Staphylococcus aureus bi-component leukocidin (Luk)

Staphylococcus aureus bi-component leukocidins are a family of potent exotoxins secreted by S. aureus to destroy host immune cells, particularly neutrophils and macrophages [Nature Reviews Microbiology, 2014]. These toxins consist of two distinct protein subunits, the S-component and the F-component, which work synergistically to form heptameric or octameric pores in the plasma membrane of target cells [UniProt]. By lysing leukocytes, these toxins facilitate immune evasion and promote the spread of infection [PubMed: 23913162]. They play a critical role in the pathogenesis of severe conditions such as necrotizing pneumonia and deep-seated skin infections [StatPearls]. Specific leukocidins, such as Panton-Valentine Leukocidin (PVL), target host receptors like C5aR1 to initiate pore formation [PubMed: 23913162]. Therapeutic strategies focus on neutralizing these toxins using monoclonal antibodies, such as the ASN100 cocktail, to prevent tissue damage and support the host's immune response [Journal of Infectious Diseases, 2018]. These toxins are significant targets in the development of treatments for multidrug-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) infections.

Other names

Panton-Valentine leukocidinPVLGamma-hemolysinLukABLukGHLukEDBi-component pore-forming toxinHlgABC

Neutralization of toxin subunits to prevent receptor binding and pore formation