Virulence Inhibition by Zinc in Shiga-ToxigenicEscherichia coli

What is it about?

Many microbiologists assume that metals, such as iron and zinc, always benefit the pathogen, enhance virulence, and worsen the outcome of disease. This article shows that, contrary to popular opinion, there is such thing as "too much of a good thing." Zinc at concentrations slightly above the preferred range inhibits the ability of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli to produce toxin and protects against disease.

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Why is it important?

Food-borne outbreaks due to Shiga toxigenic E. coli still produce fear when they occur. Most antibiotics are contra-indicated in STEC infection, because they stimulate toxin production and release. Non-Antibiotic treatments such as zinc could be useful in the response to STEC infection and outbreaks.