[Cytotoxicity of pure metals]

The cytotoxic effects of pure metals on L-929 mouse fibroblasts were examined using extracts obtained by dynamic extraction of Cu, Al, Ti, V, Cr, Mo, Mn, Fe, Co and Ni. The order of cytotoxicity expressed in ppm was Cr greater than V greater than Co greater than Fe greater than Mn greater than Cu greater than Ni much greater than Mo. On the other hand, the order in mM was Cr greater than Co greater than V greater than Fe greater than Mn greater than Cu greater than Ni much greater than Mo. Al and Ti showed no cytotoxicity. Thus, the cytotoxicity of pure metals was dependent on their concentration and the chemical state in the extracts.