Loss of Type 1 Pili and Flagella in Uropathogenic Escherichia coli Leads to Reduced Phagocytosis by Human and Murine Monocytes

The data show that the loss of both type 1 pili and flagella expression on the UPEC cells reduces phagocytosis of the bacteria by human and murine monocytes. Although type 1 pili and flagella are important for establishing a UTI and ascension into the kidneys, the loss of these proteinaceous structures may allow the UPEC cells to evade the innate immune defenses in certain environments within the human body.