Toksoidy

Toksoidy, also known as toxoids, are inactivated toxins derived from pathogenic bacteria. These toxins, when introduced into the body in a controlled manner, lose their harmful properties while retaining their ability to stimulate an immune response. This process of inactivation is typically achieved through chemical treatment, often with formaldehyde, which alters the toxin's structure without destroying its antigenic determinants. The resulting toksoid acts as a safe and effective antigen.

When a toksoid is administered, the immune system recognizes it as foreign and mounts a defense by producing antibodies. These antibodies are specific to the original toxin. If the individual is later exposed to the actual live toxin, their pre-existing antibodies can neutralize it, preventing or significantly reducing the severity of the disease. This mechanism forms the basis of vaccination against diseases caused by bacterial toxins.

Toksoidy are a crucial component of several important vaccines. Examples include the tetanus toksoid, used in vaccines like DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis) and Tdap, which protect against tetanus. Similarly, diphtheria toksoid is also a key ingredient in these vaccines, preventing diphtheria. The development of toksoid vaccines has been instrumental in controlling and nearly eradicating many serious infectious diseases worldwide, making them a cornerstone of public health immunization programs.