Endotoxoid

/ˌɛndoʊˈtɑksɔɪd/ noun

Definition

A modified form of endotoxin that has been treated to remove its toxic properties while retaining its ability to stimulate immune response, used experimentally in vaccine development.

Etymology

From 'endotoxin' plus the suffix '-oid' (resembling or similar), following the pattern of 'toxoid' vaccines used in vaccination to create a weakened form that trains immunity without causing disease.

Kelly Says

Scientists create endotoxoids in labs by chemically altering bacterial toxins so your immune system learns to fight bacteria without getting actually sick—it's the same clever strategy used to make tetanus and diphtheria vaccines.

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