Escherichia Coli Mechanisms of Virulence

This comprehensive compilation, written by an authoritative team of international contributors, surveys the role E. coli plays in health and disease. First, the diseases in humans and animals attributable to E. coli are described in general terms, including a discussion of the part it plays in the normal flora of humans and animals. The next section is devoted to each of the recognized virulence factors and mechanisms, including capsules, adhesins, hemolysins, endotoxins and exotoxins, and iron scavenging. The third section covers in detail various diseases and their mechanisms. The final section addresses the host responses to infection and the design of vaccines.