Sources:
Largely limited to use as a nuclear fuel. Present naturally in air, water, food, and soil. The uranyl ion forms water-soluble compounds and is an important component in body fluids. Three different kinds are defined: natural, enriched, and depleted uranium(DU). The radiological and chemical propertiesof natural and DU have similar chemotoxicity, though natural is 60% more radiotoxic.
Nutrient Interactions:
U is reactive. It can combine with and affect the metabolism of lactate, citrate, pyruvate, carbonate,and phosphate, causing mitochondrialdamage. It replaces calciumin bone.
Physiological effects:
On average, only 1-2% of ingested U is absorbed via the GI tract. It rapidly enters the bloodstream and forms a diffusible ionic complex. Once in the bloodstream, it has a very short half-lifeand approximately 60% is eliminated within 24hrs. The skeleton and kidney are the primary sites of U accumulation. Under alkaline conditions, uranium can be excreted in the urine and feces. Inhalation exposure is toxic to the lungs, though less toxic to distal organs.
Clinical significance:
The soluble U present in plasma as the uranyl ion complexed with bicarbonate can cause renal toxicity. Nephritis is the main chemically induced effect of U ingestion. Uranyl ion is most concentrated intracellularly in lysosomes, which explains its association with beta-microglobulinuria and amino aciduria. Osteopenia, weight loss, hemorrhages in the eyes, legs, and nose have also been seen.
Uranium
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