Lipopolysaccharide modification in Gram-negative bacteria during chronic infection

The Gram-negative bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a major component of the outer membrane that plays a key role in host-pathogen interactions with the innate immune system. During infection, bacteria are exposed to a host environment that is typically dominated by inflammatory cells and soluble factors, including antibiotics, which provide cues about regulation of gene expression. Bacterial adaptive changes including modulation of LPS synthesis and structure are a conserved theme in infections, irrespective of the type or bacteria or the site of infection. In general, these changes result in immune system evasion, persisting inflammation and increased antimicrobial resistance. Here, we review the…

• CF
  Cystic Fibrosis Canada
• CF
  Cystic Fibrosis Trust
• IF
  Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences

  Awards: UID/BIO/04565/2013, 007317
• CI
  Canadian Institutes of Health Research
• FP
  Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia

  Awards: UID/BIO/04565/2013, 007317, SFRH/BD/84233/2012