Instrumental analysis of trace elements in thumbnails of human subjects

Area of Science:

• Trace element analysis
• Human physiology
• Analytical chemistry

Background:

• Human nails serve as a non-invasive matrix for assessing trace element exposure.
• Variations in trace element levels can indicate physiological status or environmental factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify the average concentrations of specific trace metals in human fingernails of healthy adult subjects.
• To establish reference values for selected elements in human nail samples.
• To compare metal concentrations between male and female subjects.

Main Methods:

• Instrumental analysis utilizing the thermal neutron activation technique was employed.
• Human thumbnail samples from clinically symptom-free adult subjects were analyzed.
• Concentrations of zinc, chromium, selenium, gold, mercury, silver, and cobalt were determined.

Main Results:

• Average concentrations (ppm) for females vs. males were: zinc (184 vs. 153), chromium (6.8 vs. 4.2), selenium (0.9 vs. 0.6), gold (2.6 vs. 0.4), mercury (1.9 vs. 0.4), silver (0.7 vs. 0.3), and cobalt (0.07 vs. 0.04).
• Significant differences in concentrations were observed between sexes for most elements.
• Literature values for metal concentrations in human nails were also compiled and presented.

Conclusions:

• Human fingernails exhibit measurable levels of various trace elements, with notable sex-based differences.
• The established reference ranges are valuable for toxicological and nutritional assessments.
• Further research can explore the clinical significance of these elemental profiles.