How Do Size and Shape Affect Toxicological Testing?
When conducting toxicological testing, understanding the size and shape of the test substance is crucial. These properties can influence the choice of model systems and the interpretation of results. For instance, in vitro studies using cell cultures might not accurately predict toxicity if the test substance behaves differently in the complex environment of a living organism due to its size or shape. Moreover, the dose-response relationship, a cornerstone in toxicology, can be affected by these factors. Smaller particles may require lower doses to achieve the same level of toxicity compared to larger particles, due to their increased reactivity and penetration ability. Thus, accurate characterization of size and shape is essential for reliable toxicological assessments.
