Kolibasaleen

Kolibasaleen is a term that refers to a specific type of bacterial toxin. It is produced by certain strains of the bacterium *Escherichia coli* (E. coli). This toxin belongs to a class known as cytotoxins, meaning it can damage or kill host cells. Specifically, kolibasaleen has been identified as a pore-forming toxin. This means it inserts itself into the membranes of target cells, creating channels or pores. These pores disrupt the normal electrochemical balance of the cell membrane, leading to cell lysis, or bursting.

The production of kolibasaleen is often associated with specific pathogenic E. coli strains, which can cause various gastrointestinal illnesses in humans and animals. The mechanism of action involves the toxin assembling into a multimeric ring structure within the cell membrane, forming the pore. Research into kolibasaleen and similar toxins contributes to understanding bacterial pathogenesis and developing potential therapeutic interventions against bacterial infections. The exact role and significance of kolibasaleen in different E. coli infections are areas of ongoing scientific investigation.