Lectin-Based Food Poisoning: A New Mechanism of Protein Toxicity
2007
How Lectins Cause Food Poisoning
publication
Evidence: high
Author Information
Author(s): Miyake Katsuya, Tanaka Toru, McNeil Paul L.
Primary Institution: Institute of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, Georgia, United States of America
Hypothesis
Lectin toxicity is due to an inhibitory effect on plasma membrane repair.
Conclusion
Lectins inhibit plasma membrane repair, leading to cell toxicity and a novel form of protein-based food poisoning.
Supporting Evidence
- Lectins inhibit the repair of plasma membrane disruptions.
- Inhibition of mucus secretion was observed in treated cells.
- The study proposes a new category of disease related to membrane repair failure.
Takeaway
Eating certain plants can make you sick because they contain proteins called lectins that stop your cells from healing properly.
Methodology
The study assessed plasma membrane repair and exocytosis in cultured cell models and excised segments of the GI tract after treatment with lectins.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p≤0.001
Statistical Significance
p≤0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website