How Do Toxic Substances Affect Embryonic Development?
Toxic substances can disrupt embryonic development through various mechanisms. These include direct damage to cellular structures, interference with cell signaling pathways, and oxidative stress. The timing of exposure is crucial, as different stages of development have varying sensitivities to toxins. For instance, exposure during the first trimester is often more detrimental due to the rapid cell division and major organ formation occurring during this period.
