What does LD50 represent in toxicology?

LD50, or lethal dose for 50% of the test population, is a key concept in toxicology that quantifies the acute toxicity of a substance. It is defined as the dose at which 50% of the individuals exposed to the substance will die as a result of the exposure. This metric is crucial for assessing the potential risk a compound may pose to humans, animals, or the environment, providing a statistical basis for understanding the lethality of substances.

In toxicological studies, LD50 is often used to compare the toxicity of different substances. A lower LD50 indicates a higher level of toxicity, as it means that a smaller amount of the substance is required to cause death in half of the population.

Understanding LD50 helps inform safety guidelines and regulatory measures for chemicals and pharmaceuticals, ensuring that individuals are protected from harmful exposures.