Adhesion factors

Definition

Adhesion factors are molecules that enable pathogens to adhere to host tissues. They play a crucial role in the initial stages of infection and colonization.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Adhesion factors include structures like pili, fimbriae, and surface proteins.
2. They facilitate the attachment of pathogens to specific host cell receptors.
3. Adhesion is often the first step in the infection process, allowing pathogens to resist being washed away by natural fluids.
4. Certain adhesion factors can determine the host specificity and tissue tropism of a pathogen.
5. Mutations or disruptions in adhesion factors can significantly reduce a pathogen's ability to cause disease.

Review Questions

Related terms

Virulence Factors:

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

Pili:

Hair-like appendages on bacterial surfaces that aid in attachment to host cells.

Fimbriae:

Short, bristle-like fibers on bacterial cells used for adherence to surfaces.