Overview
Plant and animal toxins are chemical compounds found in plants and animals that can cause adverse effects in humans and other animals if ingested, inhaled, or even if touched. Toxins can be produced naturally by plants and animals, or can be synthesized in a laboratory. These toxins play an important role in the natural environment, helping organisms defend themselves against predators and as weapons in competition with other organisms. They can also be used in the medical field to treat diseases and in industry for pest and weed control. Understanding plant and animal toxins is important for researchers to gain insight into the evolutionary processes of these organisms, and to develop treatments and prevention methods against their adverse effects.