Toxins can disrupt osmotic balance in several ways. For instance, they may damage the semipermeable membranes, increasing permeability and allowing uncontrolled diffusion of solutes and water. Certain heavy metals and organic solvents are known to disrupt cellular membranes, leading to osmotic imbalance. Additionally, some toxins can interfere with the regulation of solute concentrations, such as ions and proteins, further affecting osmotic pressure.
