Interaction of silica with plasma proteins: in vivo studies

Silicic acid has been shown to be the main pathogenic factor in the toxicity of silicate dusts. Our earlier findings have shown the interaction of silica (silicic acid) with rat plasma and lung proteins in vitro. In the present communication, we report the binding of silica with plasma protein in vivo. The significance of in vivo silica-protein interaction is discussed in relation to its toxicity and clearance from the body.