Toxicants can disrupt metabolic pathways in several ways:
- Inhibition of Enzymes: Many toxic substances act by inhibiting key enzymes involved in metabolic processes. For example, cyanide inhibits cytochrome c oxidase, a critical enzyme in the electron transport chain, leading to cellular respiration failure.
- Oxidative Stress: Some toxicants generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can damage cellular components, including lipids, proteins, and DNA. This oxidative stress can disrupt normal metabolic functions.
- Mitochondrial Dysfunction: Mitochondria are the powerhouses of the cell, responsible for ATP production. Toxicants like rotenone and paraquat can impair mitochondrial function, leading to energy deficits and cellular damage.
