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Detection of Clostridium botulinum type B toxin in the presence of a lethal substance interfering with toxin
Abstract:
A low molecular weight substance that induced seizures and death in mice was present in the stool of a child with infant botulism. This interfered with mouse bioassay used for detecting Clostridium botulinum toxin. After removal of the interfering substance by a prolonged dialysis with buffered saline, in vivo neutralization of botulinal toxin was readily achieved. Alternatively, the botulinal toxin was demonstrated in stool of the infant by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), using antibodies produced in immunologically tolerant rabbits.
Insights
A substance in infant botulism stool samples interfered with mouse testing for Clostridium botulinum toxin. Dialysis removed this substance, allowing accurate toxin detection and neutralization.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Toxicology
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Infant botulism is a serious condition caused by Clostridium botulinum.
- Mouse bioassays are standard for detecting botulinum toxin but can be affected by interfering substances.
- A specific case of infant botulism presented challenges in toxin detection.