Adherence and uptake of Francisella into host cells.
Francisella tularensis is a highly virulent bacterial pathogen that is easily aerosolized and has a low infectious dose. As an intracellular pathogen, entry of Francisella into host cells is critical for its survival and virulence. However, the initial steps of attachment and internalization of Francisella into host cells are not well characterized, and little is known about bacterial factors that promote these processes. This review highlights our current understanding of Francisella attachment and internalization into host cells. In particular, we emphasize the host cell types Francisella has been shown to interact with, as well as specific receptors and signaling processes involved in the internalization process. This review will shed light on gaps in our current understanding and future areas of investigation.
Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology; University of Virginia; Charlottesville, VA USA.
G Brett
GB
Moreau
Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology; University of Virginia; Charlottesville, VA USA; Department of Medicine; Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health; University of Virginia; Charlottesville, VA USA.
Barbara J
BJ
Mann
D000818:Animals; D001422:Bacterial Adhesion; D004705:Endocytosis; D005604:Francisella tularensis / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans
Francisella tularensis; LVS; adherence; attachment; internalization; novicida