invasinlike

Invasin-like proteins are a family of bacterial surface proteins that play a critical role in host cell invasion, particularly in Gram-negative pathogens. These proteins are structurally and functionally analogous to the well-studied *Yersinia* invasin, which facilitates the entry of *Yersinia pseudotuberculosis* and *Yersinia enterocolitica* into eukaryotic cells. Invasin-like proteins typically belong to the autotransporter (AT) family, characterized by a β-barrel domain that spans the outer membrane, a passenger domain exposed on the cell surface, and a short C-terminal signal sequence for translocation.

The primary function of invasin-like proteins is to mediate bacterial adhesion and internalization into host cells via interactions with host cell integrins. Integrins are transmembrane receptors that facilitate cell-extracellular matrix adhesion and signal transduction. By binding to integrin subunits such as β1, invasin-like proteins trigger actin cytoskeleton rearrangements, leading to bacterial uptake via a zipper-like mechanism. This process is essential for bacterial survival within host tissues, evasion of immune responses, and establishment of infection.

Examples of invasin-like proteins include **InvA** from *Salmonella enterica*, which promotes invasion of intestinal epithelial cells, and **Saa** from *Shigella flexneri*, which contributes to bacterial internalization. These proteins often exhibit modular domains that enhance specificity for particular integrin subtypes or additional host receptors. Mutations or deletions in invasin-like genes can impair bacterial virulence, highlighting their importance in pathogenesis.

Invasin-like proteins have been extensively studied as potential vaccine targets and therapeutic candidates. Understanding their mechanisms of action aids in developing strategies to disrupt bacterial invasion, thereby reducing infection severity. Research continues to explore their structural diversity, host interactions, and potential applications in infectious disease control.