Type 1 pilus adhesin FimH (FimH)

Type 1 pilus adhesin FimH is a lectin protein located at the distal tip of Type 1 fimbriae in uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) and other Enterobacteriaceae [1]. Its primary biological function is to mediate the specific attachment of bacteria to mannosylated glycoproteins, such as uroplakin Ia, which are highly expressed on the surface of uroepithelial cells [2]. This adhesion process is a critical initial step in the pathogenesis of urinary tract infections (UTIs), as it prevents the mechanical clearance of bacteria by urine flow and facilitates the invasion of host cells [3]. Once internalized, the bacteria can form intracellular bacterial communities (IBCs), which serve as reservoirs for recurrent infections and provide protection against the host immune system and antibiotics [4]. FimH is considered a high-priority therapeutic target for "anti-adhesion" therapy, a strategy aimed at preventing infection without killing the bacteria, thereby reducing the selective pressure for antibiotic resistance [5]. Small-molecule antagonists, particularly mannoside derivatives like Sibofimloc and GSK3882347, are designed to competitively bind the FimH lectin domain, effectively blocking bacterial attachment to the bladder wall [6].

Other names

FimH proteinType 1 fimbrial adhesinMannose-binding adhesinUropathogenic Escherichia coli adhesin

Competitive inhibition of the FimH lectin domain to prevent bacterial attachment to mannosylated host receptors.