Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 2, 2026

Measurement of Heme Synthesis Levels in Mammalian Cells
Published on: July 9, 2015
Abnormal antioxidant system in erythrocytes of mercury-exposed workers
M L Queiroz1, S C Pena, T S Salles
1Departamento de Farmacologia, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, SP, Brazil.
Abstract:
To investigate the effects of chronic exposure to mercury we studied the red cell antioxidant system in mercury-exposed workers through the evaluation of reduced glutathione, catalase and superoxide dismutase systems. Of these workers, some were being exposed at the time and had presented urinary mercury levels considered safe for occupational exposure for at least 3 months prior to the initiation of this study, and others had been on leave for at least 6 months because of intoxication symptoms. Reduced glutathione levels were lower and catalase activity was higher in the workers which were still being exposed, compared to those on leave and controls. No differences were observed between the workers on leave and controls.
Related Concept Videos
Erythropoiesis
Lifecycle of Erythrocytes
The resident phagocytic macrophages deal with these damaged cells by engulfing them and separating their globin and heme groups.
Disorders of Erythrocytes
Erythrocyte disorders can be broadly categorized into two main types: anemic and polycythemic conditions.
A low oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood due to the loss, lower production, or destruction of erythrocytes is termed anemia. Hemorrhagic anemia, for example, occurs when bleeding from an external wound or internal ulcer reduces erythrocyte counts.
On the other...
Factors Affecting Erythropoiesis
Several factors influence the erythrocyte production rate, with tissue oxygen level being among the most critical. Intense exercise or high altitudes can cause tissue hypoxia, which triggers the kidneys to release more erythropoietin (EPO) into the bloodstream.
EPO then...
Bioactivation and Tissue Toxicity

