Toxicon

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Toxicon

Toxicon (pronounced: /tɒksɪkɒn/) is a term used in the field of toxicology to refer to a poisonous substance produced by living organisms.

Etymology

The term "Toxicon" is derived from the Greek words "toxikon pharmakon", which translates to "poison for arrows". The term was first used in the scientific literature in the 19th century.

Definition

A toxicon is a toxic substance that is produced by a living organism. This can include bacteria, fungi, plants, and animals. Toxicons can be harmful or lethal to other organisms, particularly those that are not adapted to deal with the specific toxin.

Types of Toxicons

There are many different types of toxicons, including neurotoxins, which affect the nervous system, cytotoxins, which damage cells, and hemotoxins, which affect the blood.

Related Terms

  • Toxin: A poison that is produced by living cells or organisms.
  • Venom: A type of toxin that is injected by a bite or sting.
  • Poison: A substance that can cause harm or death when introduced into the body.
  • Antitoxin: A substance that neutralizes a specific toxin.

See Also

External links

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