Synonym(s)
Ectotoxin
DefinitionThis section has been translated automatically.
Toxins produced and released by bacteria, mostly macromolecular polypeptides. Some exotoxins produced by bacteria are among the most potent naturally occurring toxins, such as the neurotoxins of clostridia (e.g. botulinum toxin of Clostridium botulinum). Exotoxins often have a targeted effect on regulatory processes and proteins in the cell and thus influence switching points that regulate the transmission of signals by transmitters or hormones in the cell or control the organisation of the cytoskeleton.
Prof. Dr. med. Peter Altmeyer