arsenic Flashcards
(10 cards)
Which forms of arsenic are most toxic?
Inorganic forms of arsenic
Inorganic arsenic is known for its high toxicity compared to organic forms.
What role does glutathione play in relation to arsenic?
Glutathione reduces toxic forms of arsenic in the liver but can deplete glutathione stores
Glutathione is a critical antioxidant in the body that helps detoxify harmful substances.
Name two organic forms of arsenic.
- Arsenobetaine
- Arsenocholine
These organic forms are less toxic than inorganic arsenic.
How does arsenic affect thyroid function?
Arsenic inhibits selenium and iodine in the thyroid, leading to goitre
Selenium and iodine are essential for thyroid hormone production.
What effect does arsenic have on methylation?
Arsenic increases methylation by increasing SAMe, polyamides, and taurine production
SAMe (S-adenosyl methionine) is involved in methylation processes in the body.
What is one medical use of arsenic?
It is used in some leukemia treatments
Arsenic trioxide is a compound utilized in the treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia.
List some sources of arsenic.
- Contaminated soil and water
- Rice
- Seaweed
- Seafood
- Tinned fruit
- Bottled juices
- Salts
- Spices
- Molluscs
- Fish
- Tobacco industry processing
- Farming
These sources highlight the environmental and dietary exposure to arsenic.
What are acute toxicity symptoms of arsenic?
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Paresthesia
- Liver damage
- Encephalopathy
Acute arsenic poisoning can lead to severe health complications.
What are chronic toxicity symptoms of arsenic?
- Dermatitis
- Skin cancer
- Bladder cancer
- Lung cancer
- Memory loss
- Dementia
Chronic exposure can have long-lasting health effects.
Which treatments are used for arsenic toxicity?
- NAC
- Zinc
- Taurine
- Iron
- Quercetin
- Selenium
These treatments can help mitigate the effects of arsenic toxicity.
