Hemolysins disrupt the cell membrane of erythrocytes (red blood cells) by forming pores, which causes the cells to rupture. This pore formation is a complex process involving the binding of the hemolysin to the cell surface, oligomerization, and insertion into the cell membrane. The subsequent loss of cellular integrity results in the release of intracellular contents, including hemoglobin, into the bloodstream, which can have toxic effects on the host organism.
