Shiga Like Toxin 2B Antibody

Shiga-like toxins, also known as verotoxins, are produced by certain strains of Escherichia coli (E. coli). These toxins are named for their similarity to the Shiga toxin produced by Shigella dysenteriae. There are two main types of Shiga-like toxins: SLT1 and SLT2. The Shiga-like toxin 2 (SLT2) is particularly significant due to its association with severe diseases such as hemolytic-uremic syndrome (HUS).

Shiga-like toxin 2 is composed of two subunits: A and B. The B subunit (SLT2B) is responsible for binding to the host cell receptor, facilitating the entry of the A subunit into the cell. The A subunit then exerts its toxic effects by inhibiting protein synthesis, leading to cell death. The B subunit itself is non-toxic but plays a crucial role in the toxin’s ability to infect host cells .

The Mouse Anti-Shiga Like Toxin 2B antibody is a monoclonal antibody specifically designed to target the B subunit of Shiga-like toxin 2. Monoclonal antibodies are produced by identical immune cells that are clones of a unique parent cell, ensuring specificity and uniformity in their action.

Production and Characteristics

• Host Species: The antibody is produced in mice, which are immunized with the recombinant Shiga-like toxin 2 subunit B.
• Isotype: The antibody is typically of the IgG1 isotype, which is known for its ability to mediate various immune responses.
• Applications: This antibody can be used in various applications, including Western Blot (WB), Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), neutralization assays, and inhibition studies .

Specificity and Use

The Mouse Anti-Shiga Like Toxin 2B antibody is highly specific for the B subunit of Shiga-like toxin 2. It binds to the receptor-binding region of the toxin, preventing it from attaching to host cells. This makes it a valuable tool in research and diagnostic applications, particularly in studying the mechanisms of toxin action and developing potential therapeutic interventions .

The development of monoclonal antibodies against Shiga-like toxins has significant implications for both research and clinical practice. These antibodies can be used to:

• Study Toxin Mechanisms: By inhibiting the binding of the toxin to host cells, researchers can better understand the mechanisms by which Shiga-like toxins cause disease.
• Develop Therapeutics: Monoclonal antibodies can be used as a basis for developing therapeutic agents that neutralize the toxin, offering potential treatments for infections caused by toxigenic E. coli strains.
• Diagnostic Tools: These antibodies can be employed in diagnostic assays to detect the presence of Shiga-like toxins in clinical samples, aiding in the rapid diagnosis of infections .