RGCB scientists uncover new pathway for spread of pneumonia toxin between cells

Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 25 (UNI) Scientists at the BRIC-Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB) here have identified a previously unrecognised mechanism through which a toxin produced by pneumonia-causing bacteria can spread from one cell to another, potentially extending tissue damage during infection. The study, published in the Journal of Extracellular Vesicles, reveals how the body's cellular repair mechanism, intended to protect damaged cells, may inadvertently facilitate the transfer of pneumolysin, a potent toxin produced by Streptococcus pneumoniae, to neighbouring cells. The researchers found that when cells respond to damage caused by the toxin, they release tiny membrane-bound structures called extracellular microvesicles.…