mikroporin

Mikroporin is a class of proteinaceous pore-forming toxins produced by various species of bacteria. These toxins are known for their ability to insert themselves into the lipid bilayer of cell membranes, forming channels that disrupt cellular homeostasis. The formation of these pores can lead to a cascade of events, including osmotic lysis and cell death. Mikroporins are typically secreted by bacteria as part of their virulence mechanisms, enabling them to invade host tissues and evade immune responses.

The structure of mikroporins often involves a transmembrane beta-barrel or alpha-helical arrangement that spans the cell membrane. Upon binding to specific receptors on the target cell, the mikroporin undergoes a conformational change, facilitating its insertion into the lipid bilayer. The precise mechanism of pore formation and the specific molecules that pass through these channels can vary depending on the mikroporin and the host cell. Research into mikroporins is ongoing, aiming to understand their roles in pathogenesis and to explore their potential as therapeutic targets or tools in biotechnology.