Modulatory effects of cadmium on the immune system of small mammals. An in vitro, in vivo and field approach

Summary:

Cadmium can be immunotoxic even at relatively low exposure concentrations. By modulating the immune system of environmentally exposed wild small mammals, cadmium may reduce the host resistance to infections (e.g. zoonotic diseases). Because the immune status play an important role in preventing and limiting infections transmission, this project assessed the effects of cadmium on the immune responses of small mammals using a sequential approach, from in vitro, in vivo to field conditions.