noun
- toxic substances produced by bacteria and released into surrounding tissues or the bloodstream
Usage: biology; medical
Examples
- The bacteria release exotoxins that damage healthy cells.
- Botulism is caused by exotoxins produced by Clostridium botulinum.
- Scientists studied how exotoxins affect the immune system.
- The vaccine helps neutralize dangerous exotoxins.
- Exotoxins can cause severe illness even in small amounts.
- Researchers identified several types of exotoxins in the sample.