Final answer:
Superantigens are a class of exotoxins causing a cytokine storm, leading to severe immune responses. Toxic shock syndrome toxin by Staphylococcus aureus and streptococcal pyrogenic toxins by Streptococcus pyogenes are examples of superantigens.
Step-by-step explanation:
Superantigens are a class of exotoxins that lead to excessive, nonspecific stimulation of immune cells resulting in a cytokine storm. Examples of type 1 toxins or superantigens include the toxic shock syndrome toxin (TSST) produced by Staphylococcus aureus, staphylococcal enterotoxins, streptococcal pyrogenic toxins, streptococcal superantigen, and the streptococcal mitogenic exotoxin. These toxins can trigger a massive immune response leading to symptoms such as high fevers, low blood pressure, and multi-organ failure, which can be life-threatening.
One of the most well-known conditions caused by superantigens is toxic shock syndrome (TSS), primarily related to certain strains of S. aureus. Other serious conditions include scarlet fever and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS), which are associated with certain strains of Streptococcus pyogenes.