Objectives for Bacterial Pathogenesis: Factors that Promote Conization of the Host

Learning Objectives for "Bacterial Pathogenesis: Factors that Promote Colonization of the Host
2. The Ability to Adhere to Host Cells"

After completing this section you should be able to perform the following objectives.

1.** Briefly describe 3 different mechanisms by which bacteria can adhere to host cells and colonize. State why it is important to adhere to host cells and name 2 bacteria that utilize each mechanism and name an infection each bacterium causes.

2. State an advantage for bacteria in being able to switch the adhesive tips of their pili.

3. Define biofilm and state 5 benefits associated with bacteria living as a community within a biofilm.

4.** Briefly describe how Pseudomonas aeruginosa uses flagella, pili, adhesins, quorum sensing, and biofilm formation to colonize the body and disseminate to new locations within the body.

Highlighted Bacterium

1. Read the description of Neisseria memingitidis and match the bacterium with the description of the organism and the infection it causes.

Think-Pair-Share Questions

Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a common cause of serious respiratory infections on people with cystic fibrosis, produces a single polar flagellum, is able to produce both pili and cell wall adhesins, is capable of quorum sensing, and can secrete a polysaccharide slime composed of alginate.

How could each of these factors contribute to the bacterium's pathogenosis and in what order might they be used?

(*) or (**) = possible discussion question

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