Structure Of New Botulism Nerve Toxin Subtype Revealed
Friday, January 2, 2009 - 00:14
in Biology & Nature
Scientists have determined the structure of a third subtype of botulinum neurotoxin -- a deadly toxin that causes the disease botulism, and is also used in cosmetic and therapeutic applications. The structure reveals a unique arrangement of the active components that may help explain why subtype E is faster-acting than others -- and may have implications for improving vaccines and/or therapeutic agents.
