xenobiotics

Definition

Chemical substances that are foreign to the biological system of a living organism, such as drugs, environmental pollutants, or food additives.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'xenos' (meaning stranger or foreign) and 'bios' (meaning life). It was coined in scientific contexts to describe substances that are not naturally produced or expected within an organism.

In the news

The article uses this term to categorize the diverse range of medications and toxins—including acetaminophen and alcohol—that contribute to liver injury. It highlights how these foreign substances, when ingested, pose significant health risks.

UVA Health Blue Ridge Poison Center reports nationwide increase in liver injuries from medication

Cville Right Now

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