Clostridium botulinum neurotoxins - applications in medicine and potential agents of bioterrorism

During the past two decades, because of new knowledge about the cellular biology and pharmacology of BoNT, this toxin has become an important tool in cell biology and for the understanding of disease and has stimulated much interest in its actions on the human nervous system. Interest in BoNT has also been raised by awareness of its possible use in bioterrorism, yet the most remarkable discovery that has resulted from investigation of BoNT is its use as a pharmaceutical for the treatment of a myriad of neuronal and hyperactive muscle disorders.