Mode of Radiation Resistance of Clostridium Botulinum Spores

摘要

Work was conducted to delineate the mechanisms responsible for the extraordinary resistance of Clostridium botulinum spores to ionizing radiation as compared with vegetative cells. The findings indicate that the progression from the high resistance of spores to the sensitivity of vegetative cells proceeds in at least three discrete steps. Several biochemical events have been shown not to play a key role in the resistance and the state of hydration and configuration of DNA has emerged as a prime candidate to explain the changes in resistance. (Author)