhering to surfaces, encased in a protective extracellular polymeric substance.

Quorum Sensing

Cell-to-cell communication in bacteria that involves the release of signaling molecules, regulating gene expression in response to population density.