Anti-Exfoliative Toxin A/ETA antibody

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

Exfoliative Toxin A often referred to as ETA or exfoliative toxins is a powerful bacterial protease. Its molecular mass is approximately 27 kDa. Exfoliative Toxin A is expressed by Staphylococcus aureus particularly strains involved in skin infections. This toxin is known for cleaving desmoglein-1 a calcium-dependent cell adhesion molecule in the skin leading to epidermal detachment.

Biological function summary

Exfoliative toxins threaten the integrity of the skin barrier by targeting desmoglein-1 which compromises cellular adhesion within the epidermis. This specific action does not associate Exfoliative Toxin A with any larger protein complexes but rather with specialized pathways directly targeting epidermal cohesion. The cleavage of desmoglein-1 by ETA is significant in the pathogenic strategies of Staphylococcus aureus to cause skin exfoliation.

Pathways

Activities of Exfoliative Toxin A are integral to the pathogenesis of skin exfoliative conditions through the epidermal-dermal disruption pathway. This toxin associates with the serine protease family which modulates proteolytic pathways responsible for tissue damage and inflammation. Its action reverberates through pathways that involve proteins like desmoglein-1 emphasizing the complexity of cellular adhesion and skin integrity pathways.

Associated diseases and disorders

Exfoliative toxin A exhibits a strong correlation with Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome (SSSS) and impetigo. These conditions are notable for their disruption of skin architecture and extensive blistering. Exfoliative Toxin A's interaction with desmoglein-1 plays a pivotal role in the pathophysiology of these diseases leading to significant epidermal peeling and vulnerability to secondary infections.