Mechanisms for the Invasion and Dissemination of Salmonella

Abstract

<i>Salmonella enterica</i> is a gastroenteric Gram-negative bacterium that can infect both humans and animals and causes millions of illnesses per year around the world. <i>Salmonella</i> infections usually occur after the consumption of contaminated food or water. Infections with <i>Salmonella</i> species can cause diseases ranging from enterocolitis to typhoid fever. <i>Salmonella</i> has developed multiple strategies to invade and establish a systemic infection in the host. Different cell types, including epithelial cells, macrophages, dendritic cells, and M cells, are important in the infection process of <i>Salmonella</i>. Dissemination throughout the body and colonization of remote organs are hallmarks of <i>Salmonella</i> infection. There are several routes for the dissemination of <i>Salmonella</i> typhimurium. This review summarizes the current understanding of the infection mechanisms of <i>Salmonella</i>. Additionally, different routes of <i>Salmonella</i> infection will be discussed. In this review, the strategies used by <i>Salmonella</i> enterica to establish persistent infection will be discussed. Understanding both the bacterial and host factors leading to the successful colonization of <i>Salmonella enterica</i> may enable the rational design of effective therapeutic strategies.