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VOL. 13, ISSUE 3 (2026)
Aluminium exposure and toxicity: From environmental sources and absorption to molecular mechanisms and organ specific effects A comprehensive review
Authors
Harish Meena
Abstract
Aluminium (Al) is one of
the most abundant elements in the Earth’s crust and is widely used in
industrial, food, pharmaceutical, household, and personal-care applications. As
a result, humans are exposed to aluminium through a variety of environmental and
occupational sources, including food, drinking water, inhalation of
aluminium-containing dust and fumes, and consumer products. The extent of
aluminium absorption and distribution depends on factors such as the chemical
form, route and level of exposure, duration of exposure, and physiological
conditions. Once absorbed, aluminium can be distributed to several tissues,
including the brain, liver, kidneys, bones, and reproductive organs. Its toxic
effects have been linked to interconnected cellular disturbances involving
oxidative stress, impaired antioxidant defence, mitochondrial dysfunction,
altered enzyme activity, disruption of cellular signalling, inflammation, and
apoptosis. Experimental studies have reported biochemical, molecular, and
histopathological changes in several organ systems, including the nervous,
hepatic, renal, respiratory, reproductive, and endocrine systems. In this
review, we summarize the major sources and routes of aluminium exposure, its
absorption and distribution, and the mechanisms that contribute to
aluminium-induced toxicity. Particular attention is given to organ-specific
effects and the role of oxidative stress in tissue injury. The review also
discusses limitations in the existing evidence, including differences between
experimental exposure conditions and human exposure, and identifies areas
requiring further investigation. A better understanding of these factors is
important for assessing the potential health risks associated with aluminium
exposure.
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Pages:236-249
How to cite this article:
Harish Meena "Aluminium exposure and toxicity: From environmental sources and absorption to molecular mechanisms and organ specific effects A comprehensive review ". International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Development, Vol 13, Issue 3, 2026, Pages 236-249
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