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Review
. 2023 Jan 26;20(3):2197.
doi: 10.3390/ijerph20032197.

Iron, Zinc, Copper, Cadmium, Mercury, and Bone Tissue

Żaneta Ciosek  1 , Karolina Kot  2 , Iwona Rotter  1
Affiliations
Review

Iron, Zinc, Copper, Cadmium, Mercury, and Bone Tissue

Żaneta Ciosek et al. Int J Environ Res Public Health. .

Abstract

The paper presents the current understanding on the effects of five metals on bone tissue, namely iron, zinc, copper, cadmium, and mercury. Iron, zinc, and copper contribute significantly to human and animal metabolism when present in sufficient amounts, but their excess or shortage increases the risk of developing bone disorders. In contrast, cadmium and mercury serve no physiological purpose and their long-term accumulation damages the osteoarticular system. We discuss the methods of action and interactions between the discussed elements as well as the concentrations of each element in distinct bone structures.

Keywords: bone; cadmium; copper; iron; mercury; zinc.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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