Collate the literature on toxicity data on mercury in experimental animals and humans (Part I – Data on organic mercury)

Abstract

It was the scope of this project to collate, compile and summarise the scientific literature on the toxicity of methyl mercury, inorganic mercury and total mercury in humans and experimental animals published since 2002 and not evaluated in former JECFA risk assessments. Epidemiological data on MeHg toxicity confirmed former findings on an association between prenatal exposure and developmental neurotoxicity. Recent findings also support an influence of methyl mercury on the cardiovascular and immune system. Existing epidemiological data reveal several shortcomings limiting their suitability for risk assessment. Developmental neurotoxicity seems to be the most critical effect of MeHg in animals. A LOAEL of 0.01 mg/kg b.w. per day has been reported in young mice for locomotor activity exposed in utero. Rats seem to be less sensitive towards this endpoint: a NOAEL of 0.04 mg/kg b.w. per day has been reported in this species for locomotor activity. Systemic effects other than neurotoxicity have been mostly observed at higher doses than those producing neurotoxicity. No qualified epidemiological data appropriate for the evaluation of the toxicity of inorganic mercury after oral intake have been identified due to several limitations of the studies, e.g. small study group, insufficient control for confounders, inadequate exposure assessment. Toxicological studies in experimental animals widely confirmed former findings with respect to the target organs (neuro-, liver-, kidney-, immune-and reproductive toxicity, oxidative stress). The animal studies indicate that there might be relevant toxicological effects (developmental toxicity, liver toxicity) of inorganic mercury at dose levels similar or below the BMDL 10 value used for the derivation of the existing PTWI. However, due to some limitations of the studies no final conclusions can be drawn from these studies and the findings need further confirmation.

Heavy Metals Content in Selected Medicinal Plants Produced and Consumed in Serbia and Their Daily Intake in Herbal Infusions

“…In the case of Hg, ions can enter the cells and ion channels primarily by binding to sulfur and/or nitrogen ligands [ 53 ]. However, these processes are still not well described, and data is mostly based on experiments in animal cells [ 9 , 54 ]. Studies of the toxicity of Hg in herbs are still scarce [ 55 ], and the cellular and molecular mechanisms that include the toxicity of Hg are practically unknown.…”

Assessing Mercury Content in Plant and Animal Raw Materials in an Area Impacted by the Copper Industry

“…4 Mg per year (DEG scenario) in 2020 [12][13]. The issue of mercury is of particular interest in the European Union, thus a special CONTAM panel of EFSA (European Food Safety Authority), which is monitoring contaminants in the food chain, is currently dealing with the Hg emissions problem [14]. In September 2014, Poland, along with more than 140 other countries, signed the Minamata Convention, which seeks to reduce and ultimately ban the use of mercury and its compounds.…”