Molecular Classification
Inorganic Ion, Metal Ion
Other Names
Cadmium(2+), Cd(II), Divalent Cadmium
Disease Roles
CancerOsteoporosisKidney Disease

Cadmium Ion Overview

The cadmium ion (Cd²⁺) is the divalent cation form of cadmium, a highly toxic heavy metal. It has no known physiological function and exerts its toxicity through various mechanisms, including disruption of calcium homeostasis, enzyme inhibition, induction of oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Exposure to cadmium ions can lead to a range of adverse health effects, including kidney disease, bone damage, cancer, and neurotoxicity. Chelation therapy is used to remove cadmium from the body in cases of acute or chronic exposure.

Mechanism of Action

Chelating agents bind to cadmium ions, facilitating their excretion from the body. Other drugs target specific cadmium-induced toxicities.

Biological Functions

Enzyme Inhibition
Protein Misfolding
Disruption of Calcium Homeostasis
Oxidative Stress Induction
Mitochondrial Dysfunction

Disease Associations

Cancer
Osteoporosis
Kidney Disease
Neurotoxicity
Cardiovascular Disease
Reproductive Toxicity
Itai-Itai disease

Safety Considerations

  • Nephrotoxicity
  • Carcinogenicity
  • Skeletal Damage
  • Developmental Toxicity

Interacting Drugs

Chelating Agents (e.g., EDTA, DMSA, DMPS)
Calcium Channel Blockers
Antioxidants

Associated Biomarkers

Biomarker
Cadmium levels in blood
Cadmium levels in urine
Metallothionein levels