The Use of Cell Biology in Environmental Toxicology.

Studies of altered cellular structure and altered cellular function produced by toxic agents is an important and probably neglected component of toxicology. It is possible to develop a rigorous and systematic approach for studying altered cell function produced by toxic agents. Aside from the practical advantages of such an approach, it offers the conceptual advantage of providing a unified interpretation of seemingly diverse phenomena as well as potentially leading to an understanding of molecular mechanisms of altered function. In turn, such understanding could lead to more rational approaches to prevention and treatment.