The importance of reaction rate in toxicology can be linked to several key aspects:
Exposure and Absorption: The rate at which a chemical is absorbed by the body can impact its toxicity. Rapid absorption may lead to acute toxic effects, while slow absorption might result in chronic exposure. Biotransformation: Chemicals often undergo biotransformation in the body, where they are metabolized into different compounds. The rate of these reactions can influence the formation of more or less toxic metabolites. Detoxification: The body's ability to detoxify harmful substances is dependent on the reaction rates of detoxification pathways. A faster rate can reduce toxicity, whereas a slower rate might increase toxic effects.
