Study of Heavy Metals in Abnormal Growth and Development using an Alternate Animal Model: Heterometrus fulvipes

Abstract

-Background and Objectives: Heavy metals exposure in animals can lead to profound effects in growth and development. There have been incidences of various teratogenic effects in the past due to heavy metals exposure from various sources. The present study was conducted to access the effect of chronic heavy metals exposure in animal models. Materials and Methods: An experimental prospective study was performed with viviparous animal Heterometrus fulvipes to access the cumulative effect of chronic heavy metals exposure. H. fulvipes was exposed with mercury and lead; and effects monitored and documented in different times. Results: Chronic heavy metal exposure had considerable effects in mother and fetus of H. fulvipes. The effects in mother were represented by the loss of body weight and decrease in hepato-pancreatic weight and hepato-somatic index. Chronic exposure in fetus resulted in decrement in the embryonic length with subsequent reduction in the length and weight of embryos. Discussion: These studies and results of heavy metals in animal have proved the harmful effects of chronic heavy metal exposure with multitude of questions. The question of particular concern would be that how well animal teratology studies will predict the human hazard. The primary area of focus could be on the prevention of the birth defects induced by maternal exposure to heavy metals during pregnancy, as well as early prevention of teratogenic effects. Conclusion: It is necessary that the heavy metal toxicity be well documented in humans, and adequate precaution should be taken in mother and fetus to decrease its detrimental effects in the long run.