Cytotoxicity is a specific type of cellular toxicity; it refers to the ability of a substance to damage or kill cells, whereas cellular toxicity is a broader term encompassing any adverse effects on cell structure or function.
Here's a breakdown of the distinction:
- Cytotoxicity:
- Specifically refers to the toxic effect on cells.
- Often results in cell death (apoptosis or necrosis).
- Examples: A chemical that directly damages cell membranes, leading to cell lysis; radiation that damages DNA, triggering apoptosis.
- Cellular Toxicity (Broader Term):
- Encompasses any adverse effect on cells due to a substance.
- Can include cell death, but also encompasses other harmful effects such as:
- Impaired cell growth
- Disrupted cell signaling
- Inhibition of cell function
- Changes in cell morphology
- Examples: A chemical that disrupts mitochondrial function, reducing ATP production and impairing cell function (but not necessarily killing the cell); a substance that interferes with cell division, slowing down cell growth.
| Feature | Cytotoxicity | Cellular Toxicity |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Toxic to cells, often leading to cell death | Any adverse effect on cell structure/function |
| Outcome | Cell death (apoptosis/necrosis) | Cell death or impaired function |
| Specificity | Narrow: Focused on cell death | Broad: Includes a range of adverse effects |
Essentially, cytotoxicity is a more specific and severe manifestation of cellular toxicity. All cytotoxic compounds are cellularly toxic, but not all cellularly toxic compounds are cytotoxic. A substance can be toxic to cells without necessarily killing them.
