Citotossico

Citotossico refers to a substance or agent that is toxic to cells. This toxicity can manifest in various ways, leading to cell damage, dysfunction, or even cell death (apoptosis or necrosis). The term originates from the Greek words "kytos" meaning cell and "toxikon" meaning poison.

Many substances can exhibit citotoxic properties. These include certain chemicals, such as heavy metals and industrial solvents, as well as biological agents like toxins produced by bacteria, viruses, or even other cells. In the context of medicine, some chemotherapy drugs are designed to be citotoxic, targeting rapidly dividing cancer cells to inhibit tumor growth. However, these drugs can also affect healthy cells, leading to side effects.

The mechanism by which a citotoxic agent exerts its effect can vary. Some may disrupt essential cellular processes like DNA replication or protein synthesis, while others might damage cell membranes or interfere with energy production within the cell. The degree of toxicity often depends on the concentration of the agent, the duration of exposure, and the specific type of cell being affected. Research into citotoxic agents is crucial for understanding disease mechanisms, developing new therapeutic strategies, and assessing the potential risks associated with environmental exposures.