Why is Cadmium Toxic?
Cadmium is toxic because it can interfere with various cellular processes. It can replace essential metals like zinc and calcium in biological systems, causing dysfunction of
enzymes and structural proteins. Cadmium is also a
carcinogen, meaning it can lead to cancer upon prolonged exposure.
What Are the Health Risks?
Inhalation of cadmium particles can lead to severe lung damage, while ingestion can cause
kidney and liver dysfunction. Chronic exposure can result in bone fragility and an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. At the cellular level, cadmium can induce oxidative stress, leading to
DNA damage and apoptosis.
Future Directions
Future research in nanotechnology is focused on developing
alternative materials that offer similar benefits without the associated toxicity. Advances in
green chemistry and
sustainable nanotechnology aim to reduce the environmental and health impacts of nanomaterials, including those containing cadmium.
