Vertebrate Toxicology of the Solubilized Parasporal Crystalline Proteins of 'Bacillus thuringiensis' Subsp. 'israelensis'

摘要

The review summarizes the studies done with the mammalian toxic Bacillus thuringiensis subsp, israelensis (Bti) 28 kDa cytA protein. The data is relevant to hazard identification studies with bacterial pesticides. The data shows the cytA produces lethal physiological changes in diverse mammalian species when administered intraperitoneally and a dose-dependent localized necrosis by the subcutaneous route. Challenge by other routes have no effects. The cytA protein is a minor component of the insecticidal activity of the Bti parasporal crystal. Insertion of the cytA gene by genetic engineering methods into microbial species that have the potential to invade traumatized tissues or organs could result in detrimental human health effects.