ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on C. elegans as a model system that has been instrumental in uncovering the clues on host-pathogen interactions during K. pneumoniae infection. Foodborne diseases are currently recognized as a global burden by the World Health Organization. K. pneumoniae is one of the most versatile and clinically significant pathogens in causing both nosocomial- and community-acquired infections worldwide. The alarming increase in the annual morbidity and mortality has highlighted the importance of proper hygiene in public places. C. elegans was first discovered and described by Emile Maupas, a French librarian zoologist and botanist, in 1900 from soil in Algeria. C. elegans has the ability to survive even after repeated infections as it evokes several immune pathways that activate the host defense against several bacterial infections. While C. elegans utilizes the Toll-dependent p38 MAPK pathways against K. pneumoniae infection, K. pneumoniae increases the expression of rmpA, oxyR, and uge genes during infection.
