Mechanisms of bacterial pathogenesis in equine endometritis

Bacteria that are established as uterine pathogens in the mare are only partially characterized with respect to virulence factors (mechanism of pathogenesis) that may contribute to the development of endometritis. The study of these mechanisms will be useful in defining many as pects of the complex interactions that occur between bacterial pathogens and the equine endometrium. Bacterial adherence is the primary prerequisite for infection. The role of the host cell cannot be ignored, since it obviously influences the regulation of microbial virulence factore e.g. adhesins as well as provides the microenvironment in which the bacteria can replicate and produce toxins that cause damage to the host. Detailed knowledge about host-pathogen interactions will lead to a better etiological assessment of uterine bacterial infections and probably lead to innovative strategies for therapy and prevention.