Endotoksinien

Endotoksinien, also known as endotoxins, are toxic components primarily associated with the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria. These lipopolysaccharides (LPS) are integral to the bacterial cell wall structure and are released into the surrounding environment upon bacterial cell lysis or death. Endotoxins play a significant role in the immune response, often triggering inflammation and fever when they enter the host’s bloodstream.

Structurally, endotoxins consist of a lipid A moiety, which is responsible for their toxic effects, a core polysaccharide, and an O-antigen side chain. The lipid A component interacts with immune cells, such as macrophages, leading to the release of cytokines and other inflammatory mediators. This immune activation can result in systemic effects such as septic shock if endotoxin levels are high.

Endotoxins are distinguishable from exotoxins, which are secreted proteins produced by bacteria. Unlike exotoxins, endotoxins are relatively heat-stable and are only neutralized at very high temperatures.

Detection and measurement of endotoxins are critical in clinical and pharmaceutical contexts, especially to ensure the safety of injectable drugs and medical devices. Common testing methods include the Limulus Amebocyte Lysate (LAL) assay, which utilizes blood cells from horseshoe crabs that clot in the presence of endotoxins.

Management of endotoxin contamination involves sterilization processes such as autoclaving and depyrogenation techniques. Understanding endotoxins is vital in microbiology, medicine, and pharmaceutical manufacturing to prevent adverse reactions caused by Gram-negative bacterial contamination.