Toxicants can affect cell membrane integrity through various mechanisms:
Lipid Peroxidation: Certain toxicants induce lipid peroxidation, leading to the oxidation of membrane lipids, which compromises membrane fluidity and integrity. Protein Modification: Toxicants can cause chemical modifications to membrane proteins, disrupting their function and altering the structural integrity of the membrane. Increased Permeability: Some toxicants increase membrane permeability, allowing the influx of ions and molecules that can disturb cellular homeostasis. Disruption of Membrane-Bound Enzymes: Toxicants can inhibit or alter the activity of enzymes embedded in the cell membrane, affecting membrane function and cellular signaling.
