Botulinum Toxin; Bioterror and Biomedicinal Agent

Botulinum toxin is a group of seven homologous, highly poisonous proteins isolated from fermentation of the anaerobic bacterium Clostridium botulinum, which naturally occurs in soil and can grow on many meats and vegetables. Botulinum toxin causes neuromuscular disorder called botulism, which is a potentially lethal disease. There are three types of botulism: Food, wound, and infant botulism. It can lead to death unless appropriate therapy is done. Due to the severity and potency of botulinum toxin, its importance as a biological weapon is of major concern to public health officials. Nevertheless, botulinum toxin is also medicament.