How Do Metabolic Transformations Influence Toxicity?
Metabolism is a key determinant of a chemical's toxicity. Many substances undergo biotransformation, where they are converted into more water-soluble metabolites for excretion. However, this process can sometimes produce more toxic metabolites. For example, the metabolism of acetaminophen can lead to the formation of a highly reactive intermediate that can cause liver damage. Understanding metabolic pathways helps in predicting potential toxic effects and in developing antidotes.
