Enterotoxin type B

Enterotoxin type B is a type of enterotoxin produced by certain strains of bacteria, most notably Staphylococcus aureus. It is one of several toxins that can cause food poisoning and other forms of gastrointestinal illness.

Overview

Enterotoxin type B is a protein that is secreted by the bacteria during growth. It is heat-stable, meaning it can survive cooking temperatures, and is resistant to stomach acid. This allows it to reach the small intestine, where it can cause illness.

Mechanism of Action

Once in the small intestine, enterotoxin type B binds to specific receptors on the surface of the intestinal cells. This triggers a cascade of events that ultimately leads to the release of water and electrolytes into the intestinal lumen. The result is the characteristic diarrhea seen in food poisoning.

Symptoms and Treatment

The symptoms of food poisoning caused by enterotoxin type B include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. These symptoms usually begin within a few hours of consuming contaminated food and can last for up to three days. Treatment is primarily supportive, with rehydration therapy being the most important aspect.

Prevention

Prevention of food poisoning caused by enterotoxin type B involves proper food handling and storage. This includes cooking food to the correct temperature, refrigerating leftovers promptly, and avoiding cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods.

See Also

• Enterotoxin
• Food poisoning
• Staphylococcus aureus

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