Toxicokinetic in the zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryo (ZFE)

The ZFE is of increasing importance in toxicology and ecotoxicology, not only to detect the extent of toxic effects but also to clarify their mechanisms (adverse outcome pathways) (e.g. Department BIOTOX of UFZ).
We support this research by toxicokinetic studies, in which we elucidate the uptake, distribution and metabolism of test substances in the rapidly developing ZFE. The number of transformation products can be impressive and their internal concentration can exceed the concentration of the parent compound under study (Fig. 1).
 

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Fig. 1.: Concentration of diclofenac and its major transformation products in ZFE upon exposure time

Such toxicokinetic studies help to better understand toxic effects. Often they are essential to explain mixture effects.