Clostridium botulinum
Clostridium botulinum
Clostridium botulinum (pronounced klos-TRID-ee-um BOT-yoo-LY-num) is a Gram-positive, rod-shaped bacteria that produces the neurotoxin botulinum, the causative agent of botulism.
Etymology
The name Clostridium botulinum is derived from the Greek word kloster (meaning spindle) and the Latin word botulus (meaning sausage), referring to the bacterium's shape and its historical association with sausage poisoning.
Description
Clostridium botulinum is an anaerobic bacterium, meaning it thrives in environments devoid of oxygen. It forms spores that are resistant to heat, drying, and chemicals, allowing it to survive in a dormant state in soil and water for long periods. When conditions are favorable, the spores germinate and produce vegetative cells that multiply and may produce a deadly toxin.
Toxin Production
The botulinum toxin produced by Clostridium botulinum is one of the most potent toxins known. It blocks nerve function and can lead to respiratory and muscular paralysis. The toxin is produced in eight types, designated A to H. Types A, B, E, and F are known to cause botulism in humans.
Related Terms
- Botulism: A rare but serious illness caused by the botulinum toxin. It can lead to paralysis and is often fatal.
- Neurotoxin: A poison that acts on the nervous system.
- Anaerobic: Living or occurring in the absence of free oxygen.
- Spore: A dormant, tough, and non-reproductive structure produced by certain bacteria.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Clostridium botulinum
- Wikipedia's article - Clostridium botulinum
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