Pathogenicity & virulence of.

Abstract

: is the etiological agent of porcine enzootic pneumonia (EP), a disease that impacts the swine industry worldwide. Pathogen-induced damage, as well as the elicited host-response, contribute to disease. Here, we provide an overview of EP epidemiology, control and prevention, and a more in-depth review ofpathogenicity determinants, highlighting some molecular mechanisms of pathogen-host interactions relevant for pathogenesis. Based on recent functional, immunological, and comparative "omics" results, we discuss the roles of many known or putativevirulence factors, along with host molecules involved in EP. Moreover, the known molecular bases of pathogenicity mechanisms, includingadhesion to host respiratory epithelium, protein secretion, cell damage, host microbicidal response and its modulation, and maintenance ofhomeostasis during infection are described. Recent findings regardingpathogenicity determinants also contribute to the development of novel diagnostic tests, vaccines, and treatments for EP.