Pathogenicity Factors and Interaction of the Plague Pathogen with the Organism of Warm-Blooded Carriers
https://doi.org/10.21055/0370-1069-2025-3-37-48
Abstract
This paper presents a review of modern domestic and foreign studies on the interaction of the plague pathogen with warm-blooded animals and humans. The molecular basis of the ability of Yersinia pestis to evade and suppress factors of innate and adaptive immunity is considered. Information on the main pathogenicity factors acting at different stages of the disease is provided. The role of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and the pH6 antigen in evading the host’s immune system at an early stage of infection development is noted, as well as the ability of the plague pathogen to overcome the bactericidal action of serum and reproduce under conditions of iron deficiency. The molecular mechanisms of the pathogen’s counteraction to phagocytosis, the ability to reproduce inside macrophages and express virulence factors, as well as the participation of Ail, Pla adhesins and fraction 1 and pH6 antigens in this process are discussed. The role of the type 3 secretion system as the leading virulence factor of Y. pestis is emphasized. The pleiotropic functions of the effector proteins of the type 3 secretion system are shown. They contribute to the slowing down of phagocytosis or disabling its mechanism, inhibition of signaling pathways of the innate immune system, suppression of inflammatory reactions of the host organism. The ability of Y. pestis to suppress the adaptive immune response through the effect on dendritic cells and T-lymphocytes is discussed. The leading role of LPS in the development of toxic shock in case of plague is noted.
About the Authors
G. A. Eroshenko
Russian Research Anti-Plague Institute “Microbe”
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
46, Universitetskaya St., Saratov, 410005
L. M. Kukleva
Russian Research Anti-Plague Institute “Microbe”
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
46, Universitetskaya St., Saratov, 410005
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For citations:
Eroshenko G.A., Kukleva L.M. Pathogenicity Factors and Interaction of the Plague Pathogen with the Organism of Warm-Blooded Carriers. Problems of Particularly Dangerous Infections. 2025;(3):37-48. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.21055/0370-1069-2025-3-37-48
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