Developmental effects refer to the adverse outcomes that occur when exposure to certain toxic substances affects the normal growth and development of an organism, typically during the prenatal or early postnatal periods. These effects can manifest as structural abnormalities, functional deficits, or even death, depending on the timing and level of exposure. In toxicology, understanding these effects is crucial for assessing the risks posed by various environmental agents to vulnerable populations, especially prenatal and neonatal life stages.
