Final Report of the Molecular Approaches to Low-Level Lead Toxicity Project

摘要

This final report summarizes the results of 3 years' experimental and clinicalresearch to identify molecular biological markers (biomarkers) for low-level toxicity. The goal of this project was to identify biomarkers of low-level lead exposure that could be used to detect exposures associated with blood lead levels in the range of 5 to 25 micrograms per deciliter, thus preventing the persistent toxic effects of lead exposure in children, fetuses and adults. By using a broad but integrated approach, the project was designed to identify and validate a set of biological markers that could be used to detemine lead exposure in individuals and groups at risk for excessive exposure and to provide new, validated tests for future epidemiologic studies of lead-exposed people in sensitive subpopulations. These markers were designed to be applicable to three groups: children younger than 6 years of age, adults, and pregnant women.