Bundle-forming pilus retraction enhances enteropathogenic Escherichia coli infectivity

摘要

Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) and other pathogenic bacteria use dynamic type IV pili to adhere to the host. Here we show that the capacity of the EPEC type IV pili to retract is required for the breakdown of the host epithelial tight-junction barrier, efficient actin-pedestal formation, and translocation of effectors via the type III secretion system.