Autotransporter proteins of enterohemorrhagic E. coli O157:H7 (2010-2012)
Abstract
E. coli O157:H7 is an emerging human pathogen that can cause gastrointestinal disease with the potential for life-threatening sequelae. The aim of this research is to understand the regulatory, functional and structural properties of a group of cell-surface-located autotransporter proteins from E. coli O157:H7 and determine their contribution to the colonization of animal hosts and biofilm formation. This work may identify novel mechanisms by which E. coli O157:H7 colonise cattle and persist in the environment. The outcomes may guide the future development of vaccines aimed at preventing the asymptomatic carriage of E. coli O157:H7 by cattle.
