Selenium and kidney deposits in experimental argyria. Electron microscopy and microanalysis

Area of Science:

• Toxicology
• Biochemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Renal argyria is a condition characterized by silver deposition in kidney tissues.
• The interaction between selenium and silver in biological systems is not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the conjugate effects of selenium and silver salts on experimental renal argyria.
• To elucidate the mechanisms of silver and selenium deposition and interaction in renal tissues.

Main Methods:

• Experimental induction of renal argyria in animal models.
• Microanalysis and electron probe microanalysis for elemental localization and identification.
• Histological examination of kidney tissue sections.

Main Results:

• Silver and sulfur deposits were observed in basal membranes after silver salt treatment.
• Concomitant administration of selenium and silver salts significantly accelerated the formation of these deposits in glomerular basal membranes.
• Electron probe microanalysis revealed that selenium replaces sulfur within silver deposits.
• Selenium exhibited a complex action on silver, primarily increasing its toxicity and promoting argyria symptoms.

Conclusions:

• Selenium potentiates the deposition and toxicity of silver in renal tissues, accelerating the onset and severity of argyria.
• The mechanism involves selenium replacing sulfur in silver deposits, altering their properties and biological interactions.
• Understanding these interactions is crucial for managing heavy metal toxicity and related conditions.