Glossary

A nitrogen-containing, single ring, basic compound that occurs in nucleic acids. The pyrimidines in DNA are cytosine and thymine, in RNA, cytosine and uracil.

An agent capable of inducing an increase in body temperature; usually refers to fever caused by bacterial endotoxins.

Trace organics which are used as markers of bacterial growth or contamination. Produced by various bacteria and fungi. Critical pharmaceutical and biotechnological processes have restrictions on contamination by these substances, usually at levels near the limit of detection. Primarily polysaccharide (made of linked sugars) in nature. Fever producing substances when administered parenterally to man and certain animals.(also see: Endotoxin)

A foreign substance that produces a fever response in humans and animals, hence the name pyrogen (heat producing). Chemically, the lipopolysaccharide outer layer of gram-negative bacteria. Bacterial pyrogens were at one time believed to be toxic substances released when bacterial cells disintegrate and are therefore still referred to as endotoxins. Parenteral drugs must be essentially pyrogen free.

Trace organics which are used as markers of bacterial growth or contamination. Produced by various bacteria and fungi. Critical pharmaceutical and biotechnological processes have restrictions on contamination by these substances, usually at levels near the limit of detection. Primarily polysaccharide (made of linked sugars) in nature. Fever producing substances when administered parenterally to man and certain animals.

A fever-producing substance.

(OSHA) A chemical that will spontaneously ignite in air at or below a temperature of 130°F (54.5°C).