Influence of Nicotine on Tissue Trace Element Concentrations and TissueAntioxidant Defense

摘要

Both altered trace element metabolism and cigarette smoking have been proposed tobe risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Thus, it is important to identify the mechanisms by which cigarette smoke alters trace element metabolism. In the present study, serum trace element concentrations were measured in 19 smokers and 13 nonsmokers. In parallel studies, data from rats treated with 50 mg of nicotine over a 21-d period tested the hypothesis that nicotine induced altered trace element metabolism observed in smokers. Serum Cu and Zn concentrations were significantly higher in smokers than in nonsmokers. Serum nicotine concentrations in rats were comparable to those observed in heavy smokers, but serum trace element concentrations were not significantly altered by nicotine treatment.