The rapid turnover and exfoliation of mucosal epithelial cells provides an innate defence system against bacterial infection. The Shigella virulence factor OspE, which is highly conserved among some other enteropathogenic bacteria, is now shown to target host intergrin-linked kinase, enhancing host cell adherence and thereby preventing the detachment of infected cells.
- Minsoo Kim
- Michinaga Ogawa
- Chihiro Sasakawa
