Exploring the molecular mechanisms of nickel-induced genotoxicity and carcinogenicity: a literature review

Abstract

Nickel, a naturally occurring element that exists in various mineral forms, is mainly found in soil and sediment, and its mobilization is influenced by the physicochemical properties of the soil. Industrial sources of nickel include metallurgical processes such as electroplating, alloy production, stainless steel, and nickel-cadmium batteries. Nickel industries, oil- and coal-burning power plants, and trash incinerators have been implicated in its release into the environment. In humans, nickel toxicity is influenced by the route of exposure, dose, and solubility of the nickel compound. Lung inhalation is the major route of exposure for nickel-induced toxicity. Nickel may also be ingested or absorbed through the skin. The primary target organs are the kidneys and lungs. Other organs such as the liver, spleen, heart and testes may also be affected to a lesser extent. Although the most common health effect is an allergic reaction, research has also demonstrated that nickel is carcinogenic to humans. The focus of the present review is on recent research concerning the molecular mechanisms of nickel-induced genotoxicity and carcinogenicity. We first present a background on the occurrence of nickel in the environment, human exposure, and human health effects.

Quantifying subtle but persistent peri-spine inflammation in vivo to submicron cobalt–chromium alloy particles

“…The Ni-treated animals had bilateral hind leg paralysis and had to be euthanized at Day 2, indicating that a bolus of 20 mg Ni was highly toxic and too high a dose to act as an effective ''positive'' control and model unacceptable long-term biologic effects. Nickel has been shown to be both immunogenic and carcinogenic in humans [4,14]. In animal studies Ni has been shown to compete with Ca(2?)…”

The Nickel Concentration in Breast Milk during the First Month of Lactation in Yazd, Center of Iran

“…The maternal nutrition is very important during lactation, and it is at the forefront of priorities in health programs [3]. The components of the breast milk promote infants' protection against infectious diseases, increasing the intelligence quotient (IQ) as well as the emotional and psychological development of the infants [4].…”

How Trace Element Levels of Public Drinking Water Affect Body Composition in Turkey

“…Notably, avoiding foods with Ni reduced body fat and BMI in overweight women allergic to the metal, particularly those in the early menopause stage. Plus, the Ni absorption rate via drinking water is far higher than that of via food [19,29,30]. Since limited information is available about the effect of Ni in drinking water on weight loss or gain, additional studies should seek to determine the relationship between obesity and drinking water nickel levels.…”