Fluoride increases lead concentrations in whole blood and in calcified tissues from lead-exposed rats.

Author: Sawan RM, Leite GA, Saraiva MC, Barbosa F Jr, Tanus-Santos JE, Gerlach RF.

Source: Toxicology.

Year: 2010

Comment:

The researchers conclude, “In conclusion, this study showed that co-exposure to fluoride increases lead concentrations in the blood and in calcified tissues in animals exposed to lead from the beginning of gestation. These findings suggest that a biological effect not recognized so far may underlie the epidemiological association between increased BPb levels in children and water fluoridation."

Abstract / Excerpt:

“Higher blood lead (BPb) levels have been reported in children living in communities that receive fluoride-treated water. Here, we examined whether fluoride co-administered with lead increases BPb and lead concentrations in calcified tissues in Wistar rats exposed to this metal from the beginning of gestation. We exposed female rats and their offspring to control water (Control Group), 100 mg/L of fluoride (F Group), 30 mg/L of lead (Pb Group), or 100 mg/L of fluoride and 30 mg/L of lead (F + Pb Group) from 1 week prior to mating until offspring was 81 days old. Blood and calcified tissues (enamel, dentine, and bone) were harvested at day 81 for lead and fluoride analyses. Higher BPb concentrations were found in the F + Pb Group compared with the Pb Group (76.7 ± 11.0 ?g/dL vs. 22.6 ± 8.5 ?g/dL, respectively; p < 0.001). Two- to threefold higher lead concentrations were found in the calcified tissues in the F + Pb Group compared with the Pb Group (all p < 0.001). Fluoride concentrations were similar in the F and in the F + Pb Groups. These findings show that fluoride consistently increases BPb and calcified tissues Pb concentrations in animals exposed to low levels of lead and suggest that a biological effect not yet recognized may underlie the epidemiological association between increased BPb lead levels in children living in water-fluoridated communities. “

Citation:

Sawan RM, Leite GA, Saraiva MC, Barbosa F, Tanus-santos JE, Gerlach RF. Fluoride increases lead concentrations in whole blood and in calcified tissues from lead-exposed rats. Toxicology. 2010;271(1-2):21-6.