Carbohydrate-based sensing materials for detection of bacterial toxins

Abstract

Escherichia coli O157 is an emerging cause of foodborne illness. To avoid the severe complications such as the hemolytic uremic syndrome caused by the infection of the bacterium, rapid diagnosis is very important. In this context, development of a rapid and highly sensitive detection method of Shiga toxins (Stxs), which are produced by the bacterium, is desired. Stxs are a family of AB5 bacterial toxins, which bind to cell surface glycosphingolipid Gb3Cer through multivalent binding of five B-subunits. This paper reviews a recent development of the materials that can bind to the bacterial toxins with high affinities, including artificial glycolipids, molecules containing multivalent binding components, and natural glycolipid layers mimicking the cell membrane. ©2005 FCCA (Forum: Carbohydrates Coming of Age).