Colonization factor antigen I tip adhesin (CfaE)

Colonization factor antigen I tip adhesin, commonly known as CfaE, is a critical surface protein found at the distal end of the CFA/I fimbriae in enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC). It functions as a lectin that specifically recognizes and binds to sialic acid-containing glycoconjugates on the surface of human intestinal epithelial cells, facilitating the initial step of bacterial colonization. Because ETEC is a primary cause of traveler's diarrhea and significant infant morbidity in developing nations, CfaE is a high-priority target for vaccine and antibody development. Therapeutic strategies focus on neutralizing this adhesin to prevent the bacteria from anchoring to the gut wall, thereby inhibiting the delivery of enterotoxins. Current research includes the development of subunit vaccines, such as dCfaE, and monoclonal antibodies designed to provide passive immunity. By blocking CfaE, these interventions aim to reduce the severity and incidence of ETEC-mediated diarrheal disease.

Other names

CfaECFA/I fimbrial subunit EMinor fimbrial subunit CfaEColonization factor antigen 1 tip adhesin

Inhibition of bacterial attachment to host intestinal epithelial cells by blocking the binding of the tip adhesin to its carbohydrate receptors.