Foreword

This work consists of the latest presentation of our knowledge of Bacillus anthracis, the causative agent of anthrax in a single volume. There are few better illustrations of the importance of "pure" research than the elucidation of the genetic factors involved in the virulence of B. anthracis in view of its recent emergence as a major potential instrument of biological warfare. An understanding of the relationship of B. anthracis to other members of the B. cereus group is essential for anyone working with B. anthracis and has been fully described in chapter two, and thoroughly elucidated with the application of molecular techniques presented in chapter six. The symptomatic aspects of the three forms of anthrax: cutaneous, gastrointestinal, and inhalation, manifest distinct clinical symptoms, and are thoroughly presented with appropriate illustrations in chapter three. Although several human vaccines have been developed and used over the years with reported success, the development of a reliably effective human vaccine devoid of adverse reactions and not requiring periodic boosting is still elusive, particularly a vaccine against inhalation anthrax. The highly detailed presentation of developmental vaccine efforts over the years in chapter five is comprehensive and should serve as a guide for future efforts in this area. The student and others will find this volume highly informative and replete with extensive references to the published literature.