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exotoxin Definition

exo·toxin (eks′ō täk′sin)

noun

Bacteriology a protein toxin, as tetanus or diphtheria, secreted by bacteria

Etymology: exo- + toxin

exotoxin Usage Examples

Converse of object

produce: Gas gangrene is caused by Clostridia and the most common causative organism is Clostridium perfringens, which produces exotoxins that cause local tissue damage.

Adjective modifier

  • bacterial: Bacterial exotoxins [ IRP ] Classification of bacterial exotoxins based on their mode of action at the cellular level.
  • powerful: Clostridium tetani produces its clinical effects via a powerful exotoxin.