Gliotoxin

Definition

Gliotoxin is a mycotoxin produced by certain fungi, including Aspergillus and Candida species. It acts as an immunosuppressive agent and contributes to the pathogenicity of these organisms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Gliotoxin inhibits the function of immune cells, particularly macrophages and neutrophils.
2. It induces apoptosis (programmed cell death) in various mammalian cells, aiding in immune evasion.
3. Gliotoxin disrupts the integrity of epithelial barriers, facilitating fungal invasion.
4. It interferes with various cellular signaling pathways by inhibiting enzymes like NADPH oxidase.
5. Detection of gliotoxin in clinical samples can indicate invasive fungal infections.

Review Questions

• How does gliotoxin contribute to the virulence of Aspergillus species?
• What is one mechanism by which gliotoxin suppresses the immune response?
• Why is detection of gliotoxin clinically significant?

Related terms

Mycotoxins: Toxic compounds produced by fungi that can cause disease in humans and animals.

Aspergillus: A genus of fungi known for producing several toxins, including gliotoxin, and causing respiratory infections.

NADPH oxidase: An enzyme complex involved in producing reactive oxygen species used by immune cells to kill pathogens.