The gram-negative bacterium Vibrio cholerae produces a protein, cholera toxin (Mr 90,000), that is responsible for the characteristic symptoms of cholera: extensive loss of body water and NaCl through continuous, debilitating diarrhea. If body fluids and NaCl are not replaced, severe dehydration results; untreated, the disease is often fatal. When the cholera toxin gains access to the human intestinal tract it binds tightly to specific sites in the plasma membrane of the epithelial cells lining the small intestine, causing adenylyl cyclase to undergo prolonged activation (hours or days). a. What is the effect of cholera toxin on [cAMP] in the intestinal cells? Why?
b. Based on the information above, suggest how cAMP normally functions in intestinal epithelial cells. Briefly justify.
c. Suggest a possible treatment for cholera