The cytotoxic potential of Bacillus cereus strains of various origins. (September 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Glasset, Benjamin; Sperry, Mylène; Dervyn, Rozenn; Herbin, Sabine; Brisabois, Anne; Ramarao, Nalini
• Is Part Of: Food microbiology. Volume 98(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-09
• Subjects: Bacillus cereus -- Molecular characterization -- Cytotoxicity -- Genetic signature; Food Microbiology -- Periodicals; Aliments -- Microbiologie -- Périodiques; Food -- Microbiology; Periodicals; Food -- Microbiology -- Periodicals; Food contamination -- Periodicals; 664.001579
• DOI: 10.1016/j.fm.2021.103759
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0740-0020

Abstract

Abstract: B. cereus is a human pathogen associated with food poisoning leading to gastrointestinal disorders, as well as local and severe systemic infections. The pathogenic spectrum of B. cereus ranges from strains used as probiotics in humans to lethal highly toxic strains. In this study, we gathered a collection of 100 strains representative of the pathological diversity of B. cereus in humans, and characterized these strains for their cytotoxic potential towards human cells. We analyzed the correlation between cytotoxicity to epithelial and macrophage cells and the combination of 10 genes suspected to play a role during B. cereus virulence. We highlight genetic differences among isolates and studied correlations between genetic signature, cytotoxicity and strain pathological status. We hope that our findings will improve our understanding of the pathogenicity of B. cereus, thereby making it possible to improve both clinical diagnosis and food safety. Highlights: There is a need to distinguish Bc strains of public health concern. Pathogenic strains induce on average increased cytotoxicity. 12 genetic signatures (GS) were defined allowing to classify Bc strains. One GS was characteristic of non-pathogenic strains. 6 GS are present only in pathogenic strains.