Bacterial cells have several structures that aid in adhesion, but the most significant part that helps them stick is known as pili or fimbriae.
Pili are slender, hair-like appendages found on the surface of many bacteria. They play a crucial role in enabling bacteria to adhere to surfaces, tissues, or each other. This adhesion is essential for colonization, biofilm formation, and infection in host organisms.
In addition to pili, some bacteria also have a sticky layer called glycocalyx, which is made up of polysaccharides. This layer can form a protective capsule around the cell, further enhancing its ability to stick to surfaces and evade the host’s immune response.
In summary, both pili and glycocalyx are vital components that allow bacterial cells to adhere effectively, contributing to their survival and pathogenicity.