Coli surface antigen 6 (CS6) (CS6)

Coli surface antigen 6 (CS6) is a critical colonization factor and surface protein expressed by Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC), most notably the prototype human challenge strain B7A (O148:H28). As a non-fimbrial adhesin, CS6 mediates the attachment of the bacteria to the small intestinal epithelium, which is the essential initial step for toxin delivery and the subsequent development of watery diarrhea. CS6 is among the most prevalent colonization factors globally, making it a cornerstone target for multivalent ETEC vaccines and passive immunotherapies. Current drug development efforts focus on inducing or providing antibodies that block CS6-mediated adherence, thereby preventing infection. Despite its importance, CS6 often exhibits lower immunogenicity compared to other fimbrial antigens, posing a challenge for vaccine design. Targeting this antigen is vital for addressing ETEC-related morbidity in travelers and children in resource-limited settings.

Other names

CS6 antigenB7A surface antigenCssA/CssB complexColonization factor antigen VICFA/VIColi surface antigen 6

Inhibition of bacterial adherence to intestinal epithelial cells