Cadmium in the Environment

Cadmium is a natural element found in the earth's crust and, therefore, present in terrestrial and marine environments. Due to its chemical and physical properties, it is widely used in special alloys, stabilisers, coatings and above all in rechargeable nickel-cadmium batteries. Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic heavy metal of increasing environmental concern due to its wide variety of adverse effects. Living organisms are exposed to Cd via food, water and contaminated air. Studies in humans, animals and cultured cells revealed that Cd causes carcinogenesis in several organs and tissues; including lung, kidney, prostate, adrenals, testes and the hemopoietic system. This new and important book gathers the latest research from around the globe in this field of study with a focus on topics such as: the relation of cadmium to other elements and the antioxidant system, mechanisms of cadmium toxicity to various trophic saltwater organisms, the immunotoxicity of cadmium and others.