Introduction: Arsenic is a chemical element represented by the symbol "As" on the periodic table. It has both metallic and non-metallic forms, and it's known for its diverse chemical properties. Arsenic is found naturally in the Earth's crust and can be released into the environment through various human activities, including mining and industrial processes. Arsenic is notable for its toxicity, and exposure to high levels can have serious health implications.
Environmental Effects: Arsenic contamination in the environment is a significant concern. It can enter soil, water, and the atmosphere through both natural processes and human activities. Arsenic contamination is often associated with mining, smelting, and the use of arsenic-containing pesticides. In water sources, high levels of arsenic can pose serious risks to aquatic life and can lead to contamination of drinking water, causing health problems for human populations.
Associated Diseases: Chronic exposure to arsenic, primarily through contaminated drinking water or food, is a major health concern. Arsenic is a known carcinogen and has been linked to various health issues, including skin lesions, cardiovascular diseases, and various cancers such as skin, lung, bladder, and kidney cancer. Long-term exposure to high levels of arsenic can result in a condition known as arsenicosis, characterized by a range of health problems.
Additional Resources
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Arsenic FactsheetAgency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR): Public Health Statement for Arsenic
Environmental Protection Agency
Table1. Number of differentially expressed gene under As exposure.
| Age | Tissues | Sex | Up-regulated | Down-regulated |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 Weeks | Blood | 128 | 386 | |
| 284 | 178 | |||
| Liver | 758 | 594 | ||
| 1281 | 1001 | |||
| 20 Weeks | Blood | 250 | 111 | |
| 374 | 533 | |||
| Liver | 1158 | 886 | ||
| 182 | 220 |
Table2. Number of differentially accessible regions under As exposure.
| Age | Tissues | Sex | DAR |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 Weeks | Liver | 577 | |
| 7156 | |||
| 20 Weeks | Liver | 13477 | |
| 3171 |
Table3. Number of differentially methylated regions under As exposure.
| Age | Tissues | Sex | Hypomethylated | Hypermethylated |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 Weeks | Blood | 46 | 51 | |
| 44 | 78 | |||
| Liver | 386 | 3927 | ||
| 414 | 2226 |