The Neuroendocrine Stress Hormone Norepinephrine Augments Escherichia coli O157:H7-Induced Enteritis and Adherence in a Bovine Ligated Ileal Loop Model of Infection

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Abstract
The role of the neuroendocrine environment in the pathogenesis of enteric bacterial infections is increasingly being recognized. Here we report that norepinephrine augments Escherichia coli O157:H7-induced intestinal inflammatory and secretory responses as well as bacterial adherence to intestinal mucosa in a bovine ligated ileal loop model of infection. Norepinephrine modulation of enteritis and adherence was dependent on the ability of E. coli O157:H7 to form attaching and effacing lesions.