Molecular characterisation of the Salmonella-specific protein PagN

Abstract

Salmonella infect a broad spectrum of animals resulting in host responses ranging from severe disease to asymptomatic carriage. Infection of a host gives rise to symptoms such as fever or self-limiting gastroenteritis. Illness due to Salmonella infection is a serious problem in both developed and developing countries, affecting both humans and animals alike. Central to the ability of Salmonella to cause disease is its capacity to penetrate the intestinal mucosa. Once internalised massive fluid secretion takes place resulting in diarrhoea. The bacteria can cross the basolateral membrane and disseminate around the host body leading to systemic infection. Much work has been carried out investigating the pathogenesis of Salmonella and elucidating the steps involved in disease. Many of the virulence determinants have been identified and characterised.