toxigenic strains

Toxigenic strains are specific types of bacteria that produce toxins—harmful substances that can cause illness or disease. These bacteria are "toxoigenic" because they generate toxins that can damage tissues, interfere with normal body functions, or trigger immune responses. Not all bacteria of a species are toxigenic; only certain strains have the ability to produce these dangerous toxins. Understanding whether a bacterial strain is toxigenic helps in diagnosing, treating, and preventing infections, as well as in developing targeted vaccines and therapies.