Biomarkers in toxicology.

The use of biomarkers in toxicology is becoming increasingly important. This article briefly reviews some of the aspects in an attempt to give an overall view of the field. Some of the new developments, particularly in relation to biomarkers of exposure and response, are mentioned. Specific DNA and protein adducts can now be used as biomarkers of the effective exposure so incorporating variations in environmental levels and individual disposition. Analysis of urinary metabolite profiles by NMR can highlight novel markers and allow recognition of patterns of metabolite changes as biomarkers of a toxic response. Novel urinary markers for liver and testicular dysfunction are discussed. Finally, the acetylator phenotype as a biomarker of susceptibility is described.