Biological Toxins

Research & Economic Development

"Biological toxins are any toxic substance that can be produced by microorganisms, animals and plants." ... "Unlike the case for toxic chemicals where supportive treatment is the only avenue following exposure, prophylactic vaccines and antitoxins also exist for some biological toxins." "...most biological toxins manifest acute effects, though a few produce long-term effects...."

Quotes from Barbara Johnson, Ray Mastnjak, and I. Gary Resnick. Safety and Health Considerations for Conducting Work with Biological Toxins. Applied Biosafety, 6(3) pp. 117-135 2001

Biological Toxin Information

• The Institutional Biosafety Committee reviews projects using biological toxins
• Procedure for Registering Research with the IBC
• Biological Agent and Toxin Usage Registration

For questions contact the Biological Safety Specialist

Links

• Section VIII-G: Toxin Agents (From Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories)
• Select Agents and Toxins List (CDC National Select Agent Registry)