Adhesins as Targets for Vaccine Development
1999
The Role of Adhesins in Microbial Pathogenesis
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Theresa M. Wizemann, John E. Adamou, Solomon Langermann
Primary Institution: MedImmune, Inc.
Hypothesis
Can adhesins serve as effective targets for vaccine development to prevent bacterial infections?
Conclusion
Vaccination with adhesins can block bacterial infections by preventing colonization and disease.
Supporting Evidence
- Studies show that antibodies against adhesins can block microbial attachment and subsequent disease.
- Vaccination with the FimH adhesin reduced colonization of the bladder mucosa by over 99% in a murine model.
- Antibodies against a single FimH protein can cross-react with over 90% of E. coli strains expressing the FimH adhesin.
Takeaway
Bacteria stick to our bodies using special proteins called adhesins, and vaccines that target these proteins can help stop infections.
Methodology
The review discusses recent advances in the identification and characterization of adhesins and their potential as vaccine targets.
Limitations
The review does not provide specific experimental data or sample sizes for the studies discussed.
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