Type IV Secretion in Gram-Negative and Gram-Positive Bacteria

T4SSs are membrane-associated transporter machines used by bacteria to deliver substrate molecules to target cells, enhancing our understanding of bacterial colonization and disease development.

Format: Hardback
Length: 345 pages
Publication date: 23 March 2018
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

Type IV secretion systems (T4SSs) are remarkable membrane-associated transporter machines employed by both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria to transport substrate molecules to a diverse range of target cells. This comprehensive volume provides a summary of our current understanding of the extensive variety and structural diversity of T4SSs found in pathogenic Escherichia,Agrobacterium,Legionella,Coxiella,Bartonella,Helicobacter,Enterococcus, and other species. Organized into 13 chapters authored by esteemed experts, it presents groundbreaking findings that significantly expand our knowledge of how various pathogens manipulate host cell functions to initiate bacterial uptake, promote intracellular growth, suppress defensive mechanisms, and facilitate the spread of antibiotic resistances. This book serves as an invaluable resource for researchers and clinicians alike.

T4SSs are essential molecular machines found in a wide range of bacteria, including both Gram-negative and Gram-positive species. These systems play a crucial role in the virulence and adaptability of these organisms by facilitating the transport of various substrates across cell membranes.

One of the most notable features of T4SSs is their structural diversity. These systems can be classified into different types based on their structure, mechanism of substrate transport, and the target cells they interact with. For example, type I T4SSs are composed of a single protein complex that spans the cell membrane, while type II T4SSs are more complex and involve multiple protein subunits.

T4SSs are also highly versatile in terms of their substrate transport capabilities. They can transport a wide range of molecules, including proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids. This versatility allows bacteria to adapt to different environmental conditions and exploit host cell resources effectively.

One of the key roles of T4SSs in pathogenic bacteria is their involvement in the invasion and colonization of host cells. These systems are used to inject bacterial proteins and other molecules into the host cell cytoplasm, where they can evade the host's immune system and establish a persistent infection.

T4SSs are also involved in the promotion of intracellular growth and the suppression of host defense mechanisms. By transporting specific proteins and other molecules into the host cell, bacteria can manipulate host cell functions and promote their own growth and survival.

Furthermore, T4SSs play a significant role in the spread of antibiotic resistances. Bacteria can acquire and disseminate antibiotic resistance genes through these systems, which can then be transferred to other bacteria and contribute to the development of multidrug-resistant infections.

Despite the importance of T4SSs in bacterial pathogenesis, our understanding of these systems is still limited. Many questions remain unanswered, such as how bacteria regulate the expression and activity of T4SSs, how they target specific host cells, and how they adapt to changing environmental conditions.

To address these questions, ongoing research efforts are focused on studying the structure, function, and regulation of T4SSs in different bacterial species. This research is expected to shed light on the mechanisms by which bacteria evade host defenses, promote their own growth, and contribute to the development of antibiotic resistance.

In conclusion, T4SSs are highly versatile membrane-associated transporter machines that play a crucial role in the virulence and adaptability of bacteria. These systems are involved in a wide range of biological processes, including invasion and colonization, intracellular growth, and the spread of antibiotic resistances. By understanding the structure, function, and regulation of T4SSs, we can gain insights into the mechanisms by which bacteria exploit host cells and contribute to human disease.

Weight: 716g
Dimension: 162 x 244 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783319752402
Edition number: 1st ed. 2017