Recent studies have shown that lead causes oxidative stress by inducing the generation of
reactive oxygen species, reducing the
antioxidant defense system of cells via depleting
glutathione, inhibiting sulfhydryl-dependent
enzymes, interfering with some essential metals needed for
antioxidant enzyme activities, and/or increasing susceptibility of cells to oxidative attack by altering the membrane integrity and
fatty acid composition. Consequently, it is plausible that impaired
oxidant/
antioxidant balance can be partially responsible for the toxic effects of lead. Where enhanced oxidative stress contributes to lead-induced toxicity, restoration of a cell's
antioxidant capacity appears to provide a partial remedy. Several studies are underway to determine the effect of
antioxidant supplementation following lead exposure. Data suggest that
antioxidants may play an important role in abating some hazards of lead. To explain the importance of using
antioxidants in treating
lead poisoning the following topics are addressed: (i) Oxidative damage caused by
lead poisoning; (ii) conventional treatment of
lead poisoning and its side effects; and (iii) possible protective effects of
antioxidants in lead toxicity.