Infectious Agents & Biological Toxins

Infectious agents are microorganisms or transmissible biological materials capable of causing disease in humans, animals, or plants. These include bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites, and certain prions. Disease occurs when these agents enter a susceptible host and replicate or interfere with normal biological processes.

Biological toxins are poisonous substances produced by living organisms, including certain bacteria, fungi, plants, and marine species. Unlike infectious agents, toxins do not replicate, but they can cause significant illness or injury even at very low doses by disrupting cellular function.

Due to their potential health and environmental risks, research involving infectious agents and biologically derived toxins is subject to Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) review and approval prior to initiation.

Applicable Policies & Guides:

• Biological Safety Manual

Applicable Forms:

• IBC Registration Form

External Resources:

• American Biological Safety Association Risk Group Database
• Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories, 6th Edition