Teratogenicity

Teratogenicity is the ability of a substance or agent to cause malformations in a developing embryo or fetus. A teratogen is an agent that can cause such malformations, which can range from a minor physical abnormality to a major birth defect. Examples of teratogens include alcohol, certain drugs, heavy metals, radiation, and certain infections. Teratogenicity is caused by exposure to a teratogen during the prenatal period, which begins at conception and ends at birth. During this period, the developing embryo or fetus is particularly sensitive to any exposure to teratogens, because the cells and organs of the body are rapidly dividing and forming. If a teratogen is present during this period, it can damage the developing embryo or fetus, leading to malformations or birth defects. The exact mechanism by which teratogens cause such malformations is still not fully understood. It is thought to involve a combination of direct toxicity to the developing embryo or fetus, as well as disruption of normal development processes. In some cases, the teratogen may interfere with the expression of genes that are important for normal development. Teratogenicity is a significant cause of birth defects in humans, and it is important to be aware of potential teratogens in order to reduce the risk of malformations. In many cases, avoiding exposure to known teratogens is the best way to reduce the risk of teratogenicity.