Biotoxinok

Biotoxinok are toxic compounds produced by living organisms, including bacteria, algae, fungi, plants, and animals. They are distinguished from synthetic toxins by their natural origin and can enter humans and ecosystems through contaminated food, water, air, or direct contact. Biotoxinok range from small organic molecules to large protein toxins.

Common sources and categories include bacterial toxins such as botulinum toxin and cholera toxin; algal and dinoflagellate toxins such as saxitoxin and domoic acid; fungal aflatoxins; plant toxins such as ricin; and animal toxins such as conotoxins and tetrodotoxin.

Biotoxinok act through diverse mechanisms. Neurotoxins interfere with nerve signaling and can cause paralysis; hepatotoxins damage the liver; cytotoxins injure cells in various tissues; and cardiotoxins affect heart function. Other toxins target ion channels, protein synthesis, or cellular metabolism. Clinical effects depend on the toxin, dose, and exposure route.

Exposure occurs mainly via ingestion of contaminated food or water, but inhalation and dermal contact are possible. Prevention relies on food safety, water quality monitoring, and public health surveillance. Detection relies on analytical methods to identify the toxin or its biomarkers. Treatment is primarily supportive; some toxins have specific antidotes, while others have none. Public health measures focus on preventing exposure, identifying contamination sources, and communicating risks.

Notable examples include botulinum toxin, saxitoxin, tetrodotoxin, domoic acid, brevetoxin, ciguatoxin, aflatoxins, and ricin.