Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have identified how a common gut bacterium triggers colon cancer. Scientists have long known that Bacteroides fragilis produces a toxin called BFT that damages the colon and promotes tumor formation, but the mechanism remained unclear. Using CRISPR gene-editing technology, researchers discovered that a protein called claudin-4 serves as the attachment point for the toxin. Without claudin-4, the bacterial toxin cannot bind to colon cells and initiate its damaging effects.
The discovery opens new possibilities for prevention and treatment. Researchers developed a molecular decoy containing claudin-4 sequences that successfully intercepted the toxin in mice, preventing damage to colon tissue. While further research is needed to determine if this approach can safely prevent colorectal cancer in humans, the findings provide a potential strategy to block the toxin before it causes harm. The research also suggests this approach could address other diseases associated with bacterial toxins, including certain types of diarrhea and bloodstream infections.
Source: Read the full story at ScienceDaily
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