Different bacteria use same cell surface molecule to invade tissue and promote infection

(University of Iowa Health Care) A new study identifies a single molecule as a key entry point used by two types of dangerous bacteria to break through cellular barriers and cause disease. The findings, published March 19 in the journal mBio, suggest that blocking the interaction between the molecule, known as CD40, and bacteria may represent a universal strategy for preventing life-threatening illnesses, including toxic shock syndrome.
Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health - Category: International Medicine & Public Health Source Type: news