General Definition:
* A poisonous substance produced by a living organism, such as a bacterium, fungus, or plant, that can cause harm to other organisms. This definition emphasizes the biological origin and harmful effects of toxins.
Specific Definitions:
* A poisonous substance produced by a living organism that can cause harm when ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. This definition focuses on the different ways toxins can enter the body.
* A substance that can disrupt the normal functions of an organism, leading to disease or death. This definition emphasizes the harmful effects of toxins on biological processes.
* A substance that can bind to and interfere with the activity of a specific molecule or pathway in the body. This definition highlights the molecular mechanisms by which toxins can cause harm.
Important Note:
While the term "toxin" is often used interchangeably with "poison", there is a subtle distinction:
* Poisons can be naturally occurring or synthetically produced.
* Toxins are specifically produced by living organisms.
Ultimately, the best definition of toxin will depend on the specific context and the information you need to convey.