Shiga toxin

Shiga toxin is a harmful substance produced by certain bacteria, such as Escherichia coli (E. coli), especially a strain called O157:H7. When these bacteria infect the gut, they release the toxin, which can damage the lining of the intestines and sometimes enter the bloodstream. This can lead to symptoms like severe stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, and in serious cases, a complication called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which can cause kidney failure. The toxin works by disrupting protein synthesis in cells, leading to cell injury or death, which is how it causes disease symptoms.