Toxoids
Toxoids
Toxoids (/tɒksɔɪdz/) are inactivated toxins that have lost their ability to cause harm but can still stimulate the body's immune system to create an immune response. They are used in the production of vaccines to provide immunity against certain diseases.
Etymology
The term "toxoid" is derived from the Greek words "toxikon" meaning poison and "eidos" meaning form or shape. It was first used in the early 20th century to describe substances that were similar in form to toxins but lacked their harmful effects.
Types of Toxoids
There are several types of toxoids used in vaccines, including:
- Diphtheria Toxoid: Used in the Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP) vaccine.
- Tetanus Toxoid: Used in the DTaP vaccine as well as the Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap) vaccine.
- Pertussis Toxoid: Used in the DTaP and Tdap vaccines.
Production of Toxoids
Toxoids are produced by treating toxins with chemicals or heat to inactivate them. This process, known as detoxification, ensures that the toxoid cannot cause disease but can still stimulate an immune response.
Use in Vaccines
Toxoids are used in vaccines to stimulate the body's immune system to produce antibodies against the toxin. When the body is later exposed to the toxin, it can quickly produce antibodies to neutralize it, preventing disease.
Related Terms
- Vaccine: A substance used to stimulate the production of antibodies and provide immunity against one or several diseases.
- Antibody: A protein produced by the body's immune system when it detects harmful substances.
- Immunity: The ability of an organism to resist a particular infection or toxin by the action of specific antibodies or sensitized white blood cells.
- Detoxification: The process of removing toxic substances or qualities.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Toxoids
- Wikipedia's article - Toxoids
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