Uranium's hazardous effects on humans and recent developments in treatment.

Jiafu Feng, Xi Chen, Jiahua Ma, Yahya Faqir, Ziang Li, Talaal Gul, Ziwei Jiang, Libing Yu, Chengjia Tan

Journal: Ecotoxicology and environmental safety 2025;293():118043

PMID: 40080936

Abstract

Uranium, a naturally occurring element, is predominantly recognized for its role as fuel in both civilian and military energy sectors. Concerns have been raised regarding the adverse environmental impacts and health risks associated with uranium mining due to the exposure it causes. Such exposure leads to systemic toxicity, affecting pulmonary, hepatic, renal, reproductive, neurological, and bone health. This review identifies significant research gaps regarding detoxification methods for uranium contamination and recommends further advancements, including genetic modification and exploration of plant compounds. A comprehensive review of published research materials from diverse sources of uranium, including various treatments and hazardous impacts on the human body, was conducted. Additionally, a PRISMA analysis was performed in this study. This review emphasizes the importance of collaboration and the formulation of research-informed regulations to effectively safeguard vulnerable communities from the consequences of contamination. Public discourse often emphasizes the significance of radiotoxicity; however, the non-radioactive chemotoxicity of uranium has been identified as a significant risk factor for environmental exposures, contingent upon species, enrichment, and exposure route. Given these serious health consequences, several methods are being investigated to ameliorate uranium toxicity. In response to these concerns, several techniques, such as phytomedicinal treatments, biochemical approaches, and chelation therapy, have been investigated to minimize the adverse effects of uranium exposure in the human body.

Copyright © 2025 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Address: School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang 621010, China.; Institute of Materials, China Academy of Engineering Physics, Mianyang 621907, China.; School of Life Science and Technology, Mianyang Teachers' College, Mianyang 621000, China.; School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang 621010, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Nuclear Technology Medical Transformation (MIANYANG CENTRAL HOSPITAL), Mianyang 621000, China.; School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang 621010, China. Electronic address: [email protected].; NHC Key Laboratory of Nuclear Technology Medical Transformation (MIANYANG CENTRAL HOSPITAL), Mianyang 621000, China. Electronic address: [email protected].

Link outs

Bant logo

© Copyright 2026, Nutrition Evidence

NED wishes to thank the following organisations for their support:

We use cookies to improve your experience and analyze site traffic with Google Analytics. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our use of cookies. Learn more.