Why are Partition Coefficients Important in Toxicology?
The partition coefficient is a fundamental property used to predict the bioavailability of a substance. Compounds with a high partition coefficient are more likely to be lipophilic, meaning they can easily cross cell membranes and accumulate in fatty tissues. This characteristic is vital for assessing the potential toxicity of a chemical, as lipophilic compounds tend to persist longer in the body, potentially leading to chronic toxic effects.
