Pathogenesis of Shigella diarrhea. VIII. Evidence for a translocation step in the cytotoxic action of Shiga toxin.

Shigella toxin interacts with HeLa cells by binding to a glycoprotein cell surface receptor and, after a lag period, inactivates the 60S ribosomal subunit and inhibits protein synthesis. The lag period may be due to energy-dependent translocation of the toxin to the interior of the cells. This step was investigated with agents known to inhibit glucose metabolism, mitochondrial energy production, or macromolecular synthesis and with drugs that alter the cytoskeletal system or lysosomes. Metabolic inhibitors reduced both cytotoxicity and binding of the toxin. All agents tested except actinomycin D also diminished endocytosis. Effects on cytotoxicity were partially reversed in the presence of the membrane permeabilizer dimethylsulfoxide. Various cytochalasins, colchicine, vinca alkaloids, chloroquine, and steroids also reduced the activity of the toxin. These diverse agents are probably acting on a common pathway affecting the internalization and/or intracellular processing of shigella toxin. Translocation of this toxin apparently occurs by endocytosis from the cell surface.