Bacillus cereus phospholipases, enterotoxins, and other hemolysins

The Bacillus cereus group comprises seven species: Bacillus cereus sensu stricto, Bacillus thuringiensis, Bacillus anthracis, Bacillus weihenstephanensis, Bacillus mycoides, Bacillus pseudomycoides, and Bacillus cytotoxicus. Three members of the B. cereus group B. anthracis, B.cereus, and B. cytotoxicus are well-known human pathogens. The members of the B. cereus group produce endospores that are highly resistant to disinfectants, radiation, desiccation, and heat. All members of the group express a wide range of protein toxins such as phospholipases, hemolysins, and enterotoxins. In addition, B. anthracis, the causative agent of anthrax, produces three different proteins necessary for the development of anthrax and B. thuringiensis produce endotoxins active against insects. Members of the B. cereus group are widespread in nature and are easily spread to foods, where they may cause several types of food-associated illnesses. Due to the highly resistant spores, they are becoming increasingly important in the food industry and especially during production of sous-vide foods. In this chapter, the protein toxins expressed in B. cereus sensu stricto and B. thuringiensis are described.