Final answer:
Endotoxin, or lipopolysaccharide (LPS), is a toxic molecule found in the outer membrane of gram-negative bacteria. It triggers the immune system's inflammatory response, but high concentrations can lead to severe complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
Endotoxin, also known as lipopolysaccharide (LPS), is a toxic molecule found in the outer membrane of gram-negative bacteria. It is released by the bacteria when they die or undergo binary fission. The lipid component of endotoxin, lipid A, is responsible for its toxic properties. When present in low concentrations, endotoxin can trigger the immune system's inflammatory response as a defense against infection. However, high concentrations of endotoxin can lead to an excessive inflammatory response, causing severe complications and even death.