Tetanolysin
Tetanolysin
Tetanolysin (pronounced: te-ta-no-ly-sin) is a hemolytic toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium tetani. This toxin is one of the two exotoxins released by C. tetani, the other being tetanospasmin, which is responsible for the clinical manifestations of tetanus.
Etymology
The term "Tetanolysin" is derived from the bacterium that produces it, Clostridium tetani, and the Greek word "lysis" meaning "loosening" or "dissolving". This refers to the toxin's ability to lyse or break down certain cells.
Function
Tetanolysin is a pore-forming toxin that can cause lysis of erythrocytes (red blood cells). It is oxygen labile, meaning it loses its activity in the presence of oxygen. The exact role of tetanolysin in the pathogenesis of tetanus is not well understood, but it is thought to assist in the establishment and spread of C. tetani in the body.
Related Terms
- Clostridium tetani: The bacterium that produces tetanolysin.
- Tetanospasmin: The other exotoxin produced by C. tetani, responsible for the clinical manifestations of tetanus.
- Exotoxin: A toxin released by a living bacterial cell into its surroundings.
- Hemolysis: The breakdown of red blood cells.
- Tetanus: A serious bacterial infection that causes painful muscle spasms and can lead to death.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Tetanolysin
- Wikipedia's article - Tetanolysin
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