In-Vitro Human Cell Experimental Models in Heavy Metal Research

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Nik Yusoff, Nik Syamimi^; | Shakrin, Nik Noorul Shakira Mohamed^{; ; *} | Knight, Victor Feizal^; | Norrrahim, Mohd Nor Faiz | Wan Yunus, Wan Md Zin^;

Affiliations: [a] Faculty of Defence Science and Technology, National Defence University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia | [b] National Public Health Laboratory, Ministry of Health, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia | [c] Faculty of Medicine and Defence Health, National Defence University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia | [d] Centre of Tropicalization, National Defence University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia | [e] Research Centre for Chemical Defence, National Defence, University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Correspondence: [*] Corresponding Author. shakira@upnm.edu.my

Abstract: The study of heavy metal toxicity within the field of toxicology presents challenges due to the significant detrimental impact that even tiny quantities of these metals may have on living organisms. Hence, researchers need to choose an appropriate experimental model, that is safe, meets the needs of the experiment and most closely reflects the real toxicity effects on living things. This review focusses on the utilisation of in-vitro experimental models involving human cells to investigate the toxic effects of heavy metals. Specifically, it examines the cellular mechanisms, responses, oxidative stress, and genotoxicities associated with heavy metal exposure. The aforementioned discoveries not only contribute to the understanding of the adverse health effects associated with excessive heavy metal exposure but also hold significant promise for developing targeted and efficient strategies to safeguard human and environmental health.

Keywords: Human cell models, heavy metal, heavy metal research

DOI: 10.3233/AJW240066

Journal: Asian Journal of Water, Environment and Pollution, vol. 21, no. 6, pp. 1-7, 2024