Antimicrobials: targeting virulence genes necessary for intracellular multiplication.
Intracellular bacteria constitute a major class of pathogens for humans and animals. Their pathogenicity is linked to their ability to multiply inside a host cell. A set of virulence genes (virulome) is required for this intracellular lifestyle. Recent studies have shown that blocking the enzymes encoded by these virulence genes impairs intracellular multiplication of the pathogen. These specific factors could constitute a new set of possible targets for antimicrobial drugs. The potential advantages, pitfalls and challenges of a strategy that targets these virulence factors are discussed.
INSERM U-431, Université Montpellier 2, F34095 Montpellier, France. liautard@univ-montp2.fr
Jean-Pierre
JP
Liautard
Véronique
V
Jubier-Maurin
Rose-Anne
RA
Boigegrain
Stephan
S
Köhler
D000818:Animals; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000494:pharmacology*; D001419:Bacteria / Q000201:enzymology / Q000235:genetics* / Q000254:growth & development / Q000472:pathogenicity*; D004791:Enzyme Inhibitors / Q000494:pharmacology*; D006801:Humans; D014774:Virulence / Q000235:genetics; D037521:Virulence Factors / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors / Q000235:genetics
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D004791:Enzyme Inhibitors; D037521:Virulence Factors