What is meant by "biotransformation" in the context of toxicology?

Biotransformation refers to the process by which living organisms, particularly through metabolic processes, chemically modify substances. This can include the conversion of a substance into a more water-soluble form, making it easier for the body to excrete. In toxicology, this process is crucial because it can determine the fate of chemicals in the body, affecting their toxicity and how long they may remain active.

For instance, a substance that is initially toxic may be transformed into a non-toxic compound as a result of biotransformation, or, conversely, a non-toxic compound may be converted into a toxic form. Understanding biotransformation is vital in assessing the risks posed by different chemicals and in developing antidotes or treatments for poisonings. This modification often occurs in the liver, where enzymatic reactions play a significant role.

The other options do not accurately capture the fundamental concept of biotransformation. For example, increasing toxicity of substances refers to a different process, while degradation by temperature pertains to physical changes rather than chemical modifications performed by biological systems. Accumulation of substances in body tissues concerns bioaccumulation and persistence but does not describe the active chemical modification inherent to biotransformation.