How are toxoids primarily derived?

Toxoids are primarily derived from the toxins secreted by a pathogen that have been inactivated or modified to eliminate their harmful effects while still maintaining their immunogenic properties. This process allows the toxoid to stimulate an immune response without causing disease. The resulting product can be used in vaccines to protect against diseases caused by the original toxin, such as tetanus or diphtheria.

The other options reflect incorrect concepts regarding how toxoids are created. Genetic material and proteins from pathogens do not specifically pertain to the creation of toxoids, as these do not provide the necessary immunogenicity associated with inactivated toxins. Additionally, cell walls of pathogens typically pertain to other types of vaccines, such as those derived from whole bacteria. Thus, focusing on the modification of pathogens' toxins is key to understanding the development and function of toxoids in immunization.