How Do Environmental Toxins Affect Cellular Structures?
Environmental toxins can have profound effects on cellular structures. For example, heavy metals such as lead and mercury can disrupt cellular processes by binding to proteins and enzymes, altering their function. Pesticides like DDT can cause oxidative stress, leading to damage of cellular organelles such as mitochondria. Long-term exposure to these toxins can result in changes to the structure and function of cells, ultimately affecting tissue integrity and organ function.