lipopolysaccharide endotoxin

Lipopolysaccharide endotoxin is a biologically active component found in the outer cell membrane of Gram-negative bacteria. It consists of three main parts: lipid A (the toxic component), a non-repeating core oligosaccharide, and a distal polysaccharide (O-antigen). The lipid A portion is responsible for the molecule's endotoxic activity and immune stimulation. When present in the bloodstream, even in small amounts (1-2 mg intravenously can be lethal), it can trigger fever, shock, organ failure, and potentially death. It functions as a Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) agonist, stimulating innate immune responses without requiring previous exposure[1][2][5][6].

Other names

LPSendotoxinlipid A