[Aluminum--occurrence and toxicity for organisms].

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Toxicology
• Biochemistry

Context:

• Aluminum (Al.) is a ubiquitous element present in various food products, including corn, cheese, salt, herbs, spices, tea, and tap water.
• Household aluminum ware represents a significant source of human exposure to aluminum.
• Aluminum exposure occurs through ingestion of food and water, cosmetic use, and contact with aluminum-made containers.

Purpose:

• To elucidate the detrimental effects of aluminum on human metabolic processes.
• To investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying aluminum toxicity, including its interaction with DNA, RNA, and enzymes.
• To assess the impact of aluminum on critical physiological systems such as the nervous, hematopoietic, and skeletal systems.

Summary:

• Aluminum exposure can disrupt calcium, phosphorus, and iron metabolism. It may bind to DNA and RNA, and inhibit key enzymes like hexokinase and phosphatases.
• Aluminum toxicity particularly affects the nervous system, blood-forming tissues, and skeleton. Its neurotoxic effects may stem from magnesium ion substitution in ATP, impacting cellular energy.
• Evidence suggests a link between aluminum salts and Alzheimer's disease development. Skeletal toxicity manifests as reduced bone resistance due to impaired collagen synthesis and mineralization. Anemia can result from interference with erythropoietin and heme synthesis.

Impact:

• Aluminum's interference with magnesium and iron ions disrupts intracellular signaling, cellular growth, and excretory functions.
• Aluminum exposure contributes to neurological disorders, skeletal fragility, and anemia.
• While carcinogenic effects remain unproven, elevated aluminum levels in neoplastic cells warrant further investigation. Prophylactic measures, including reduced intake and avoidance of aluminum cookware, are advised.