What is the Role of Caspases in Chemical-Induced Toxicity?
Chemicals such as cytotoxic drugs, environmental pollutants, and industrial chemicals can trigger apoptosis through the activation of caspases. The intrinsic pathway, often activated by mitochondrial damage, involves caspase-9, while the extrinsic pathway, initiated by death receptors, involves caspase-8. Understanding these pathways helps in elucidating the mechanisms of chemical-induced toxicity and aids in developing strategies to mitigate adverse effects.