Description: Xenobiotics are chemical compounds that are not naturally produced in living organisms, meaning they are foreign to their biology. These compounds can include a wide variety of substances, from environmental pollutants to synthetic chemicals used in various industries, including agriculture and pharmaceuticals. The main characteristic of xenobiotics is their ability to interact with biological systems, which can result in adverse effects on human health and the environment. Their presence in the ecosystem can disrupt biological and chemical processes, affecting biodiversity and the health of organisms. The detection and study of xenobiotics are essential for understanding their impact and developing mitigation strategies. In the context of sustainability, the proper management of these compounds is crucial to protect natural resources and public health, promoting a balance between industrial development and environmental conservation.
History: The term ‘xenobiotic’ was introduced in the scientific literature in the 1970s, in a context where concerns about environmental pollution and its effects on health were beginning to grow. As the chemical industry expanded, it became evident that many synthetic compounds were entering the environment, leading to an increase in research on their toxicity and persistence. In the following decades, the study of xenobiotics became an interdisciplinary field encompassing toxicology, ecology, and public health, reflecting the need to address environmental challenges comprehensively.
Uses: Xenobiotics have various applications in industry, agriculture, and medicine. In industry, they are used as additives in chemicals, plastics, and pharmaceuticals. In agriculture, many pesticides and herbicides are considered xenobiotics, as they are synthetic compounds designed to control pests and weeds. In medicine, some drugs are xenobiotics that, while beneficial for treating diseases, can have adverse side effects on the body. Additionally, they are used in toxicology studies to assess the impact of pollutants on health and the environment.
Examples: Examples of xenobiotics include glyphosate, a widely used herbicide in agriculture, and phthalates, which are chemical compounds used in the manufacture of plastics. Another example is bisphenol A (BPA), found in many consumer products such as plastic bottles and food containers. These compounds have been the subject of study due to their potentially harmful effects on human health and the environment.
