Cytolethal Distending Toxin: A Unique Variation on the AB Toxin Paradigm. (25th September 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: DiRienzo, Joseph M.
• Other Names: Bravo Alejandra Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: New journal of science. Volume 2014(2014)
• Publication Date: 2014-09-25
• Subjects: Life sciences -- Periodicals; Life sciences; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 500
• DOI: 10.1155/2014/249056
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2356-7740

Abstract

Abstract : Some of the most potent toxins produced by plants and bacteria are members of a large family known as the AB toxins. AB toxins are generally characterized by a heterogenous complex consisting of two protein chains arranged in various monomeric or polymeric configurations. The newest class within this superfamily is the cytolethal distending toxin (Cdt). The Cdt is represented by a subfamily of toxins produced by a group of taxonomically distinct Gram negative bacteria. Members of this subfamily have a related AB-type chain or subunit configuration and properties distinctive to the AB paradigm. In this review, the unique structural and cytotoxic properties of the Cdt subfamily, target cell specificities, intoxication pathway, modes of action, and relationship to the AB toxin superfamily are compared and contrasted.