LD50 vs. NOAEL: Why Lethal Dose Isn't the Whole Story

LD50 vs. NOAEL: Understanding the Difference in Toxicity Testing The recent video by Scientific Snitch on social media has sparked conversation about the difference between LD50 and NOAEL, two critical measures in toxicology. LD50, or lethal dose 50, represents the dose of a substance that kills 50% of a test population. This is a standard toxicological measure, but it doesn't fully address safe usage limits. "LD50 is a standard toxicological measure that indicates the dose of a substance expected to kill half of a test population," explains Scientific Snitch. However, she points out that this doesn't account for non-lethal side effects that can occur at lower doses. The video uses cyanide as a prime example, highlighting its LD50 value and the dangers of relying solely on this measure. Instead, the video advocates for NOAEL, or no-observed-adverse-effect level, which identifies the highest dose causing no adverse effects. The difference is crucial for determining safe levels of exposure. The video's popularity underscores the public's interest in understanding chemical safety. The discussion of ethical considerations in human testing adds another layer to the conversation. The use of visual aids and clear explanations makes complex scientific concepts accessible to a wider audience, promoting more informed discussions about toxicity and safety.