Bacterial adhesin and fimbriae

Bacterial fimbriae (pili) are proteinaceous appendages that mediate the attachment of bacteria to host tissues, a critical first step in the establishment of infection (Sauer et al., 2019, Nature Communications). In the urinary tract, uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) utilize Type 1 fimbriae, specifically the FimH adhesin, to bind mannosylated uroplakins on bladder epithelial cells (Spaulding et al., 2017, Nature). Similarly, P-fimbriae (utilizing the PapG adhesin) facilitate binding to galabiose-containing receptors in the kidneys, which is a key factor in the development of pyelonephritis (Wullt et al., 2000, Journal of Infectious Diseases). In the oral cavity, fimbriae from pathogens such as Porphyromonas gingivalis are essential for adhering to the oral mucosa and forming complex biofilms, which are central to the pathogenesis of periodontitis and dental caries (Nagano et al., 2012, Journal of Oral Biosciences). Therapeutic targeting of these adhesion interfaces involves the use of "anti-adhesins"—small molecules or carbohydrate mimetics that competitively inhibit the binding of bacterial adhesins to host receptors (Ofek et al., 2003, FEMS Immunology & Medical Microbiology). For example, D-mannose and synthetic mannosides like GSK3882347 target FimH to prevent or treat urinary tract infections (Sauer et al., 2019). This approach is particularly attractive as it exerts less selective pressure for resistance compared to traditional bactericidal antibiotics because it targets colonization rather than bacterial viability (Cusumano et al., 2011, Science Translational Medicine).

Other names

Bacterial piliBacterial fimbriaeBacterial adhesinsFimHPapGFimAAttachment piliBacterial lectinsAdhesion interfaces

Competitive inhibition of bacterial adhesins (e.g., FimH, PapG) binding to specific carbohydrate or protein receptors on host mucous membranes, thereby preventing bacterial colonization and biofilm formation.