Bacterial toxins
Bacterial Spores
Category: Bacteria
Endospore-forming bacteria produce some of the most potent toxins known and are important pathogens in hospital-borne infections (Clostridium difficile) food contamination (Bacillus cereus, Clostridium botulinum), wound infestation (Clostridium perfringens, Clostridium tetani) and bioterrorism (Bacillus anthracis).
Bacilli and Clostridia spores form in response to unfavorable environmental conditions and can withstand extremes of heat, radiation, and chemical agents. The spore's durability is even more remarkable considering that dormant spores revert back to actively growing cells almost immediately after nutrients return to the environment. The intrinsic resistance and the ability to remain dormant for long periods make spores the perfect delivery vehicle for infectious diseases.
Further reading: The Ger Receptor Family from Sporulating Bacteria
Bacilli and Clostridia spores form in response to unfavorable environmental conditions and can withstand extremes of heat, radiation, and chemical agents. The spore's durability is even more remarkable considering that dormant spores revert back to actively growing cells almost immediately after nutrients return to the environment. The intrinsic resistance and the ability to remain dormant for long periods make spores the perfect delivery vehicle for infectious diseases.
Further reading: The Ger Receptor Family from Sporulating Bacteria