Molecular mechanisms and potential clinical applications of Campylobacter jejuni cytolethal distending toxin

Cheng Kuo Lai, Yu An Chen, Chun Jung Lin, Hwai Jeng Lin, Min Chuan Kao, Mei Zi Huang, Yu Hsin Lin, Chuan Chiang-Ni, Chih Jung Chen, U. Ging Lo, Li Chiung Lin, Ho Lin, Jer Tsong Hsieh, Chih Ho Lai

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

32 Scopus citations

Abstract

Cytolethal distending toxin (CDT), a genotoxin produced by Campylobacter jejuni, is composed of three subunits: CdtA, CdtB, and CdtC. CdtB is a DNase that causes DNA double-strand breaks (DSB) in the nucleus resulting in cell cycle arrest at the G2/M stage and apoptosis. CdtA and CdtC bind to cholesterol-rich microdomains on the cytoplasmic membrane, a process required for the delivery of CdtB to cells. Although a unique motif associated with cholesterol-binding activity has been identified in other pathogens, the mechanism underlying the interaction between the CdtA and CdtC subunits and membrane cholesterol remains unclear. Also, the processes of cell uptake and delivery of CdtB in host cells and the translocation of CdtB into the nucleus are only partially understood. In this review, we focus on the underlying relationship among CDT, membrane cholesterol, and the intracellular trafficking pathway as a unique mechanism for C. jejuni-induced pathogenesis. Moreover, we discuss the clinical aspects of a possible therapeutic application of CDT in cancer therapy. Understanding the molecular mechanism of CDT-host interactions may provide insights into novel strategies to control C. jejuni infection and the development of potential clinical applications of CDT.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article number9
JournalFrontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology
Volume6
Issue numberFEB
DOIs
StatePublished - 2016

Keywords

  • Campylobacter jejuni
  • Cholesterol
  • Cytolethal distending toxin
  • Enzymatic activity
  • Trafficking

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Microbiology
  • Immunology
  • Microbiology (medical)
  • Infectious Diseases

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