Toxins
Toxins
Toxins (pronunciation: /ˈtɒksɪnz/) are harmful substances produced within living cells or organisms. They can be small molecules, peptides, or proteins that are capable of causing disease on contact or absorption with body tissues interacting with biological macromolecules such as enzymes or cellular receptors.
Etymology
The term "toxin" is derived from the Ancient Greek word "τοξικόν" (toxikon), which means "poison for arrows". It was first used in a biological context by the English physiologist Sir Thomas Lauder Brunton in the late 19th century.
Types of Toxins
Toxins are classified into two main types: Endotoxins and Exotoxins. Endotoxins are released only when the bacteria disintegrate; they are less toxic and less specific than exotoxins. Exotoxins, on the other hand, are secreted into the surrounding medium or released when the bacteria die and disintegrate.
Related Terms
- Venom: A type of toxin produced by certain animals, such as snakes and spiders, used primarily to immobilize prey.
- Poison: A substance that is capable of causing the illness or death of a living organism when introduced or absorbed.
- Antitoxin: A substance, usually produced within the body, that counteracts a specific toxin.
- Toxicology: The study of the nature, effects, and detection of poisons and the treatment of poisoning.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Toxins
- Wikipedia's article - Toxins
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