Toxic substances can induce apoptosis through various pathways. These substances may cause oxidative stress, damage to cellular components, or disruption of cellular signaling pathways. For instance, many toxicants lead to the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can damage DNA, proteins, and lipids, ultimately triggering apoptosis. Additionally, toxic substances might affect the expression of genes related to the apoptotic pathway, such as upregulating pro-apoptotic factors like Bax or downregulating anti-apoptotic factors like Bcl-2.
