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Online edition:ISSN 2434-3404

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The phagocyte NADPH oxidase and bacterial infections

 Neutrophils play a crucial role in host defense against microbial infections. During phagocytosis of invading bacteria or fungi, the phagocyte NADPH oxidase produces superoxide. The importance of the oxidase is exemplified by the genetic disorder known as chronic granulomatous disease (CGD). The neutrophils of CGD patients cannot produce superoxide, with the result that affected infants and children suffer from severe recurrent bacterial and fungal infections. Staphylococcus aureus and Aspergillus fumigatus often cause life-threatening infections in these patients. The phagocyte NADPH oxidase is composed of the plasma membrane protein (cytochrome b 558) and cytosolic proteins. Cytochrome b 558 is a heterodimer consisting of the gp91phox and p22phox . The cytosolic proteins are p47phox , p67phox , p40phox and a small G-protein, Rac. The oxidase is also expressed in peripheral eosinophils, monocytes, B lymphocytes, and several cultured cell lines after differentiation other than neutrophils. Here, we will consider and discuss the oxidase in relation to CGD. (Accepted on January 17, 2012)

Author
Yamauchi A, et al
Volume
38
Issue
1
Pages
11-18
DOI
10.11482/2012/KMJ.38(1)11-18.2012.pdf

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