Strategies used by Yersinia enterocolitica to evade killing by the host: thinking beyond Yops

Yersinia enterocolitica is an important gastrointestinal pathogen. Its pathogenicity has been attributed primarily to the plasmid encoded Yersinia outer proteins or Yops that are known to subvert the immune system. This review, however, highlights the role of Yop-independent mechanisms that help Y. enterocolitica evade immune system and contribute significantly to its survival in the host.