Toxicology laboratories employ various methods to study toxic substances. Some of the common techniques include:
In vitro testing: These are experiments conducted in a controlled environment outside a living organism, such as in petri dishes or test tubes. They are used to test the cellular response to toxins. In vivo testing: These studies involve testing on live animals to understand the systemic effects of toxins. They provide comprehensive data on toxicity levels and potential side effects. Analytical Chemistry: This involves the use of sophisticated instruments like mass spectrometry and chromatography to identify and quantify toxins in various samples. Molecular Biology: Techniques such as PCR and gene expression analysis help in understanding the genetic impact of toxic substances.
