Recent research by a team led by Dr. Karla Satchell at Northwestern University has unveiled critical molecular mechanisms that allow foodborne bacteria to recognize host cells. Specifically, MARTX toxins secreted by Vibrio vulnificus were studied to understand how they initiate infections. The researchers discovered that these toxins bind to specific sugars (N-acetylglucosamine) on the surface of host cells, aiding the bacteria's ability to discriminate between different cell types. The findings provide insight into the essential role of these toxins in intestinal infections caused by this lethal bacterium.
We wanted to understand the surface interactions and why this toxin is so pervasive, said Satchell, who is also a professor of Microbiology-Immunology...
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