The picture above represents which of the following bacteria?
 
A.) Enterobacter aerogenes
B.) Staphylococcus intermedius
C.) Streptomyces anulatus (Streptomyces griseus)
D.) Staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB)
E.) Enterobacter agglomerans biogroup 2A

Answer: D. Staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB)

48.9% Correct
 
Staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) is one of seven enterotoxins produced by strains of Staphylococcus aureus. SEB, the best understood of the staphylococcal enterotoxins, can be regarded as the type enterotoxin. Staphylococcal enterotoxins, toxic shock syndrome toxin1 (TSST-1), and certain other bacterial products (such as streptococcal pyrogenic exotoxins [SPE]) and viral products are commonly referred to as superantigens because of their profound effects on the immune system. Minute concentrations of superantigens can activate the immune system receptors because they bind with strong avidity to T-cell antigen receptors and class II molecules of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC). Toxins are poisons produced by living organisms. Staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) is classified as an exotoxin, since it is excreted by an organism, in this case the Staphylococcus aureus bacterium. Staphylococcus species thrive and produce toxins in unrefrigerated meats, dairy, and bakery products. SEB normally exerts its effect on the intestines and therefore is termed an enterotoxin. Not all toxins cause a lethal outcome, but they may result in significant morbidity.
 
SEB is the toxin that most commonly causes classic food poisoning. It also has been demonstrated to cause a nonmenstrual toxic shock syndrome (TSS). SEB has been studied as a potential biological agent of war, since it easily can be aerosolized, is very stable, and can cause widespread systemic damage, multiorgan system failure, and even shock and death when inhaled at very high dosages. However, SEB is classified as an incapacitating agent because in most cases aerosol exposure results not in death, but in a temporary though profoundly incapacitating illness lasting as long as 2 weeks. Clearly this would be devastating on the battlefield during times of war.
 

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

 

Pure Air Control Services

1-800-422-7873