Virulence factors of E.Coli

 
Virulence factors of E.Coli

1. Pili: Helps in adherence of organisms to the cells of (jejunum and ileum in case of intestinal tract infection; urinary tract epithelium in case of Urinary Tract Infections).
2. Capsule: Interferes with phagocytosis, main roles in systemic infections.
3. Endotoxin (Lipopolysaccharide): Responsible for several features of gram negative sepsis such as fever, hypotension and disseminated intravascular coagulation.
4. Exotoxins e.g. enterotoxin which act on the cells of jejunum and ileum to cause diarrhea. Other exotoxins are verotoxin, shiga like toxin etc.