Is an agent that can cause malformations of an embryo or fetus. adj. teratogenic.
Substance that deforms the fetus in the womb and so induces birth defects.
A substance that can ca use deformity of a fetus.
Anything that adversely affects normal cellular development in the embryo or fetus. It may be certain chemicals, some therapeutic and illicit drugs, radiation, and intrauterine viral infections.
An agent that interferes with the normal development of the fetus.
A substance which causes the usual development of an embryo or fetus to be disrupted, e.g. the German measles virus.
A substance known or thought to cause birth defects.
Substance or agent that interferes with normal embryonic development and causes one or more abnormalities in the fetus. The specific agent and its action, on the stage of embryonic development during which exposure occurs, on genetic predisposition, and on other modifying factors determine the type and extent of the defect. Among the agents known to be teratogens are X rays and other forms of ionizing radiation; drugs such as thalidomide and alcohol; infectious agents, such as those that cause rubella and toxoplasmosis; and various chemicals that may be in the environment. The time of greatest vulnerability for the fetus is between the 3rd and 12th week of gestation, when most of the major organ systems are formed.
An agent or factor that produces abnormalities or deformities in a fetus. Teratogens usually fall into three categories; drugs and chemical agents; infectious agents; and radiation. Teratogens have different effects, depending on the stage of the pregnancy. Some destroy the embryo or trigger a miscarriage, while others have a subtle impact that may not be noticed for years after the baby is born.
Any substance, agent, or process that induces the formation of developmental abnormalities in a fetus. Known teratogens include such drugs as thalidomide and alcohol; such infections as German measles and cytomegalovirus; and irradiation with X-rays and other ionizing radiation.
Anything that adversely affects normal cellular development in the embryo or fetus. Certain chemicals, some therapeutic and illicit drugs, radiation, and intrauterine viral infections are known to adversely alter cellular development in the embryo or fetus.
Any substance, compound, maternal ailment, or external influence capable of inducing structural or operational abnormalities in a developing embryo or fetus.
A physical, chemical, or biological element, such as radiation, the drug thalidomide, or the rubella virus, that induces abnormalities in the growth of an embryo or fetus during development.