Cord factor
Cord Factor
Cord factor (pronunciation: /kɔːrd ˈfæktər/) is a virulence factor associated with certain pathogenic bacteria, notably Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Mycobacterium bovis. It is a glycolipid found on the cell wall of these bacteria and is responsible for the serpentine cord-like appearance of these bacteria when viewed under a microscope.
Etymology
The term "cord factor" is derived from the cord-like appearance of the bacteria when they are stained and viewed under a microscope. This appearance is due to the presence of the cord factor on the bacterial cell wall.
Function
Cord factor plays a crucial role in the virulence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Mycobacterium bovis. It inhibits the fusion of phagosome and lysosome in the host cell, thereby preventing the destruction of the bacteria by the host's immune system. It also induces the release of tumor necrosis factor from the host cell, which can lead to tissue damage.
Related Terms
- Mycobacterium tuberculosis: A species of bacteria that causes tuberculosis in humans.
- Mycobacterium bovis: A species of bacteria that causes tuberculosis in cattle and other animals.
- Phagosome: A vesicle formed around a particle engulfed by a phagocyte during phagocytosis.
- Lysosome: An organelle in the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells containing degradative enzymes enclosed in a membrane.
- Tumor necrosis factor: A cell signaling protein involved in systemic inflammation and is one of the cytokines that make up the acute phase reaction.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Cord factor
- Wikipedia's article - Cord factor
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