Dr. Umar Aitsaam

This review integrates epidemiological, animal, and mechanistic data to clarify the carcinogenic risks of nickel subsulfide, nickel oxide, and nickel sulfate, underscoring the critical role of chemical speciation for regulatory and certification standards.

This review outlines how nickel, arsenic, and chromium drive cancer mainly through epigenetic mechanisms, DNA repair inhibition, and cocarcinogenicity, offering key insights for HTMC regulation.

A targeted synthesis of nickel’s environmental sources, toxic mechanisms (oxidative stress, mitochondrial damage, epigenetic effects), clinical outcomes, and remediation options—framed for regulatory testing and certification.

Pregnancy complications weaken the placental barrier to nickel, increasing fetal exposure and potential health risks. Even low-level environmental nickel can affect fetal development, emphasizing the need for stricter exposure controls in pregnant women, especially those with gestational diseases.

The review “Role of Nickel in Microbial Pathogenesis” surveys how Ni-dependent enzymes, transporters, and host sequestration shape microbial virulence and identifies Ni acquisition and urease/hydrogenase systems as actionable points for HTMC-style regulation.

What was reviewed?This narrative review examined clinical, epidemiological, and experimental research on nickel’s

This study found that higher maternal and fetal nickel exposure, measured via hair and placental tissue, significantly increased the risk of congenital heart defects in offspring, providing actionable thresholds and biomarker guidance for heavy metal certification programs.

Heavy metal toxicity impacts multiple organ systems through oxidative stress and inflammation. Natural compounds like curcumin and quercetin demonstrate protective effects, while nanotechnology enables sensitive detection and efficient removal. Food crops account for 90% of human exposure, emphasizing certification importance.

This study detected widespread nickel contamination in Portuguese premade baby foods, with levels often exceeding EFSA’s safety thresholds, particularly in organic products. The findings underscore the need for regulatory limits and comprehensive heavy metal testing within the baby food industry.

Nickel contact dermatitis in children is rising due to widespread exposure from jewelry, clothing, and devices. Effective regulation, rigorous testing, and clear labeling are essential for prevention and management, as sensitization persists and avoidance is challenging. Certification programs must prioritize testing and consumer education.