Purpose of the Glossary
This glossary provides definitions of key scientific, technical, and regulatory terms used throughout the CAPSTONE Action.
It is intended to support researchers, policymakers, stakeholders, and the general public in understanding concepts related to pesticide exposure, oxidative stress, Adverse Outcome Pathways, and the One Health approach.
Key Concepts
Explore clear, accessible definitions of key scientific and regulatory terms essential to understanding pesticide exposure and One Health concepts.
Oxidative Stress (OxS)
An imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species and antioxidant defences, leading to cellular damage and contributing to adverse effects in humans and ecosystems.
Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS)
Highly reactive molecules produced during normal cellular processes, mainly in mitochondria, which can cause damage to DNA, proteins, and lipids when present in excess.
One Health Approach
An integrated framework recognising the interconnected health of humans, animals, plants, and ecosystems, promoting cross-disciplinary collaboration.
Pesticides
Chemical substances used to control pests, including insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides, which may also affect non-target organisms and ecosystems.
Adverse Outcome Pathway Framework
Adverse Outcome Pathway (AOP)
A structured framework describing a sequence of biological events that link a molecular interaction with a chemical to adverse effects at organism or population level.
Molecular Initiating Event (MIE)
The first interaction between a chemical substance and a biological system that triggers a cascade of biological responses.
Key Event (KE)
A measurable biological change essential for progression along an Adverse Outcome Pathway.
Key Event Relationship (KER)
The scientifically supported causal link connecting two Key Events within an AOP.
Adverse Outcome (AO)
The final harmful effect resulting from chemical exposure, such as disease, impaired reproduction, or ecosystem disturbance.
AOP-Wiki
The scientifically supported causal link connecting two Key Events within an AOAn open-access international database that collects and shares Adverse Outcome Pathways developed by the scientific community.P.
Toxicology & Ecotoxicology
Toxicology
The scientific study of adverse effects of chemical substances on living organisms, particularly human health.
Ecotoxicology
The study of the effects of toxic chemicals on ecosystems and non-target organisms.
Non-Target Organisms
Species unintentionally exposed to pesticides, including wildlife, beneficial insects, aquatic organisms, and soil microorganisms.
Mode of Action (MoA)
The biological mechanism through which a pesticide exerts its toxic effect, such as disruption of mitochondrial respiration.
Mitochondrial Dysfunction
Impairment of mitochondrial function that can increase reactive oxygen species production and contribute to oxidative stress.
Biomarkers & Methods
Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress
Measurable biological indicators used to detect oxidative damage or antioxidant responses in organisms.
Antioxidant Defences
Cellular systems and molecules that protect organisms against oxidative damage.
New Approach Methodologies (NAMs)
Innovative testing strategies, including in vitro and computational methods, designed to improve chemical safety assessment while reducing animal testing.
Pesticide Mixtures (Cocktail Effects)
Exposure scenarios where organisms are exposed to multiple pesticides simultaneously, potentially leading to combined or amplified adverse effects.
Regulatory & Data Concepts
Regulatory Risk Assessment
The process used by authorities to evaluate potential risks posed by chemical substances to human health and the environment.
FAIR Data Principles
Guidelines ensuring that scientific data are Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable.
Biomonitoring
The measurement of chemicals or biological responses in organisms to assess exposure and potential health effects.