NetB, a Pore-Forming Toxin from Necrotic Enteritis Strains of Clostridium Perfringens

Abstract

The Clostridium perfringens necrotic enteritis B-like toxin (NetB) is a recently discovered member of theβ-barrel pore-forming toxin family and is produced by a subset of avian C. perfringens type A strains. NetB is cytotoxic for avian cells and is associated with avian necrotic enteritis. This review examines the current state of knowledge of NetB: its role in pathogenesis, its distribution and expression in C. perfringens and its vaccine potential. © 2010 by the authors.