Toxic agents, such as drugs, chemicals, and environmental pollutants, can interfere with the normal process of organogenesis. They can cause disruptions through various mechanisms:
Gene Mutation: Some toxic agents can induce mutations in the DNA, leading to malformed organs. Oxidative Stress: Excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) can damage cellular components, impeding normal development. Endocrine Disruption: Certain chemicals can interfere with hormonal signals crucial for organ development. Cell Death: Toxic agents can induce apoptosis or necrosis in developing tissues, leading to incomplete or absent organ formation.
