Molecular analysis of chromium and cobalt-related toxicity

Abstract

Occupational and environmental exposure to Co and Cr has been previously linked to a wide array of inflammatory and degenerative conditions and cancer. Recently, significant health concerns have been raised by the high levels of Cr and Co ions and corrosion products released by biomedical implants. Herein, we set to analyze the biological responses associated with Co and Cr toxicity. Histological, ultrastructural, and elemental analysis, performed on Cr and Co exposed patients reveal the presence of corrosion products, metallic wear debris and metal ions at varying concentrations. Metallic ions and corrosion products were also generated in vitro following macrophage phagocytosis of metal alloys. Ex vivo redox proteomic mapped several oxidatively damaged proteins by Cr(III) and Co(II)-induced Fenton reaction. Importantly, a positive correlation between the tissue amounts of Cr(III) and Co(II) ions and tissue oxidative damage was observed. Immobilized- Cr(III) and Co(II) affinity chromatography indicated that metal ions can also directly bind to several metallo and non-metalloproteins and, as demonstrated for aldolase and catalase, induce loss of their biological function. Altogether, our analysis reveals several biological mechanisms leading to tissue damage, necrosis, and inflammation in patients with Cr and Co-associated adverse local tissue reactions.

Nanoparticle–membrane interactions

“…Medical implants are another source of NPs in the human body being released by normal wear. NPs may also enter the body directly as nanomedicines or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents [11][12][13][14]. Given this degree of exposure, it is striking that implications for environmental and human health remain mostly unknown or poorly understood [15][16][17].…”

Serum Trace Elements and Heavy Metal Levels in Patients Diagnosed with Chronic Otitis Media and Their Association with Surgical Treatment Outcomes

“…Co is an essential part of vitamin B12, which is crucial for foliate metabolism. Co harvests reactive radicals and may facilitate free radical production [32] . In our study, we found that serum Co levels were significantly increased in COM patients compared with control subjects.…”

Free energy of adhesion of lipid bilayers on silica surfaces

“…In medicine, inorganic materials are used in implants and in finely divided form (nanoparticles) as nanomedicines or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents. [1][2][3][4] Inorganic engineered nanoparticles (ENMs) are increasingly found in the environment. They are present in batteries, catalysts, chemical coatings, packaging, electronic devices, and cosmetics.…”