The apoptotic pathway involves the activation of initiator caspases that subsequently activate effector caspases. This cascade results in the orderly disassembly of the cell. In toxicology, xenobiotics can induce apoptosis by modulating caspase activity, which can be protective or detrimental depending on the context. For instance, chemicals that excessively activate caspases can lead to unwarranted cell death, contributing to tissue damage and toxicity.
