GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF TOXICOLOGY

The natural and artificial chemicals in our
environment interact in intricate ways. We’ve been making
use of and living in close proximity to these materials for quite
some time. It is crucial to comprehend how chemicals affect
both people and the environment. This book delves into the
field of toxicology, investigating the interactions between
toxic substances and human health.
In this comprehensive work, we journey through the
intricate world of toxicology, beginning with an introduction
to the significance of chemicals in our lives and the regulatory
frameworks governing their use. We explore how toxicology,
the study of the adverse effects of chemicals on living
organisms, plays a pivotal role in ensuring our safety. The
terminology used in toxicology, along with the fundamental
concepts of somatic, germline, and stem cells, and the vital
concept of homeostasis, are elucidated in detail.
As we progress, we delve into the mechanisms by
which chemicals can harm people, distinguishing between
chronic and acute exposures. The book also sheds light on the
various classes of toxicants, from air pollutants and soil
contaminants to workplace toxicants and chemicals used in
agriculture. It outlines the diverse range of toxic substances,
from metals like lead and mercury to pesticides, herbicides,
and toxins from insects, algae, and mycotoxins.

Toxicokinetics, the study of how the body interacts
with toxic substances, is a central theme. We explore the
processes of absorption, distribution, metabolism, and
excretion (ADME) and the different pathways by which
chemicals enter our bodies. The role of the liver in
metabolizing toxic compounds is examined in detail.
The dynamics of toxicology are unveiled, including
the effects of metabolites on cell damage, covalent binding,
calcium control loss, and the generation of free radicals.
Cutting-edge approaches like omic-age mechanistic
toxicology, which encompasses the transcriptome, proteome,
and metabolome, are also discussed.
The book then shifts its focus to the environmental
effects of toxicology, highlighting the impact of toxic
substances on vital organs such as the liver, kidney, immune,
respiratory, and nervous systems. The adverse consequences
of chemicals that disrupt hormones are explored, along with
their effects on both human health and the environment.
A significant portion of this work is dedicated to
toxicity risk assessment and human health protection. It

covers various aspects, including hazard identification, dose-
response analysis, exposure assessment, and the prevention of

toxicity. The book also addresses regulatory aspects and the
importance of domestic toxin abatement, emphasizing the
need for effective prevention measures in workplaces and the
environment.
Finally, this book aims to raise awareness and educate
readers about the critical importance of safeguarding against
environmental pollution. It underlines the significance of
effective education in empowering individuals and

communities to make informed choices and contribute to a
healthier, safer world.
This comprehensive guide to toxicology serves as a
valuable resource for students, researchers, policymakers, and
anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the intricate world
of chemicals and their impact on human health and the
environment. It is our hope that this book will not only inform
but also inspire individuals to take active steps toward a safer
and more sustainable future
Any unintended errors, mistakes, omissions, and
improvements of this book are most welcome.

-Mr. Gunawan Widjaja