Why Are Membrane Proteins Significant in Toxicology?
Membrane proteins are pivotal in toxicology because they serve as the first point of contact for many toxins. They can act as receptors, channels, or transporters, mediating the entry and exit of substances in and out of cells. This makes them a primary target for toxic agents, which can alter their function and lead to cellular toxicity. Furthermore, they are involved in signal transduction pathways that can trigger toxicological responses.
