Divine Aleru is an accomplished biochemist and researcher with a specialized background in environmental toxicology, focusing on the impacts of heavy metals on human health. With deep-rooted expertise in microbiome signatures analysis, Divine seamlessly blends rigorous scientific training with her passion for deciphering the intricate relationships between environmental exposures and the human microbiome. Her career is distinguished by a commitment to advancing integrative health interventions, leveraging cutting-edge microbiome research to illuminate how toxic metals shape biological systems. Driven by curiosity and innovation, Divine is dedicated to translating complex environmental findings into actionable insights that improve individual and public health outcomes. 
Divine Aleru is an accomplished biochemist and researcher with a specialized background in environmental toxicology, focusing on the impacts of heavy metals on human health. With deep-rooted expertise in microbiome signatures analysis, Divine seamlessly blends rigorous scientific training with her passion for deciphering the intricate relationships between environmental exposures and the human microbiome. Her career is distinguished by a commitment to advancing integrative health interventions, leveraging cutting-edge microbiome research to illuminate how toxic metals shape biological systems. Driven by curiosity and innovation, Divine is dedicated to translating complex environmental findings into actionable insights that improve individual and public health outcomes. What was issued?
The article discusses the mechanisms of cadmium toxicity and its significant impact on kidney function and emphasizes the role of oxidative stress as a central mechanism in cadmium-induced renal injury. It explores how cadmium accumulates in the kidneys, particularly in the proximal tubules, where it generates reactive oxygen species (ROS). These ROS lead to oxidative damage of cellular components, including proteins, lipids, and DNA. The review also covers how cadmium interferes with mitochondrial function and NADPH oxidase activity, further enhancing ROS production. The article also reviews potential therapeutic approaches, including plant extracts and pharmacological agents, that may mitigate cadmium’s toxic effects.
Who is affected?
Cadmium exposure primarily affects workers in industries where cadmium is used or processed, such as battery manufacturing, metal smelting, and electroplating. These workers are at high risk due to inhalation of cadmium fumes or dust. Additionally, populations living near industrial areas with cadmium contamination in soil, water, and air may be at risk. Diets high in cadmium-contaminated food, especially from rice and vegetables grown in polluted soils, expose the general public to the metal. Smoking further exacerbates exposure, as tobacco contains significant levels of cadmium. Vulnerable populations include children, who may be exposed to cadmium through contaminated products or toys, and individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions, as they may be more susceptible to kidney damage from cadmium.
Most important findings
The study identifies oxidative stress as the key mechanism driving kidney injury from cadmium exposure. It details how cadmium accumulates in the kidneys, primarily in the proximal tubules, and generates ROS through mitochondrial dysfunction and NADPH oxidase activation. The metal disrupts normal cellular functions, leading to inflammation, DNA damage, and eventual cell death. The article also discusses cadmium’s long biological half-life, which means it can persist in tissues for decades, further complicating health outcomes. The review highlights that cadmium-induced kidney injury leads to proteinuria, polyuria, and impaired renal function, which may progress to chronic kidney disease if exposure continues. The study also suggests that antioxidants, such as certain plant extracts, could provide therapeutic benefits by reducing oxidative damage and mitigating renal dysfunction.
Key implications
For industry stakeholders, the findings underscore the need for stronger safety measures to limit cadmium exposure, particularly in industries with high cadmium use. Proper ventilation, personal protective equipment, and regular health monitoring for workers exposed to cadmium are essential to prevent long-term health effects. For public health officials, stricter regulations on cadmium levels in food, water, and air are necessary to reduce the risk of kidney damage and other health conditions. Food certification standards should incorporate cadmium monitoring, especially for crops prone to contamination, such as rice and vegetables. Furthermore, public health campaigns should raise awareness about the dangers of smoking and its contribution to cadmium exposure. Finally, further research into chelation therapies and the role of antioxidants could lead to better treatment strategies for those affected by cadmium-induced kidney injury.
Citation
Yan, J., & Allen, D. C. (2021). Cadmium-Induced Kidney Injury: Oxidative Damage as a Unifying Mechanism. Biomolecules, 11(11), 1575. https://doi.org/10.3390/biom11111575
Cadmium is a persistent heavy metal that accumulates in kidneys and bones. Dietary sources include cereals, cocoa, shellfish and vegetables, while smokers and industrial workers receive higher exposures. Studies link cadmium to kidney dysfunction, bone fractures and cancer.
