Pathogen adhesins and lectins

Pathogen adhesins and lectins are specialized surface molecules, primarily proteins, that mediate the attachment of microorganisms—including bacteria, viruses, and fungi—to host cell surfaces or the extracellular matrix [PubMed: 28257055]. Adhesins often constitute the tips of pili or fimbriae, while lectins are a specific class of adhesins that recognize and bind to complex carbohydrate structures (glycans) on host tissues [PubMed: 29233510]. This molecular recognition is the essential first step for colonization, tissue invasion, and the establishment of infection, as well as the formation of protective biofilms [PubMed: 31515370]. Because these interactions are highly specific, they represent attractive targets for anti-adhesion therapies, which aim to block the initial docking of the pathogen rather than exerting bactericidal or virucidal pressure. Therapeutic strategies include the use of glycomimetics, such as mannosides targeting the FimH adhesin in uropathogenic E. coli, and monoclonal antibodies that neutralize viral attachment proteins [PubMed: 31515370, PubMed: 28257055]. These approaches are particularly valuable in the context of rising antimicrobial resistance, as they may reduce the evolutionary pressure for pathogens to develop traditional resistance mechanisms.

Other names

Microbial adhesinsPathogen-associated lectinsAttachment proteinsColonization factorsAgglutininsViral attachment proteins

Competitive inhibition of pathogen-host binding to prevent colonization and infection.