Microbial Pathogenesis and the Intestinal Epithelial Cell

The recent increase in food- and waterborne infections has prompted heightened attention to infections of the intestinal tract. While much of the published material has focused on the individual pathogens, a new field of research has emerged over the past decade in which investigations are from the perspective of the host intestinal epithelial cell. This important new volume reviews and analyzes these findings and offers the most comprehensive and up-to-date data on the impact of pathogens upon intestinal host cells. The effects of enteric microbial pathogens on host intestinal epithelial cell function and physiology are examined, as well as the signaling events responsible for these functional consequences. The normal structure and function of the gastrointestinal tract is covered, and several chapters focus on specific microbial pathogens. The volume also examines the results of studies utilizing non-intestinal cell models within the context of findings obtained from model intestinal epithelial systems. Relevant physiological endpoints are emphasized.