Question

1. Endotoxin is a major cause of septic shock. Describe
   1. (2 pts) where endotoxin comes from,

2. (4 pts) the specific steps the innate and acquired immune system takes to respond to endotoxin in the blood stream. Explain the steps from the recognition of endotoxin by the innate immune system to the response by the acquired immune system.

3. (2 pts) how the immune system response leads to septic shock.

Answer 1

I can only share some knowledge on this topic -

Endotoxin comes from only gram negative bacteria, these endotoxins are other name for Lipopolysaccharides. Endotoxin is the name because they are found within the outer cell membrane of gram negative bacteria which is makes them different from gram positive ones because they don't have endotoxin in outer cell membrane. Humans are some of the animals that are really sensitive to endotoxins, even 1 microgram per kg induces shock in them on the contrary the mice will need upto 1000 times more to get into shock. Now these endotoxins are released when the gram negative bacteria is killed which will results in destruction of cell membrane with its all parts being released including the endotoxin. This destruction happens when either immune response or antibiotics used on it. The endotoxin binds to CD14/ TLR4 receptors especially the monocytes, dendritic cell and B cells which results in release of pro - inflammatory cytokines, eicasanoids.

I hope this helps a little, Good luck!!!