Relationship Between Genetic Polymorphism and Lead Poisoning / 环境与健康杂志

ABSTRACT

Whether three genes [?-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (ALAD) gene, Vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene and hemochromatosis gene] can make certain individuals more vulnerable to lead are discussed. Polymorphisms of ALAD gene have been associated with the accumulation and distribution of lead in the blood, bone and internal organs in humans and animals. VDR gene has been implicated in the control of calcitriol levels in serum, which normally regulates calcium absorption and can in turn affect lead levels. Hemochromatosis gene, associated with a disease that leads to excessive iron accumulation, may also influence the absorption of lead.