Citotóxicos

Citotóxicos is a term derived from Greek words meaning "cell" and "poison." It refers to any substance or agent that is toxic to living cells. This toxicity can manifest in various ways, including disrupting cellular functions, damaging cellular structures, or inducing programmed cell death, also known as apoptosis.

Cytotoxic agents are found in both natural and synthetic forms. Many plants and microorganisms produce cytotoxic compounds as a defense mechanism against predators or competitors. In medicine, cytotoxic drugs are a cornerstone of cancer chemotherapy. These drugs work by targeting rapidly dividing cells, which are characteristic of tumors, and inducing their death. However, because normal rapidly dividing cells, such as those in hair follicles or bone marrow, can also be affected, cytotoxic chemotherapy often comes with significant side effects.

The study of cytotoxic agents is crucial in various fields, including pharmacology, toxicology, and cancer research. Understanding the mechanisms by which these substances exert their effects allows for the development of more targeted and effective treatments, as well as strategies to mitigate their harmful impacts. The specificity of a cytotoxic agent, meaning how selectively it targets certain cells or tissues, is a key factor in its therapeutic or toxicological potential.