About this Research Topic
From early studies of the plague causing agent through to comparatively more recent research defining aspects of the type III secretion mechanism, pathogenic Yersinia have served as an inventive model organism for researchers seeking to understand the complexities of bacteria-host cell interactions. In fact, seminal studies on Yersinia virulence mechanisms contributed to the emergence and recognition of the research field – cellular microbiology. Researching Yersinia infection biology continues to bring to light novel discoveries. Assortments of Yersinia whole genome sequencing projects are providing unparalleled insight into bacterial pathogen evolution and environmental adaptation. This is enabling researchers to identify and define more fascinating virulence and/or survival mechanisms that advance and expand existing perceptions of bacterial-host encounters. Current research is also beginning to bring to light how the pathogenic Yersiniae respond to physicochemical environmental cues to spatially and temporally control their armoury of customized virulence/survival factors. This Research Topic is therefore focused on presenting and summarizing new developments in Yersinia pathogenicity through highlighting cutting-edge studies on the Yersinia-host cell interaction and the network of regulatory control mechanisms that define this outcome. It will also endeavour to address how such findings might influence selection of potential targets for the design and development of anti-Yersinia therapeutic drugs and vaccines, as well as identify translational studies that involve unique and rewarding cooperation between diverse disciplines.
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