[Lipid peroxidation as a toxic mode of action for lead and cadmium]

Recent studies have shown that lead and cadmium deplete glutathione and protein-bound sulfhydryl groups, resulting in the production of reactive oxygen species. As a consequence enhanced lipid peroxidation, DNA damage and altered calcium and sulfhydryl homeostasis occur. Lipid peroxidation is often discussed as a cause of metal-induced toxicity, although many other authors suggest a pivotal role of interaction with sensitive SH groups in determining cadmium and lead toxicity.