Adhesive pili, exotoxins, and capsules are all microbial factors that help them establish infection. These are examples of
Biology · High School · Mon Jan 18 2021
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Adhesive pili, exotoxins, and capsules are examples of "virulence factors." Virulence factors are molecules produced by pathogens (bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa) that add to their effectiveness and enable them to achieve the following:
1. Colonize a niche in the host (this includes adhesion to cells).
2. Invade and exit cells or traverse cellular barriers.
3. Evade or inhibit the immune response.
4. Obtain nutrients from the host.
5. Spread within the host.
The adhesive pili (also known as fimbriae) help bacteria to attach to the host cells, which is an important step in establishing an infection. Exotoxins are toxic substances secreted by bacteria that can damage host cells and tissues and play a direct role in causing diseases. Capsules are gelatinous covers surrounding the cells of some bacteria that protect them from being engulfed by white blood cells and also help in adhesion to surfaces and cells.