The Association among Urinary Lead and Cadmium, Serum Adiponectin, and Serum Apoptotic Microparticles in a Young Taiwanese Population

Previous studies reported that lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) exposure are linked to changes in serum adiponectin; an adipokine that promotes glycolysis and inhibits gluconeogenesis to regulate glucose metabolism. However, no study has ever explored the relationship between exposure to these two heavy metals and adiponectin in adolescents and young adults. Additionally, the role of adiponectin in the relationship between Pb and Cd exposure and vascular endothelial cell apoptosis has never been investigated. In this study, 724 Taiwanese participants, aged 12 to 30 years, were enrolled to investigate the association among urinary lead and cadmium, serum adiponectin, and apoptotic microparticles (CD31+/CD42a−, CD31+/CD42a+, and CD14). The results of the current study revealed a statistically significant inverse association between urine Pb and Cd levels and adiponectin levels, as well as a positive association with apoptotic microparticles (CD31+/CD42a−, CD31+/CD42a+, and CD14). Adiponectin was also inversely correlated with CD31+/CD42a− and CD31+/CD42a+. Moreover, when subjects with both Pb and Cd levels above the 50th percentile were compared to those below it, the former group exhibited the lowest average adiponectin value. Additionally, a more pronounced positive association between heavy metals and apoptotic microparticles (CD31+/CD42a− and CD31+/CD42a+) was observed when adiponectin levels were lower. Furthermore, an interaction between adiponectin and heavy metals was identified in the relationship between these metals and CD31+/CD42a−. In conclusion, these findings suggest that Pb and Cd exposure may have an adverse effect on adiponectin, and it may play a role in the link between heavy metal exposure and the dysfunction of vascular endothelial cells. Future studies are needed to establish whether a causal relationship exists.