Pancreas–Liver–Adipose Axis: Target of Environmental Cadmium Exposure Linked to Metabolic Diseases

Abstract

Cadmium has been well recognized as a critical toxic agent in acute and chronic poisoning cases in occupational and nonoccupational settings and environmental exposure situations. Cadmium is released into the environment after natural and anthropogenic activities, particularly in contaminated and industrial areas, causing food pollution. In the body, cadmium has no biological activity, but it accumulates primarily in the liver and kidney, which are considered the main targets of its toxicity, through oxidative stress and inflammation. However, in the last few years, this metal has been linked to metabolic diseases. The pancreas–liver–adipose axis is largely affected by cadmium accumulation. Therefore, this review aims to collect bibliographic information that establishes the basis for understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms linked to cadmium with carbohydrate, lipids, and endocrine impairments that contribute to developing insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, prediabetes, and diabetes.

Vitamin C and/or garlic can antagonize the toxic effects of cadmium on growth performance, hematological, and immunological parameters of growing Japanese quail

“…Long-term cadmium exposure depletes muscle and liver glycogen due to its effects on the enzymes associated with glycogenesis and energy metabolism ( Moroni-González et al, 2023 ), as well as harms the kidney and liver through oxidative stress ( Ebrahimi et al, 2023 ). Also, Cadmium advances osteoporosis, leukemia, hypertension, diabetic renal complications, and living organisms.…”

Protective effect of luteolin against cadmium-induced hepatotoxicity by inhibiting oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in mice

“…It can be bio-enriched in different species along the food chain and eventually accumulates in human and animal livers [20]. Lut is a natural avonoid with various pharmacological activities [21,22]. Although previous research has shown the therapeutic property of Lut against Cd-induced in ammation, whether Lut has a mitigating effect on Cd-induced liver injury remains unknown [23,24].…”

Modulation of Metabolic Pathways and Protection against Cadmium-Induced Disruptions with Taxifolin-Enriched Extract

“…The 20th century witnessed a disturbing increase in heavy metal toxicity . The extensive environmental distribution of cadmium has heightened concerns regarding its disproportionate toxicity and adverse ecological consequences. , Notably, Cd accumulates significantly in hepatic and renal tissues, initiating severe cellular damage across multiple organ systems. , Cd finds widespread application in various industrial sectors, including paint manufacturing, silver-plating, battery production, and agricultural practices . Cigarette smoke is a well-recognized source of Cd exposure, significantly elevating the risk of contact .…”

“… 6 , 7 Notably, Cd accumulates significantly in hepatic and renal tissues, initiating severe cellular damage across multiple organ systems. 8 , 9 Cd finds widespread application in various industrial sectors, including paint manufacturing, silver-plating, battery production, and agricultural practices. 6 Cigarette smoke is a well-recognized source of Cd exposure, significantly elevating the risk of contact.…”