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Proposed role of metallothionein in the transport of cadmium

Journal Article · · Environ. Res.; (United States)

In order to test a possible role of MT in the transport of Cd from liver to kidney, we compared the distribution of /sup 109/Cd administered either in the form of CdCl/sub 2/ or CdMT. Unlike in earlier studies which employed relatively massive amounts of Cd, in the present studies a low total amount of Cd (15 to 30 ..mu..g) was continuously infused over a period of 2 to 3 days. Results confirmed a preferential renal accumulation of CdMT. High intracellular renal and hepatic MT concentrations, induced by repeated prior injections of Cd, Zn, or Hg, did not alter the tissue distribution of infused CdCl/sub 2/ or CdMT. It is interesting to note that in some further experiments, equivalent amounts of extracellular MT depressed renal uptake of CdMT. These findings are consistent with a role of MT in the transport of Cd from liver to kidney.

Research Organization:
Univ. of Cincinnati Coll. of Medicine, OH
OSTI ID:
5024154
Journal Information:
Environ. Res.; (United States), Journal Name: Environ. Res.; (United States) Vol. 21:2; ISSN ENVRA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English