Mixed Heavy Metals (Nickel, Cobalt, Cadmium, Lead, Arsenic) are ubiquitous compounds found in soil, drinking water and food supply, and are not fully avoidable. However, certain exposures can be limited or controlled. These include the exposure of Heavy Metals from manufactured goods, cigarette smoke, paints, gasoline, and some food containers and cookware. Arsenic is absorbed by all plants, but is more concentrated in leafy vegetables, rice, apple and grape juice, and seafood.

The term "Mixed Respiratory Flora" on a sputum test refers to the presence of a diverse range of microorganisms that are normally found in the upper respiratory tract. This includes a variety of bacteria, both harmless (commensal) and potentially pathogenic. In a healthy individual, these organisms exist in balance and are not typically a cause for concern. However, in certain circumstances, such as a weakened immune system or other underlying conditions, some of these organisms can become opportunistic and lead to infections.

MMP-9 is an important marker of intestinal inflammation. It has been shown to be significantly increased in the stool of UC patients compared with healthy controls and patients with IBS, and was found to correlate with the clinical and endoscopic activity of UC.

MMP-9 is a marker of inflammation, tissue remodeling, wound healing, and mobilization of tissue-bound growth factors and cytokines.

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play an important role in the progression of tumour cells and the invasion of inflammatory cells by degrading the extracellular matrix. In the MMP family, MMP-9 gelatinase is thought to contribute to the pathogenesis of inflammatory arteritis by disrupting the elastic lamina. 

MMP-9 contributes to the pathogenesis of numerous clinical disease states, including rheumatic arthritis, coronary artery disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, multiple sclerosis, asthma, and cancer. Current research is exploring the role of this enzyme as a potential drug target.

Molybdenum supplementation has been shown to reduce sulfite sensitivity, a condition marked by asthma, shortness of breath, edema, dermatitis, and possible anaphylaxis by increasing sulfite oxidase activity, in patients with low blood molybdenum. Frank molybdenum deficiency states are largely relegated to those on total parenteral nutrition, with symptoms including mental disturbance and coma. Blood and urine specimens have been used for direct molybdenum measurement, but they are mainly reflective of intake and have not been adequately evaluated.

Sources of Molybdenum:

- Beans (lima, white, red, green, pinto, peas),

- grains (wheat, oat, rice),

- nuts,

- vegetables (asparagus, dark leafy, Brassicas),

- milk, cheese.

Absorption factors:

- Molybdenum absorption is passive in the intestines.

- Urinary excretion is a direct reflection of dietary Molybdenum intake, not necessarily Molybdenum status.

- Increased Mo intake may elevate urinary copper excretion.

Molybdenum is an essential activator of some important enzymes in the body: sulfite oxidase (catalyzes formation of sulfate from sulfite), xanthine oxidase (formation of uric acid and superoxide ion from xanthine), and aldehyde oxidase (processes aldehydes). Over 50% of absorbed Mo is normally excreted in urine; the remainder is excreted via bile to the feces or is excreted in sweat.

Sources of Molybdenum:

- Beans (lima, white, red, green, pinto, peas),

- grains (wheat, oat, rice),

- nuts,

- vegetables (asparagus, dark leafy, Brassicas),

- milk, cheese.

Absorption factors:

- Molybdenum absorption is passive in the intestines.

- Urinary excretion is a direct reflection of dietary Molybdenum intake, not necessarily Molybdenum status.

- Increased Mo intake may elevate urinary copper excretion.

Molybdenum (Mo) is an essential trace element that is an activator of specific enzymes such as: xanthine oxidase (catalyses formation of uric acid), sulphite oxidase (catalyses oxidation of sulphite to sulphate), and aldehyde dehydrogenase (catalyses oxidation of aldehydes).

Possible effects or symptoms consistent with Mo deficiency are: subnormal uric acid in blood and urine, sensitivity or reactivity to sulphites, protein intolerance (specifically to sulphur-bearing amino acids), and sensitivity or reactivity to aldehydes.

Molybdenum (Mo) deficiency has been linked to gout. Low levels in heavy meat eaters reflect digestive disorder, the need for digestive enzymes and dietary changes. Such patients should avoid pork, beef, wholegrain and rather eat poultry, fish and other lighter proteins.

Monitoring molybdenum levels in the blood is crucial for ensuring proper enzyme function, detoxification, and overall metabolic health. While deficiencies are rare, they can have serious consequences. Conversely, excess molybdenum can lead to toxicity, particularly in those with high environmental or occupational exposure. Regular assessment, particularly for at-risk individuals, ensures that molybdenum levels remain within a healthy range.