EGFR and infection: Since EGF could conceivably play a role in the hyperproliferation of VECs during bartonellosis of humans, we examined HUVEC proliferation in response to a 96-h infection by two live Bb strains (LSS001 and LSS100) and one non-viable Bb strain (LSS100-fixed) in the presence or absence of AG1478; a potent and specific EGFR-blocking agent [19].