What types of toxins are classified as exotoxins?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the classification of exotoxins and specifically which option correctly defines types of toxins that fall under this category. It presents four possible answers, focusing on the characteristics of exotoxins.
Answer
Neurotoxins, enterotoxins, cytotoxins, and superantigens.
Exotoxins are classified into several types based on their biological effects: neurotoxins, enterotoxins, cytotoxins, and superantigens. Examples include botulinum toxin, tetanus toxin, cytotoxic necrotizing factor, and shiga toxin.
Answer for screen readers
Exotoxins are classified into several types based on their biological effects: neurotoxins, enterotoxins, cytotoxins, and superantigens. Examples include botulinum toxin, tetanus toxin, cytotoxic necrotizing factor, and shiga toxin.
More Information
Exotoxins are potent toxins secreted by bacteria, often more toxic than endotoxins, capable of causing substantial damage to host cells. They include toxins like the botulinum toxin, which is a neurotoxin, and the shiga toxin that targets ribosomes.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing exotoxins with endotoxins, which are part of the bacterial cell wall and released only when the bacteria die.
Sources
- Exotoxin - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics - sciencedirect.com
- 6.2: The Ability to Produce Harmful Exotoxins: An Overview - bio.libretexts.org
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