Host Factors Involved in Listeria Monocytogenes Spread from Cell to Cell

Various intracellular pathogens have evolved the ability to manipulate host cell processes in order to spread from infected cells into the neighboring cells. Most of he host factors contributing to the cell-to-cell spread of pathogens are unknown. <P> In this proposal, we present our plans to develop the first genetic approach of its kind to uncover these host factors. The proposed approach will contribute to our general understanding of the mechanisms underlying microbial pathogenesis and may therefore constitute the foundation for the rational design of preventive and therapeutic interventions.