Human gut epithelial cell surface via Type III secretion system

The human gut epithelial cell surface is the primary interface targeted by many bacterial pathogens that possess a type III secretion system (T3SS). The T3SS is a needle-like protein apparatus produced by pathogens such as Yersinia, Salmonella, Shigella, enteropathogenic and enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli, and Vibrio parahaemolyticus. These bacteria attach to and inject effector proteins directly into gut epithelial cells, leading to the disruption of the epithelial barrier, manipulation of intracellular signaling pathways, modulation of the immune response, and facilitation of bacterial colonization and pathogenesis. The "target" in this context is not a single protein or defined molecular receptor, but the surface of the gut epithelial cells as accessed by the T3SS. This entry is best marked as an incorrect target for the purposes of typical drug target lists, as it denotes a tissue region/process rather than a defined molecular entity. The T3SS mechanism targets the gut epithelial cell surface, but this "target" is not a well-defined therapeutic target such as a receptor or enzyme. The actual "drug targets" in this context are usually either bacterial T3SS components (to inhibit secretion) or specific injected effector proteins—not the gut epithelial cell surface itself. Bacterial pathogens use T3SS to alter epithelial function, resulting in outcomes such as increased gut permeability, inflammation, and, potentially, chronic disease if the barrier is compromised.

Other names

Type III secretion system host cell targetIntestinal epithelium (as a general cell layer)