The movement of toxins between compartments is influenced by several factors:
- Blood Flow: Toxins are transported between compartments primarily through the bloodstream. Highly perfused organs are exposed to toxins more quickly than less perfused tissues.
- Membrane Permeability: The ability of a toxin to cross cellular membranes influences its distribution. Lipid-soluble toxins can easily cross cell membranes, while water-soluble toxins may require specific transport mechanisms.
- Binding to Proteins: Some toxins bind to plasma proteins, which can affect their distribution and elimination. Bound toxins are generally inactive but can serve as a reservoir, prolonging the toxin's presence in the system.
