Endotoksineista

Endotoksineista, also known as lipopolysaccharides (LPS), are components of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria. They are large molecules composed of a lipid component, lipid A, and a polysaccharide chain. Endotoxins are released when the bacterial cell wall disintegrates, either during bacterial growth or death.

Upon entering the bloodstream or tissues of a host organism, endotoxins can trigger a potent immune response. The lipid A portion of the endotoxin is responsible for most of its biological activity. It interacts with specific receptors on immune cells, such as macrophages and monocytes, initiating a cascade of inflammatory signals. This response is a critical part of the host's defense against bacterial infection.

However, excessive or uncontrolled release of endotoxins can lead to a severe systemic inflammatory state known as sepsis or endotoxic shock. Symptoms can include fever, chills, rapid breathing, low blood pressure, and organ damage. The body's immune system, in its attempt to eliminate the bacteria, can inadvertently cause significant harm to its own tissues due to the overwhelming inflammatory response triggered by endotoxins.

Endotoxins are also used in research to study inflammatory processes and develop therapeutic strategies for conditions involving inflammation. Their potent immunomodulatory properties make them valuable tools in immunology and microbiology laboratories.