Effect of trace elements found in coal fly ash, on lymphocyte blastogenesis

To evaluate the potential health effects of coal fly ash, a byproduct of coal combustion for electrical energy production, on the immune system, we studied the effects of trace elements found in fly ash on lymphocyte blastogenesis. Of the sixteen trace elements studied, seven inhibited lectin-induced lymphocyte division, six showed no inhibition and three produced inconsistent effects. The ranking of the toxicity of the elements is Mn, V, As (III), Cu, Cd, Se, and Be. Our data indicate that whole blood lectin-induced lymphocyte blastogenesis is a sensitive and reproducible test for in vitro screening of trace elements affecting the immune system.