Can Adaptation Occur in Response to Chronic Exposure?
Yes, organisms can adapt to chronic exposure to low levels of toxins. This adaptive response involves upregulating detoxification enzymes and other protective pathways. However, this adaptation has limits, and once exceeded, it can lead to toxicity. Continuous exposure to tobacco smoke, for example, can initially lead to increased detoxification enzyme activity, but prolonged exposure may overwhelm these systems, resulting in damage.
