E. Coli - Genomics, Evolution and Pathogenesis (Electronic book text)

Description
Although most strains of "E. coli" bacteria are harmless and live in the intestines of healthy humans and animals, several strains can produce powerful toxins and cause severe illness in humans. This versatile pathogen is best known for being transmitted to humans through contaminated foods OCo such as undercooked meat and unpasteurized fruit juice OCo and has attracts much attention when serious outbreaks occur.
Importance of Topic
"E. coli" is capable of causing a wide variety of diseases OCo from urinary tract infections to meningitis. A considerable amount of media coverage has recently been devoted to one particular strain of "E. coli," responsible for an estimated 73,000 cases of infection and 61 deaths in the United States each year. Knowing more about the biology, the evolution, and the genetic basis of this pathogen is crucial to future prevention of infection and illness.
Why This Title
Pathogenic "E. coli" is a unique, comprehensive analysis of the biology and molecular mechanisms that enable this ubiquitous organism to thrive. Leading investigators in the field discuss the molecular basis of "E. coli" pathogenesis followed by chapters on genomics and evolution. Detailed descriptions of distinct strains reveal the molecular pathogenesis of each and the causes of intestinal and extra-intestinal infections in humans. Pathogenic "E. coli" concludes with a presentation of virulance factors, common to two or more pathotypes. This unique collection presents timely and vital information on understanding the inner workings of "E. coli," which will lend key insights into disease prevention research.
Key Features
* Single source of information of "E. coli" pathogenesis
* Expert authors
* Comprehensive coverage
* Molecular mechanisms
* Biology, evolution and genomics
* Recent advances"