HUMAN ENTERIC PATHOGENS ASSOCIATED WITH EDIBLE PLANT PARTS: INSIGHT INTO MOLECULAR ASPECTS Authors: Sakshi and Indu Gaur*
ABSTRACT
The existence of human enteric pathogens (HEPs) on the edible parts is a well-known fact as
evidenced by large number of outbreaks caused by them.HEPs have the ability to exist on
plants even under unfavourable conditions by means of attachment, invasion and subsequent
colonization. Plant microbiome of phyllo sphere and rhizosphere help the HEPs to expand,
survive and exist on plants. They help in growth, occurrence and stress resilience. Some
plants are also known to develop innate immune response against enteric pathogens to break
their pathogen cycle.
In recent scenario, many foodborne diseases occurring all over the globe have been linked to
contamination of leafy greens and fresh produce by enteric pathogens. Direct consumption of
fresh vegetables and fruits including tomato, sprouts, lettuce, spinach etc. are the cause of
food borne illnesses. Improper processing, preparation, and handling of food are also a major
cause. Improper storage andtransportation of fresh produce from one country to another are
also major causes of many outbreaks. The majority of research work hascentred on
postharvest microbial infection as a main issue.Humansare at potent risk as the consumption
of such contaminated plant parts as it is hazardous to human health. This review summarizes
the updated information on the existence of HEPs on fresh produce and its subsequent impact
on human health, as well as puts light on association of HEPs with plants through molecular
and in silico studies.
Keywords: HEPs, fresh produce, innate immune response, food borne outbreaks, biofilms, in silicostudies Publication date: 1/1/21 https://ijbpas.com/pdf/2021/January/MS_IJBPAS_2021_5321.pdfDownload PDFhttps://doi.org/10.31032/IJBPAS/2021/10.1.5321