There are several core principles in the field of toxicology, which are crucial for understanding how substances interact with biological systems:
Dosage: The principle "the dose makes the poison" is fundamental, meaning that almost any substance can be toxic at a certain dose. Toxicologists study dose-response relationships to understand how different levels of exposure affect organism health. Exposure: The route and duration of exposure are critical factors. Substances can enter the body through various routes such as inhalation, ingestion, or dermal contact, and the effects can be acute or chronic depending on the duration. Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion (ADME): These processes determine the concentration of a toxin in the body and its ultimate impact. Understanding ADME helps predict the biological fate of chemicals. Sensitivity: Individuals may have varying degrees of sensitivity to toxins due to genetic and other factors, making some more susceptible than others. Mechanism of Action: Understanding how a toxin causes damage at the molecular or cellular level is critical for assessing risk and developing treatments.