Escherichia coli Uropathogenic-Specific Protein, Usp, Is a Bacteriocin-Like Genotoxin

Abstract

Usp is a novel E. coli genotoxin active against mammalian cells. Optimal in vivo activity of Usp requires Imu2. Infection with E. coli usp(+) imu1-3(+) induces a response characteristic of apoptosis.