How do hormonal fluctuations impact toxicological responses?
Hormonal fluctuations can significantly impact toxicological responses. In women, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause result in varying levels of hormones like estrogen and progesterone, which can alter drug metabolism and toxicity. In men, fluctuations in testosterone levels can similarly affect physiological responses to toxicants. Hormonal changes can modulate the activity of cytochrome P450 enzymes, which are crucial for the metabolism of many drugs and chemicals, leading to differences in toxicity and efficacy.
