The Cytolethal Distending Toxin Contributes to Microbial Virulence and Disease Pathogenesis by Acting As a Tri-Perditious Toxin.

ABSTRACT: This review summarizes the current status and recent advances in our understanding of the role that the cytolethal distending toxin (Cdt) plays as a virulence factor in promoting disease by toxin-producing pathogens. A major focus of this review is on the relationship between structure and function of the individual subunits that comprise the AB₂ Cdt holotoxin. In particular, we concentrate on the molecular mechanisms that characterize this toxin and which account for the ability of Cdt to intoxicate multiple cell types by utilizing a ubiquitous binding partner on the cell membrane. Furthermore, we propose a paradigm shift for the molecular mode of action by which the active Cdt subunit, CdtB, is able to block a key signaling cascade and thereby lead to outcomes based upon progr

SUBMITTER: Scuron MD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5136569 | biostudies-literature | 2016

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature