CORD FACTORS Meaning and
Definition
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Cord factors, also known as trehalose dimycolates (TDM), are a type of cell wall component found in certain bacteria, particularly in the species of the genus Mycobacterium. These cord factors play a crucial role in the pathogenesis and virulence of these bacteria.
Cord factors are composed of two molecules of trehalose joined with two mycolic acids, creating a complex glycolipid structure. These mycolic acids are long, branched chains of fatty acids that provide rigidity and impermeability to the bacterial cell wall. The presence of cord factors contributes to the unique waxy and cord-like appearance of mycobacteria.
In terms of function, cord factors are highly immunogenic and act as strong immunostimulants that can induce potent immune responses. They are recognized by several pattern recognition receptors of the host's immune system, such as toll-like receptor 2, leading to the activation of various immune cells and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
The ability of cord factors to drive inflammation and modulate the immune response is important for the survival and persistence of mycobacteria within the host. They aid in the evasion of host defenses and promote granuloma formation, which is characteristic of infections caused by mycobacteria.
Understanding the role of cord factors in mycobacterial infections is crucial for the development of diagnostic tools, vaccines, and therapeutic strategies targeting these pathogens.
Common Misspellings for CORD FACTORS
- xord factors
- vord factors
- ford factors
- dord factors
- cird factors
- ckrd factors
- clrd factors
- cprd factors
- c0rd factors
- c9rd factors
- coed factors
- codd factors
- cofd factors
- cotd factors
- co5d factors
- co4d factors
- cors factors
- corx factors
- corc factors
- corf factors
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