Enterobacterial Common Antigen: Synthesis and Function of an Enigmatic Molecule
Ashutosh Kumar, Angela M. Mitchell
Abstract
) is located in the periplasm. Awareness of the importance of ECA has increased due to studies of its function that show it plays a vital role in bacterial physiology and interaction with the environment. Here, we review the discovery of ECA, the pathways for the biosynthesis of ECA, and the interactions of its various forms. In addition, we consider the role of ECA in the host immune response, as well as its potential roles in host-pathogen interaction. Furthermore, we explore recent work that offers insights into the cellular function of ECA. This review provides a glimpse of the biological significance of this enigmatic molecule.
Topics & Concepts
BiogenesisBacteriaBacterial outer membraneMicrobiologyAntigenBacterial cell structurePathogenic bacteriaGram-negative bacteriaFunction (biology)BiologyEscherichia coliChemistryCell biologyGeneticsGeneAntibiotic Resistance in BacteriaEscherichia coli research studiesBacterial Genetics and Biotechnology