Colonization factor antigen I major subunit CfaB (CfaB)

Colonization factor antigen I major subunit CfaB is the primary structural component of the CFA/I fimbriae, which are hair-like appendages on the surface of enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC). These fimbriae are essential for the bacteria to adhere to the mucosal surface of the human small intestine, a critical first step in the pathogenesis of ETEC-mediated diarrhea. CfaB molecules polymerize to form the fimbrial stalk, and studies have shown that CfaB itself possesses glycosphingolipid-binding properties that contribute to host cell attachment. ETEC is a leading cause of moderate-to-severe diarrhea in children in low-income countries and the most frequent cause of traveler's diarrhea worldwide. Because CfaB is highly prevalent and necessary for colonization, it is a major target for vaccine development, including subunit vaccines and multiepitope fusion antigens. Experimental vaccines targeting CfaB aim to induce neutralizing antibodies that block bacterial adhesion, thereby preventing infection and the subsequent release of enterotoxins.

Other names

CFA/I major subunitCfaB proteinMajor pilin subunit CfaBColonization factor antigen 1 major subunitFimbrial protein CfaB

Inhibition of bacterial adhesion to intestinal epithelium; induction of neutralizing mucosal and systemic antibodies