What is the meaning of the prefix 'toxin'?

The prefix 'toxin' derives from the Greek word 'toxikon,' which means poison. In medical and biological contexts, it is commonly used to refer to substances that are harmful or lethal to living organisms. Toxins can be produced by various organisms, including bacteria and plants, and can interfere with normal physiological functions by causing cell damage, disrupting metabolic pathways, or triggering immune responses. Understanding this prefix is crucial for fields such as pharmacology, toxicology, and medical treatment because it helps in identifying harmful substances and their effects on health. Other options, while relevant to their respective fields, do not encapsulate the meaning of 'toxin' related to poisons and their biological implications.