Abstract

TORRES ARMENDARIZ, V. et al. Interactions between Escherichia coli O157:H7 and food plants. Has this bacterium developed internalization mechanisms?. Rev. mex. fitopatol [online]. 2016, vol.34, n.1, pp.64-83. ISSN 2007-8080.  https://doi.org/10.18781/R.MEX.FIT.1507-4.

Despite efforts to prevent microbial contamination, the occurrence of human pathogens in fresh fruit and vegetable is quite common. It is now known that E. coli O157:H7 can inhabit food plants passively. Here, we review the literature on phylloplane adhesion, survival and internalization of this bacterium, as well as some of the interaction mechanisms between it and the food plant, and other associated microorganisms. This pathogen, once it has adhered to the surface of a food plant, can then enter the plant tissues, where it can migrate within them, and even multiply. This review provides an overview of the interaction mechanisms between the food plant tissues and E. coli O157:H7. It finds that this pathogen has improved its ecological competence in food plants without losing its virulence to humans. Also, a number of future research areas were identified.

Keywords : human pathogens on plants; bacteria adhesion and internalization; food safety.

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