Natural zeolites as detoxifiers and modifiers of the biological effects of lead and cadmium in small rodents: A review

Abstract

The present investigation analyzes the literature about the toxicity of Cd and Pb in small rodents’ organisms and the role of natural zeolites as modifiers of the biological effects. An array of ecotoxicological, morpho-physiological, hematological, genetic and biochemical methods as most representative are under discussion as a basic point for further exploration of biological effects in laboratory mice. The review of existing results demonstrated that there is abundant data on the sorption of lead and cadmium by modified natural zeolites in water and soils. Nevertheless, there is insufficient data on the ion exchange capacity and biological effects of this sorbent in living organisms, especially regarding Cd detoxification. On the basis of the current review, it is possible to conclude that future investigations in this field will elucidate the potential of the use of zeolites as successful detoxifiers against heavy metals and other toxic elements in living organisms.