Toxic and mutagenic effects of chromium(VI). A review

The results presented illustrate a summary of the current research on chromium(VI) ions in systems of biological relevance. It is clear that physicochemical studies combined with biological studies can bring understanding and possibly allow one to prevent, or at least decrease, the genotoxicity of chromium(VI) compounds. Unfortunately, the redox reactions that occur in the cell, rather than being detoxifying, serve to promote the toxic and genotoxic activity of chromium and various free radicals produced. In our opinion, the removal of this effect can be achieved by inhibiting the redox process of the CrVI ion through its complexation and/or extra cellular reduction of this ion. To accomplish this, we need detailed information about the role of the "environment" around the chromium ion, the reactants concentration, the temperature, etc. Moreover, evaluation of the influence of the medium on the reactions must be referenced to a set of conditions varying between experiments.