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Bonglaisin JN, Kunsoan NB, Bonny P, Matchawe C, Tata BN, Nkeunen G, Mbofung CM. Geophagia: Benefits and potential toxicity to human—A review. Front Public Health 2022; 10:893831. [PMID: 35958861 PMCID: PMC9360771 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.893831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Geophagy is the habit of consuming clay soil such as chalk or kaolin. Though it is globally practiced, the safety of those involved is yet to be fully established. It is thought to be highly prevalent in pregnant women because of its antinausea or therapeutic effects. This practice is also thought to be provoked by some nutritional needs, but in modern society its etiology is obscure. The mineralogical and chemical compositions of clay may vary from one region to another and even in all form of rocks clay constitutes. Published articles in geophagy indicate lack of adequate investigations into the toxicity of geophagy, though it is globally practiced and more prevalent in Africa (as a continent) or in Africans migrants. Some studies have helped to identify some minerals that are toxic to human if ingested. In most cases, the potential toxicity emphasized by these studies is based on the detection of the presence of these nuisance elements in the geophagic materials. Scientifically, a lot has been done in the light of detection of toxic matter, but more investigations on metabolic studies are still necessary. The variability of clay content with respect to source motivated this review on geophagy and its potential toxicity to human. This review is aimed at bringing out findings that would enable a better understanding of the toxicity potential of geophagy across context and taxa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julius Nsawir Bonglaisin
- Center for Food and Nutrition Research, Institute of Medical Research and Studies of Medicinal Plants (IMPM), Yaoundé, Cameroon
- *Correspondence: Julius Nsawir Bonglaisin
| | - Noella Bajia Kunsoan
- Centre for Transport and Logistics, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Center for Research in Neurobiology, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Patrice Bonny
- Center for Food and Nutrition Research, Institute of Medical Research and Studies of Medicinal Plants (IMPM), Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Chelea Matchawe
- Center for Food and Nutrition Research, Institute of Medical Research and Studies of Medicinal Plants (IMPM), Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Bridget Ndakoh Tata
- Center for Food and Nutrition Research, Institute of Medical Research and Studies of Medicinal Plants (IMPM), Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Gerard Nkeunen
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Dschang, Dschang, Cameroon
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Scherbaum CR, Frank T, Suárez V. [Severe lead poisoning caused by ayurvedic medicine]. Dtsch Med Wochenschr 2022; 147:253-257. [PMID: 35226924 DOI: 10.1055/a-1743-6718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
HISTORY We report the case of a young patient who presented to our emergency department with reduced general condition, anemia, and crampy abdominal pain. A previous inpatient workup including abdominal imaging and bone marrow aspiration had not yielded a diagnosis. On inquiry, the patient reported oral ingestion of an Ayurvedic remedy over the course of one month. FINDINGS 24-year-old circulatory stable patient in reduced general condition with gray skin coloration and a dark gingival margin. Laboratory testing revealed an increase in transaminases and normocytic anemia. A peripheral blood smear showed basophilic stippling of the erythrocytes. Significantly elevated lead levels were detected in the patient's blood and hair. Toxic lead levels were detected in the ingested preparation. DIAGNOSIS Severe lead poisoning caused by self-medication with an Ayurvedic remedy. Analysis revealed a daily oral lead load of 136 times the maximum permissible dose. THERAPY AND COURSE By means of chelation therapy, the blood lead levels were significantly reduced, and there was a complete regression of the complaints as well as a normalization of the laboratory findings. CONCLUSION Lead has toxic effects on all organ systems of the body and is stored in the bone for decades. Symptoms of poisoning are nonspecific; a thorough history and generous indication for measuring lead levels are helpful for the diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Rebecca Scherbaum
- Klinik II für Innere Medizin: Nephrologie, Rheumatologie, Diabetologie und Allgemeine Innere Medizin, Medizinische Fakultät und Uniklinik Köln, Universität zu Köln
| | - Thorsten Frank
- Klinik für Innere Medizin II (Gastroenterologie und Hepatologie, Diabetologie und Stoffwechselstörungen), St.-Katharinen-Hospital Frechen
| | - Victor Suárez
- Klinik II für Innere Medizin: Nephrologie, Rheumatologie, Diabetologie und Allgemeine Innere Medizin, Medizinische Fakultät und Uniklinik Köln, Universität zu Köln.,Klinische Akut- und Notfallmedizin, Medizinische Fakultät und Uniklinik Köln, Universität zu Köln
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Kano N, Fukui S, Kushiro S, Inui A, Saita M, Kura Y, Sawada U, Naito T. Basophilic stippling in red blood cells in the bone marrow: indication for lead poisoning diagnosis. J Int Med Res 2022; 50:3000605221078405. [PMID: 35184610 PMCID: PMC8864261 DOI: 10.1177/03000605221078405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A 40-year-old man presented at our hospital with anaemia that had been
undiagnosed for 2 years. Blood tests, endoscopy, and contrast-enhanced computed
tomography were performed, but a definitive diagnosis could not be made. A
subsequent bone marrow biopsy revealed basophilic stippling in transformed red
blood cells, which led to a differential diagnosis of lead poisoning. Additional
tests revealed elevated levels of lead in the blood. Basophilic stippling is
generally found on a peripheral blood smear in lead poisoning patients; however,
in this case, basophilic stippling was found only on the bone marrow smear and
not in the blood smear. Even if basophilic stippling is not found in the
peripheral blood, lead poisoning cannot be excluded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nagamasa Kano
- Department of General Medicine, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Japan
| | - Sayato Fukui
- Department of General Medicine, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Japan
- Department of Hematology, Kasukabe Medical Center, Kasukabe Medical Center, Japan
| | - Seiko Kushiro
- Department of General Medicine, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Japan
| | - Akihiro Inui
- Department of General Medicine, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Japan
| | - Mizue Saita
- Department of General Medicine, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Japan
| | - Yoshimasa Kura
- Department of Hematology, Kasukabe Medical Center, Kasukabe Medical Center, Japan
| | - Umihiko Sawada
- Department of Hematology, Kasukabe Medical Center, Kasukabe Medical Center, Japan
| | - Toshio Naito
- Department of General Medicine, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Japan
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Reaction Times among Batik Workers: The Influence of Gender and Occupational Lead Exposure. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182312605. [PMID: 34886331 PMCID: PMC8657065 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182312605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
(1) Background: Neglected occupational health and safety aspects in batik industries cause their workers to have an increased risk of lead exposure. The effect of occupational lead exposure on neurocognitive performance is inconclusive. Therefore, we conducted an observational study to examine the difference in simple reaction time between lead-exposed batik workers and non-exposed referents. (2) Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in seven batik enterprises in Lendah District, Indonesia, excluding workers with medical conditions impairing reaction time. Simple reaction time tests were conducted using an online tool. Two-way model ANCOVAs examined interactions between gender and job types on the mean differences in reaction time. (3) Results: After controlling for age and body mass index, we observed longer reaction times among lead-exposed batik workers than non-exposed referents with an adjusted mean difference of 0.19 (95% CI: 0.016–0.368) seconds. A more prominent detrimental effect of lead exposure on reaction time among female workers than among male workers was observed. (4) Conclusions: Our results suggest that occupational lead exposure could contribute to longer reaction time, notably among female workers. Thus, occupational health and safety precautions are vital to protect batik workers and preserve their important contributions to cultural heritage.
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Teerasarntipan T, Chaiteerakij R, Prueksapanich P, Werawatganon D. Changes in inflammatory cytokines, antioxidants and liver stiffness after chelation therapy in individuals with chronic lead poisoning. BMC Gastroenterol 2020; 20:263. [PMID: 32770948 PMCID: PMC7414709 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-020-01386-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic exposure to lead causes lead to accumulate mainly in the liver. In vivo studies have shown that lead toxicity is related to alterations in the inflammatory response. We aimed to evaluate the association between lead poisoning and liver fibrosis as well as the change in the degree of liver fibrosis, levels of inflammatory mediators and glutathione (GSH) after chelation therapy. METHODS Workers from a battery factory who were exposed to lead for > 12 months and had a blood lead level (BLL) > 70 μg/dL were enrolled (n = 86) in the study. Participants underwent chelation therapy with intravenous CaNa2EDTA for 2 days followed by treatment with oral D-penicillamine for 90 days. The primary outcome was the change in the degree of liver fibrosis, which was presented as liver stiffness (LS) measured by FibroScan®. Secondary outcomes were the changes in the levels of serum GSH and inflammatory mediators such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) after chelation therapy. RESULTS Among the 86 participants, there was a positive correlation between the duration of lead exposure and LS (r = 0.249, p = 0.021). To avoid the confounding effect of obesity-related steatosis, only 70 individuals who had controlled attenuation parameters < 296 dB/m, BMI < 25 kg/m2 and normal waist circumference were included in the interventional analysis. After chelation, the mean LS significantly decreased from 5.4 ± 0.9 to 4.8 ± 1.4 kPa (p = 0.001). Similarly, all of the inflammatory cytokines studied significantly decreased after chelation (p < 0.001); TNF-α decreased from 371.6 ± 211.3 to 215.8 ± 142.7; the levels of IL-1β decreased from 29.8 ± 1.7 to 25.9 ± 4.3; and the levels of IL-6 decreased from 46.8 ± 10.2 to 35.0 ± 11.9. On the other hand, the mean GSH level increased significantly from 3.3 ± 3.3 to 13.1 ± 3.7 (p < 0.001) after chelation therapy. CONCLUSION The duration of lead exposure was significantly correlated with the degree of liver fibrosis. Chelation treatment was associated with increased levels of GSH and decreased levels of proinflammatory cytokines and could potentially reduce the degree of LS. TRIAL REGISTRATION This study was retrospectively registered and approved by the Thai Clinical Trial Registry (TCTR) on 2019-11-07. The TCTR identification number is TCTR20191108001 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Tongluk Teerasarntipan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Roongruedee Chaiteerakij
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand.,Center of Excellence for Innovation and Endoscopy in Gastrointestinal Oncology, Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Piyapan Prueksapanich
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University and King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand.
| | - Duangporn Werawatganon
- Alternative and Complementary Medicine for Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases Research Unit, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
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Saravanan R, Mahalakshmi R, Karthikeyan MS, Ravikumar L. Chelating modified cellulose bearing pendant heterocyclic moiety for effective removal of heavy metals. WATER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY : A JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION ON WATER POLLUTION RESEARCH 2019; 80:1549-1561. [PMID: 31961817 DOI: 10.2166/wst.2019.404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Cellulose bearing pendant Schiff base with heterocyclic chelating groups (CMC-Bz) was synthesized, which were fully characterized using various instrumental techniques such as solid state carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance (13C-NMR), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) spectra. The adsorption of toxic metals onto cellulosic material was tested in a batch mode operation. The adsorption functional factors such as pH, adsorbent dose, metal ion concentration, equilibrium time and temperature were experimentally optimized for the maximum removal of Cu(II) and Pb(II) ions. Adsorption isotherms were evaluated with Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin and Redlich-Peterson isotherms. Kinetic parameters and equilibrium adsorption capacities were investigated for pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order and intra-particle diffusion models. Thermodynamic parameters and reusability were also evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Saravanan
- KPR Institute of Engineering and Technology, Coimbatore 641407, India E-mail:
| | - R Mahalakshmi
- Kumaraguru College of Technology, Coimbatore 641049, India
| | - M S Karthikeyan
- KPR Institute of Engineering and Technology, Coimbatore 641407, India E-mail:
| | - L Ravikumar
- Department of Chemistry, C.B.M. College, Coimbatore 641042, India
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Abstract
Lead poisoning (LP) is less commonly encountered in emergency departments (ED). However, lead exposure still occurs, and new sources of poisoning have emerged. LP often goes unrecognized due to a low index of suspicion and nonspecific symptoms. We present a case of a 48-year-old man who had recurring abdominal pain with anemia that was misdiagnosed. His condition was initially diagnosed as nonspecific abdominal pain and acute porphyria. Acute porphyria-like symptoms with a positive urine porphyrin test result led to the misdiagnosis; testing for heme precursors in urine is the key to the differential diagnosis between LP and acute porphyria. The final definitive diagnosis of lead toxicity was confirmed based on high blood lead levels after detailed medical history taking. The lead poisoning was caused by traditional Chinese herbal pills. The abdominal pain disappeared after a course of chelating treatment. The triad for the diagnosis of lead poisoning should be a history of medicine intake, anemia with basophilic stippling, and recurrent abdominal pain.
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8
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Hasanzadeh R, Moghadam PN, Bahri-Laleh N, Sillanpää M. Effective removal of toxic metal ions from aqueous solutions: 2-Bifunctional magnetic nanocomposite base on novel reactive PGMA-MAn copolymer@Fe3O4 nanoparticles. J Colloid Interface Sci 2017; 490:727-746. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2016.11.098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2016] [Revised: 11/27/2016] [Accepted: 11/28/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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9
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Shah F, Ullah N, Kazi TG, Khan A, Kandhro GA, Afridi HI, Arain MB, Khan Z, Farooq U. Lead Assessment in Biological Samples of Children with Different Gastrointestinal Disorders. Biol Trace Elem Res 2016; 169:41-5. [PMID: 26085058 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-015-0401-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2015] [Accepted: 06/08/2015] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Lead (Pb) levels have been evaluated in the biological samples of children with different gastrointestinal disorders. Blood, scalp hair, and urine samples of children (of age 4-10 years) complaining about different gastrointestinal disorders were analyzed. For comparison, age matched healthy subjects were also included in this study. Biological samples were digested in a microwave oven prior to Pb determination by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. Significant differences in Pb profile were found between the diseased and referent children. Elevated Pb contents were observed in case of diseased children than WHO permissible limit, while normal results were obtained for healthy referents. The results were compared with those of healthy children having the same age, socioeconomic status, and residential areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faheem Shah
- Department of Chemistry, COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Abbottabad, 22060, Pakistan.
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science and Technology, Gulshan Campus, Karachi, Pakistan.
| | - Naeem Ullah
- National Center of Excellence in Analytical Chemistry, University of Sindh, Jamshoro, 76080, Pakistan.
| | - Tasneem Gul Kazi
- National Center of Excellence in Analytical Chemistry, University of Sindh, Jamshoro, 76080, Pakistan.
| | - Ajmal Khan
- Department of Chemistry, COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Abbottabad, 22060, Pakistan.
| | - Ghulam Abbas Kandhro
- Faculty of Allied Engineering and Technology, Dawood University of Engineering and Technology, Karachi, Pakistan.
| | - Hassan Imran Afridi
- National Center of Excellence in Analytical Chemistry, University of Sindh, Jamshoro, 76080, Pakistan.
| | | | - Zahid Khan
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science and Technology, Gulshan Campus, Karachi, Pakistan.
| | - Umar Farooq
- Department of Chemistry, COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Abbottabad, 22060, Pakistan.
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10
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Jeon GJ, Park JH, Kim MS, Yu JW, Park JH, Kim MS. [A Case of Lead Poisoning with Drug-induced Liver Injury after Ingestion of Herbal Medicine]. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY = TAEHAN SOHWAGI HAKHOE CHI 2015; 65:375-378. [PMID: 26087694 DOI: 10.4166/kjg.2015.65.6.375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
A 61-year-old male patient was admitted because of unexplained abdominal pain and anemia. His past medical history was unremarkable except for having taken herbal medicine to treat facial palsy two months ago. The result of health examination performed about a month ago showed increased serum aspartate and alanine aminotransferase level, and he was diagnosed with toxic hepatitis by herbal medicine. When the patient presented to the outpatient department three weeks ago, follow-up liver function test results showed improvement but he complained of abdominal pain. Despite extensive blood chemistry tests and computed tomography, the cause of pain could not be found. After much deliberation, serum lead level and herbal medicines analysis was performed based on the fact that he took herbal medicine two months ago, and he could finally be diagnosed with lead poisoning. Since the serum lead level was high enough to be indicated for lead chelating therapy, conservative management was given. When a patient with toxic hepatitis due to herbal medication presents with abdominal pain, the possibility of lead poisoning should always be taken into consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gi Jung Jeon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Haeundae Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Busan, Korea
| | - Jong Ha Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Haeundae Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Busan, Korea
| | - Min Sung Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Haeundae Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Busan, Korea
| | - Jong Won Yu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Haeundae Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Busan, Korea
| | - Jae Hyun Park
- Department of Internal Medicine, Haeundae Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Busan, Korea
| | - Min Sik Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Haeundae Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Busan, Korea
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L N A, M S R, Shenoy MT, P SR, B P. Lead poisoning mimicking acute porphyria! J Clin Diagn Res 2015; 8:CD01-2. [PMID: 25653942 DOI: 10.7860/jcdr/2014/10597.5315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2014] [Accepted: 10/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
We are presenting a case of a 13-year-old autistic boy whose urine porphyrin test came positive on three separate occasions. The child was brought to emergency department of Kasturba Medical College Hospital, Attavar, Mangalore, India, with fever and acute abdominal pain, with no previous history of any serious illness. Investigations revealed thalassemia trait,microcytic hypochromic anaemia while the other biochemical and haematological parameters were normal. False positive urine porphyrin test may be seen in porphyria induced by liver cancer, hepatitis and heavy metal poisoning such as lead, arsenic and mercury. Blood lead (PbB) level was 59.5μg/dl. Further evaluation revealed a daily consumption of native medicine in the form of syrup.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshatha L N
- Post Graduate, Department of Biochemistry, KMC , Mangalore, India
| | - Rukmini M S
- Associate Professor, Department of Biochemistry, KMC , Mangalore, India
| | - Mamatha T Shenoy
- Post Graduate, Department of Biochemistry, KMC , Mangalore, India
| | - Sadashiva Rao P
- Associate Professor, Department of Paediatric Surgery, KMCH , Mangalore, India
| | - Prashanth B
- Consultant, Department of Heamato Medical Oncology, KMCH , Mangalore, India
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Félix PM, Almeida SM, Franco C, Almeida AB, Lopes C, Claro MI, Fragoso E, Teles C, Wolterbeek HT, Pinheiro T. The suitability of EBC-Pb as a new biomarker to assess occupational exposure to lead. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2014; 25:67-80. [PMID: 24670229 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2014.893569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Occupational exposure to lead (Pb) requires continuous surveillance to assure, as much as possible, safe and healthful working conditions. This study addresses the suitability of assessing Pb exposure in relevant workers using their exhaled breath condensate (EBC). This study enrolled workers of two different Pb processing industries characterized by moderate and high Pb exposure levels in the work environment, and a group of non-exposed individuals working in offices who served as baseline for Pb exposure. The EBC-Pb of workers reflected the Pb levels in the work environment of all three settings, although the relationship with B-Pb was not clear. The lack of correlation between EBC-Pb and B-Pb most probably indicates the time lag for Pb to enter in the two body pools. The EBC-Pb seems to reflect immediate exposure, providing a prompt signature of Pb in the environmental that may interact directly with the organ. By delivering short-term evaluation of exposure, EBC-Pb represents a clear advantage in biomonitoring and may become an interesting tool for estimating organ burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro M Félix
- a Campus Tecnológico e Nuclear, Dpt Física, Instituto Superior Técnico , Universidade Técnica de Lisboa , Lisboa , Portugal
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13
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Yu X, Tong S, Ge M, Wu L, Zuo J, Cao C, Song W. Adsorption of heavy metal ions from aqueous solution by carboxylated cellulose nanocrystals. J Environ Sci (China) 2013; 25:933-43. [PMID: 24218823 DOI: 10.1016/s1001-0742(12)60145-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
A novel nanoadsorbent for the removal of heavy metal ions is reported. Cotton was first hydrolyzed to obtain cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs). CNCs were then chemically modified with succinic anhydride to obtain SCNCs. The sodic nanoadsorbent (NaSCNCs) was further prepared by treatment of SCNCs with saturated NaHCO3 aqueous solution. Batch experiments were carried out with SCNCs and NaSCNCs for the removal of Pb2+ and Cd2+. The effects of contact time, pH, initial adsorption concentration, coexisting ions and the regeneration performance were investigated. Kinetic studies showed that the adsorption equilibrium time of Pb2+ and Cd2+ was reached within 150 min on SCNCs and 5 min on NaSCNCs. The adsorption capacities of Pb2+ and Cd2+ on SCNCs and NaSCNCs increased with increasing pH. The adsorption isotherm was well fitted by the Langmuir model. The maximum adsorption capacities of SCNCs and NaSCNCs for Pb2+ and Cd2+ were 367.6 mg/g, 259.7 mg/g and 465.1 mg/g, 344.8 mg/g, respectively. SCNCs and NaSCNCs showed high selectivity and interference resistance from coexisting ions for the adsorption of Pb2+. NaSCNCs could be efficiently regenerated with a mild saturated NaCl solution with no loss of capacity after two recycles. The adsorption mechanisms of SCNCs and NaSCNCs were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolin Yu
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, State Key Laboratory for Structural Chemistry of Unstable and Stable Species, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
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Méndez-Armenta M, Nava-Ruiz C, Fernández-Valverde F, Sánchez-García A, Rios C. Histochemical changes in muscle of rats exposed subchronically to low doses of heavy metals. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2011; 32:107-112. [PMID: 21787736 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2011.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2010] [Revised: 02/23/2011] [Accepted: 03/06/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Heavy metals are ubiquitous in the environment and exposure through food and water as well as occupational sources can constitute a potential threat to human health. The mechanisms of heavy metal damage include the production of free radicals that alter mitochondrial activity, affecting cellular types like neurons and muscular fibres. We examined whether rats exposed subchronically via drinking water to low doses of heavy metals can produce alterations in muscle. Results showed that the proportion of ragged red fibres increased in muscle of rats exposed to lead and thallium, likewise slight changes in enzymatic activity of muscular fibres were also observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Méndez-Armenta
- Lab. Neuropatología Experimental, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía MVS, Insurgentes sur 3877, Tlalpan C.P. 14269 México, Mexico.
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15
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Abstract
AbstractLead exposure is a common public health problem. Exposure to the metal can cause hematological, gastrointestinal, rheumatological, endocrine, neurological and renal problems in humans. However, effects on the thyroid gland are controversial. We retrospectively investigated thyroid function parameters in 65 adult males who had been occupationally exposed to lead. We then compared the findings with those of 60 male patients who had no history of lead exposure or thyroid abnormalities, who served as the control group. The mean ages of the lead-exposed workers and the controls were 34.3 ± 7.9 and 32.9 ± 6.6 years respectively. Blood lead levels in the lead-exposed workers were significantly higher than in the control group. The lead-exposed workers were assigned to one of three groups according to their blood lead levels, as follows: 40–59 μg/dl, 60–79 μg/dl, or 80 μg/dl and above. Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) levels in the 80 μg/dl and above group were significantly higher than in either the 40–59 μg/dl group or the 60–79 μg/dl group. However, TSH levels in the 40–59 μg/dl group did not differ significantly from those in the 60–79 μg/dl group. These results suggest that high levels of lead in the blood may affect thyroid physiology. Clinicians should be aware of the potential hazardous effects of lead on the thyroid, especially in patients who have been occupationally exposed to lead.
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Baranowska-Bosiacka I, Dziedziejko V, Safranow K, Gutowska I, Marchlewicz M, Dołegowska B, Rać ME, Wiszniewska B, Chlubek D. Inhibition of erythrocyte phosphoribosyltransferases (APRT and HPRT) by Pb2+: a potential mechanism of lead toxicity. Toxicology 2009; 259:77-83. [PMID: 19428946 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2009.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2008] [Revised: 02/10/2009] [Accepted: 02/11/2009] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Many reports show that red blood cells of people exposed to lead have a decreased ATP concentration, decreased adenylate energy charge value and many metabolic and morphological abnormalities. Since the synthesis of nucleotides in erythrocytes occurs only through salvage pathways, we hypothesized that a decrease in nucleotide concentrations may be caused by lead-induced inhibition of erythrocyte phosphoribosyltransferases: adenine APRT (EC 2.4.2.7) and hypoxanthine-guanine HPRT (EC 2.4.2.8). These enzymes enable the reutilization of purine bases (adenine, guanine, hypoxanthine) converting them to mononucleotides (AMP, GMP, IMP), substrates for the synthesis of high-energy nucleotides. To confirm the hypothesis two experiments were performed: (i) in vitro, using a lysate of human erythrocytes incubated (5, 10, 30min) with lead ions (100microM, 10microM, 1microM, 500nM, 100nM lead acetate) and 100microM sodium acetate for the control, (ii) in vivo, using a lysate of rat erythrocytes taken from rats chronically exposed to lead (0.1% lead acetate in drinking water for 9 months, resulting in whole blood lead concentration 7microg/dL). The activities of APRT and HPRT were determined using HPLC method, which allowed concurrent determination of the activity of both enzymes in erythrocyte lysates. We have shown that, lead ions: (i) moderately inhibit both phosphoribosyltransferases in erythrocytes, this influence being detectable even at very low concentrations (ii) participate in hemolysis, the intensity of which negatively correlates with the activity of phosphoribosyltransferases. Our results indicate the necessity of further research on the role of lead-induced APRT and HPRT inhibition as one of the mechanisms of lead toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Baranowska-Bosiacka
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical University, Powstańców Wlkp. 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland.
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17
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Dundar B, Oktem F, Arslan MK, Delibas N, Baykal B, Arslan C, Gultepe M, Ilhan IE. The effect of long-term low-dose lead exposure on thyroid function in adolescents. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2006; 101:140-5. [PMID: 16360141 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2005.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2005] [Revised: 09/30/2005] [Accepted: 10/06/2005] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated blood lead (Pb-B) levels and Pb-B effects on thyroid functions in long-term low-level-lead-exposed male adolescents who work as auto repairers. Pb-B and ALAD index (logarithm of activated delta-aminolaevulinic acid dehydratase/nonactivated delta-aminolaevulinic acid dehydratase) were measured as indicators of exposure to lead. Thyroid function tests including free thyroxine (FT4), free triiodothyronine (FT3), and thyrotrophin (TSH) were conducted and thyroid ultrasounds were performed in 42 lead-exposed adolescents and 55 healthy control subjects. Mean Pb-B levels and ALAD index were found significantly higher in the study group than in the normal control group (7.3+/-2.92 microg/dl vs. 2.08+/-1.24 microg/dl, P < 0.001 and 0.44+/-0.26 vs. 0.29+/-0.23, P < 0.05, respectively). FT4 levels were found significantly lower in the study group (1.02+/-0.18 mI/mL and 1.12+/-0.14 mIU/mL, P < 0.05). No subject in the control group had an abnormal FT4 level, but FT4 levels were found under normal limits in 11 subjects (26%) in the study group. FT3 and TSH levels in the study and control groups did not differ (P > 0.05). Thyroid volumes in the study and control groups did not exhibit any significant differences (P > 0.05). Pb-B was found to be negatively correlated to FT4 levels (r = -0.20, P = 0.044). This study revealed that long-term low-level lead exposure may lead to reduced FT4 level without significant changes in TSH and T3 levels in adolescents even at low Pb-B levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bumin Dundar
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Suleyman Demirel University, Merkez 32040, Isparta, Turkey.
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18
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Pine MD, Hiney JK, Dearth RK, Bratton GR, Dees WL. IGF-1 administration to prepubertal female rats can overcome delayed puberty caused by maternal Pb exposure. Reprod Toxicol 2006; 21:104-9. [PMID: 16153799 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2005.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2005] [Revised: 06/27/2005] [Accepted: 07/06/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Because prepubertal female rats maternally exposed to lead (Pb) exhibit suppressed serum levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and delayed puberty, we investigated the ability of centrally administered IGF-1 to stimulate luteinizing hormone (LH) release in vivo and LH-releasing hormone (LHRH) release in vitro from maternally Pb-exposed prepubertal female rats. Additionally, we assessed whether IGF-1 replacement could affect the timing of female puberty. Results demonstrated that IGF-1 stimulated significantly LH release in both control and Pb-exposed animals. When median eminences from control and Pb-exposed females were incubated with rat IGF-1 in vitro, they responded similarly with significant peptide-induced LHRH release. Lastly, we showed IGF-1 replacement reversed the delay in puberty caused by Pb. These results indicate the central LHRH response to IGF-1 is intact and that Pb-induced delayed puberty is due, at least in part, to suppressed circulating IGF-1 available to the hypothalamus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle D Pine
- Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, VMA Building MS 4458, College Station, 77843, USA
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19
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Coyle P, Kosnett MJ, Hipkins K. Severe lead poisoning in the plastics industry: a report of three cases. Am J Ind Med 2005; 47:172-5. [PMID: 15662640 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.20123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lead stabilizers (e.g., lead sulfate, lead stearate) are common additives in plastics used in electrical devices. In 1997, three plastics compounders at one California company were severely lead-poisoned. METHODS The poisonings were investigated by interviewing the workers, employer, and treating physician and reviewing medical records and environmental monitoring results. In addition to measuring blood lead levels (BLLs), noninvasive K X-ray fluorescence was used to measure bone lead concentration of the index case. RESULTS Blood lead concentrations of the three workers at time of diagnosis were 159, 114, and 108 microg/dl. The worker with highest exposure presented with clinical findings of crampy abdominal pain, constipation, normocytic anemia, fatigue, and reversible azotemia. Bone lead concentration in his tibia, calcaneous, and patella were 102, 219, and 182 ppm, respectively. The poisonings resulted from uncontrolled use of powdered lead sulfate stabilizer. CONCLUSION Clinicians should be aware of potential serious overexposure to lead in compounding of plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Coyle
- Occupational Health Branch, California Department of Health Services, Oakland, California 94612, USA.
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20
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Baranowska-Bosiacka I, Hlynczak AJ. The effect of lead ions on the energy metabolism of human erythrocytes in vitro. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2003; 134:403-16. [PMID: 12643987 DOI: 10.1016/s1532-0456(03)00008-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this work was to evaluate the influence of chronic exposure to lead ions on the parameters of energetic status of human erythrocytes in vitro. Umbilical cord erythrocytes were incubated with lead acetate at final lead ion concentrations ranging from 10 to 200 microg/dl. ATP, ADP, AMP, adenosine, GTP, GDP, GMP, guanosine, IMP, inosine, hypoxanthine, NAD and NADP concentrations in erythrocytes were determined using HPLC. Scanning electron micrographs of erythrocytes were taken. The mean concentrations of ATP, GTP, NAD and NADP, and mean values of adenylate energy charge (AEC) and GEC in cells incubated at the presence of lead ions were significantly lower after 20 h of incubation. Concentrations of purine degradation products (Ado, Guo, Ino) and Hyp were significantly higher. It is suggested that lead ions affect the energy metabolism of erythrocytes. Morphological changes in erythrocytes correspond to the increase of lead ions in the incubation mixture and to the decrease of ATP concentration in erythrocytes. A decrease in NAD and ATP concentration in erythrocytes could be a sensitive indicator of energy process disturbance, useful in monitoring in case of chronic lead exposure.
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21
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Iavicoli I, Carelli G, Stanek EJ, Castellino N, Calabrese EJ. Effects of per os lead acetate administration on mouse hepatocyte survival. Toxicol Lett 2002; 129:143-9. [PMID: 11879985 DOI: 10.1016/s0378-4274(01)00525-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Previously published studies indicate that hepatotoxicity is associated with high blood lead (Pb) levels in animal models and humans. The present investigation evaluated the effects of in vivo Pb exposure via drinking water on mouse hepatocyte survival in vitro when blood Pb concentrations reflected those seen in children in urban and rural settings (2-15 microg/dl). The findings indicated a biphasic dose-response with low concentrations associated with a modest decrease in hepatocyte survival, while at the highest concentration, survival was significantly enhanced (60%). Since these responses were associated with concentrations normally encountered by children, follow-up investigations are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Iavicoli
- School of Medicine, Institute of Occupational Health, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Largo Francesco Vito 1, 00168 Roma, Italy
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Abstract
In the present study, an attempt has been made to investigate the effect of ethanol consumption on the distribution of lead in different regions of brain and body organs of male albino rats. Lead when administered intragastrically, for a period of eight weeks resulted in almost uniform accumulation of this metal in all the regions of brain, which increased by almost two fold when ethanol was given along with lead. Lead was also seen to compartmentalise in almost all the tissues of the body to varying extents, with the highest accumulation in the kidney. A progressive and appreciable accumulation of lead was seen in blood with a concomitant increase in ZPP levels in animals during the course of treatment, which increased further when ethanol was administered along with lead. The activity of delta-ALAD and AChE in blood was significantly decreased in lead as well as ethanol treated animals. However, in animals coexposed to lead and ethanol, the inhibition of delta-ALAD was not significantly different, when compared to only lead-treated animals. The results suggested that animals exposed to ethanol and lead simultaneously accumulate higher levels of lead in blood and brain of animals making them more vulnerable to the haematological and neurological toxic effects of lead.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Gupta
- Department of Biochemistry, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
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Affiliation(s)
- D R Baldwin
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, King's College Hospital, London, UK
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Hernández E, Gutiérrez-Ruiz MC, Garciá Vargas G. Effect of acute lead treatment on coproporphyrinogen oxidase activity in HepG2 cells. Toxicology 1998; 126:163-71. [PMID: 9674964 DOI: 10.1016/s0300-483x(98)00011-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Acute toxic effects of lead were evaluated on porphyrin synthesis and coproporphyrinogen oxidase (CO) activity in an in vitro model, using HepG2 cells, a hepatoma cell line of human origin. Lead concentrations for exposure treatments were 0.5, 1.0, 2.5, 5.0 microM. No significant changes were found in treated cells with respect to uroporphyrin cellular or media concentrations. Cellular protoporphyrin increased in dose response shape, but no changes in extracellular content were found. Extracellular coproporphyrin concentration increased in a dose response manner without changes in cellular content. The CO activity was depressed in dose response shape, reaching 62% of control activity at 5.0 microM of lead treatment. The CO activity in Pb-treated cells was recovered after dithiothreitol (DTT) treatment, suggesting that sulphydryl groups play an essential role in the enzyme activity. The dose-response increase of coproporphyrin secretion accompanied by the depression of CO activity supports the suggestion that lead causes CO inhibition, as observed in this cellular model.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Hernández
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa, México DF, Mexico
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Vodela JK, Renden JA, Lenz SD, McElhenney WH, Kemppainen BW. Drinking water contaminants (arsenic, cadmium, lead, benzene, and trichloroethylene). 1. Interaction of contaminants with nutritional status on general performance and immune function in broiler chickens. Poult Sci 1997; 76:1474-92. [PMID: 9355140 DOI: 10.1093/ps/76.11.1474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to examine possible interactions between drinking water contaminants and suboptimal nutritional status for performance and immune function in male broiler chickens. Experimental drinking water contained a mixture of arsenic, benzene, cadmium, lead, and trichloroethylene (TCE) at low concentrations (0.80, 1.3, 5.0, 6.7, and 0.65 ppm) and high concentrations (8.6, 13, 50, 67, and 6.5 ppm). These chemicals were selected because they are among the most common contaminants found in ground water near hazardous waste sites. The experimental diets included feed containing 50% added vitamins and minerals (V&M) and feed without added V&M. Increasing levels of drinking water contaminants and decreasing levels of V&M in diet resulted in significantly (P < or = 0.05) decreased water and feed intake, decreased weight gain, and suppression of natural, humoral, and cell-mediated immune response. In a paired-water study, feed consumption, body weight, and immune function were decreased in chickens provided low and high concentrations of the chemical mixture in drinking water compared with chickens given control drinking water equal to the volumes consumed by the chickens given the low and high concentration of mixture, respectively. A deficiency of dietary V&M caused increased sensitivity to adverse effects of drinking water contaminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- J K Vodela
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Alabama 36849, USA
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Barnum-Huckins KM, Martinez AO, Rivera EV, Adrian EK, Herbert DC, Weaker FJ, Walter CA, Adrian GS. A comparison of the suppression of human transferrin synthesis by lead and lipopolysaccharide. Toxicology 1997; 118:11-22. [PMID: 9074650 DOI: 10.1016/s0300-483x(96)03586-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Transferrin, as the major iron-transport protein in serum and other body fluids, has a central role in managing iron the body receives. Liver is a major site of transferrin synthesis, and in this study we present evidence that liver synthesis of human transferrin is suppressed by both the toxic metal lead and bacterial lipopolysaccharide, an inducer of the hepatic acute phase response. The responses of intact endogenous transferrin in the human hepatoma cell line HepG2 and chimeric human transferrin-chloramphenicol acetyltransferase genes in transgenic mice were examined. In HepG2 cells, 35S-transferrin protein synthesis and mRNA levels were suppressed by 100 microM and 10 microM lead acetate as early as 24 h after the initial treatment. Yet, synthesis of two proteins known to respond in the hepatic acute phase reaction, complement C3 and albumin, was not altered by the lead treatment. In transgenic mouse liver, lead suppressed expression of chimeric human transferrin genes at both the protein and mRNA levels, but LPS only suppressed at the protein level. The study indicates that lead suppresses human transferrin synthesis by a mechanism that differs from the hepatic acute phase response and that lead may also affect iron metabolism in humans by interfering with transferrin levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- K M Barnum-Huckins
- Department of Cellular and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio 78284, USA
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Chalevelakis G, Bouronikou H, Yalouris AG, Economopoulos T, Athanaselis S, Raptis S. delta-Aminolaevulinic acid dehydratase as an index of lead toxicity. Time for a reappraisal? Eur J Clin Invest 1995; 25:53-8. [PMID: 7705388 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2362.1995.tb01526.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
delta-Aminolaevulinic acid dehydratase activity is traditionally accepted as the most sensitive measurable biological index of lead toxicity. We have measured delta-aminolaevulinic acid dehydratase activity and blood lead concentration in 47 healthy controls (A), 42 iron deficient patients (B) and 38 occupationally exposed to lead subjects (C). Blood lead levels [mean (SD)] did not differ between groups A and B [0.51 (0.21) and 0.43 (0.19) mumol L-1, respectively] while those of group C [2.28 (0.56) mumol L-1 were significantly higher (P < 0.001) as compared to the controls. delta-Aminolaevulinic acid dehydratase activity [mean (SD)] was significantly increased [3599 (1909) mumol L-1 h-1] in group B and decreased in group C [1052 (532) mumol L-1 h-1] as compared to the controls [2034 (446) mumol L-1 h-1] (P < 0.001). There was a significantly negative correlation of logarithm of delta-aminolaevulinic acid dehydratase with lead in both groups B (P < 0.05) and C (P < 0.001) but not in group A (P = 0.1). delta-Aminolaevulinic acid dehydratase activity had a high specificity (100%) but a low sensitivity (37%) as an index of toxic lead exposure. According to our data the value of delta-aminolaevulinic acid dehydratase measurement in the diagnosis of lead intoxication is doubtful in cases with low blood lead levels, while in the presence of iron deficiency its reliability is further reduced, since low blood lead levels may be falsely predicted. delta-Aminolaevulinic acid dehydratase activity should be restricted only to monitoring cases with moderate or severe lead poisoning.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Chalevelakis
- Second Department of Internal Medicine-Propaedeutic, University of Athens, School of Medicine, Greece
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