Why Do Different Organisms Show Varying Levels of Susceptibility?
The variability in susceptibility among organisms is influenced by several factors:
Genetic Makeup: Genetic differences can lead to variations in metabolic pathways and detoxification mechanisms, affecting how an organism processes and responds to toxic substances. Physiological Differences: Factors such as age, sex, and health status can influence susceptibility. For example, young organisms may be more vulnerable due to undeveloped detoxification systems, while older organisms might be compromised due to accumulated toxicants. Environmental Factors: The environment in which an organism lives can affect its exposure to toxins and its ability to detoxify them. Factors like diet, habitat, and climate play a significant role. Previous Exposure: Prior exposure to certain chemicals can either increase susceptibility, through sensitization, or decrease it, through adaptive tolerance.
