Reprint of "Biogenesis and adhesion of type 1 and P pili".

摘要: Abstract Background Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) cause urinary tract infections (UTIs) in approximately 50% of women. These bacteria use type 1 and P pili for host recognition attachment. are assembled by the chaperone-usher pathway pilus biogenesis. Scope review The examines biogenesis adhesion UPEC pili. Particular emphasis is drawn to role outer membrane usher protein. structural properties complete also examined highlight strength functionality final assembly. Major conclusions orchestrates sequential addition subunits a defined order. This process follows subunit-incorporation cycle which consists four steps: recruitment at N-terminal domain, donor-strand exchange with previously subunit, transfer C-terminal domains translocation nascent pilus. Adhesion strengthened quaternary structure their rod sections. endowed spring-like provide mechanical resistance against urine flow. distal adhesins operate differently from one another, targeting receptors specific manner. being therapeutically targeted, efforts prevent growth or adherence described. General significance combination biochemical study has led detailed mechanistic understanding this spanning nano-machine. can now be exploited design novel drugs able inhibit virulence. vital present era resurgent antibiotic resistance. article part Special Issue entitled Structural biochemistry biophysics proteins.