Gene-Trap Mutagenesis Identifies Mammalian Genes Contributing to Intoxication by Clostridium perfringens ε-Toxin
2011

Identifying Host Factors Contributing to ε-Toxin Activity

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Ivie Susan E., Fennessey Christine M., Sheng Jinsong, Rubin Donald H., McClain Mark S.

Primary Institution: Vanderbilt University School of Medicine

Hypothesis

Mammalian host factors contribute to ε-toxin-induced cytotoxicity.

Conclusion

The study identifies HAVCR1 as a key factor in ε-toxin-induced cytotoxicity in human kidney cells.

Supporting Evidence

  • HAVCR1 is more abundantly expressed in human kidney cell lines sensitive to ε-toxin.
  • Disruption of HAVCR1 expression leads to increased resistance to ε-toxin.
  • ε-toxin binds to the extracellular domain of HAVCR1.

Takeaway

Researchers found that a specific protein helps a dangerous toxin from bacteria harm cells, which could help in developing treatments.

Methodology

The study used gene trap insertional mutagenesis in MDCK cells to identify genes contributing to ε-toxin resistance.

Limitations

The study primarily focused on a single gene and cell line, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.0005

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0017787

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