Toxicology
Articles tagged with Toxicology
Study finds multiple PFAS, the man-made ‘forever chemicals’, in 98.5% of people tested in US study
A new study found that nearly every person in the US has multiple man-made chemicals, known as PFAS, in their system. The study examined over 10,500 samples and found that 98.8% contained at least one PFAS, with many carrying multiple types.
Tire and rubber chemicals leave decades-long contamination record in Lake sediments
Researchers discovered high concentrations of tire- and rubber-related chemicals in Lake Sihwa sediments, with patterns reflecting changes in industrial activity and pollution control measures. The study provides a baseline for sediment concentrations, enabling understanding of future trends and potential risks to aquatic organisms.
New AI technology to speed drug development
Scientists at the University of Virginia Health System have developed a suite of AI-powered tools, called YuelDesign, YuelPocket and YuelBond, to transform how new drugs are created. These tools can design drug molecules tailored to fit their protein targets exactly, even accounting for protein flexibility.
Wendy Thompson named recipient of the 2026 IADR Distinguished Scientist Award in Pharmacology/Therapeutics/Toxicology Research
Wendy Thompson, a Senior Clinical Lecturer at the University of Manchester, has been awarded the IADR Distinguished Scientist Award in Pharmacology/Therapeutics/Toxicology Research. Her research focus on antimicrobial stewardship and primary dental care has made significant contributions to the field.
AI expert and industry-leading toxicologist Thomas Hartung hails launch of agentic AI platform, ToxIndex, as a “transformative moment” in chemical safety science
ToxIndex integrates AI agents to access and orchestrate toxicological resources, providing comprehensive risk assessments in hours. The platform addresses a critical need in chemical and drug safety, meeting the vision of the 2007 NRC report for 21st-century safety testing.
AI expert and industry leading toxicologist Thomas Hartung hails launch of agentic AI platform a “transformative moment” in chemical safety science
ToxIndex integrates three tiers of New Approach Methodologies, leveraging AI agents to access and orchestrate toxicological resources, and providing comprehensive, source-traceable risk assessments in a fraction of the time required by traditional methods.
New release: Wiley’s Mass Spectra of Designer Drugs 2026 expands coverage of emerging novel psychoactive substances
The 2026 release expands coverage of emerging novel psychoactive substances, including synthetic cannabinoids, fentanyl analogs, and pharmaceutical drugs. The database provides comprehensive and up-to-date support for forensic, toxicology, and drug surveillance workflows.
Toxic evolution: How wasps and frogs mimic pain molecules to deter predators
Scientists at The University of Queensland discovered that certain species of wasps and frogs share a pain and inflammation peptide similar to one found in vertebrates. This finding contributes to a shifting view of how evolution works and highlights the role of convergent evolution in shaping life.
Real-time imaging of microplastics in the body improves understanding of health risks
Scientists create fluorescent nanoplastics that resemble real-world plastics in morphology, enabling real-time tracking and studying chronic exposure effects. The study reveals that smaller particles retain longer in the body, highlighting the need for further research on health risks due to microplastic ingestion.
Diisobutyl phthalate at environmental concentration promotes conjugative transfer of antibiotic resistance genes
Researchers found that diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP) exposure significantly increases conjugative transfer frequency of antibiotic resistance genes in bacteria, particularly through oxidative stress and altered cell membrane permeability. This study provides a mechanistic framework for understanding the ecological risks posed by DIBP.
Polystyrene nanoparticles can increase fish embryo early mortality especially in a stressful environment
Research at University of Eastern Finland found that positively charged polystyrene nanoparticles increase early embryo mortality in European whitefish under stressed conditions. The study suggests that surface charge plays a critical role in toxicity assessment, with negatively charged particles experiencing reduced harmful effects.
Helping beekeepers fight mites through more effective treatments
A study published in the Journal of Apicultural Research found that combining a widely used mite-killing pesticide with an agent inhibiting its tolerance can effectively control varroa mites. The new treatment increases amitraz's killing power by 50% and shows promise for developing novel synergists to target these destructive mites.
How the human exposome will unlock better health and medicine:
The Global Exposome Forum is a global initiative that aims to understand the complex interplay between biological, chemical, and environmental exposures and human health. The project has partnered with national governments, scientific institutions, and large membership-led organizations to advance exposomics science.
New mechanism of immune damage in marine medaka induced by pentachlorophenol exposure
Pentachlorophenol exposure triggers inflammatory responses and oxidative stress, leading to liver damage and compromised immune function. The study identified the Toll-like receptor signaling pathway as a key mechanism of PCP-induced immunotoxicity.
5-FU chemotherapy linked to rare brain toxicity in cancer patient
A rare case of hyperammonemic encephalopathy caused by 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) chemotherapy has been reported, highlighting the importance of monitoring neurological symptoms in patients receiving 5-FU. The patient's symptoms resolved after stopping 5-FU and administering lactulose and intravenous fluids.
A miniature human liver to transform toxicology testing of food contaminants
Researchers developed a 3D miniature human liver model to improve toxicology studies of chemicals. The mini-liver demonstrates physiological and metabolic capabilities, enabling the detailed analysis of contaminant-induced effects on cells.
Effective oxygen therapy saves an 80-year-old woman from acute poisoning: a case report from Sultan Qaboos University Hospital
A 82-year-old woman was treated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy for severe carbon monoxide poisoning after conventional oxygen therapy failed to produce significant improvement. The patient demonstrated considerable neurological recovery and full communication abilities after a single session of HBOT.
Chemical Insights scientist receives Achievement Award from the Society of Toxicology
Katie Paul Friedman, Ph.D., Director of the Center for Informatics and Screening at Chemical Insights, received the prestigious 2026 Achievement Award from the Society of Toxicology for her innovative research and dedication to training the next generation. The award recognizes her contributions to new approach methodologies transformi...
Translocating nanoplastics in zebrafish
Researchers found that nanoplastics entered the bloodstream and accumulated in organs within days of ingestion, potentially leading to disorders in nervous and reproductive systems. The particles were primarily expelled through the intestine, but some remained trapped for a long time.
What happens to eagles after rehab?
A recent study found that releasing rehabilitated Golden Eagles can be an effective means of compensating for eagle deaths due to human actions. However, the study revealed that only a few rehabilitated eagles survive and integrate into the wild population, raising questions about the long-term efficacy of rehabilitation efforts.
Pesticides and other common chemical pollutants are toxic to our ‘good’ gut bacteria
A large-scale laboratory screening identified 168 chemicals toxic to human-made gut bacteria. Washing fruit and veggies before consumption may help avoid exposure to these pollutants. Researchers developed a machine learning model to predict chemical harm, emphasizing the need for safer industrial practices.
Enantioselective maternal transfer of pesticide metabolite and its thyroid effects
A new study reveals that the S-enantiomer of o,p'-DDD pesticide metabolite is more toxic to zebrafish larvae and has severe consequences for their development. The research found that maternal transfer was highly efficient, with the S-enantiomer accumulating in higher levels than its mirror-image R-form.
Microplastics hit male arteries hard
A mouse study by University of California, Riverside scientists suggests microplastic exposure may accelerate the development of atherosclerosis in males. The study found microplastics dramatically worsened plaque buildup in male mice, but not females.
Reducing arsenic in drinking water cuts risk of death, even after years of chronic exposure
A 20-year study of 11,000 adults in Bangladesh found that reducing arsenic levels in drinking water was associated with lower mortality rates from heart disease, cancer, and other chronic illnesses. The study provides the first long-term, individual-level evidence that reducing arsenic exposure may lower mortality even among people exp...
Chinese Medical Journal study reveals GSTP1’s role in preventing ferroptosis and dox-induced heart injury
A study published in the Chinese Medical Journal identified GSTP1 as a key regulator that blocks JNK-driven ferroptosis, providing protection against DOX-induced cardiomyopathy. Overexpression of GSTP1 inhibited ferroptosis and improved DOX-induced heart injury.
New antivenom shows effectiveness against 17 African snake species
A new broad-spectrum antivenom developed by DTU researchers covers 17 African snake species and provides better protection against tissue damage, with a lower risk of immune reactions. The antivenom has shown impressive results in laboratory studies and could revolutionize the treatment of venomous snakebites in Africa.
Pollutants move through food chain affecting organ growth
A new study reveals that microplastics and heavy metals can disrupt organ development and hormone balance in higher-level species through the food chain. The study found delayed growth in zebrafish exposed to combined pollutants, highlighting the hidden risks of pollutant mixtures in real-world environments.
The dose-dependent effects of dissolved biochar on C. elegans: Insights into the physiological and transcriptomic responses
A study on C. elegans reveals that dissolved biochar affects nematode growth and physiology, with lower doses promoting development and higher doses disrupting normal functions. The findings highlight the need for careful dosing and oversight when deploying biochar in agricultural systems.
Portable sensor detects synthetic cannabinoids in e-cigarettes and biological fluids
Researchers developed a portable sensor to detect synthetic cannabinoids in e-cigarette liquids and biological fluids, allowing for early intervention and harm reduction. The device shows high selectivity and sensitivity, detecting concentrations as low as 0.2 µM and identifying specific peaks that quantify substances present.
Woodrats’ dietary choices driven by constraints
A new study analyzing the dietary choices of wild woodrats reveals that individual diets may not be as diverse as previously assumed. The research suggests that the costs of specializing on one food source or diversifying one's diet have a strong impact on an animal's ability to survive and thrive.
Association of exposure to primary aromatic amines with health risks in China
A recent Chinese study analyzed urine samples from 457 residents across 16 cities, revealing significant associations between primary aromatic amine (PAA) exposure and oxidative DNA damage biomarker 8-OHdG. The findings suggest that even low concentrations of PAA may contribute to long-term cancer risks in the general population.
A gene mutation found in East Asian people increases liver disease risk by an ‘aldehyde storm’
A genetic mutation found in East Asian people, ALDH2*2, impairs the detoxification of aldehydes produced by environmental exposure, leading to an 'aldehyde storm' that causes severe liver damage. Healthy choices like increasing antioxidants and limiting smoke exposure may reduce the risk.
Association of exposure to primary aromatic amines with health risks in China
A nationwide biomonitoring study in China detected 25 primary aromatic amines with varying levels of exposure among residents. High concentrations were observed in smokers, non-adults, and industrialized cities, with correlations to oxidative DNA damage.
Common farm fungicides found in food, water, and humans, review warns
A new review warns that strobilurin fungicides, widely used in farming, are contaminating staple foods, water, and human bodies. Small amounts can cause harm, interfering with cell energy production and potentially disrupting hormones.
Maternal exposure to crude oil, flame retardants can affect later generations
Research on killifish reveals that maternal exposure to toxic substances like crude oil and flame retardants can have lasting impacts on offspring and subsequent generations. Exposure to these chemicals during critical developmental windows can alter gene function, behavior, and health outcomes in humans and wildlife.
What do you do if your dog ingests cocaine? How one researcher is trying to protect pets from future accidents
Dr. Jake Johnson explains the challenges of studying canine cocaine toxicosis, including limited data and messy clinical reality. He shares insights on diagnosing symptoms, prevention measures, and the importance of owner honesty in seeking veterinary help.
New protein therapy shows promise as first-ever antidote for carbon monoxide poisoning
Researchers developed a new engineered protein-based therapy called RcoM-HBD-CCC, which acts like a sponge to soak up carbon monoxide from the blood. The therapy was tested on mice and showed promising results, clearing half of the carbon monoxide in the blood in less than a minute.
How bad are micro- and nanoplastics for our health? It depends on their concentrations and how you measure them
A survey of scientific literature on micro- and nanoplastics in human health identifies key challenges and proposes best practices for analysis, including digestion treatments and shape considerations. The study aims to improve our understanding of plastics' impact on human bodies.
Flame retardant TDCPP binds membrane thyroid hormone receptor, impairing neurodevelopment
TDCPP's binding to the membrane thyroid hormone receptor impairs motor neuron development and causes locomotor dysfunction in zebrafish. The study establishes a novel adverse outcome pathway framework for predicting TDCPP's neurotoxicity.
Computational frameworks transform antagonism to synergy in optimizing combination therapies
This study uses AI to pinpoint optimal synergies in combination therapies, slashing experimental costs and accelerating discovery by up to 7.2% in accuracy.
Not all "forever chemicals" are equal: Experts call for nuanced PFAS policy to protect human and public health and the environment
Researchers emphasize the need to distinguish between harmful PFAS and essential fluoropolymers used in medical devices, which have not been linked to health issues. Experts advocate for a balanced approach to protect both human health and environmental concerns.
Environmental impact of common pesticides seriously underestimated
Research suggests that nine commonly used pesticides in viticulture have significantly underestimated environmental impact, with half-lives exceeding two days and potential for long-range transport.
Assessing the potential of genotoxicity and phototoxicity of triazine UV filters
Researchers evaluated the safety profiles of ethylhexyl triazone (EHT) and diethylhexyl butamido triazone (HEB) using integrated genotoxicity and phototoxicity assessments. The studies found no significant increases in mutagenic or chromosomal damage, and only minor micronucleus increases at high concentrations.
Assessing the potential of genotoxicity and phototoxicity of triazine UV filters
Researchers found no significant genotoxic effects of triazine UV filters in bacterial reverse mutation, chromosomal aberration, and micronucleus assays. Phototoxicity assessments also confirmed safety using 3T3 neutral red uptake and guinea pig models. The results support the use of these filters in topical applications.
Gut microbes could protect us from toxic ‘forever chemicals’
Scientists have discovered that certain species of gut bacteria can absorb PFAS, potentially protecting against its harmful effects. The researchers plan to develop probiotic dietary supplements to boost the levels of these helpful microbes in our gut.
6-PPD quinone at environmentally relevant concentrations disrupts citric acid cycle in Caenorhabditis elegans: Role of reduction in acetyl CoA and pyruvate contents
Researchers studied the effects of 6-PPDQ on the citric acid cycle in C. elegans, finding disruptions at environmentally relevant concentrations. The study revealed reductions in key metabolites and enzyme gene expressions, contributing to mitochondrial dysfunction and toxicity.
Disposable e-cigarettes more toxic than traditional cigarettes
A study by the University of California, Davis found that disposable e-cigarettes release higher amounts of toxic metals than older e-cigarettes and traditional cigarettes. The devices contain hazardous levels of neurotoxic lead, carcinogenic nickel, and antimony, posing significant health risks to users.
Using knowledge to combat health risks
The BfR Summer Academy, an international event, brings together 23 participants from 17 countries to discuss food safety and risk assessment. Participants learn about the legal and institutional background of food safety in Germany and Europe.
A Journal of Environmental Sciences study reveals that metal-organic frameworks may be toxic
A study reveals that metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) can be toxic to mice, causing disruptions in blood cell formation and immune balance. The researchers found that the MOFs suppressed production of certain cells but also triggered a rebound effect, leading to increased inflammation.
Impact of co-exposure of bisphenol A and retinoic acid on brain development
Researchers found that co-exposure to bisphenol A and retinoic acid disrupts neurodevelopmental gene signaling, leading to brain abnormalities. The study suggests a potential link between chemical exposure and neurodevelopmental disorders like autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Global bottom-up initiative takes off to map 80% of chronic disease: All health stakeholders herald a new era in diagnosis, prevention & treatment
The Human Exposome Moonshot initiative aims to map the physical, chemical, biological and psychosocial exposures driving 80% of chronic diseases. The exposome project integrates advanced technologies to create a comprehensive understanding of environmental influences on health.
Scientists discover 230 new giant viruses that shape ocean life and health
New study reveals insights into giant viruses and their role in marine ecosystems, including photosynthesis manipulation and public health hazards. The discovery of 230 novel giant viruses has significant implications for predicting and managing harmful algal blooms.
Air-quality monitoring underestimates toxic emissions to Salton Sea communities, study finds
A new study finds that the Salton Sea emits hydrogen sulfide at rates exceeding state air quality standards, with emissions regularly going unreported by government monitoring systems. The presence of these toxic emissions poses significant health risks to local communities already burdened by environmental and socioeconomic stressors.
New study highlights health risks of ultrasonic cigarettes
A new study by UC Riverside researchers reveals that ultrasonic cigarettes may pose significant health risks due to the presence of harmful metals in their liquids and aerosols. The study found elevated levels of metals like arsenic and selenium in u-cigarette products, which can lead to lung diseases, organ damage, and cancer.
Exposome Moonshot launching in Washington D.C.
The Human Exposome is a global scientific effort to understand the environmental factors that underpin disease and health. The Exposome Moonshot Forum aims to chart this exposome, providing usable metrics and data points for targeted public health interventions.
Sulfur runoff amplifies mercury concentrations in Florida Everglades
Researchers found that sulfur runoff can dramatically increase methylmercury concentrations in fish up to 10 million times greater than the waters they lived in. This poses a significant risk to human health and wildlife due to methylmercury's neurotoxic effects.
Formaldehyde releasers found in common personal care products
A new study reveals that over half of Black and Latina women reported using personal care products with formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, highlighting critical safety gaps in product regulation. The study found that these chemicals are present in a wide range of products, including shampoo, lotions, and eyelash glue.
Wiley releases updated Maurer, Meyer, Helfer, Weber: LC-HR-MS/MS Library of Drugs, Poisons and Their Metabolites Database
The updated Maurer, Meyer, Helfer, Weber: LC-HR-MS/MS Library contains over 5,500 mass spectra for parent drugs and poisons, along with their metabolites. This comprehensive dataset enables scientists to confidently identify unknown compounds and assess toxic substance risks.
C-Path’s predictive safety testing consortium advances a transformative test to detect drug induced liver injury
Researchers propose GLDH as a more liver-specific biomarker for detecting liver injury, offering greater specificity than current ALT and AST tests. The test performed similarly to ALT for detecting liver injury but was not impacted by associated muscle injury.