Toxoid (Noun)
Meaning
A bacterial toxin that has been weakened until it is no longer toxic but is strong enough to induce the formation of antibodies and immunity to the specific disease caused by the toxin; "diphtheria toxoid".
Classification
Nouns denoting substances.
Examples
- The diphtheria toxoid in the vaccine allowed the patient's body to produce antibodies against the toxin without actually contracting the illness.
- A combined injection of diphtheria toxoid, tetanus toxoid, and pertussis vaccine was administered to protect against all three diseases.
- The toxoid used in the vaccine was carefully formulated to ensure it was strong enough to induce an immune response but weak enough to be non-toxic.
- The doctor assured the anxious parent that the diphtheria toxoid in the vaccine was safe and effective in preventing the disease.
- Researchers have been working to develop new toxoids for immunization against other diseases caused by bacterial toxins.