Botulism is a rare but serious condition caused by toxins from bacteria called Clostridium botulinum. Three common forms of botulism are: Foodborne botulism. The harmful bacteria thrive and produce the toxin in environments with little oxygen, such as in home-canned food.

Why is botulinum toxin produced?

Botulinum toxins are ingested through improperly processed food in which the bacteria or the spores survive, then grow and produce the toxins. Though mainly a foodborne intoxication, human botulism can also be caused by intestinal infection with C.

Why do bacteria produce neurotoxins?

Pathogenic bacteria use various strategies to interact with target tissues and cells of the host organism. Among them, toxin production constitutes an efficient way to alter specific functions of target cells.