What are the Applications of Biomarkers in Toxicology?
Biomarkers have a wide range of applications in toxicology, including:
Risk Assessment: Biomarkers can help in assessing the potential risk posed by a chemical to human health by providing evidence of exposure and early effect. Monitoring Environmental and Occupational Exposure: Biomarkers are crucial for monitoring workers' exposure to hazardous substances in industrial settings and evaluating community exposure to environmental pollutants. Drug Development and Safety Evaluation: In pharmaceutical research, biomarkers are used to evaluate drug safety and efficacy during clinical trials. Understanding Toxic Mechanisms: Biomarkers can shed light on the biological mechanisms through which toxicants exert their effects, aiding in the development of targeted interventions.