Nephrotoxins produce damage to which organ?

Nephrotoxins are substances that specifically cause damage to the kidneys. The kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste products from the blood, regulating electrolytes, and maintaining fluid balance in the body. When exposed to nephrotoxins, the delicate structures within the kidneys can become injured, leading to impaired function or failure. This can manifest as reduced urine output, buildup of toxins in the body, and disturbances in metabolic balance.

The other options refer to different organs: the lungs are affected by respiratory toxins, the liver is the target for hepatotoxins that cause liver damage, and the heart is impacted by cardiotoxins. Each type of toxin tends to harm specific organs based on the nature of its chemical composition and the biological pathways it affects. Therefore, recognizing nephrotoxins as primarily harmful to the kidneys is essential for understanding their impact on health and safety in hazardous waste operations and emergency response scenarios.