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Toxicology
Several studies have shown that numerous National Priorities List sites are contaminated with heavy metals and other environmental pollutants. The National Toxicology Program has classified these substances as chemicals that may reasonably be anticipated to be carcinogens. The general population is probably exposed to low levels of environmental substances through food and water consumption. People working or living near industries and factories that use heavy metal products may also be exposed to higher than background levels of the hazardous substances. Metals are an important and emerging class of carcinogens as are nitroaromatic compounds. At least three metals, arsenic trioxide, hexavalent chromium and certain nickel compounds are confirmed human carcinogens in man. Recent studies in
the understanding of basic cancer biology and the development of powerful
molecular technologies are leading to the identification of many new abnormalities
in pre-cancerous and cancer cells. Dr. Barbara Wilson, an associate professor
of biology at Jackson State University, is exploring innovative methods
for studying the toxicogenomics and chemical effects of heavy metals in
mammalian cell lines and rodents. Along with collaborating scientists,
gene expression profiles in model organisms are presently being investigated
in Dr. Wilson’s laboratory. It is anticipated that these initiatives
will promote the evaluation of molecular and cellular mechanisms involved
in metal carcinogenesis.
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