Adrenaline (also called epinephrine ) and phosphates produced by our body when we are stressed can be sensed by membrane receptors, which are proteins on the outside of bacterial cells found only in the intestines in our body. 

The receptor protein called QseE has been found on the ouside of Eschericia coli bacteria that live only in our gut (intestine).

Normally, the E. coli would not be able to attack the cells lining our gut, but if a person is very stressed, then the QseE receptors detect high levels of adrenaline and phosphates and may then release toxins (poisons) to attack the person's cells - causing diarrhoea or even general blood poisoning (sepsis).

QseE is just one of several receptors that need to be activated to make E. coli become virulent  (cause disease).

Now that we know what receptors are needed to make the bacteria release their poisons to attack the gut cells, it might be possible to discover ways to block them. 

Until then, stay cool to keep your E. coli happy!

Action:

Work hard, but also stay cool and be happy to stay healthy...

and good luck in your exams!!!