Protective role of trace metals in lead intoxication.

Protective effect of copper (Cu), zinc (Zn) or cobalt (Co) against lead (Pb) toxicity in rats was investigated. Trace metal administration together with Pb decreased the hepatic and renal uptake of lead and reduced the Pb-induced inhibition of blood delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (delta-ALAD) activity. The hepatic uptake of Zn or Co was also increased in animals administered Pb and Zn or Pb and Co, respectively. However, no significant difference could be observed between the protective effects of three essential trace metals examined against lead toxicity.