Gram-negative endotoxin

Endotoxins, also called LPS, are the component of the outer membrane of gram-negative bacteria and are released into the circulation upon disruption of the intact bacteria (death, cell lysis). Endotoxin is commonly found everywhere in our environment and it is the most significant pyrogen in parenteral drugs and medical devices. Endotoxins are also present in the digestive system. Effects of endotoxin on the pulmonary hemodynamics of dogs and cats have been studied in intact animals, open chest animals with and without control of cardiac output by an extracorporeal venous reservoir-pump system, and in isolated perfused continuously weighed lungs.