Xenobiotics Flashcards
What are xenobiotics?
Xenobiotics are chemical substances that are foreign to the biological system.
Give two examples of xenobiotics.
Examples include pharmaceuticals and environmental pollutants.
How can xenobiotics enter the human body?
They can enter through inhalation, ingestion, or dermal absorption.
True or False: Xenobiotics can only enter the body through ingestion.
False
What is the primary effect of xenobiotics on the body?
They can disrupt normal physiological functions and cause toxicity.
Fill in the blank: Xenobiotics are often metabolized by the _____ system.
liver
What is biotransformation in the context of xenobiotics?
Biotransformation is the chemical modification made by an organism on a chemical compound.
What role do cytochrome P450 enzymes play in xenobiotic metabolism?
They are involved in the oxidation of xenobiotics, facilitating their elimination.
What are the potential health effects of xenobiotics?
They can cause acute or chronic toxicity, carcinogenic effects, and reproductive harm.
True or False: All xenobiotics are harmful to human health.
False
What is the significance of the LD50 value in toxicology?
LD50 is the dose of a substance that is lethal to 50% of a test population.
What is an example of a xenobiotic that is beneficial in small doses?
Pharmaceutical drugs can be considered beneficial xenobiotics when used correctly.
What legislation governs the safety of xenobiotics in the environment?
The Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) regulates chemical substances in the U.S.
Fill in the blank: The _____ Act requires manufacturers to test the safety of new chemicals.
Toxic Substances Control
What are persistent organic pollutants (POPs)?
POPs are xenobiotics that remain in the environment for long periods and accumulate in living organisms.
What is the main concern with xenobiotics in food?
They can lead to bioaccumulation and potential health risks for consumers.
How does the body detoxify xenobiotics?
Through enzymatic processes that convert them into less harmful substances for excretion.
True or False: All xenobiotics are naturally occurring substances.
False
What is the role of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding xenobiotics?
The EPA regulates the use and disposal of xenobiotics to protect human health and the environment.
What does the term ‘xenobiotic-induced toxicity’ refer to?
It refers to adverse health effects caused by exposure to xenobiotics.
Fill in the blank: Xenobiotics can be classified as _____ and _____ based on their origin.
natural, synthetic
What is the primary method of studying the effects of xenobiotics in the laboratory?
Toxicological studies and risk assessments are used to evaluate their effects.
What is the difference between acute and chronic exposure to xenobiotics?
Acute exposure occurs over a short period, while chronic exposure happens over a long duration.
Why is understanding xenobiotics important for public health?
It helps in assessing risks and implementing regulations to protect human health and the environment.
What are some common sources of xenobiotics in the environment?
Industrial discharges, agricultural runoff, and waste disposal.
