A conserved electron transport chain sensitizes Bacteroides to a pore-forming type VI secretion toxin
Hannah K. Ratner, Brandon D Duong, Peng Miao, Savannah K Bertolli, Beth A. Shen, Uma Mitchell, Larry A. Gallagher, Matthew C. Radey, Snow Brook Peterson, Joseph D. Mougous
The paper identifies the Rnf electron transport chain as a susceptibility determinant for Bte2 pore-forming toxins in Bacteroides, showing its role in toxin-mediated membrane depolarization during gut colonization.
bioRxiv · Aug 29, 2025 · PreprintMicrobiology