Methods, formulations, and kits for bacterial degradation

Abstract

Methodologies, formulations, and kits suitable for decontaminating environments containing bacterial spores by degrading the spores. Formulations contain papain, at least one germinant, and optionally one or more additional enzymes. Methods for killing a bacterial spore include contacting a bacterial spore with the formulation for a duration sufficient to kill the spore, or for a duration sufficient to render the spore susceptible to being killed by a reagent and then contacting the spore with the reagent for a duration sufficient to kill the spore.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 843,952, filed Jul. 9, 2013, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention generally relates to the field of bacteriology. More particularly, this invention relates to methods and formulations for degrading bacterial spores (e.g., neutralizing, destroying, or killing bacterial spores), wherein the formulations contain low-toxicity, human-compatible, and materials-compatible reagents and are conducive to safe and facile containment, delivery, and application by a human.[0003]Anthrax is an acute disease caused by exposure to the bacterium Bacillus anthracis. Most forms of the disease are lethal, affecting both humans and animals. Like many other members of the genus Bacillus, Bacillus anthracis can form dormant endospores which are often referred to as “spores.” These dormant spores are able to survi...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides a method for decontaminating environments that contain bacterial spores by killing them. This is accomplished by using formulations containing papain, a germinant, and optionally other enzymes. The formulations are able to kill the spores quickly and efficiently, without causing harm to human or other living organisms. The method can also involve using a mild decontamination reagent that is unable to kill the spore on its own, but is able to render them susceptible to further destruction with other agents. The technical effects of the invention are that it provides a safe and effective way to eliminate bacterial spores from contaminated environments, without causing harm to individuals.

Problems solved by technology

Most forms of the disease are lethal, affecting both humans and animals.

Harsh, reactive chemical reagents that may endanger operators and require special equipment are undesirable, as are chemical reagents that may degrade equipment or other inert materials within the operational environment, referred to herein as reagents that do not have high materials-compatibility.

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