PI3 and infection: The SCARB1 mediated internalization of bacteria in GMECs was assessed by manipulating the expression of the SCARB1 gene i.e. treating cells with esi-SCARB1 followed by infection with live E.coli. In the esi-SCARB1 treated group, the number of colonies on LB agar plates was less in number as compared to mock NC-esiRNA treated cells (Fig. 10a).