Fig. 8. The focal complex is required for IL-8 induction.

Shown is a model illustrating the signaling cascade leading to IL-8 secretion from C. jejuni infected cells. We propose that C. jejuni associates with fibronectin leading activation of β₁ integrins. The β₁ integrins serve as a scaffold for the association and activation of FAK. Src is then recruited to FAK and becomes activated. The FAK-Src complex phosphorylates paxillin, leading to the recruitment and activation of Erk 1/2, and IL-8 gene transcription. The bacterial proteins CadF and FlpA (yellow and blue dots on the bacteria respectively) and host proteins outlined with a dashed line (EGFR, p130Cas, Dock180, and Rac1) are required for C. jejuni host cell invasion, but do not play a significant role in IL-8 induction.