Spreading factor enzyme

"Spreading Factors" is a descriptive term for a family of bacterial enzymes that affect the physical properties of tissue matrices and intercellular spaces, thereby promoting the spread of the pathogen. Hyaluronidase. is the original spreading factor. It is produced by streptococci. staphylococci, and clostridia.

1. What substance is called the spreading factor?
2. Why hyaluronidase is known as spreading factor?
3. What is hyaluronidase enzyme?
4. What is the function of hyaluronidase in bacteria?

What substance is called the spreading factor?

1. Hyaluronidase - This is also called the spreading factor because it catalyzes the breakdown of hyaluronic acid, the. substance that cements the human cells together. This allows the bacterial cells to spread through tissue causing a. condition known as cellulitis.

Why hyaluronidase is known as spreading factor?

Since hyaluronidases are enzymes that catalyze the breakdown of hyaluronic acid in the body, they may increase the permeability of tissue to fluids. Hyaluronidase in snake and insect venom is thought to function as a “spreading factor” by degrading host hyaluronic acid, thus allowing spread of toxin (13).

What is hyaluronidase enzyme?

Listen to pronunciation. (HY-al-yoo-RAH-nih-days) An enzyme that breaks down a substance in the body called hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is found throughout the body in connective tissue, skin, and fluids in the joints and inside the eye.

What is the function of hyaluronidase in bacteria?

Bacterial hyaluronidases degrade HA to small subunits that could serve as nutrients. During host invasion, bacterial hyaluronidases could facilitate bacterial dissemination through tissues by acting as “spreading factors” (Hynes et al., 2000).