Which of the following does NOT pertain to endotoxin?

• A. It can trigger fever and inflammation in the host
• B. It is composed primarily of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)
• C. It is secreted actively by living bacteria into the surrounding environment
• D. It is a component of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand what an endotoxin is. Endotoxins are toxic components found in the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, primarily composed of lipopolysaccharide (LPS).
2. Step 2: Recognize the biological effects of endotoxins. They can trigger fever and inflammation in the host as part of the immune response.
3. Step 3: Identify the location of endotoxins. They are integral parts of the bacterial outer membrane, not substances secreted actively by living bacteria.
4. Step 4: Differentiate endotoxins from exotoxins. Exotoxins are secreted actively by bacteria, whereas endotoxins are released mainly when the bacteria die and the cell wall breaks down.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the statement 'It is secreted actively by living bacteria into the surrounding environment' does NOT pertain to endotoxins, as this describes exotoxins instead.