Final answer:
Lipid A is the correct answer, as it is the toxic component of LPS in the Gram-negative cell wall responsible for fever, inflammation, and shock.
Step-by-step explanation:
The lipid component of the Gram-negative cell wall that can produce fever, inflammation, and shock when it is released into the bloodstream is known as lipid A. Lipid A is the toxic element found in the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, specifically within the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) molecule. During infections, gram-negative bacteria can release endotoxin, which consists of LPS with lipid A being responsible for its toxic effects. When released in large quantities, particularly during bacterial death or binary fission, it can trigger an intense immune response leading to symptoms such as fever and inflammation and can result in septic shock if present in high concentrations in the bloodstream.
The correct answer to the question is therefore b) Lipid A.