Targeting Type II Toxin-Antitoxin Systems as Antibacterial Strategies.

ABSTRACT: The identification of novel targets for antimicrobial agents is crucial for combating infectious diseases caused by evolving bacterial pathogens. Components of bacterial toxin-antitoxin (TA) systems have been recognized as promising therapeutic targets. These widespread genetic modules are usually composed of two genes that encode a toxic protein targeting an essential cellular process and an antitoxin that counteracts the activity of the toxin. Uncontrolled toxin expression may elicit a bactericidal effect, so they may be considered "intracellular molecular bombs" that can lead to elimination of their host cells. Based on the molecular nature of antitoxins and their mode of interaction with toxins, TA systems have been classified into six groups. The most prevalent are type II TA systems.

SUBMITTER: Rownicki M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7551001 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature