What role does sex play in toxicological outcomes?
Sex is another significant determinant in toxicological outcomes due to differences in hormonal levels, body composition, and genetic expression. Males and females metabolize and react to toxins differently. For instance, women typically have a higher percentage of body fat, which can affect the distribution of lipophilic substances. Hormones such as estrogen and testosterone can modulate the metabolism of certain drugs and chemicals, influencing their toxicity. Moreover, sex-specific genetic differences can lead to variations in the expression of enzymes responsible for detoxification.
