crotoxin

[kroh-tok-sin]

noun

1. a toxin in the venom of the North American rattlesnake, Crotalus terrificus.

Word History and Origins

Origin of crotoxin¹

First recorded in 1915–20; blend of Crotalus (genus name) + toxin ( def. )

Example Sentences

Crotoxin, a protein from the South American rattlesnake, though not yet approved for use, may one day be employed to treat cancers.

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Crotoxin seems particularly attracted to cancer cells.

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