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Morphological alterations in Bacillus megaterium as produced by aflatoxin B1
Applied Microbiology
|January 1, 1971
Summary
Bacillus megaterium produced abnormal filamentous cells when exposed to aflatoxin B1. These cells returned to normal morphology when transferred to a safe environment, indicating reversibility of the toxic effect.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Mycotoxicology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Aflatoxin B1 is a potent mycotoxin produced by Aspergillus species.
- Bacillus megaterium is a common soil bacterium.
- Mycotoxins can induce morphological changes in bacteria.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the morphological effects of aflatoxin B1 on Bacillus megaterium.
- To determine if the observed morphological changes are reversible.
Main Methods:
- Bacillus megaterium NRRL B-1368 was cultured on media with and without aflatoxin B1.
- Phase contrast and electron microscopy were used for observation.
- Aberrant cells were transferred to non-toxic media to assess reversibility.
Main Results:
- Aflatoxin B1 induced filamentous cell formation with increased poly-beta-hydroxybutyric acid deposits.
- Pantoyl lactone did not reverse septum formation inhibition.
- Filamentous cells reverted to normal morphology upon transfer to non-toxic media.
- Reduced mesosome numbers were observed in filamentous cells.
Conclusions:
- Aflatoxin B1 causes significant, but reversible, morphological abnormalities in Bacillus megaterium.
- The toxic effects on cell division and mesosome formation are notable.
- Spores of Bacillus megaterium are not morphologically affected by aflatoxin B1.