Molecular basis of DNA cross-linking by bacteria | Science
Recent research has unveiled the intricate structure of colibactin, a genotoxin produced by certain strains of Escherichia coli (E. coli), which has been linked to increased cancer risk. This groundbreaking study, published in a prominent scientific journal, reveals how colibactin interacts with DNA, providing insight into its potential role in carcinogenesis. Colibactin is produced by a subset of E. coli known as Enteroaggregative E. coli (EAEC), which is often associated with gastrointestinal infections and is increasingly recognized for its role in promoting tumor formation in the gut.
The research team employed advanced imaging techniques to elucidate the molecular structure of colibactin when it binds to DNA. This binding is crucial as it leads to the formation of DNA adducts—alterations in the DNA structure that can cause mutations. These mutations can disrupt normal cellular processes, potentially leading to uncontrolled cell growth and the development of cancerous tumors. The study highlights specific interactions between colibactin and DNA that could explain how bacterial infections may contribute to the initiation and progression of cancer, particularly colorectal cancer.
This discovery adds a new dimension to our understanding of the microbiome’s influence on human health, emphasizing the need for further investigation into how bacterial metabolites can impact genetic stability. The implications of this research are profound, as it not only sheds light on the mechanisms of bacterial-induced carcinogenesis but also opens up potential avenues for therapeutic interventions. By targeting the pathways involved in colibactin’s action, researchers may develop strategies to mitigate the cancer risk associated with certain bacterial infections, ultimately enhancing our approach to cancer prevention and treatment. As we continue to unravel the complexities of our microbiome, studies like this reinforce the critical interplay between our microbial inhabitants and our health.
The structure of the bacterial genotoxin colibactin bound to DNA shows how it might contribute to cancer risk
