Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli Infections

AbstractPurpose of ReviewReview recent developments pertaining to the epidemiology, molecular pathogenesis, and sequelae of enterotoxigenicEscherichia coli (ETEC) infections in addition to discussion of challenges for vaccinology.Recent FindingsETEC are a major cause of diarrheal illness in resource poor areas of the world where they contribute to unacceptable morbidity and continued mortality particularly among young children; yet, precise epidemiologic estimates of their contribution to death and chronic disease have been difficult to obtain. Although most pathogenesis studies, and consequently vaccine development have focused intensively on canonical antigens, more recently identified molecules unique to the ETEC pathovar may inform our understanding of ETEC virulence, and the approach to broadly protective vaccines.SummaryETEC undeniably continue to have a substantial impact on global health; however, further studies are needed to clarify the true impact of these infections, particularly in regions where access to care may be limited. Likewise, our present understanding of the relationship of ETEC infection to non-diarrheal sequelae is presently limited, and additional effort will be required to achieve a mechanistic understanding of these diseases and to fulfill Koch ’s postulates on a molecular level. Precise elucidation of the role played by novel virulence factors, the global burden of acute illness, and the contribution of these pathogens and/or their toxins to non...

Source: Current Infectious Disease Reports - March 3, 2019 Category: Infectious Diseases Source Type: research