Mode of action

Pronunciation
/mode of ak-shun/
Category
Toxicology

Definition

The specific mechanism by which a substance, such as a pesticide, exerts its biological effects on organisms.

Etymology

From Latin 'modus', meaning 'manner' or 'way', and 'actio', meaning 'action'.

Example

The mode of action of insecticides like DDT is to disrupt the nervous system of insects.

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