M PROTEIN Meaning and
Definition
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M protein refers to a type of protein commonly found on the surface of certain bacteria, particularly those belonging to the group A streptococci (GAS) species. It is a key virulence factor that plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of infections caused by these bacteria. The M protein is generated by the emm gene, which encodes for this protein.
The M protein acts as an important defense mechanism for the bacteria since it helps them evade the host immune system. It accomplishes this by preventing the binding of antibodies or complement proteins to the bacterial surface, thereby hindering phagocytosis and opsonization, which are essential processes for clearing the infection. This ability of the M protein to disguise the bacteria enables them to persist and cause prolonged illness.
Furthermore, the M protein also possesses antiphagocytic properties, allowing it to directly interfere with the function of host immune cells. Through its interactions with various host cellular receptors, it can manipulate the immune response, inhibit inflammatory processes, and modulate the adaptive immune system.
The importance of the M protein in bacterial pathogenesis has been widely recognized, especially in cases of streptococcal infections such as strep throat, scarlet fever, and invasive diseases like cellulitis, necrotizing fasciitis, and sepsis. Its diverse virulence mechanisms and immunomodulatory effects make the M protein a key target for research and the development of therapeutic strategies to combat streptococcal infections.
Common Misspellings for M PROTEIN
- m orotein
- m lrotein
- m 0rotein
- m peotein
- m pdotein
- m pfotein
- m ptotein
- m p5otein
- m p4otein
- m pritein
- m prktein
- m prltein
- m prptein
- m pr0tein
- m pr9tein
- m prorein
- m profein
- m progein
- m proyein
- m pro6ein
Etymology of M PROTEIN
The term "M protein" is derived from the word "myeloma protein". Myeloma refers to a type of cancer that affects plasma cells, which are a type of white blood cell. In individuals with myeloma, abnormal plasma cells produce excessive amounts of a particular protein, which was named the M protein. The "M" in M protein stands for monoclonal, indicating that it is produced by a single clone of plasma cells. This specific protein has an abnormal structure and can be used to diagnose and monitor myeloma.
