At the molecular level, toxicity can be mediated through various mechanisms: - Receptor Binding: Some toxicants mimic or block natural ligands, disrupting normal cellular signaling. - Enzyme Inhibition: Toxicants can inhibit enzymes, leading to the accumulation or depletion of critical metabolites. - DNA Interaction: Chemicals like mutagens bind to DNA, causing mutations that can lead to cancer. - Lipid Peroxidation: Oxidative stress can lead to the peroxidation of lipids in cell membranes, compromising cellular integrity.
