Arsenic toxicity: sources, pathophysiology and mechanism

Abstract Background Arsenic is a naturally occurring element that poses a significant threat to human health due to its widespread presence in the environment, affecting millions worldwide. Sources of arsenic exposure are diverse, stemming from mining activities, manufacturing processes, and natural geological formations. Arsenic manifests in both organic and inorganic forms, with trivalent meta-arsenite (As3+) and pentavalent arsenate (As5+) being the most common inorganic forms. The trivalent state, in particular, holds toxicological significance due to its potent interactions with sulfur-containing proteins. Objective The primary objective of this review is to consolidate current knowledge on arsenic toxicity, addressing its sources, chemical forms, and the diverse pathways through which it affects human health. It also focuses on the impact of arsenic toxicity…