1. a toxic peptide produced by certain freshwater cyanobacteria (blue-green algae), especially Microcystis, that can contaminate water supplies and pose health risks to humans and animals.
Usage: scientific/technical term; typically used in environmental science, toxicology, and public health contexts

Examples

• Microcystin contamination in the lake forced authorities to issue a public health warning.
• The water treatment facility tests for microcystin levels to ensure drinking water safety.
• Exposure to microcystin can cause liver damage and gastrointestinal illness.
• Algal blooms rich in microcystin have become more common in warming freshwater ecosystems.
• Scientists are developing new methods to detect and remove microcystin from contaminated water sources.