Induction of Cd-metallothionein in cadmium exposed monkeys under different nutritional stresses.

Induction of cadmium metallothionein (MT) in chronic cadmium exposure in Rhesus monkeys undergoing protein calorie malnutrition (PCM) and calcium deficiency has been studied. A positive correlation between cadmium content and levels of MT in kidney, liver, intestine, testis, heart and lung, has been observed. The accumulation of cadmium and synthesis of MT in these tissues was highest in monkeys subjected to cadmium exposure during calcium deficiency. Although more of cadmium is directed towards kidneys of calcium-deficient monkeys the MT-inducing ability of kidney is lower than that of liver. Monkeys on PCM diet also showed enhanced accumulation of cadmium and MT as compared to those on normal diet during cadmium exposure.