Serum is commonly used in various toxicological assays to assess exposure and effects. Some common uses include:
Biomarker Identification: Serum can be analyzed to identify biomarkers that indicate exposure to toxic substances. Pharmacokinetics Studies: Serum levels of drugs and toxins are measured over time to understand their absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. Therapeutic Drug Monitoring: Serum concentrations of medications can be monitored to ensure they remain within therapeutic levels, avoiding toxicity. Diagnosis of Poisoning: In cases of suspected poisoning, serum tests can confirm the presence of a toxicant and help guide treatment decisions.
