What Role Do Virulence Factors Play in Toxicology?
In toxicology, virulence factors are studied to understand how pathogens contribute to the toxicity of certain diseases. For instance, exotoxins are virulence factors that can directly damage host cells or disrupt normal physiological functions, leading to toxic effects. By studying these factors, toxicologists can develop strategies to mitigate the impact of infectious diseases and improve treatment outcomes.
