cytotoxití

Cytotoxicity refers to the quality or state of being toxic to cells. It describes the ability of a substance, organism, or process to cause damage or death to cells. This can occur through various mechanisms, including direct damage to cellular components like DNA or membranes, interference with essential cellular functions, or induction of programmed cell death (apoptosis).

Many substances exhibit cytotoxicity, ranging from environmental toxins and heavy metals to certain therapeutic drugs and even components of the immune system. For instance, chemotherapy drugs are designed to be cytotoxic, targeting rapidly dividing cancer cells to kill them. However, they often also affect healthy cells, leading to side effects.

In biological research, cytotoxic assays are commonly used to measure the degree to which a substance can harm cells. These assays help researchers understand the mechanisms of toxicity, identify potential therapeutic agents, and assess the safety of new compounds. Understanding cytotoxicity is crucial in fields such as toxicology, pharmacology, and environmental science.