Perspectives of analysis of carcinogenic and mutagenic metals in biological samples

There is a continuing need to assess the status of exposure to humans of the carcinogenic and/or mutagenic metals in both biological and environmental samples to better ensure that current or past exposures do not entail unacceptable health risks or to detect potentially excessive exposure before the appearance of adverse health effects. In order to more readily evaluate both the extent of exposure and trends of human exposure as well as the bioavailability, bioaccumulation and transport of these elements and their compounds, sensitive analytical procedures are required for their determination of the various oxidative states (as well as their organic derivatives) in complex matrices such as those found in both environmental and biological samples. The major objective of this overview is to highlight the more recent trends and state-of-the-art methodologies for the determination and speciation of arsenic, selenium, cadmium, chromium and nickel in human and animal tissues while concomitantly noting germane aspects of their bioavailability and interactions. Aspects of biological monitoring of the above elements will be stressed due to their potential utility in augmenting diverse epidemiologic and occupational health studies.     

Overview of analysis of carcinogenic and/or mutagenic metals in biological and environmental samples. I. Arsenic, beryllium, cadmium, chromium and selenium

One of the most dangerous and pernicious forms of pollution arises from the potential mobilization of a spectrum of toxic trace metals and metalloids in our environment. Among the most important elements in this regard are arsenic, beryllium, cadmium, chromium and selenium whose adverse toxic effects are now well recognized including their carcinogenicity and/or mutagenicity. These agents (and their derivatives) can be widely dispersed throughout the environment as a result of fossil fuel combustion, industrial and agricultural processes and natural processes. The trend for the immediate future appears to be of greater exposure to these metals not only as a result of generally increased usage patterns but also because of prospective enhanced use of fossil fuels for space heating and electricity generation. In order to more readily evaluate trends of human exposure as well as the toxicity, bioavailability, bioaccumulation and transport of these elements, sensitive analytical procedures are required for the determination of their various oxidation states (as well as their organic derivatives) in complex matrices such as those found in both environmental and biological samples. Hence, the principal objective of this overview is to highlight the more recent trends and state-of-the-art methodologies for the determination of arsenic, beryllium, cadmium, chromium and selenium (in their various forms) in environmental compartments such as air, water, soil and in human tissues (primarily blood, urine, and milk). Techniques to be discussed primarily include atomic absorption spectrometry, neutron activation analysis, gas chromatography, differential pulse polarography and electrochemical analysis. The importance of quality control and differentiation according to speciation will also be stressed.     

An IARC Manual series aimed at assisting cancer epidemiology and prevention. "Environmental carcinogens: selected methods of analysis"

Since 1975, the IARC has been preparing a series of volumes entitled "Environmental Carcinogens: Selected Methods of Analysis" (IARC Manual series) of which the purposes are to assist analysts, epidemiologists and regulatory authorities in planning or performing exposure measurements that are truly comparable between different studies. The Manual series provides expert information within each volume on multi-media sampling, methods of analyses and some background of epidemiology, metabolism, use/occurrence for a group of known or suspect carcinogens. So far, eleven volumes have been published or are in preparation on the following subjects: N-nitrosamines, vinyl chloride, PAH, aromatic amines, mycotoxins, N-nitroso compounds, volatile halogenated hydrocarbons, metals, passive smoking, benzene and alkylated benzenes, dioxins, PCDFs and PCBs. The presentation will discuss needs and priorities for use of analytical chemistry in estimating exposures of apparently greatest relevance to cancer causation, i.e. the approach to developing this series. Indications from epidemiology, evaluations of carcinogenic risk to humans, and recent developments in total exposure assessment are that new methods and matrices need more emphasis, e.g. as with biochemical dosimetry, exhaled breath, and in indoor air.