The Effect of N-acetylhomocysteine and its Thiolactone on the Distribution and Excretion of Mercury in Methyl Mercuric Chloride Injected Mice

Abstract: The distribution and excretion of mercury was studied in mice given a single intravenous dose of 5 μmol/kg of methyl mercuric chloride. Intravenous treatment with N-acetylhomocysteine (10 mmol/kg) increased the urinary excretion of mercury. The corresponding thiolactone mixed into the feed of the mice turned out to be more effective in removing mercury from the body. The toxicity of the thiolactone seemed to be remarkably low compared to other sulphur containing agents. Mercury deposited in the brain was mobilized by oral administration of the thiolactone even if the treatment was delayed until 5 days after the injection of methyl mercury. The results indicate that the formation of a N-acetylhomocysteine-methyl-mercuric-complex is responsible for this effect.