Ronnback L, Hansson E

Chronic encephalopaties induced by mercury or lead: aspects
of underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms.

Br J Ind Med 49:233-240 (1992)

ABSTRACT: "Long term exposure to low doses of mercury or lead can
induce neurasthenic symptoms with slight cognitive deficits, lability,
fatigue, decreased stress tolerance, and decreased simultaneous 
capacity. After exposure to higher concentrations permanent 
neuropsychological deficits can be seen. 
The present paper gives a new idea of possible molecular mechanisms 
underlying the symptoms. Impairments of astrocyte function 
are probably important, especially due to their capacity to 
regulate the ionic and amino acid concentration in the extracellular 
micromilieu, brain energy metabolism, and cell volume. 
Recent results have shown that these functions are under 
monoaminergic control. Aspects of therapy are outlined."

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