Receptors for Pyelonephritogenic Escherichia Coli in Primates

Abstract

P-fimbriated E. coli adhere to uroepithelial cells of monkeys [Macaca mulatta] by binding to receptors which are identical or very similar to those of man. In atraumatic experimental infections of monkeys, a P-fimbriated E. coli strain induced ureteral malfunciton with subsequent pyelonephritis. A non-P-fimbriated E. coli strain did not. P-fimbriation of E. coli represents a true virulence factor in the acquisition of pyelonephritis.