What is the Effect of TSST-1 Exotoxin on the Body

Question

What is the effect of TSST-1 exotoxin on the body?
A) It causes red blood cell lysis.
B) It damages the endothelial cells of capillaries.
C) It binds to receptors on T cells and activates them.
D) It is a pyrogen, causing fever.
E) It kills epithelial cells of mucous membranes.

Accepted Answer

TSST-1 exotoxin is a superantigen that binds to MHC class II molecules and T-cell receptors, leading to massive T-cell activation and cytokine release.