A physiologically based pharmacokinetic model for arsenic exposure. II. Validation and application in humans.

A physiologically based pharmacokinetic model (PB-PK) for inorganic arsenic exposure in humans has been developed. This model is an extension of a PB-PK model for hamsters and rabbits, with adjustments for body weight, metabolic rates, and absorption rates. It describes the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of arsenate, arsenite (As(III)), methyl arsonate, and dimethyl arsinate, the four major metabolites of inorganic arsenic. The routes of intake considered are inhalation of arsenic dust and fumes and oral intake of arsenic via drinking water and food. The PB-PK model for the oral exposure route is validated using data on urinary excretion after repeated oral exposure to As(III) as well as after exposure to inorganic As via drinking water. Absorption by inhalation is validated using data on urinary excretion after occupational exposure to arsenic trioxide dust and fumes. In both cases, the model gives satisfactory results for urinary excretion of the four As metabolites. The PB-PK model is also used in the description of the effects on the kinetics of exposure via different routes and for the simulation of various realistic exposure scenarios.