The Underlying Mechanisms of Bacterial Pathogenicity

Invasiveness: which encompasses mechanisms for colonization (adherence and initial multiplication), ability to bypass or overcome host defence mechanisms, and the production of extracellular substances which facilitate invasion. Toxigenesis: Bacteria produce two types of toxins called exotoxins and endotoxins. Exotoxins: released from bacterial cells and may act at tissue sites removed from the site of bacterial growth. Endotoxins: cell-associated substances that are structural components of the cell walls of Gram-negative bacteria.