RESUMO
Objective: To evaluate the potential effect of zinc, copper, and selenium on placental cadmium transport. Methods: Pregnant women were selected from Daye,Hubei Province. Whole blood, cord blood and placenta were collected, and Cd levels were determined by inductively coupled plasma emission mass spectroscopy. Zn, Cu, and Se levels in whole blood were also determined. The potential association between essential elements and placental Cd transport was evaluated. Results: Whole blood Cd (0.8–25.2?g/L) in 47 pregnant women aged 20 to 34 years was significantly higher than that in cord blood(0.020–1.48?g/L). Placental Cd ranged from 0.082 to 3.97 ?g/g dry weight. Multiple linear regression indicated that lower maternal blood Cu was significantly associated with higher cord blood Cd. Placental Cd in pregnant women with lower maternal Zn was significantly higher than that in those with normal Zn level. Placental Cd in pregnant women with lower maternal Se was significantly lower than that in those with normal Se level. Conclusion: Essential elements, such as Cu, Se, and Zn might affect placental Cd transport.