Pathogen adhesion sites on mucosal surfaces

Pathogen adhesion sites on mucosal surfaces refer to molecular structures, most commonly specific glycoproteins (such as mucins), oligosaccharide residues, or occasionally membrane proteins, displayed on the apical surfaces of mucosal epithelial cells that serve as binding sites for pathogenic microorganisms. These sites are critical for the initial step of infection, since many pathogens require attachment to the epithelium to colonize, evade clearance, or invade underlying tissues. The composition and glycosylation patterns of mucosal surfaces determine susceptibility to specific infections and are under dynamic regulation by both host factors and the resident microbiota. Multiple pathogens have evolved adhesin proteins that recognize and bind to these sites; disruption or modification of these adhesion processes is a key strategy for anti-infective therapeutics and mucosal vaccine development.

Other names

pathogen adhesion molecule on mucosamucosal pathogen receptormicrobial adhesion site on mucosa

Blocking pathogen-host adhesion (anti-adhesion therapy), enhancing competitive exclusion via probiotics, antibody-mediated agglutination