Identification of veratoxin protein marker in E. coli strains.
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Protein marker identification of veratoxin from clinically isolated escherichia coli
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a Gram-negative bacterium commonly found in the intestines of warm-blooded organisms. While most strains are harmless, certain serotypes can lead to severe food poisoning and other health issues. The bacterium plays a crucial role in producing beneficial substances like vitamin K2 and can serve as an indicator for fecal contamination in environmental samples. Its diverse genetic and phenotypic traits have made it a significant subject of study in microbiology, biotechnology, and recombinant DNA technology.
Verotoxin and Its Mechanism of Action
Verotoxin, also known as Shiga-like toxin, is a potent toxin produced by specific strains of E. coli, particularly those associated with foodborne illnesses. This multidomain protein consists of an A subunit responsible for toxicity and five B subunits that facilitate binding to host cells. The toxin interacts with the membrane glycolipid globotriaosyl ceramide (Gb3), triggering cellular uptake mechanisms that allow the A subunit to inactivate ribosomes, halting protein synthesis and leading to cell death. This mechanism primarily affects small blood vessels, which can result in serious conditions like bloody diarrhea and hemolytic uremic syndrome, particularly in the kidneys.
Isolation and Identification of Protein Markers
In the study presented, clinically isolated E. coli samples were obtained from blood, urine, and stool of infected patients. The identification process involved various biochemical tests and selective culturing techniques, which confirmed the presence of E. coli. Protein extraction was performed using ammonium sulfate precipitation to isolate potential verotoxin. Results indicated that three of the five samples contained proteins corresponding to a molecular weight of 32,000 KDa, confirming these strains as verotoxin producers.
Biochemical Testing and Results
A series of biochemical tests were conducted to characterize the isolated E. coli strains further. Standard tests such as Gram staining, indole production, methyl red, Voges-Proskauer, citrate utilization, catalase, urease, nitrate reduction, and starch hydrolysis helped confirm the identity of the isolates. The results showed variability in their biochemical characteristics, providing critical information on the pathogenic potential of the isolated strains and their ability to produce toxins.
In conclusion, the study successfully isolated E. coli from clinical samples, identifying specific strains capable of producing verotoxin. The application of various biochemical methods and protein analysis techniques, particularly SDS-PAGE, underscores the importance of these methodologies in understanding the pathogenicity of E. coli strains and their associated health risks. The findings highlight the need for continued research into the mechanisms of virulence and transmission pathways of these harmful bacteria.
Original source:
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Aseer Shakir Ajel, Ganesh Dama, Prasad M.P, Balasubramanian Sathyamurthy
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Protein marker identification of veratoxin from clinically isolated escherichia coli
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
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FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What was the purpose of the study on E. coli?
The study aimed to identify the protein marker for veratoxin from clinically isolated E. coli samples collected from infected patients.
How were the E. coli samples isolated for the research?
E. coli samples were isolated from clinical samples such as blood, urine, and stool, and were confirmed by their growth on EMB agar medium.
What method was used to identify the proteins in E. coli?
Proteins were extracted using ammonium sulfate precipitation and analyzed using SDS-PAGE to determine the presence of veratoxin.
What were the results of the SDS-PAGE analysis?
SDS-PAGE analysis revealed that three E. coli strains produced a band at 32,000 KDa, indicating the presence of verotoxin.
Why is E. coli significant in microbiological studies?
E. coli serves as a model organism due to its high genetic diversity, prevalence in gut flora, and some strains being pathogenic.
What implications do the findings of this study have?
The findings highlight the potential public health risks posed by verotoxin-producing E. coli strains isolated from clinical samples.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Identification of veratoxin protein marker in E. coli strains.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Blood:
The keyword 'Blood' is relevant as it represents a primary clinical sample from which E. coli strains were isolated in this research. The study examines how pathogens found in blood samples, which can lead to severe infections, contribute to the understanding of virulence factors such as verotoxin. Blood as a sample source is critical for identifying and understanding bacterial infections in humans.
2) Purification:
The term 'Purification' is significant in the context of isolating the protein marker for veratoxin from E. coli. The study employed ammonium sulfate precipitation to extract proteins. Purification techniques are essential in microbiological research for isolating targeted biomolecules, which can help in studying pathogenic mechanisms and developing diagnostic tools.
3) Water:
The word 'Water' is pertinent as pathogenic E. coli can be transmitted through contaminated water sources, leading to outbreaks of disease. Understanding how waterborne pathogens like verotoxin-producing E. coli can affect human health is integral to public health strategies aimed at preventing contamination and ensuring safe drinking water.
4) Discussion:
The term 'Discussion' is crucial as it encompasses the section of the study where the authors interpret their findings. In this context, it involves analyzing the implications of protein marker identification, the clinical significance of verotoxin, and the role of E. coli strains in human disease understanding, which guides future research directions.
5) Similarity:
The keyword 'Similarity' pertains to the comparison made between verotoxin and other known toxins, such as Shiga toxin. This relevance helps in understanding the evolutionary relationships among bacterial toxins, informing treatment and prevention strategies, and guiding research into the mechanism of action of these toxic proteins.
6) Toxicity:
The relevance of 'Toxicity' lies in its association with the harmful effects of verotoxin produced by specific E. coli strains. This study focuses on the identification of protein markers linked to toxic effects such as acute gastrointestinal distress and potential kidney failure, which underscores the medical importance of understanding virulence factors.
7) Science (Scientific):
The term 'Science' encompasses the methodological framework employed in the investigation. This includes the study of microbiology, proteomics, and biochemistry to understand pathogen behavior and develop methods for clinical diagnosis. The scientific rigor applied in researching E. coli enhances knowledge in health sciences and public health interventions.
8) Dama (Dāma, Dāmā, Ḍama, Ḍāma):
The keyword 'Dama' refers to one of the authors affiliated with the study. The inclusion of various researchers' names is relevant for establishing credibility and attributing intellectual contributions to the research findings. It emphasizes the collaborative nature of scientific research in understanding complex topics like bacterial pathogenesis.
9) Hela (Helā, Helá):
The relevance of 'Hela' pertains to the HeLa cell line used in various biological assays, including toxicity testing. Although not explicitly mentioned in context, HeLa cells are widely used in research on viral infections and toxins. Understanding cell interactions with toxins like verotoxin can illuminate pathways of infection and potential therapeutic measures.
10) Meat:
The word 'Meat' is significant as it relates to foodborne transmission routes for virulent E. coli strains. The study mentions food sources associated with outbreaks, and understanding the relationship between contaminated meat products and human health is vital for food safety regulations and preventative health measures.
11) Milk:
The term 'Milk' is relevant as it represents another potential vehicle for transmitting pathogenic E. coli. The study indicates that dairy products can harbor virulent strains leading to infections. Recognizing transmission routes through milk enhances food safety efforts and formation of guidelines that protect public health.
12) Post:
The word 'Post' may refer to 'post-exposure' or related terms indicating outcomes after infections. In a broader context, discussing post-exposure considerations in relation to E. coli infections helps inform treatment, patient management, and public health responses to outbreaks, enhancing understanding of infectious disease dynamics.