Arsenic methylation capability and human health

Yu Mei Hsueh, Yung Kai Huang, Chi Jung Chung

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

The metabolism of inorganic arsenic takes place through a series of reactions, including reduction and oxidative methylation reactions. Biomethylation is considered a major detoxification pathway for inorganic arsenic. However, interspecies differences exist according to the efficiency with which inorganic arsenic is metabolized and excreted in urine. Intermediate trivalent methylated arsenic species are more cytotoxic and genotoxic than inorganic compounds. The arsenic methylation profile is influenced by demographic characteristics, lifestyle, diet and genetic susceptibility. Inefficient methylation is related to the risk of cancer and noncancer disease.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationHealth Hazards of Arsenic Poisoning Environmental: From Epidemic to Pandemic
PublisherWorld Scientific Publishing Co.
Pages193-212
Number of pages20
ISBN (Electronic)9789814291828
ISBN (Print)9814291811, 9789814291811
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jan 1 2011

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Environmental Science(all)
  • Medicine(all)

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