Abstract
Chromium (Cr) is a common element in the Earth’s crust. It may exist in different oxidation states, Cr(0), Cr(III) and Cr(VI), with Cr(III) and Cr(VI) being relatively stable and largely predominant. Chromium’s peculiarity is that its behavior relies on its valence state. Cr(III) is a trace element in humans and plays a major role in glucose and fat metabolism. The beneficial effects of Cr(III) in obesity and types 2 diabetes are known. It has been long considered an essential element, but now it has been reclassified as a nutritional supplement. On the other hand, Cr(VI) is a human carcinogen and exposure to it occurs both in occupational and environmental contexts. It induces also epigenetic effects on DNA, histone tails and microRNA; its toxicity seems to be related to its higher mobility in soil and swifter penetration through cell membranes than Cr(III). The microorganisms Acinetobacter sp. Cr1 and Pseudomonas sp. Cr13 have been suggested as a promising agent for bioremediation of Cr(VI). This review intends to underline the important role of Cr(III) for human health and the dangerousness of Cr(VI) as a toxic element. The dual and opposing roles of this metal make it particularly interesting. An overview of the recent literature is reported in support.
Highlights
Heavy metals are pollutants present in the air and in the soil from natural and anthropogenic sources
Chromium belongs to the first series of the transition elements
Cr(III) is necessary for normal development of humans and animals. It was proposed as an essential trace element over 50 years ago and recently it has been accepted as an essential and pharmacologically active element. It is the most prominent trace mineral involved in the improvement or prevention of hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia in type 2 diabetes mellitus as it is an important component of glucose tolerance factor
Summary
Heavy metals are pollutants present in the air and in the soil from natural and anthropogenic sources. Cr(III) derives from anthropogenic sources and is an essential nutrient for humans It has been defined a pharmacologically active element considering its important role in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism and in the maintenance of the structural integrity of nucleic acids [1]. Cr(III) prevents HS-induced lipid peroxidation, increases nutrient metabolism and cortisol hormone activity, stimulates the action of insulin in responsive tissues and it may act in fighting the side effects of heat stress in animals [4,5]. Insufficient dietary Cr(III) induces symptoms equal to diabetes and cardiovascular diseases The deficiency of this metal can cause blood sugar spikes, elevated cholesterol levels and blood pressure. While Cr(III) is an essential trace element, found in nature in rocks and soil, readily absorbed by plants, hexavalent chromium is mainly an industrial contaminant and is produced from anthropogenic activities. This review intends to be an overview of recent research on the double face of chromium as an essential nutrient and as a toxic metal
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
