Virulence factors in bacteria may be encoded on chromosomal DNA, bacteriophage DNA, plasmids, or transposons in either plasmids or the bacterial chromosome (Fig. 7-2; Table 7-2). For example, the capacity of the Shigella species to invade cells is a property encoded in part on a 140-mega-dalton plasmid.
Where are virulence factors found?
Virulence is described as an ability of an organism to infect the host and cause a disease. Virulence factors are the molecules that assist the bacterium colonize the host at the cellular level. These factors are either secretory, membrane associated or cytosolic in nature.
What are the 5 virulence factors?
5: Virulence Factors that Promote Colonization
- The ability to use motility and other means to contact host cells and disseminate within a host.
- The ability to adhere to host cells and resist physical removal.
- The ability to invade host cells.
- The ability to compete for iron and other nutrients.
