How Listeria monocytogenes blocks intestinal villus invasion

Scientists have recently identified a new defense mechanism used by the body to combat Listeria monocytogenes. Their research reveals that these bacteria stimulate the proliferation of intestinal cells, leading to a drop in the number of mucus-producing goblet cells – which in turn blocks infection, since goblet cells are specifically targeted by the bacteria as a means of spreading throughout the body. This mechanism involves stromal cells, demonstrating their role in the immune response to infection.

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