Introduction: Lead (Pb) is a naturally occurring element with atomic number 82 on the periodic table. Lead is known for its malleability, high density, and ability to absorb nuclear radiation. It has been used for various applications throughout history, including in pipes, paint, gasoline, and batteries.
Environmental Effects: Lead is a naturally occurring heavy metal found in the Earth's crust. Human activities, such as the mining and smelting of lead ores, burning of fossil fuels, and industrial processes, release lead into the environment. Environmental exposure to lead can occur through air, water, and soil contamination. Lead contamination has several detrimental environmental effects, including soil degradation, water pollution, and harm to wildlife. It can persist in the environment for a long time.
Associated Diseases: Lead exposure is a significant public health concern due to its toxic effects on the human body. Lead can enter the body through inhalation, ingestion, or dermal exposure. In children, lead exposure can lead to developmental delays, behavioral issues, and learning difficulties. In adults, it can cause high blood pressure, kidney damage, and reproductive problems. Long-term exposure to lead can result in serious health issues, including lead poisoning, which can be life-threatening.
Additional Resources
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Sources of Lead Exposure in childEnvironmental Protection Agency: Lead Factsheet
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR): Lead Factsheet
World Health Organization: Lead poisoning
Table1. Number of differentially expressed gene under Pb exposure.
| Age | Tissues | Sex | Up-regulated | Down-regulated |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 Weeks | Blood | 69 | 16 | |
| 160 | 16 | |||
| Liver | 41 | 99 | ||
| 480 | 302 | |||
| 20 Weeks | Blood | 45 | 27 | |
| 60 | 130 | |||
| Liver | 250 | 185 | ||
| 162 | 198 |
Table2. Number of differentially accessible regions under Pb exposure.
| Age | Tissues | Sex | DAR |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 Weeks | Liver | 274 | |
| 310 | |||
| 20 Weeks | Blood | 98 | |
| 97 | |||
| Liver | 105 | ||
| 184 |
Table3. Number of differentially methylated regions under Pb exposure.
| Age | Tissues | Sex | Hypomethylated | Hypermethylated |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 Weeks | Blood | 72 | 122 | |
| 68 | 87 | |||
| Cortex | 286 | 280 | ||
| 615 | 152 | |||
| Liver | 112 | 135 | ||
| 83 | 164 |