Toxic trace elements and reproduction |
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Authors: | JHJ Copius Peereboom‐Stegeman |
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Institution: | 1. Laboratory of Histology and Cell Biology , University of Amsterdam, Academic Medical Centre , Meibergdreef 15, AZ Amsterdam, 1105, The Netherlands;2. Department of Toxicology , University of Nijmegen , Box 9101, Nijmegen, 6500 HB, The Netherlands |
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Abstract: | Successful reproduction requires a well developed genital tract, including a good cooperation between hypothalamus, pituitary, ovaries and uterus on the female side and good sperm quality and motility on the male side. Heavy metals may interact with every single step of these processes, and after successful implantation the feto‐placental unit may be another target for heavy metal toxicity. In this review the reproduction process and the interaction of the heavy trace elements Cd (cadmium), Pb (lead) and Hg (mercury) are described. |
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Keywords: | Metals cadmium lead mercury teratogenesis neurotoxicity speciation |
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