produce a neurotoxin

verb phrase

1. To make or release a poisonous substance that damages or disrupts the nervous system.

   B2

   transitive; produce + nountechnical, scientific

   • "Some bacteria produce a neurotoxin that can cause paralysis."B2
   • "Certain marine algae produce a neurotoxin that accumulates in shellfish and can harm people who eat them."C1

2. To produce a neurotoxin as a natural biological function, often as a defense or hunting mechanism.

   C1

   transitive; the organism produces a neurotoxinscientific

   • "The cone snail can produce a neurotoxin powerful enough to stun its prey instantly."C1