The carcinogenicity of beryllium.

Abstract

Beryllium, some of its alloys, and a variety of its compounds have induced malignant tumors of the lung and osteogenic sarcoma in experimental animals. Three animal species, monkeys, rabbits, and rats, have been shown to be susceptible. Beryllium induces morphological transformation in mammalian cells and enhances viral transformation of mammalian cells. It has been shown to decrease fidelity of DNA synthesis. It has been recognized that exposure to compounds of this metal will, in some individuals, result in a chronic granulomatous disease of the lung. A series of overlapping recent human epidemiological studies have been suggestive of an increase in the incidence of lung cancer in populations occupationally exposed to beryllium. Such studies, together with animal and in vitro studies, argue for the strong presumption of a carcinogenic hazard to man in occupational beryllium exposures.

Optimization of a carbon evaporator cell for MBE growth

“…Beryllium segregates easily to the surface of the layers [3], decreasing the sharpness of the interfaces regions. Also, Be is a carcinogenic [4] element that has to be handled with great care. A well-known alternative for acceptor doping is carbon [5,6].…”

The uses and adverse effects of beryllium on health

“…Beryllium is a likely candidate as a lung carcinogen. [ 2 21 ] Beryllium compounds cause genetic transformations in cultured mammalian cells resulting from binding of ionic beryllium to nucleic acids, resulting in infidelity of DNA replication. [ 22 ] Lung cancer is likely during exposure with an excess relative risk of 1.2–1.6.…”