Acronyms and Definitions
ANTXR1 and ANTXR2: anthrax toxin receptors 1 and 2, respectively, the only known types of receptor for this toxin
Binary toxin: a toxin in which two compounds (proteins in this context) combine to elicit a toxic response
Brownian ratchet: in the current context, a mechanism of translocation across a membrane involving biased random thermal motion and driven by a chemical asymmetry between the two sides of the membrane
DRM: detergent-resistant membrane microdomain
Edema factor (EF): a Ca2+- and calmodulin-dependent adenylate cyclase
FRET: fluorescence resonance energy transfer
Lethal factor (LF): a Zn2+ protease that cleaves and inactivates most MAP kinase kinases
MIDAS: metal ion-dependent adhesion site
Molten globule: a compact, partially folded state observed under mildly denaturing conditions, such as low pH; much of the original secondary structure is retained
Phenylalanine clamp: a structure, formed by the seven Phe427 side chains within the PA63 pore, that is essential for translocation and is believed to interact directly with the translocating polypeptide
Prepore: a heptameric form of PA63 formed by spontaneous self-association; binds seven molecules of receptor and up to three molecules of LF and/or EF
Protective antigen: the transport protein of anthrax toxin, which combines with LF and/or EF to form toxic complexes
VWA or I domain [von Willebrand Factor A, or integrin inserted (I) domain]: adopts a Rossman fold structure