Chelation in Metal Intoxication Original paper

What was studied?

The article provides a comprehensive review of chelation therapy as a treatment for metal intoxication, focusing on the ability of chelating agents to bind with toxic metal ions such as lead, arsenic, and mercury. By forming stable complexes with these metals, chelating agents enable their safe excretion from the body, thereby alleviating the toxic effects. The review also delves into advancements in chelation therapy, discussing the development of less toxic chelators, as well as the growing interest in combination therapies designed to enhance detoxification by addressing both metal mobilization and oxidative stress.

Who was studied?

The research primarily involved animal models, particularly rats and mice, to investigate the efficacy of various chelating agents in treating metal toxicity. Additionally, human studies involving metal poisoning and chronic exposure were also considered, emphasizing the role of chelation therapy in reducing metal burden in organs such as the liver, kidneys, and brain. These animal and human studies together highlight the practical application of chelation agents in clinical settings for metal detoxification.

Most important findings

The review identifies several key advancements in the field of chelation therapy. Meso-2,3-dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) remains a commonly used chelating agent, but its inability to effectively mobilize intracellular metals poses a limitation. To address this, newer strategies such as combination therapies, where different chelators are used together, have shown promise in improving treatment efficacy. One such chelator, monoisoamyl DMSA (MiADMSA), has been shown to effectively mobilize metals like arsenic and lead, demonstrating less toxicity compared to traditional agents. In addition, antioxidants like vitamin C and α-lipoic acid, when used alongside chelation agents, help reduce oxidative stress, thereby improving therapeutic outcomes.

Key implications

Chelation therapy remains an essential treatment for metal intoxication, particularly in cases of chronic exposure or acute poisoning. While significant progress has been made with chelating agents, challenges remain in developing ideal chelators that can efficiently target and eliminate intracellular metals. The combination of chelation agents with antioxidants has proven to be an effective strategy for improving metal detoxification and protecting the body from oxidative damage. Ongoing research is crucial to refine existing therapies and develop new agents that offer enhanced safety and efficacy for treating metal poisoning.