endotoxins

Endotoxins are toxic substances found within the outer membrane of certain bacteria, specifically Gram-negative bacteria. When these bacteria die or multiply, they release endotoxins into their environment. In the human body, these endotoxins can trigger immune responses, leading to inflammation, fever, or more severe conditions like sepsis if present in high amounts. Unlike toxins produced intentionally by bacteria (exotoxins), endotoxins are part of the bacterial structure itself. They are important in medical contexts because their presence can indicate bacterial infection and can negatively impact health if not properly managed.