The Enterotoxigenic Escherichia Coli Heat-Labile Toxin

Question

The enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli heat-labile toxin
A) damages membranes.
B) increases protein synthesis.
C) activates second messenger pathways.
D) activates immune response.
E) acts as a capsule.

Accepted Answer

The enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli heat-labile toxin activates second messenger pathways. Specifically, it activates adenylate cyclase, leading to an increase in intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP). This increase in cAMP then activates the cAMP-dependent protein kinase A (PKA) pathway, which ultimately leads to increased chloride secretion and decreased absorption in the intestines, resulting in diarrhea.