Which method is commonly used to assess the toxicity of substances?

In vivo testing is a widely accepted method for assessing the toxicity of substances because it involves studying the effects of chemicals on living organisms. This approach provides insights into the complex interactions that occur in biological systems, including physiological and biochemical responses to toxicants. By observing the full range of effects on an organism, in vivo testing helps to identify not only acute effects but also potential long-term consequences, including the impact on various organ systems and overall health.

This method is particularly valuable because it considers the physiological and metabolic processes that can differ significantly from isolated systems. While in vitro testing, field studies, and mathematical modeling are useful tools for certain aspects of toxicity assessment, they do not fully replicate the complexities of a living organism. In vitro testing does not account for factors such as immune response, interactions between different cell types, and the influence of environmental factors on living organisms, making in vivo testing indispensable for comprehensive toxicity evaluations.