The role of Tamm-Horsfall protein in the pathogenesis of urinary tract infection

✍ Scribed by H. H. Reinhart; J. D. Sobel

• Publisher: Springer
• Year: 1992
• Tongue: English
• Weight: 829 KB
• Volume: 3
• Category: Article
• ISSN: 0937-3462
• DOI: 10.1007/bf00454999

✦ Synopsis

Although Tamm-Horsfall protein (THP) has been implicated in a variety of pathologic conditions, its physiologic function still remains unclear. Several studies have shown conclusively that bacteria expressing mannose-sensitive (MS) fimbriae bind to THP and to THP-coated exfoliated uroepithelial cells. Therefore it has been suggested that THP may prevent MSfimbriated organisms from colonizing the epithelial surface of the urinary tract. Whereas older clinical studies were often inconclusive, recent studies using more sensitive assays demonstrated reduced THP levels in a geriatric population, in children with urinary tract infections and in elderly women with bacteriuria. Although additional studies are required, available data support a protective role for THP as a nonimmune antibacterial host factor against uropathogens. The clinical importance of in vitro studies showing interference of THP with bacterial recognition by leukocytes and down-regulation of cell-mediated immune responses is presently unclear.