[Biochemical mechanisms of neurotoxic lead activity].

This article presents the latest study results on lead (Pb2+) neurotoxicity, in order to draw attention of the Polish public to the issue and initiate a nation-wide programme eliminating lead contamination effects, especially in children. We discuss the after-effect of exposure to lead in concentrations lower than presently accepted as 'safe'. The pathway of lead transport to the brain, and the effects of lead accumulation in neurons, oligodendroglia and astroglia, are examined.

The effect of lead ions on the energy metabolism of human erythrocytes in vitro.

The aim of this work was to evaluate the influence of chronic exposure to lead ions on the parameters of energetic status of human erythrocytes in vitro. Umbilical cord erythrocytes were incubated with lead acetate at final lead ion concentrations ranging from 10 to 200 microg/dl. ATP, ADP, AMP, adenosine, GTP, GDP, GMP, guanosine, IMP, inosine, hypoxanthine, NAD and NADP concentrations in erythrocytes were determined using HPLC.