Chapter 18, Problem 35RA

Summary Introduction

To review:

The function of bacterial heat-stable enterotoxins in raising cyclic GMP (guanosine monophosphate) levels within the intestinal cells and causing diarrhea.

Introduction:

Enterotoxin refers to the protein exotoxin secreted by the bacterial cells, targeting the intestine. These enterotoxins are either coded in the chromosomes or in the plasmid. These are heat-stable, have low molecular weight and are readily soluble in water. Bacteria such as Escherichia coli and Vibrio cholerae release enterotoxins and cause diarrhea.