What Are Some Key Signaling Pathways Involved in Toxicology?
Several signaling pathways are particularly relevant in the context of toxicology:
NF-κB Pathway: Often activated by oxidative stress and inflammation, this pathway plays a role in immune response and cell survival. Toxins like bisphenol A can activate NF-κB, leading to inflammatory diseases. PI3K/Akt Pathway: Involved in cell growth and survival, this pathway can be disrupted by environmental carcinogens, contributing to cancer development. Wnt/β-catenin Pathway: Critical in cell fate determination and proliferation, its dysregulation by toxins can lead to developmental defects and tumorigenesis.
