Cereulide (CAS 157232-64-9) is an emetic toxin produced by Bacillus cereus. Acts as an ionophore with high selectivity for K+. Stimulates swelling and respiration in rat liver mitochondria.1 It is a lipophilic cyclopeptide and is rapidly absorbed in the gut and transported into the bloodstream. The causative agent in various forms of gastroenteritic disease associated with food poisoning.2
WARNING: Exercise caution when handling and using this compound. Avoid exposure.
References/Citations
1) Mikkola et al. (1999), Ionophoretic properties and mitochondrial effects of cereulide: the emetic toxin of B. cereus; Eur. J. Biochem., 263 112
2) Ehling-Schulz et al. (2004), Bacillus cereus, the causative agent of an emetic type of food-borne illness; Mol. Nutri., 48 479