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The article reports on the cadmium accumulation in fetus and placenta of bank voles. Cadmium was found to have unique biological role. However it is well known for its toxicity with regard to the reproduction and development of young animals. Cadmium is easily absorbed and remains a relatively long time within the tissues. Its general occurrence in the environment is a significant threat to young organisms, during both prenatal and postnatal development. Placenta is supposed to be an effective barrier to toxic elements. Another harmful influence of cadmium on pregnant females and their embryos is connected with its antagonistic effect on absorption and distribution of nutrition in the organism.

This investigation is based on the premise that heavy metals are sequestered by the mineral phase of teeth, hydroxyapatite, during their formation. Once formed these tissues are not subject to significant turnover and it is suggested, therefore, that they provide a permanent and cumulative record of heavy metal exposure during the development of the teeth. The teeth of the bank vole ( Clethrionomys glareolus ) were analysed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry to monitor the animals' exposure to lead, cadmium, zinc, copper and strontium. Animals were trapped in clean and polluted areas in Poland in and around Krakow in 1996 and in Olkusz and Legnica in 1996 and 1997. The control area in 1996 was Bieszcady National Park and in 1997 Borecka Forest. The results showed that there were statistically different concentrations of heavy metals in the teeth of animals from different sites. The high levels of pollution from industrial emissions were related to higher concentrations of heavy metals in the teeth. Unexpectedly high levels of heavy metals in the teeth of animals from Bieszczady National Park, thought to be environmentally clean, suggested cross-border pollution from Slovakia and the Ukraine. It was concluded that the teeth of small mammals, such as the bank vole, are a sensitive and reliable marker of environmental pollution by heavy metals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

No Abstract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]