Autoantitoxin

/ˌɔːtoʊˌæntɪˈtɒksɪn/ noun

Definition

A substance produced by an organism that neutralizes toxins made by that same organism.

Etymology

From 'auto-' (self), 'anti-' (against), and 'toxin' (poison). This is a biochemical term that emerged in the study of bacterial toxins.

Kelly Says

Some bacteria produce autoantitoxins to prevent their own toxins from killing them—it's like a company that makes poison also selling the antidote to itself to stay in business.

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