A gram-positive, anaerobic, spore-forming bacterium that produces botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs), among the most potent natural toxins. Causes botulism (foodborne, infant, wound). Seven toxin types (A G), with types A, B, E most common in humans.
NTNH gene (ntnh)
- Nontoxic-nonhaemagglutinin protein gene, part of the botulinum toxin gene cluster (bont cluster).
- Located immediately upstream of the neurotoxin gene (bont).
- Present in all BoNT-producing strains but absent in non-toxic strains a conserved genetic marker for toxigenic C. botulinum.
- Encodes a ~150 kDa protein that forms part of the progenitor toxin complex, protecting BoNT in the gastrointestinal tract.
Why it’s used in detection:
Targeting ntnh allows specific, safe molecular detection of toxigenic C. botulinum without handling the toxin itself. Used in PCR and LAMP assays for food safety and clinical diagnostics.
