Influence of dioxin intoxication on the human system and possibilities of limiting its negative effects on the environment and living organisms.

Abstract

Despite the restrictive legal regulations related to the reduction of dioxins emission, their concentration in the environment is still too high. Mainly, this is related to the illegal utilisation of electronic equipment and combustion of wastes, and also to intensified activity and maintenance of ships, especially in developing countries. The most important remaining source in Europe is the metal industry. Studies on the mechanism of impact of dioxins are still being carried out. This review points at new possibilities for limiting the molecular mechanisms of dioxins activity, inter alia, through the application of high doses of tocopherol and acetylsalicylic acid while treating dioxins intoxication. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE STATE OF KNOWLEDGE: Apart from the knowledge of dioxins affinity to the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), the multi-stage radical-form actions and the pro-inflammatory mechanism associated with cyclooxygenase-II enzyme (COX-2) are under intense investigation at the moment. Due to the high affinity of dioxins to animals adipose tissue and their ability to accumulate in it, they can enter the food chain. Furthermore, high dioxin doses can cause poisoning manifested as advanced clinical symptoms, whereas in smaller doses, when cumulated, can cause metabolic changes which are often difficult to associate with their presence. Recently, some serious food contaminations by dioxins have been demonstrated. Sea fish and products from contaminated aqueducts still constitute potential sources of dioxins pollution. According to recent studies, dioxins are present in different concentrations in the environment and cause specific and long-time effects. These effects could be limited by the use of tocopherol and acetylsalicylic acid.