Pathogenesis of disease caused by Entamoeba histolytica: studies of adherence, secreted toxins, and contact-dependent cytolysis.

Amebiasis is due to invasion of the colonic mucosa by the enteric protozoan Entamoeba histolytica. The biology of the parasite and the pathogenic mechanisms of E. histolytica have been extensively studied. Recent studies provide new insights into the mechanism by which amebas colonize the gut, interact with bacterial flora, adhere to and lyse tissue, and combat the host's inflammatory response. Elucidation of the biochemical and cellular bases of the pathogenesis of disease caused by E. histolytica may lead to the development of an immunologic or pharmacologic means of prophylaxis.