The application of nanopore sensing utilizing the α-hemolysin pore to probe proteins at single-molecule resolution has expanded rapidly. In some studies protein translocation through the α-hemolysin has been reported. However, there is no direct evidence, as yet, that proteins can translocate the α-hemolysin pore. The biggest challenge to obtaining direct evidence is the lack of a highly sensit...

In an attempt to gain insight into the events that take place during Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae infection, the present study was designed to ascertain the effects of bacterial toxicity on porcine neutrophil functions and viability. Incubation of phagocytes (2 x 10(6)) with opsonized A. pleuropneumoniae 4074 (2 x 10(7) CFU) resulted in phagocytic uptake of less than or equal to 4%. At the s...

Proteus mirabilis, a common agent of nosocomially acquired and catheter-associated bacteriuria, can cause acute pyelonephritis. In ascending infections, bacteria colonize the bladder and ascend the ureters to the proximal tubules of the kidney. We postulate that Proteus species uses the HpmA hemolysin and urease to elicit tissue damage that allows entry of these bacteria into the kidney. To stu...

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is the leading cause of severe bacterial infections in human newborn infants. Advances in streptococcal molecular genetics and refinement of in vitro and in vivo model systems of GBS disease have led to the discovery and characterization of several extracellular virulence factors elaborated by this pathogen. This review summarizes our current understanding of GBS ext...

Members of the family Enterobacteriaceae are major cause nosocomial infections, including approximately 70% gastrointestinal 60% to urinary tract infections (UTIs), and septicemias. Since 1990, members have emerged as predominant pathogens causing UTIs. In this study, we performed phenotypic testing virulence factors in uropathogens. A total 118 uropathogens belonging were isolated from suspect...

AIM To characterize Staphylococcus aureus from clinical and subclinical mastitis and identify virulence factors. MATERIALS AND METHODS Two hundred and two milk samples were collected, 143 from mastitic cattle and buffaloes 94 and 49, respectively, and 59 from apparently healthy cattle and buffaloes 35 and 24, respectively. RESULTS California mastitis test was applied and positive prevalence...

Since its discovery about 50 years ago, Vibrio parahaemolyticus has been implicated as a major cause of foodborne illness around the globe. V. parahaemolyticus is a natural inhabitant of marine waters. Human infections are most commonly associated with the consumption of raw, undercooked or contaminated shellfish. A few individual V. parahaemolyticus virulence factors, including the thermostabl...

INTRODUCTION : Identification of virulence determinants among the clinically isolated microorganisms assumes greater significance in the patient management perspective. Among the hospitalized patients, extremes of age groups (neonatal and geriatric age patients), patients who are debilitated due to other associated medical conditions, patients taking immunosuppressive therapy, and patients unde...