Questions and Answers
Which condition is characterized by anemia caused by a deficiency of iron?
Which of the following enzymes is NOT considered an antioxidant enzyme?
What is the principal role of metallothionein in the human body?
Which of the following symptoms is commonly associated with iron deficiency anemia?
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Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) are primarily known for what effect on human health?
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Which of the following symptoms is NOT associated with brittle nails?
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What is a common symptom of Wilson's disease?
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Which of the following substances is commonly craved in cases associated with brittle nails?
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What is the genetic cause of Wilson's disease?
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Which of the following is a defining characteristic of Alzheimer’s disease?
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What complication can arise due to copper accumulation in Wilson's disease?
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Which symptom is commonly linked with iron overload?
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Which of the following copper salts is known to be harmful?
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What metals are found in significantly higher concentrations in the postmortem brains of Alzheimer's patients compared to normal brains?
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Which is NOT a symptom of mercury poisoning?
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Which demographic is particularly vulnerable to the effects of lead poisoning?
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What is a common source of carbon monoxide that can lead to poisoning?
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What is one key characteristic of carbon monoxide relevant to its risk as a poison?
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What physiological process does carbon monoxide participate in at non-toxic levels?
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Which form of mercury is particularly dangerous during pregnancy?
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What serious condition can result from excessive lead accumulation in the body?
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Study Notes
Antioxidant System in Humans
- Antioxidants protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, often derived from environmental sources and stress.
- Dietary sources of antioxidants include fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains.
- Free radicals include Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and Reactive Nitrogen Species (RNS), contributing to cellular damage and aging.
Antioxidant Enzymes
- Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), specifically Cu-Zn-SOD, catalyzes the conversion of superoxide radicals into oxygen and hydrogen peroxide.
- Catalase breaks down hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen, mitigating oxidative stress.
- Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx) helps reduce lipid peroxides and hydrogen peroxide, utilizing glutathione.
Metal-Related Disorders
- Iron deficiency anemia arises from insufficient iron, leading to decreased red blood cells (RBC) and hemoglobin levels, causing fatigue and other symptoms.
- Symptoms of iron deficiency include pale skin, swelling of the tongue, brittle nails, and unusual cravings (pica).
- Wilson's disease involves copper accumulation in organs, primarily affecting the liver and brain, due to genetic mutations in ATPase 2.
Copper and Related Diseases
- In Wilson’s disease, copper builds up, causing neurological symptoms like clumsiness, tremors, and cognitive impairments, along with liver cirrhosis.
- The condition may manifest as a green-brown ring in the cornea and results from impaired copper transport.
Alzheimer’s Disease
- A neurodegenerative condition characterized by memory loss and cognitive decline, worsened by oxidative stress from excess iron and copper in postmortem brains.
- Involves impaired cognitive functions, including judgment and reasoning.
Heavy Metal Poisons
- Mercury Poisoning: Caused by overexposure to various forms of mercury (metal, vapor, salt), leading to symptoms like muscle weakness, poor coordination, and cognitive issues; particularly harmful to fetuses (Minamata disease).
- Lead Poisoning: Results from lead accumulation in organs, affecting brain and nervous system, especially in children, causing severe developmental issues; common sources include lead-based paints and contaminated environments.
- Carbon Monoxide (CO) Poisoning: Occurs when CO replaces oxygen in blood; sources include burning fuels and poorly ventilated engines; may cause harmful effects at non-toxic levels when stored as carboxyhemoglobin.
Detoxification Mechanisms
- The body employs detoxifying agents like metallothionein to manage heavy metal exposure.
- Organophosphates and other organic pollutants can also be broken down in the body, often involving enzymatic actions.
Summary of Toxicity Management
- Recognizing symptoms of metal toxicity and understanding biochemistry of detoxification processes are vital for public health and safety.
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Description
This quiz focuses on the role of metals in human health and diseases, as well as the antioxidant system in humans. Explore the dietary sources of antioxidants and understand their significance in biochemistry. Perfect for students and researchers in the field.
