Pb Toxicity on Gut Physiology and Microbiota.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Toxicology
• Gastroenterology
• Microbiology

Background:

• Lead (Pb) is a pervasive toxic heavy metal with significant global health implications.
• While known to affect organs like the kidney and liver, Pb's impact on the gastrointestinal tract and its microbiota is increasingly recognized.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the effects of lead toxicity on gut physiology and microbiota.
• To explore how these gastrointestinal alterations contribute to systemic health issues.
• To highlight potential therapeutic strategies for lead toxicity.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of studies on lead toxicity in animal models and humans.
• Analysis of research on lead's impact on gut barrier function and permeability.
• Examination of alterations in microbial metabolites like bile acids (BA) and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs).

Main Results:

• Lead exposure impairs the intestinal barrier, increasing gut permeability.
• This increased permeability allows inflammatory cytokines and microbial metabolites to enter circulation, leading to systemic damage.
• Alterations in gut microbiota composition and function are significant consequences of lead exposure.

Conclusions:

• Lead toxicity profoundly affects gastrointestinal physiology and the gut microbiome.
• These gut disruptions can lead to widespread systemic health problems.
• Probiotic interventions represent a viable strategy for preventing and managing lead-induced toxicity.