week 6 - virulence factors: exotoxin vs. endotoxin

Question 1

exotoxins

Answer 1

-proteins
-actively secreted by mostly gram-positive but some gram-negative bacteria
-directly target & destroy specific host cells

mechanism: bind to specific receptors on host cells, leading to; cell lysis, disruption of cellular signalling, or inhibition of protein synthesis, ultimately destroying the host cells.

Question 2

endotoxins

Answer 2

-lipopolysaccharides (LPS)
-embedded in the outer membrane of gram-negative bacteria
-indirectly cause damage to the host via excessive immune response

mechanism: when bacteria die, LPS are released, triggering an excessive immune response leading to fever, inflammation, and potentially septic shock.