The obligate intracellular lifestyle

Bacterial pathogens whose development is restricted to the interior of eukaryotic cells encounter a unique set of hurdles to be overcome to enable growth. This issue is dedicated to the examination of the unique infection biology associated with this obligate intracellular existence. Distinct approaches to obligate intracellular parasitism will be covered by considering a range of molecular, cellular, and immunological mechanisms governing the overall success of pathogens including Chlamydia, Coxiella, Rickettsia, and Ehrlichia. The overall goal is to provide insight into both microbial and host mechanisms that enable colonization of a specialized intracellular niche.Bacterial pathogens whose development is restricted to the interior of eukaryotic cells encounter a unique set of hurdles to be overcome to enable growth. This issue is dedicated to the examination of the unique infection biology associated with this obligate intracellular existence. Distinct approaches to obligate intracellular parasitism will be covered by considering a range of molecular, cellular, and immunological mechanisms governing the overall success of pathogens including Chlamydia, Coxiella, Rickettsia, and Ehrlichia. The overall goal is to provide insight into both microbial and host mechanisms that enable colonization of a specialized intracellular niche.