Abstract: Lead (Pb) and mercury (Hg) are non-essential and ubiquitous heavy metals that have been released in the environment as a result of natural processes as well as anthropogenic activities. They are marked by their high inherent toxicity, persistence in the environment and ability to be bioaccumulated along the food chain and pose significant and long-term risks to ecosystems and human health. Unlike metals that are considered essential, Pb and Hg have no known physiologic function and cause toxicity, even at very low concentrations. This mini-review gives a comparative view on the toxicological profile of these priority pollutants. It provides their different primary pathways of exposure, where the inhalation and ingestion pathways of lead sources from legacy sources are contrasted with the accumulation of organic methylmercury through the food chain. Furthermore, common and unique underlying mechanisms of molecular toxicity, which cluster on oxidative stress, enzyme inhibition by sulfhydryl binding, and ionic mimicry, are summarized in the review. Finally, it synthesizes their major adverse health impacts, as major focus on their neurotoxic (developmental and adult) critical role as well as significant nephrotoxic and cardiovascular implications.

Keywords: Non-essential Heavy Metals; Lead and Mercury Toxicity; Neurotoxicity; Renal and Cardiovascular Toxicity.

Downloads: | DOI: 10.17148/IARJSET.2019.61014