University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

An endotoxin is a type of toxin that is found within the outer membrane of certain Gram-negative bacteria. Endotoxins are made within the cell remain associated with the cell until released when the cells die and disintegrate.

Endotoxins

Exotoxins differ from endotoxin in several key characteristics. In contrast to endotoxin, which stimulates a general systemic inflammatory response when released, exotoxins are much more specific in their action and the cell components that they target.

Exotoxins vs Endotoxins

Which of the following statements accurately describes the nature and release of endotoxins?

Which of the following best describes the composition and location of endotoxins in bacteria?

How do endotoxins typically affect the host organism when released?

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a molecule located in the outer leaflet of the outer membrane of gram-negative bacteria. During infections involving these bacteria, LPS functions as an endotoxin, contributing to severe symptoms such as fever, hemorrhaging, and septic shock. Structurally, each LPS molecule is composed of Lipid A, a core polysaccharide, and an O side chain.

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