Effects of sodium para-aminosalicylic acid on chelation treatment in Pb-exposed mice

Lead (Pb) is a corrosion-resistant, heavy, non-ferrous metal with widespread environmental pollution. Several metal chelators have been used in the treatment of Pb poisoning. However, the effect of sodium para-aminosalicylic acid(PAS-Na)on Pb excretion has yet to be reported. To investigate the effects of PAS-Na on Pb excretion, a mouse model of acute lead exposure was established. Healthy mice (90) received abdominal injection (i.p.) of 120 mg/kg Pb acetate, and 4 h later 80, 160, 240 mg/kg PAS-Na, or 240 mg/kg edetate calcium disodium (CaNa 2 EDTA) were injected subcutaneously (s.c.) once per day for 6 days into the corresponding groups, respectively. The Control, Pb-exposed, PAS-Na and CaNa 2 EDTA groups were evaluated simultaneously. After collecting 24 h urine samples, the animals were sacrificed in batches on the 2nd, 4th, 6th day. Levels of Pb and other metal elements [including manganese (Mn) and copper (Cu)] in the urine, whole blood and brain tissues were analyzed by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). The results showed that lead exposure increased Pb levels in urine and blood of mice, and PAS-Na treatment afforded antagonistic effect against Pb-induced toxicity. While additional studies will be needed, these novel results establish PAS-Na as a potential efficacious treatment for mitigating Pb-induced toxicity.