1. The Neurotoxicity of Methylmercury in the Developing Nervous System
- Author
-
John R. O'Kusky
- Subjects
Pollutant ,Neurotoxicity ,food and beverages ,chemistry.chemical_element ,medicine.disease ,Blood proteins ,Mercury (element) ,chemistry.chemical_compound ,medicine.anatomical_structure ,Membrane ,chemistry ,Environmental chemistry ,Lipophilicity ,medicine ,Methylmercury ,Respiratory tract - Abstract
There is no known metabolic requirement for mercury (Hg). The presence of organic and inorganic compounds of Hg in mammalian tissues results from the uptake and accumulation of environmental pollutants. Compounds containing Hg can exist in a number of chemical forms, and the properties of these various species are largely responsible for determining the target organ (Shamoo, 1987). Inorganic compounds, which are transported by plasma proteins and have low lipid solubility, are deposited mainly in the liver and kidneys. Since metallic Hg is highly volatile, the inhalation of Hg vapor can result in damage to the respiratory tract and alveolar epithelial cells. Methylmercury (MeHg) and related alkylmercury compounds, which have high lipid solubility and can penetrate membrane barriers such as the blood—brain barrier and placenta, are highly neurotoxic.
- Published
- 1992
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