Lead Levels in Human Placentae and Foetal Health

Abstract

Natural sources of lead as well as its distribution in the environment from its industrial uses have been discussed. Historical review of the excessive maternal lead exposure and its effect on reproduction are further discussed. Lead levels in human placentae, foetal tissues, maternal and cord blood have been measured by the carbon furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy. The comparatively higher lead levels in still birth placentae when compared to placentae from normal births are possibly a reflection of higher calcium accumulation in the form of nodules in human placenta. The apparent low calcium levels in still birth bones further suggests the movement of calcium from foetus to mother. During this process lead may accumulate along with calcium in human placenta. Further, the lead levels in human placenta do not correlate with either the maternal or cord blood lead levels. However, there is a significant positive correlation between maternal and cord blood lead levels suggesting that the human placenta does not operate as a complete barrier for lead and therefore in the case of excessive maternal lead exposure may damage the foetus.

Publication DOI: https://doi.org/10.48780/publications.aston.ac.uk.00012435
Divisions: College of Health & Life Sciences
Additional Information: Copyright © Khera, A. K, 1981. Khera, A. K asserts their moral right to be identified as the author of this thesis. This copy of the thesis has been supplied on condition that anyone who consults it is understood to recognise that its copyright rests with its author and that no quotation from the thesis and no information derived from it may be published without appropriate permission or acknowledgement. If you have discovered material in Aston Publications Explorer which is unlawful e.g. breaches copyright, (either yours or that of a third party) or any other law, including but not limited to those relating to patent, trademark, confidentiality, data protection, obscenity, defamation, libel, then please read our Takedown Policy and contact the service immediately.
Institution: Aston University
Uncontrolled Keywords: Lead levels,human placentae,foetal health
Last Modified: 04 Feb 2025 13:59
Date Deposited: 24 Jan 2011 14:54
Completed Date: 1981
Authors: Khera, Ashok K.

Export / Share Citation


Statistics

Additional statistics for this record