Role of Advanced Analytical Techniques in Environmental Toxicology
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Abstract
Environmental toxicology focuses on the detrimental impacts of chemical, biological, and physical agents on living organisms and ecosystems. This review aims to critically evaluate the role of advanced analytical techniques in improving the detection, identification, and quantification of environmental toxicants. As environmental contaminants become increasingly complex, including persistent organic pollutants (POPs), heavy metals, microplastics, and emerging pollutants, there is an urgent demand for analytical methods that provide high sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy.
Methods: A comprehensive literature-based analysis was conducted focusing on chromatographic, spectroscopic, and omics-based techniques including gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry, inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry, and high-resolution mass spectrometry.
Key observations: Advanced analytical tools demonstrate ultra-trace detection capabilities (ng/L to pg/L levels), enhanced selectivity, and multi-residue analysis, significantly outperforming conventional methods. Integration with omics approaches provides molecular-level insights into toxicological mechanisms.
Conclusion: The study highlights that modern analytical platforms enable early detection, real-time monitoring, and improved risk assessment. This review contributes novel insight by integrating multi-technique analytical advancements with their toxicological applications and regulatory relevance, supporting future environmental monitoring strategies and policy development.
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