Endotoxin

Endotoxins are potent bacterial toxins that are an integral part of the cell walls of Gram-negative bacteria. These toxins are composed of lipopolysaccharides (LPS), which consist of lipid and polysaccharide components. Endotoxins are released when the bacterial cell wall is disrupted, such as during bacterial growth, division, or death. They have the potential to trigger a robust immune response in humans and other animals, leading to a cascade of inflammatory reactions.