Chronic Effects Research Articles

Chronic effect of copper on biology, immunity, and biochemical assessment of Helicoverpa armigera (Lepidoptera; Noctuidae) in laboratory bioassays.

Although copper is an essential element for any organism's well-being, it becomes toxic if present in excess. In the present study, copper was provisioned at 25, 50, and 75 mg/kg in an artificial diet and fed to juvenile larvae of cotton bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera (Lepidoptera; Noctuidae), for 4 generations. The results of this investigation exhibited shortening of larval life in the first 2 generations, but extended duration was observed in third and fourth generations compared to controls, and dietary copper caused reduced total hemocyte counts in all treatments. The number of immunocytes (i.e., granulocytes and plasmatocytes) were also significantly reduced. The changes in activities of certain important enzymes, including catalase, superoxide dismutase, and peroxidases, were seen. Furthermore, after treatment, an increase in the activity of 2 detoxifying enzymes, glutathione s-transferase and acetylcholinesterase, was observed. It is clear that metallothioneins are important in maintaining essential and nonessential metal ion homeostasis. While copper is typically regarded as an important essential metal in an organism's life, excessive amounts can have deteriorating effects. This heavy metal is being used as a nano-based pesticide. Therefore, the present investigation aims to determine the fate of Cu in insects receiving them in new formulations.

The role of C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, interleukin-6 and neutrophil / lymphocyte ratio as a laboratory biomarker in COVID-19

Biomarkers such as Interleukin-6 (IL-6), Procalcitonin (PCT), C-reactive protein (CRP) and Neutrophil-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) have a role in the pathogenesis of severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The aim of this study was to explore the differences between serum levels of such biomarkers in severe and non-severe COVID-19 cases and compare them with normal people and to evaluate the sociodemographic variables and chronic diseases effect on the severity of COVID-19. The study included 160 subjects, divided into two groups, a case group of 80 patients, and a control group of 80 normal persons. The case group was divided into two subgroups: 40 severe COVID-19 patients and 40 patients with non-severe disease. Blood IL-6 was assessed by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), PCT by an immunoassay, CRP by an immunoturbidimetric assay and NLR from CBC. The levels of IL-6, PCT, CRP, and NLR were significantly higher in the case group than in control group (p= 0.001, for all). However, there was no difference between these biomarkers level in the non-severe COVID-19 subgroup and the control group (p>0.05 for all). The proportion of severe COVID-19 was significantly higher in patients aged >50 years, and in patients with chronic diseases (p=0.046 and p=0.001, respectively). We also found a strong correlation between such biomarkers and old age, and chronic diseases with the disease severity. There was a significant difference in the level of the three biomarkers (IL-6, PCT, CRP, and NLR) between patients’ subgroups and the control group. In conclusion, since the levels of these biomarkers are correlated with the severity of the COVID-19 disease, and there was a difference in the levels between the groups with severe and non-severe symptoms, we suggest a role of these biomarkers in predicting the severity COVID-19 disease and its poor prognosis.

Discrimination of myocardial function changes: Evolution of chronic kidney disease or hemodialysis effect?

Discrimination of myocardial function changes: Evolution of chronic kidney disease or hemodialysis effect?

Effect of Inhalation Exposure to Nano-Imidacloprid on Liver and Kidney Functions In Male Rats

Pesticide poisoning is a serious global public health issue and is responsible for a sizable number of annual fatalities. This study was designed to examine the potentially harmful effects of adult rats being exposed to imidacloprid (IMD) as a nanoparticle by determining the chronic effect of inhalation of (5,10 and 20) mg/kg/b.w. of nano-imidacloprid for a duration of 60 days. The most important biochemical parameters of the serum liver function parameters were aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase ALP, kidney function [blood urea, creatinine, and urea], and oxidative stress parameters (MDA, GSH, and CAT) in all treated groups when compared to the control group. The exposure caused a highly significant decrease (P≤0.05) for (AST) and (ALT). No significant changes were observed, while a highly significant decrease was recorded for (ALP) in all treatments with nano-imidacloprid compared with the control. On the other hand, a highly significant decrease in blood urea, creatinine, and uric acid was recorded in all groups treated with nano-imidacloprid compared with the control. Oxidative stress parameters revealed a highly significant (P≤0.05) increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) after 60 days of exposure and a decline in reduced glutathione (GSH) and catalase activity CAT.

Chronic Effects of Mixture Two Pesticides on kidney of Common Carp Fish (Cyprinus carpio L. 1758)

Pesticides are man-made chemical compounds, widely used in agriculture to control different types of pests, product crops and prevent diseases which damage them. The excessive and unwarranted use of pesticides at various stages of crop production may pose a great danger to the aquatic environment, especially to fish. In this research, an effort has been made to comparative the effect of herbicide (Goldate), insecticide (Alexander) and mixture of them on common carp (Cyprinus carpio) through chronic toxicity bioassay.In chronic exposure, Toxicological effects of Goldate and Alxander individual and combine as mixture observed by monitoring hematological parameters on common carp fish. There was prepared 3 concentration groups (1/10, 1/100 and 1/200) for every pesticides (Goldate, Alxander and mixture Goldate + Alxander), exposed to juvenile fish (60-80 gm. in weight) for 6 weeks. During the experimental period the result showed a significant increase in the mean value of blood urea and createnine compared with control. There was not found any histological alterations in kidney tissues, in all groups and all concentrations. All groups were similar to control group which show normal appearance of renal glomerulus, renal collecting tubules and hemopoietic tissue.

Interplay Between Diabetes Mellitus and the Occurrence of Osteoarthritis and Associated Conditions in Women of Menopausal Age.

Osteoarthritis (OA) and diabetes mellitus (DM) have long-term deleterious chronic effects and are among the most prevalent chronic disorders. DM and its associated factors, such as hyperglycemia, have a significant contribution to the pathophysiology of OA, particularly in post-menopausal women. Women who have uncontrolled diabetes (DM) are more prone to develop osteoarthritis (OA), which may be exacerbated by poor glycemic control. Furthermore, this category of female patients with DM has an increased risk of developing fractures, even in those with initially normal bone density scores, further illustrating the correlation between DM and bone health. Additionally, multiple risk factors, including obesity, metabolic syndrome, hypertension, estrogen-based hormone therapy, and hyperuricemia, in menopausal women can lead to the development and exacerbation of OA. It is discovered that these variables have a direct or indirect impact, frequently causing inflammation and hormonal changes, which contribute to the intricate interaction between DM and OA. The management of OA and DM in womenthus calls for a multi-faceted management plan including glycemic control, weight control, exercise, and specialized pain management methods catering to the specific requirements of the patients. Regularly screening for OA should be implemented for menopausal women with DM and utmost care should be provided by healthcare professionals. Regular monitoring of joint health and early management, encouraging interdisciplinary cooperation, putting preventative measures into place, and creating individualized treatment programs are essential. A thorough understanding of the link between DM and OA will ultimately lead to improved health outcomes and a better future for these individuals.

Heart rate variability and anthropometric parameters in smok-er’s vs nonsmoker’s status

Abstract: Heart rate variability (HRV) is a simple way to explore autonomic nervous activity. Current studies emphasize the need to identify a dependent relationship between smoking habit and HRV. The findings of these studies could demonstrate that smoking can have both an acute and a chronic effect on HRV. The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between smoking and anthropometric data such as body weight, body fat distribution and heart rate var-iability. Our study involves measuring HRV parameters at rest and during two tests that are part of the Ewing test battery. Through the obtained data we can demonstrate that active smoking is associated with a reduction in HRV. At the same time, we can state that HRV is affected by dif-ferent behavior patterns of the smoker.complex individualized rehabilitation treatment.

Effects of calcium carbide ripened banana on organ weight, histological architecture and semen profile on male albino Wistar rats

Fruits play an important role in human diets, providing essential nutrients and helping to prevent disease. However, concerns arise regarding their impact on male reproductive health due to potential exposure to pesticides, heavy metals, and artificial ripening agents. This study investigates the acute and chronic effects of calcium carbide-ripened bananas on testicular weight and histological architecture, and semen profile in adult male Wistar rats. A 14-week experiment involved acclimatization, followed by acute (4 weeks) and chronic (12 weeks) phases, with rats divided into control and various banana-treated groups. Notably, in the chronic phase, significant decreases in relative testicular weight were observed in rats administered 200mg/kg of calcium carbide-ripened bananas compared with the control and with those treated with normal ripe banana respectively. Significant reductions in sperm motility and total sperm count were noted in group D in the acute phase when compared with the group treated with normal ripe banana. Increased levels of active spermatogonia and spermatogenesis were observed in the rats administered with normal ripened banana, with mild degeneration of germinal epithelium in the chronic phase, particularly in the calcium carbide-ripened banana-treated groups. These findings may suggest potential adverse effects of calcium carbide-ripened bananas on male reproductive health, warranting further investigation into their safety and regulation.

Butylparaben induced zebrafish (Danio rerio) kidney injury by down-regulating the PI3K-AKT pathway

Butylparaben, a common endocrine disruptor in the environment, is known to be toxic to the reproductive system, heart, and intestines, but its nephrotoxicity has rarely been reported. In order to study the nephrotoxicity and mechanism of butylparaben, we examined the acute and chronic effects on human embryonic kidney cells (HEK293T) and zebrafish. Additionally, we assessed the potential remedial effects of salidroside against butylparaben-induced nephrotoxicity. Our in vitro findings demonstrated oxidative stress and cytotoxicity to HEK293T cells caused by butylparaben. In the zebrafish model, the concentration of butylparaben exposure ranged from 0.5 to 15 μM. An assortment of experimental techniques was employed, including the assessment of kidney tissue morphology using Hematoxylin-Eosin staining, kidney function analysis via fluorescent dextran injection, and gene expression studies related to kidney injury, development, and function. Additionally, butylparaben caused lipid peroxidation in the kidney, thereby damaging glomeruli and renal tubules, which resulted from the downregulation of the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway. Furthermore, salidroside ameliorated butylparaben-induced nephrotoxicity through the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway. This study reveals the seldom-reported kidney toxicity of butylparaben and the protective effect of salidroside against toxicological reactions related to nephrotoxicity. It offers valuable insights into the risks to kidney health posed by environmental toxins.

Mercury biomagnification in the food web of Agami Pond, Kaw-Roura Nature Reserve, French Guiana

Freshwater ecosystems are among the most important ecosystems worldwide, however, over the last centuries, anthropogenic pressures have had catastrophic effects on them. Mercury (Hg) is one of the main environmental contaminants which globally affect ecosystems and particularly freshwater wildlife. While Hg originates from natural sources, anthropogenic activities such as agriculture, biomass combustion, and gold mining increase its concentrations.Gold mining activities are the main drivers of Hg emission in tropical ecosystems and are responsible for up to 38% of global emissions. Once in its methylated form (MeHg), mercury biomagnifies through the trophic chain and accumulates in top predators. Due to the toxicity of MeHg, long-lived predators are even more subjected to chronic effects as they accumulate Hg over time.In the present study we quantified Hg contamination in two top predators, the Black caiman Melanosuchus niger and the Agami heron Agamia agami, and in their prey in the Kaw-Roura Nature Reserve in French Guiana and evaluated the biomagnification rate in the trophic chain.Our results show that despite a TMF in the range of others in the region (4.38 in our study), top predators of the ecosystem present elevated concentrations of Hg. We have found elevated Hg concentrations in the blood of adult Black caiman (2.10 ± 0.652 μg g−1 dw) and chicks of Agami heron (1.089 ± 0.406 μg g−1 dw). These findings highlight the need to better evaluate the potential impact of Hg in freshwater top predators, especially regarding reprotoxic effects.

Investigating the toxic mechanism of iron oxide nanoparticles-induced oxidative stress in tadpole (Duttaphrynus melanostictus): A combined biochemical and molecular study

Metal oxide nanomaterials have toxicity towards aquatic organisms, especially microbes and invertebrates, but little is known about their impact on amphibians. We conducted a study on Duttaphrynus melanostictus (D. melanostictus) tadpoles to explore the chronic toxicity effects of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) and the underlying mechanisms of IONPs-induced oxidative stress. IONPs exposure led to increased iron accumulation in the blood, liver, and kidneys of tadpoles, significantly affecting blood parameters and morphology. Higher IONPs concentrations (10 and 50 mg L−1) triggered reactive oxygen species generation, resulting in lipid peroxidation, oxidative stress, and pronounced toxicity in tadpoles. The activity levels of antioxidant enzymes/proteins (SOD, CAT, albumin, and lysozyme) decreased after IONPs exposure, and immunological measures in the blood serum were significantly reduced compared to the control group. Molecular docking analysis revealed that IONPs primarily attached to the surface of SOD/CAT/albumin/lysozyme through hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic forces. Overall, this study emphasizes the ability of IONPs to induce oxidative damage by decreasing immunological profiles such as ACH50 (34.58 ± 2.74 U mL−1), lysozyme (6.94 ± 0.82 U mL−1), total Ig (5.00 ± 0.35 g dL−1), total protein (1.20 ± 0.17 g dL−1), albumin (0.52 ± 0.01 g dL−1) and globulin (0.96 ± 0.01 g dL−1) and sheds light on their potential toxic effects on tadpoles.

Ecotoxicological evaluation of effluent from bovine slaughterhouses disinfected by peracetic acid (PAA) using the bioindicator Girardia tigrina

The evaluation of the ecotoxicological effects of the effluent after treatment with peracetic acid is relevant to help establish reference concentrations for the disinfection process and waste recovery. Therefore, the objective of this work was to evaluate the ecotoxicity of effluent from a bovine slaughterhouse treated with peracetic acid on Girardia tigrina. The toxicity bioassays for planaria were the acute test (LC50) and chronic assays: locomotion, regeneration, reproduction and fertility. The results showed that the effluent treated with peracetic acid showed less toxicity than the effluent without application of peracetic acid. The effluent after peracetic acid application showed a chronic toxic effect in the reduction of locomotor speed in all studied disinfectant concentrations (0.8, 1.6, 3.3 and 6.6 μg L−1 of peracetic acid) and a delay in the formation of G. tigrina photoreceptors at the concentration of 6.6 μg L−1 of peracetic acid. Peracetic acid concentrations of 0.8, 1.6 and 3.3 μg L−1 were not toxic for blastema regeneration, photoreceptor and auricle formation, fecundity and fertility. In addition, this study assists in defining doses of peracetic acid to be recommended in order to ensure the wastewater disinfection process without causing harm to aquatic organisms.

Study protocol: Identifying transcriptional regulatory alterations of chronic effects of blast and disturbed sleep in United States Veterans.

Injury related to blast exposure dramatically rose during post-911 era military conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is among the most common injuries following blast, an exposure that may not result in a definitive physiologic marker (e.g., loss of consciousness). Recent research suggests that exposure to low level blasts and, more specifically repetitive blast exposure (RBE), which may be subconcussive in nature, may also impact long term physiologic and psychological outcomes, though findings have been mixed. For military personnel, blast-related injuries often occur in chaotic settings (e.g., combat), which create challenges in the immediate assessment of related-injuries, as well as acute and post-acute sequelae. As such, alternate means of identifying blast-related injuries are needed. Results from previous work suggest that epigenetic markers, such as DNA methylation, may provide a potential stable biomarker of cumulative blast exposure that can persist over time. However, more research regarding blast exposure and associations with short- and long-term sequelae is needed. Here we present the protocol for an observational study that will be completed in two phases: Phase 1 will address blast exposure among Active Duty Personnel and Phase 2 will focus on long term sequelae and biological signatures among Veterans who served in the recent conflicts and were exposed to repeated blast events as part of their military occupation. Phase 2 will be the focus of this paper. We hypothesize that Veterans will exhibit similar differentially methylated regions (DMRs) associated with changes in sleep and other psychological and physical metrics, as observed with Active Duty Personnel. Additional analyses will be conducted to compare DMRs between Phase 1 and 2 cohorts, as well as self-reported psychological and physical symptoms. This comparison between Service Members and Veterans will allow for exploration regarding the natural history of blast exposure in a quasi-longitudinal manner. Findings from this study are expected to provide additional evidence for repetitive blast-related physiologic changes associated with long-term neurobehavioral symptoms. It is expected that findings will provide foundational data for the development of effective interventions following RBE that could lead to improved long-term physical and psychological health.

Foodborne pathogens and their association with well-known enteric infections and emerging non-communicable disorders

Abstract Annually, numerous new cases of communicable and non-communicable diseases are diagnosed, and consumption of food/water contaminated with different levels of microbial and chemical agents is responsible for a considerable portion of this burden. Generally, acute foodborne diseases are readily identified, while chronic deleterious effects are often neglected and rarely blamed for health consequences. The present work narrates a journey from consuming foods containing bacteria/bacterial toxins to developing chronic diseases, making humans more susceptible to emerging diseases. We aim to shed light on the chronic effects of foodborne diseases, particularly gastrointestinal disorders (GIDs) and inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs), which are common chronic symptoms of most foodborne diseases.

(O-41) PSYCHOEDUCATIONAL GROUP FOR MEN WITH PROSTATE CANCER

Abstract The incidence of cancer in the world population in 2002 was estimated at 11 million new cases, in 2020 this estimate is approximately 20 million. Cancer is a global public health problem. Prostate cancer (CaP) is a multifocal disease, with wide clinical variation among patients. The PCa survivors present unique chronic side effects compared to other cancer survivors, with challenges in achieving physical and social well-being, and satisfaction with life in general. This work aims to evaluate the impact of psychotherapy, in an open group, on Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) and Sexuality in patients with PCa who have undergone treatment. Data is been collected through an initial interview (Identification, Anamnesis, Health Anamnesis, Degree of Satisfaction with Life and Sexuality, Affective-Emotional Assessment and Treatment Data), SF-36 questionnaire and IIEF-5 short form, in patients who are diagnosed, have undergone treatment or are being monitored at the outpatient clinic, and reapplication in the last semester of the group's operation. At each session, 5 questions are answered regarding the perception of the previous session. The group will be available once a week for 2 years. The sessions last 90 minutes, led by the same psychologist. The research is been developed considering the ethical principles of secrecy, privacy, confidentiality and non-identification of interviewee data. The study will not pose any risks to the subjects and no invasive techniques will be used to deal with the body or psychological distress. Before starting the process, the Termo de Consentimento Livre e Esclarecido (TCLE) is delivered, as well as the provision of all details regarding the research. It is also explained that participation is voluntary and that the participant may leave the research at any time, without this causing any harm to their treatment and follow-up. Financing No conflict.

Blood lead levels in an endangered vulture decline following changes in hunting activity

Lead ammunition stands out as one of the most pervasive pollutants affecting wildlife. Its impact on bird populations have spurred efforts for the phase-out of leaded gunshot in several countries, although with varying scopes and applications. Ongoing and future policy changes require data to assess the effectiveness of adopted measures, particularly in the current context of biodiversity loss. Here, we assessed the long-term changes in blood lead (Pb) levels of Egyptian vultures from the Canary Islands, Spain, which have been severely affected by Pb poisoning over the past two decades. During this period, the reduction in hunting pressure and changes in legislation regarding firearms usage for small game hunting likely contributed to a decrease in environmental Pb availability. As anticipated, our results show a reduction in Pb levels, especially after the ban on wild rabbit hunting with shotgun since 2010. This effect was stronger in the preadult fraction of the vulture population. However, we still observed elevated blood Pb levels above the background and clinical thresholds in 5.6% and 1.5% of individuals, respectively. Our results highlight the positive impact of reducing the availability of Pb from ammunition sources on individual health. Nonetheless, the continued use of Pb gunshot remains an important source of poisoning, even lethal, mainly affecting adult individuals. This poses a particular concern for long-lived birds, compounding by potential chronic effects associated with Pb bioaccumulation. Our findings align with recent studies indicating insufficient reductions in Pb levels among European birds of prey, attributed to limited policy changes and their uneven implementation. We anticipated further reductions in Pb levels among Egyptian vultures with expanded restrictions on hunting practices, including a blanket ban on Pb shot usage across all small game species.

Effects of acute and chronic methylphenidate on prepulse inhibition: A sex difference study in Wistar rats

BackgroundThe utilization of methylphenidate (MPH) is experiencing a notable surge within the adult population. This growth can be attributed to two key factors: its recreational and cognitive enhancement purposes, as well as the rising prevalence of ADHD diagnoses within this population. This study examined acute and chronic oral MPH effects on attention in male and female Wistar rats. To this end, we used a prepulse inhibition (PPI) task, which is widely used to assess psychoactive drug effects in both humans and rodents. This task allowed us to evaluate changes in attention by analyzing sensorimotor gating associated with stimulus selection process. MethodsAnimals were administered a clinically relevant dose of MPH (5 mg/kg) daily for seven days. The estrous cycle phases of the female rats were measured during behavioral sessions. The PPI task was conducted 20 min after drug administration on day 1 (acute), day 7 (chronic), and 48 h post-treatment. ResultsResults indicated that both acute and chronic MPH treatment impaired PPI expression in male rats, but not in female rats, regardless of their estrous cycle phase. Furthermore, a differential effect of chronic MPH treatment on the PPI task was found in male rats. Specifically, on the seventh treatment day, the PPI effect was observed when animals undertook the PPI task for the first time but was impaired in those animals in which the initial PPI session occurred under the acute influence of the drug (day 1). ConclusionsThese findings suggest that the impact of MPH on sensorimotor gating responses may vary based on sex and task experience, possibly leading to state-dependent effects in healthy individuals.

Acute and Chonic Effects of Silver Nanoparticles (AgNPs) on Unio delicatus

The widespread use of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) including water filters, paints, cosmetics, deodorants, clothing, textiles, food packaging, electrical appliances and medical devices inevitably leads to their release into the natural environment, bioaccumulation in organisms and persistent accumulation in natural aquatic systems. The aim of this study is to investigate the acute and chronic effects of silver nanoparticles, which can contaminate aquatic ecosystems, in freshwater mussels, one of the aquatic invertebrate organisms. The model organism of the study, Unio delicatus, was obtained from Gölbaşı Lake (Hatay). After that acclimation was performed in the laboratory for two weeks. The mussels were then exposed to 1 and 10 mg/L AgNPs for 7 and 21 days. At the end of the exposure period, hemolymph and tissue samples of the mussels were taken. Total hemocyte count from hemolymph samples, lipid peroxidation and glutathione levels from tissue samples (digestive gland and gill) were investigated. Acute exposure resulted in an increase in the total hemocyte counts, while chronic exposure resulted in a significant decrease (P

Determination of acute toxicity and evaluation of the chronic effect of nitrate on compensatory growth of Litopenaeus vannamei reared in a biofloc technology system

Understanding the effect of acute and chronic nitrate stress on Litopenaeus vannamei grown in intensive biofloc technology systems is essential for production optimization. The present study evaluated L. vannamei exposed to nitrate extremes at a salinity of 25 g.L−1 measuring survival and possible recovery through compensatory growth. An initial clear-water lethal test, revealed an LC50–96 h for nitrate of 2789.11 mg.L−1. The nitrate safe level was determined as 278.91 mg.L−1by the Sprague Factor (0.1 of the LC50–96 h). Consequently, a chronic exposure experiment was carried out in a Biofloc Technology System. A 3 × 2 experimental design was applied, with two nitrate concentrations (278.91 mg.L−1 and 139.45 mg.L−1) and three “stress” exposure times (10, 20 and 30 days) followed by 48, 38 and 28 days “recovery” time, respectively. A control, in which the nitrate was maintained below 25% of the calculated safe level was maintained for 58 days. The experiment was divided into two phases: (1) stress and (2) recovery. Survival did not differ among treatments during the experimental period. Shrimp exposed to concentrations of 278.91 mg.L−1 and 139.45 mg.L−1of nitrate over 20 and 30 days exhibited reduced growth, while growth of shrimp exposed 10 days did not differ from the control. After the end of the recovery phase (day 58), no significant differences were found in shrimp weights among treatments. Results indicate L. vannamei presents higher resistance to nitrate, but prolonged exposures (>20 days) to concentrations above 139.45 mg.L−1may negatively affect growth rates. However, when lower nitrate values are re-established, the animals exhibit compensatory growth nullifying significant differences to cohort members maintained at optimal nitrate throughout.

Phytochemicals Involved in Mitigating Silent Toxicity Induced by Heavy Metals.

Heavy metals (HMs) are natural elements present in the Earth's crust, characterised by a high atomic mass and a density more than five times higher than water. Despite their origin from natural sources, extensive usage and processing of raw materials and their presence as silent poisons in our daily products and diets have drastically altered their biochemical balance, making them a threat to the environment and human health. Particularly, the food chain polluted with toxic metals represents a crucial route of human exposure. Therefore, the impact of HMs on human health has become a matter of concern because of the severe chronic effects induced by their excessive levels in the human body. Chelation therapy is an approved valid treatment for HM poisoning; however, despite the efficacy demonstrated by chelating agents, various dramatic side effects may occur. Numerous data demonstrate that dietary components and phytoantioxidants play a significant role in preventing or reducing the damage induced by HMs. This review summarises the role of various phytochemicals, plant and herbal extracts or probiotics in promoting human health by mitigating the toxic effects of different HMs.