Immunotoxicity

Immunotoxicity refers to the adverse effects of exogenous substances on the immune system. Such toxicity may lead to dysfunctions of the immune system, such as immunosuppression, excessive immune response or immune-mediated tissue damage. Immunotoxicity may be caused by drugs, chemicals, biologics, or environmental pollutants, among others. The assessment of immunotoxicity usually includes aspects such as immune cytotoxicity, immune cell suppression, allergic reactions, and the development of autoimmune diseases. The assessment of immunotoxicity usually requires a series of in vivo and in vitro tests, including cytotoxicity testing, lymphocyte function analysis, immunohistochemistry testing, and immunohistopathological observations. These assessments help to understand the potential effects of substances on the immune system and provide important toxicity data and safety assessments for areas such as drug development and environmental pollution control.