Question

Endotoxins and exotoxins are both bacterial virulence factors that can affect the infected host. sort the following descriptions as to whether they apply to endotoxins, exotoxins, or both.

Harm the host by overstimulating the host's immune defenses

Answer 1

Both endotoxins and exotoxins can harm the host by overstimulating the host's immune defenses, but they have different characteristics and mechanisms of action.

Step-by-step explanation:

Both endotoxins and exotoxins can harm the host by overstimulating the host's immune defenses. However, these toxins have different characteristics and mechanisms of action.

Endotoxins are lipid molecules found on the outer membrane of gram-negative bacteria. When released, they can trigger a systemic inflammatory response which can lead to severe symptoms such as low blood pressure and multi-organ failure.

Exotoxins, on the other hand, are protein molecules secreted mainly by gram-positive bacteria. They are much more specific in their action and target specific cells and receptors. Some exotoxins can also trigger excessive immune responses, leading to life-threatening conditions.