Anthrax Lethal Factor
From Proteopedia
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Introduction
Shiga Toxins are a family of AB5 toxins (Stx1 and Stx2) which cause dysentery, hemolytic-uremic syndrome, and potentially renal failure in humans. They are primarily secreted by Shiga toxin-encoding Escherichia coli (STEC), notably by the 0157:H7 strain[1] and shigella dysentarie. STECs are one of the major foodborne pathogens, affecting both developed and third-world countries. The stx gene is not endogenous to these strains, but is introduced through horizontal gene transfer from environmental prophages of the lambdoid bacteriophage family and incorporated into the E. Coli genome.[1] Shiga Toxins are closely related to ricin, which is structurally and mechanistically similar. Shiga toxin acts to inhibit protein synthesis in eukaryotic cells and is the main virulence factor of STEC.
Human Interaction
0157:H7 STECs are spread to humans through a fecal-oral mechanism, primarily from ingestion of food contaminated with fecal material. Cattle, goats, and sheep are the primary reservoir of STECs and their close proximity to food sources as well as the use of animal feces for fertilizer makes them the main route of contamination.[2] These animals can house STEC's without effect due to a lack of Stx surface receptors.[3] Inadequate sanitation and contamination of meat during slaughter can both lead to STEC contaminated food at the market. Once ingested the STEC can survive the high acid environment of the stomach and progress to the gut where they attach firmly to gut mucosa via the intimin adhesin protein.[4] Secreted Stx then either attacks gut epithelia or passes into the bloodstream where it can damage kidney and brain tissue.
