Toxicity biomarkers are measurable indicators that reflect exposure to toxic substances and their biological effects. These biomarkers may include molecular, biochemical, cellular, or physiological changes in tissues, fluids, or cells. Biomarkers are categorized as biomarkers of exposure, effect, or susceptibility, and they play a critical role in early detection of toxicity, monitoring disease progression, and evaluating therapeutic interventions. Advances in genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics have expanded the discovery of predictive and prognostic biomarkers.
For example, biomarkers such as troponin for cardiotoxicity or glutathione levels for oxidative stress help in identifying specific organ toxicities. Regulatory agencies increasingly rely on validated biomarkers for drug safety evaluation and environmental health assessments. Biomarker research is also central to precision medicine, enabling personalized risk assessment and targeted interventions. The Journal of Toxicology: Current Research encourages original studies on novel biomarker identification, validation, and application in toxicology. The development of reliable toxicity biomarkers is vital for improving human health and safety.