ENDOTOXIN Meaning and
Definition
-
Endotoxin, also known as lipopolysaccharide (LPS), is a toxic substance found in the cell walls of certain types of bacteria. It is a major component of the outer membrane of gram-negative bacteria, which include common pathogens such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella, and Pseudomonas.
Endotoxin is released when these bacteria multiply, die, or are destroyed. It is composed of a lipid (fat) portion called lipid A, a core polysaccharide, and an O antigen. The lipid A component is primarily responsible for the toxic effects of endotoxin.
When endotoxin enters the body, it can trigger a strong immune response, leading to inflammation and potentially causing various symptoms and diseases. It activates immune cells, particularly macrophages, which release cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interleukins. These cytokines can induce fever, increase vascular permeability, and cause tissue damage. In severe cases, a massive release of these inflammatory mediators can lead to a systemic inflammatory response known as sepsis, which can be life-threatening.
The detection of endotoxin is of great importance in various fields, especially in the pharmaceutical and medical industries, where the presence of even trace amounts can have serious implications. This is primarily because endotoxin can cause adverse reactions, including fever, hypotension, and organ dysfunction. Thus, accurate methods for detecting and quantifying endotoxin levels are utilized, such as the Limulus amebocyte lysate (LAL) assay, which is based on the sensitivity of a horseshoe crab's blood cells to endotoxin.
-
A toxin elaborated by a microorganism within its substance, and which becomes free only after destruction of the producing agent.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ENDOTOXIN
Etymology of ENDOTOXIN
The word "endotoxin" derives from the combination of two elements: "endo" and "toxin".
1. "Endo" is a prefix of Greek origin meaning "within" or "inside". It is commonly used in scientific and medical terms to indicate something originating or located internally.
2. "Toxin" is a noun of Latin origin that refers to a harmful substance produced by living organisms, such as bacteria, plants, or animals that can cause disease or cellular damage.
Therefore, the term "endotoxin" combines these two elements to describe a toxin that is produced and located within certain bacteria.
Similar spelling words for ENDOTOXIN
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
