Nickel

Nickel is necessary for the function of the active centers of certain enzymes. The influence of nickel on folate metabolism is important. It is needed for hematopoiesis processes. In the cell nuclei, nickel can interact with chromatin and stabilize the DNA structure. In the blood, it forms complexes with albumin and with a2-microglobulin. It is believed that nickel is important for the formation of lipoproteins. There are no known symptoms of nickel deficiency, but symptoms of poisoning are known. When larger amounts of nickel are ingested orally, liver parenchyma necrosis begins. Inhaling nickel dust can lead to pneumonia. Lung tumors are more common in individuals with occupational and domestic exposure to nickel dust. There is little nickel in animal-based food, but a lot in plant-based food. Nickel is abundant in nuts, chocolate, beans, peas, and cereal grains. Nickel has carcinogenic and cumulative properties. It is believed that altered nickel levels may be a cause of myocarditis, lung diseases, skin inflammations and allergic reactions, nausea.