Botulinum Toxin; Bioterror and Biomedicinal Agent

Authors

  • Jiri Patocka University of South Bohemia, Ceské Budejovice
  • Kamil Kuca University of Defence, Hradec Kralove
  • Daniel Jun University of Defence, Hradec Kralove

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14429/dsj.56.1882

Keywords:

Botulinum toxin, neurotoxin, Clostridium botulinum, biological weapon, terrorism, biological warfare, botulism, neuromuscular disorder

Abstract

Botulinum toxin is a group of seven homologous, highly poisonous proteins isolated from
fermentation of the anaerobic bacterium Clostridium botulinum, which naturally occurs in soil
and can grow on many meats and vegetables. Botulinum toxin causes neuromuscular disorder
called botulism, which is a potentially lethal disease. There are three types of botulism: Food,
wound, and infant botulism. It can lead to death unless appropriate therapy is done. Due to the
severity and potency of botulinum toxin, its importance as a biological weapon is of major
concern to public health officials. Nevertheless, botulinum toxin is also medicament.

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Published

2006-04-01

How to Cite

Patocka, J., Kuca, K., & Jun, D. (2006). Botulinum Toxin; Bioterror and Biomedicinal Agent. Defence Science Journal, 56(2), 189–197. https://doi.org/10.14429/dsj.56.1882

Issue

Vol. 56 No. 2

Section

Biomedical Sciences

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