Chromosomal effects of lead: A critical review.

The available data on the possible effects of lead on mammalian chromosomes are reviewed. Several studies of cultured lymphocytes of man and non-human mammals exposed to excess lead show increased rates of chromatid and chromosome aberrations, while other studies are negative. In vitro exposure of lymphocytes to lead acetate also give conflicting results. The reviewed data are commented, and the possible technical factors influencing the results are discussed. On the basis of the prevalent types of aberrations observed, it is suggested that the increased rates of aberrations found in cultured lymphocytes of lead-poisoned or lead-exposed subjects might be mainly culture-borne changes, not repaired in the presence of lead or of some lead-induced metabolite.