Intracellular targeting toxins are bacterial or viral proteins that invade host cells and disrupt vital cellular processes. These toxins often interfere with cellular functions to promote pathogen survival and virulence.
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Intracellular targeting toxins typically have an A-B structure, where the B subunit binds to the host cell, and the A subunit exerts toxic effects inside the cell.
Examples of intracellular targeting toxins include diphtheria toxin, cholera toxin, and botulinum toxin.
These toxins can inhibit protein synthesis, disrupt signal transduction pathways, or cause cell death (apoptosis).
Many intracellular targeting toxins are encoded by genes carried on plasmids or bacteriophages.
Effective immune responses against these toxins often involve neutralizing antibodies that block their binding to host cells.
Review Questions
What is the typical structure of an intracellular targeting toxin?
Name two examples of intracellular targeting toxins and their effects on host cells.
How do intracellular targeting toxins promote pathogen survival?
Related terms
Virulence Factors: Molecules produced by pathogens that contribute to the pathogenicity and facilitate infection.
Exotoxins: Toxins released by bacteria into their surroundings during growth.
Endotoxins: Toxins that are part of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria and released upon cell lysis.