Pillus

Pillus is a term used in Microbiology and Genetics to describe a hair-like appendage found on the surface of many Bacteria. The primary function of pili is to attach bacteria to other cells or surfaces, but they also play a role in Bacterial conjugation and Twitching motility.

Structure

Pilli are composed of Pilin, a type of protein. The pilin proteins are assembled into a helical structure to form the pilus. The length and number of pili can vary widely among different bacterial species.

Function

Pilli serve several functions in bacteria. The primary function is to enable the bacteria to adhere to other cells or surfaces, which is crucial for colonization and infection. Some pili, known as Sex pili, are involved in bacterial conjugation, a process by which bacteria exchange genetic material. Other types of pili, known as Type IV pili, are involved in a form of bacterial movement known as twitching motility.

Types

There are several types of pili, including:

• Fimbriae: These are short, thin pili that are used primarily for adherence.
• Sex pili: These are longer, thicker pili that are used in bacterial conjugation.
• Type IV pili: These are involved in twitching motility and biofilm formation.

Role in Disease

Pilli play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of many bacterial diseases. By enabling bacteria to adhere to host cells, pili facilitate the colonization and invasion of tissues, which is often the first step in the development of a bacterial infection. Some bacteria also use pili to evade the host's immune response.

See Also

• Bacteria
• Bacterial conjugation
• Twitching motility
• Pilin
• Fimbriae (bacteriology)
• Sex pili
• Type IV pili

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