SHIGELLA TOXIN Meaning and
Definition
-
Shigella toxin, also known as Shiga toxin or verotoxin, refers to a group of potent cytotoxins produced by certain strains of the Shigella bacteria, primarily Shigella dysenteriae. Shigella is a type of bacteria that causes a severe gastrointestinal infection known as shigellosis (or bacillary dysentery) in humans.
Shigella toxins are protein-based substances that can cause significant damage to the cells of the gastrointestinal tract. There are two main types of Shigella toxin, designated as Stx1 and Stx2, with several subtypes of each. These toxins can be released by the bacteria and can enter the cells of the intestines upon infection.
Once inside the cells, Shigella toxins inhibit the synthesis of proteins, leading to cell death. This mechanism of action disrupts the normal functioning of the intestines, resulting in symptoms such as bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and cramps.
Shigella toxins are particularly concerning because they can also enter the bloodstream, leading to systemic complications. In some cases, Shigella toxin can cause serious health issues, including hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which can lead to kidney failure, blood disorders, and even death.
To prevent the spread of shigellosis and the potential exposure to Shigella toxins, it is crucial to practice proper hygiene, such as frequent handwashing, especially after using the bathroom or changing diapers, thorough cooking of food, and avoiding contaminated water sources.
Common Misspellings for SHIGELLA TOXIN
- ahigella toxin
- zhigella toxin
- xhigella toxin
- dhigella toxin
- ehigella toxin
- whigella toxin
- sgigella toxin
- sbigella toxin
- snigella toxin
- sjigella toxin
- suigella toxin
- syigella toxin
- shugella toxin
- shjgella toxin
- shkgella toxin
- shogella toxin
- sh9gella toxin
- sh8gella toxin
- shifella toxin
- shivella toxin
Etymology of SHIGELLA TOXIN
The word "Shigella" comes from the name of the Japanese physician Kiyoshi Shiga, who discovered the bacterium Shigella dysenteriae in 1898. Shigella dysenteriae is a species of bacteria that causes dysentery.
The term "toxin" comes from the Latin word "toxicum", which means poison. It originated from the Greek word "toxon", which refers to a bow or an arrow. In ancient times, arrows were often contaminated with poisonous substances.
Therefore, the term "Shigella toxin" refers to the poison or toxic substance produced by the bacterium Shigella dysenteriae.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
