Further Insights into the Toxicity of Bacillus cytotoxicus Based on Toxin Gene Profiling and Vero Cell Cytotoxicity Assays

Bacillus cytotoxicus belongs to the cereus group that also comprises foodborne pathogen sensu stricto, anthracis causing anthrax, as well biopesticide thuringiensis. The first B. was isolated in context of a severe food poisoning outbreak leading fatal cases diarrheal disease. Subsequent characterization strain led conclusion this highly cytotoxic and eventually resulted description novel species, whose name reflects observed toxicity: cytotoxicus. However, only few isolates species have been characterized with regard their potential role causative agent remains largely unclear. Hence, aim study gain further insights into toxicity To end, 19 were obtained from mashed potato powders by toxin gene profiling Vero cell cytotoxicity assays. All harbored cytK1 (cytotoxin K1) species-specific variants nhe (non-hemolytic enterotoxin) gene. exhibited low or no towards cells. Thus, indicates may be potentially lower than initially assumed.