Theoretical and Practical Considerations on the Problem of Metal. Metal Interaction

Abstract

The interaction between two metals, which can be either synergistic or antagonistic, implies that the behavior of one is changed by the presence of the other. Possible mechanisms of these interactions, whkh include chemical association, competition for carriers, metabolic changes, induction of binding proteins, membrane alterations are discussed.The interactions between toxic compounds is a loose term which implies that the behavior or effect of one compound is changed by the administration or presence of another. It does not imply that the two compounds interact chemically, although chemical reaction between them or their metabolites is possible. Studies on the interaction between metals are only in an early phase and do not permit the development of generalizations or classifications.

Single and Joint Toxic Effects of Copper and Zinc on Reproduction ofEnchytraeus crypticusin Relation to Sorption of Metals in Soils

“…First, the assumption of ''no interaction'' may be violated. Metal-metal interactions, such as precipitation among some pairs of metal ions or competitive displacement at sorption sites, are well known (e.g., Magos and Webb, 1978). Competitive displacement may occur in soil and during uptake (see below) and may be the principal type of process that modulates the joint effects at the target site.…”

Relationship Between Selenium and Selected Heavy Metals Concentration in Serum of Cattle from a Non-Polluted Area

“…However, interaction between metals usually results in a decrease in toxicity. This effect is associated with a shorter half time or lower concentration in the target organ [9]. Chiba et al [10] observed that when Se, Hg, or Sn was administered individually (at high dosages), all three elements had a toxic effect, but when mercury or tin was administered jointly with selenite, the toxic effect was lowered.…”

The Alchemist’s Approach to Metal Poisoning: Transforming the Metal Burden

“…However, supplementation above the level needed to normalize Fe and Cu levels may be problematic. Both Cu and Fe have redox properties that make them pro-oxidant in excess, a problem likely to be exacerbated when significant competition with other metals occurs, displacing Fe and Cu from their respective binding sites [47]. Excessive Fe may well displace toxic metals from binding sites and as the body struggles to manage the highly redox active Fe atom there may be an increase in the activity of the toxic metal as well as introducing Fe toxicity.…”

“…However, the dose must not be so large that it is wasteful or even toxic, as may occur with Se, or that desired elements may compete with each other for important carrier molecules proteins. For example, Cu and Zn compete for the same binding site on albumin [47].…”