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[Pathogenicity of aerobically sporulating microorganisms: Bacillus subtilis]
Abstract:
Bioassays were made on white mice and rats to find the potential pathogenicity of B. subtilis and its metabolites. The peroral and intraperitoneal application of several strains of B. subtilis to white mice did not cause any changes either in the behaviour or health condition of the animals until the first to seventh day after test. B. subtilis cultures or cellular suspensions on the one hand and non-cellular filtrates of cultures represented by the B. subtilis metabolism products on the other hand were given to the animals. No changes in the health condition of the mice and rats were observed when feed artificially infected with B. subtilis was fed. Dissection did not reveal any macroscopic changes on the organs of the abdominal and thoracic cavity. Cultures from the individual body organs (liver, spleen, kidneys, parts of the small and large intestines, stomach) perorally infected with B. subtilis showed the presence of the microbe only in parts of the digestive tracts.
Insights
Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis) and its metabolites were tested for pathogenicity in mice and rats. Studies found no adverse health effects or organ damage, indicating B. subtilis is non-pathogenic to these animals.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Toxicology
- Animal models
Context:
- Assessing the safety of Bacillus subtilis is crucial for its potential applications.
- Understanding the pathogenicity of microbial strains is essential in food safety and biotechnology.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the potential pathogenicity of Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis) and its metabolites in mammalian models.
- To determine the safety of B. subtilis for use in various applications through bioassays.
Summary:
- Bioassays were conducted on white mice and rats using various strains of B. subtilis, including cultures, cellular suspensions, and metabolic products.
- Both peroral and intraperitoneal administration routes were employed, with no observed changes in animal behavior or health.
- Histopathological examination revealed no macroscopic changes in organs, and B. subtilis was only found in the digestive tracts of perorally infected animals.
Impact:
- Provides evidence for the non-pathogenic nature of B. subtilis in mice and rats.
- Supports the safe use of B. subtilis in food, feed, or probiotic applications.
- Contributes to the risk assessment of B. subtilis in biological and industrial settings.