Pore-forming toxins

Iacovache, I.; Degiacomi, M.T.; van der Goot, F.G.

Abstract

Pore forming toxins are proteins capable of inserting pores in the membranes of the target cells which in turn may lead to the lysis of the cell and release of nutrients. The mechanism by which the pore-forming toxins (PFTs) function during a bacterial infection has been the subject of extensive research over the years. In most cases PFTs are secreted by the bacteria as soluble proteins which diffuse toward the target cell and bind to specific receptors. Subsequently they undergo a series of structural changes which converts them from a water-soluble PFT to a membrane inserted channel.

Citation

Iacovache, I., Degiacomi, M., & van der Goot, F. (2012). Pore-forming toxins. In E. H. Egelman (Ed.), Comprehensive biophysics (164-188). Elsevier. https://doi.org/10.1016/b978-0-12-374920-8.00518-x

• Publication Date: 2012
• Deposit Date: Jul 26, 2017
• Publisher: Elsevier
• Pages: 164-188
• Series Number: 5
• Book Title: Comprehensive biophysics.
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/b978-0-12-374920-8.00518-x