Mechanisms in the pathogenesis of enteric diseases

The topics include the epidemiology and pathobiology of enteric diseases, mechanisms of identity and interaction between host and pathogen, effector mechanisms in the pathogenesis and regulation of pathogenic activity in enteric diseases, and novel approaches to the prevention and therapy of enteric diseases. Diarrheal diseases caused by bacteria, viruses, and protozoa are among the most common diseases of animals and humans. They have also been among the most resistant diseases to prevent. Progress in the management of one disease is frequently overshadowed by the emergence of a new, more challenging enteric disease problem. The zoonotic character of many enteric pathogens links veterinary and medical concerns. At least five enteropathogens, Campylobacter jejuni, non-typhoid Salmonella, Escherichia coli O157:H7, Clostridium perfringens, and Cryptosporidium parvum, shed in the feces of pigs, cattle, and/or poultry, are important causes of diarrhea in human beings. Substantial progress in the control of enteric pathogens will require greater understanding of the mechanisms by which these organisms cause disease, elucidation of environments that favor their proliferation, and clarification of natural host defenses against them. The advances in knowledge presented here will help lead to the development of novel and innovative approaches to prevention and therapy, as well as to improvements to conventional treatments.