Rhs toxins

[1] Rhs proteins are widespread and can be produced by both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria.

[2] Rhs toxins are very large proteins of usually more than 1,500 aminoacids with variable C-terminal toxic domains.

[4] This group also include Rhs toxins with an activity against human phagocytic cells that contribute to pathogenesis of Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

[6][7] When a polymorphic toxin with anti-bacterial activity is produced by a bacterial strain, this strain is protected by a specific immunity protein encoded by a gene immediately downstream of the toxin gene.

[8] The C-terminal toxins of Rhs may vary to diversify the antimicrobial activity of the type VI secretion system.