3
J Gandhara Med Dent Sci
October - December 2025
ORIGINAL ARTICLE
:
:
ESSENTIAL AND TOXIC TRACE METALS STATUS IN CHRONIC HASHISH CONSUMERS:
EVIDENCE FROM A PAKISTANI COHORT
Asmat Ullah
1
, Abad Khan
2
, Asif Ali
3
How to cite this article
Ullah A, Khan A, Ali A. Essential and
Toxic Trace Metals Status in Chronic
Hashish Consumers: Evidence from A
Pakistani Cohort. J Gandhara Med Dent
Sci.2025;12(3):3-8.https://doi.org/10.37
762/jgmds.12-4.755
Date of Submission: 09-07-2025
Date Revised: 09-09-2025
Date Acceptance: 10-09-2025
2
Associate Professor & Chairman,
Department of Pharmacy, The
University of Swabi
3
M.Phil Scholar, Department of
Pharmacy, The University of Swabi
Correspondence
1
Asmat Ullah, PhD Scholar,
Department of Pharmacy, The
University of Swabi
+92-321-9014220
asmat.pharmd@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVES
Chronic hashish consumption may influence trace metal homeostasis and
promote oxidative stress. This study aimed to evaluate serum concentrations
of essential and toxic trace elements-iron (Fe), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), lead
(Pb), and cadmium (Cd) - in long-term hashish users.
METHODOLOGY
A cross-sectional study was conducted in Peshawar, Pakistan, involving 104
adult males aged 25–60 years, divided into chronic hashish users (n = 53)
and non-users (n = 51). Venous blood samples were collected and analyzed
for trace metal content using flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry
(FAAS) following nitric and perchloric acid digestion.
RESULTS
Mean serum concentrations of Fe (2.6 ± 0.3 µg/dL) and Cu (0.5 ± 0.1 µg/dL)
were significantly elevated in hashish users compared to non -users (2.4 ± 0.2
µg/dL and 0.3 ± 0.02 µg/dL, respectively; p ≤ 0.05). No significant
differences were observed in Zn, Pb, or Cd levels. Pearson's correlation
revealed no significant association between trace metal levels and either
duration or quantity of hashish use.
CONCLUSION
Elevated iron and copper levels in hashish users suggest a potential
disturbance in the regulation of redox-active metals. While this may
contribute to oxidative stress, direct biomarkers were not assessed in the
current study. Further mechanistic studies are warranted to confirm this link.
KEYWORDS: Hashish, Trace Elements, Metalloenzymes, Cell Injury, Free
Radicals, Oxidative Stress
INTRODUCTION
Metals are indispensable for maintaining physiological
homeostasis, playing critical roles in enzymatic activity,
signal transduction, and protein stabilization. They
serve as essential cofactors for metalloenzymes, which
catalyze numerous metabolic reactions.
1,2
Trace
amounts of essential elements, such as iron, calcium,
magnesium, copper, manganese, and zinc, are vital for
growth, immune function, and neurological
development.
3,4
The regulatory balance of these metal
ions is tightly controlled; however, dysregulation-
whether due to environmental exposure or
physiological disorders-can result in excessive metal
accumulation, aberrant binding to non-target proteins,
and ensuing cellular damage.
5
Such disruptions impair
protein conformation and mitochondrial integrity,
ultimately provoking apoptosis or necrosis.
6
Human
exposure to abnormal metal levels originates from
multiple sources, including industrial processes (such as
mining, metalworking, and leather tanning),
contaminated groundwater, agricultural runoff, and
environmental pollution.
7
Numerous studies have
confirmed heavy metal toxicity in these settings, linking
it to neurodegenerative, renal, and reproductive
disorders.
8,9
A central mechanism of metal-induced
toxicity is oxidative stress. Overabundant essential
metals (e.g., Fe, Cu, Mn) can trigger Fenton and Haber–
Weiss reactions, generating ROS such as hydroxyl
radicals, hydrogen peroxide, and singlet oxygen.
10,11
Meanwhile, non-essential metals such as lead,
cadmium, and mercury disrupt mitochondrial electron
transport and deplete antioxidants, including
glutathione, thereby further increasing ROS levels.
12,13
This oxidative imbalance damages cellular lipids,
proteins, and DNA, contributing to the development of
more than 50 diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular
disease, diabetes, neurodegenerative disorders, and
autoimmune conditions.
14,15,16
Specifically, ROS-
induced genomic instability and lipid peroxidation drive
chronic inflammation, mutagenesis, and tissue
degeneration. Metallothioneins and metallochaperones
are intracellular proteins that bind metals, regulating
their distribution and buffering against oxidative stress
within cells.
17,18
However, excessive metal exposure
can overwhelm these protective systems, leading to
metal dysregulation and sustained oxidative stress.
Cannabis plants-especially in unregulated harvests-
frequently accumulate heavy metals from soil and
4
J Gandhara Med Dent Sci
October - December 2025
cultivation processes, potentially exposing consumers
to lead, cadmium, chromium, nickel, and mercury. For
example, seedlings grown in metal-rich soils have
shown concentrations of cadmium and lead exceeding
WHO limits.
19,20
A meta-analysis has confirmed that
cannabis
‘
s high bioaccumulation potential poses risks
through consumption, particularly in smoking forms,
which allow high pulmonary absorption.
21
Epidemiological data from NHANES (>7,000 adults)
indicate that exclusive marijuana users have 22–27%
higher blood lead and cadmium levels compared to
non-users, even after adjusting for confounding
factors.
21,22
Emerging evidence also suggests that
cannabis itself may disrupt oxidative balance.
Experimental and clinical studies report reduced
activity of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide
dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase in
cannabis users, accompanied by elevated lipid
peroxidation and DNA oxidation.
23
Such disturbances
may contribute to cardiometabolic dysfunction, altered
lipid profiles, and renal impairment, which could act
synergistically with metal-induced oxidative stress.
Thus, cannabis use may impose a dual toxicological
burden: direct redox disruption and enhanced heavy
metal exposure.
24,25
In South Asia, cannabis use is
particularly relevant. According to the UNODC’s 2020
Pakistan Drug Use Survey, an estimated four million
individuals consume cannabis, with the highest
prevalence in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.
Populations in that region may therefore face elevated
oxidative stress and trace metal imbalance due to
chronic hashish use.
22
Past studies have also
demonstrated that substance abuse-including tobacco,
alcohol, opioids, and cannabis-is linked to altered serum
trace element profiles and weakened antioxidant
defenses.
21,22
However, little is known about the
specific impact of chronic hashish consumption on trace
metal homeostasis, particularly in South Asian
populations where cannabis use is widespread. Given
that iron and copper are central regulators of redox
biology and oxidative stress, and that cannabis plants
readily bioaccumulate toxic metals from their growing
environment, investigating these elements in habitual
users is of considerable biochemical and public health
relevance. The present study, therefore, quantifies
serum concentrations of iron, copper, zinc, lead, and
cadmium in chronic hashish users from Khyber
Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, providing novel evidence on
potential metal-related disturbances associated with
long-term cannabis exposure.
METHODOLOGY
This cross-sectional study was conducted over 12
months in 2018-2019 in rural communities located near
the University of Peshawar. The source population
comprised adult males aged 25-60 years residing in
these communities. Data on socio-demographic
characteristics and baseline clinical parameters were
obtained using a structured questionnaire, which
included variables such as age, body weight, blood
pressure, duration of hashish consumption, and the
average quantity of hashish used per day, calculated
based on self-reported lifetime usage. The questionnaire
was developed after reviewing relevant literature,
reviewed by two pharmacologists and a public health
researcher for content validity, and pilot-tested in 10
individuals to assess clarity and feasibility before being
applied in the entire study. The required sample size
was estimated using an independent samples t-test,
assuming a medium effect size (Cohen’s d = 0.5), α =
0.05, and power (1–β) = 0.80, which yielded a
minimum of 51 participants per group. To account for
potential dropouts, slightly larger numbers were
recruited, resulting in 53 chronic hashish users and 51
non-users (total n = 104). A non-probability
convenience sampling technique was employed with
the assistance of local community focal persons, as the
sensitive nature of substance use limited the feasibility
of probability-based sampling. The study was approved
by the Advanced Study and Research Board, University
of Swabi, vide Notification No. 1(3)-Dy.Reg-
3/UOS/2017/170, dated: 14-09-2017. Ethical approval
was provided by the Ethics Committee of the
Department of Pharmacy, University of Swabi, vide
letter No. UOS/Pharm-Ethl20 181/223. All study
participants signed the informed consent form to
participate in the study. Written informed consent was
obtained from all participants prior to enrollment. Each
participant provided written informed consent after
being informed of the study’s objectives, procedures,
and confidentiality measures. A total of 113 adult male
participants were recruited and categorized into two
groups: (a) chronic hashish users and (b) non-users-the
control group. Nine individuals declined to participate
due to concerns about the confidentiality of their
personal information. Hashish users were identified
through direct interviews conducted with the assistance
of local focal persons nominated from each village.
These individuals were selected to facilitate participant
identification while ensuring privacy and maintaining
the confidentiality of participants’ substance use
history. Inclusion criteria for the hashish user group
were: males aged 25-60 years, with a self-reported
history of continuous hashish consumption for at least
the past five years, and no current or prior diagnosis of
major chronic illnesses such as hypertension, diabetes
mellitus, or asthma. The control group consisted of
individuals from the same geographic area and within
the same age range (25–60 years), with no history of
chronic diseases or substance use (including tobacco,
alcohol, or illicit drugs). For both the hashish user and
control groups, participants were screened for
Essential and Toxic Trace Metals Status in Chronic Hashish
5
J Gandhara Med Dent Sci
October - December 2025
smoking were also excluded to reduce the risk of
concurrent use of tobacco, alcohol, or other
psychoactive substances. Individuals who reported
regular use of these substances were excluded from the
study to minimize the confounding effects on trace
metal levels. Specifically, participants with a history of
regular tobacco use were not enrolled, and among the
hashish users, those reporting habitual cigarette
tobacco-related heavy metal exposure. Analytical-grade
reagents were used throughout the study. Nitric acid
(65% purity) was obtained from Riedel-de Haën—
Sigma-Aldrich, USA, while perchloric acid (70%
purity) was procured from Scharlau Chemie, S.A.,
Spain. A certified 2% standard solution of heavy metals
in nitric acid was sourced from PerkinElmer, Inc., USA.
High-purity deionized water was prepared using a water
still (Model P-21701, Favorit, Malaysia). Working
standards were freshly prepared prior to each analysis
by diluting the stock solution to the desired
concentration. A 10% stock solution was prepared by
adding 10 mL of the certified standard to deionized
water, resulting in a final volume of 100 mL. All
glassware and equipment used in the analysis were
thoroughly cleaned by soaking in 2% nitric acid,
followed by multiple rinses with deionized water to
eliminate contamination. To ensure analytical precision
and accuracy, all samples were analyzed in triplicate.
The instrument was calibrated regularly using certified
reference standards. Metal analysis was performed at
the Centralized Resource Laboratory (CRL) at the
University of Peshawar, Pakistan. Approximately 3 mL
of venous blood was collected aseptically from the
antecubital vein of each participant using sterile
disposable syringes. The samples were transferred into
gel clot activator tubes and centrifuged at 3500 (~2000
× g) revolutions per minute (rpm) for 10 minutes at 4°C
to obtain serum. The serum was carefully separated and
transferred to pre-cleaned, acid-washed polypropylene
tubes for further analysis. For the digestion of serum
samples prior to heavy metal analysis, 1 mL of serum
was mixed with 5 mL of concentrated nitric acid
(HNO₃) in a digestion tube and heated in a water bath at
60°C for 2 hours. Subsequently, 5 mL of perchloric
acid (HClO₄) was added to each sample, followed by an
additional 30-minute heating period at the same
temperature to complete the digestion process. The final
volume was brought up to approximately 10 mL with
deionized water. All reagents used were of analytical
grade, and high-purity water was employed throughout
the procedure to minimize contamination risk.
Centrifugation was performed using a Centurion
Centrifuge (Centurion Scientific Ltd., UK).
Quantification of serum trace metal concentrations was
carried out using a flame atomic absorption
spectrophotometer (AAS), Model AAnalyst 700
(PerkinElmer Inc., USA), equipped with an automatic
Table 1: Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometric Specifications
MET
AL
Parameter
Air
(L/min)
Acetyle
ne(L/mi
in)
Lamp
Curre
nt (A)
Slit
Width
(nm)
Wavelen
gth (nm)
Detecti
on Limits
(mg/L)
Iron 17 02 30 0.2 248.3 0.0150
Zinc 17 02 15 0.7 213.9 0.0015
Copper 17 02 15 0.7 324.8 0.0015
Lead 17 02 10 0.7 283.3 0.0150
Cadmiu
m
17 02 04 0.7 288.8 0.0008
background correction system and metal-specific
hollow-cathode lamps (HCLs). Instrumental
parameters, including wavelength, lamp current, slit
width, and detection limits for each metal, are presented
in Table 1.
Statistical analyses were conducted using GraphPad
Prism (version 5.01; GraphPad Software Inc., San
Diego, CA, USA). Descriptive statistics were calculated
and presented as mean ± standard deviation (SD).
Group comparisons between hashish users and non-
users were performed using an unpaired, two-tailed
Student's t-test. Normality of data distribution was
assessed using the Shapiro–Wilk test, and homogeneity
of variances was evaluated with Levene’s test. When
assumptions of normality or equal variance were not
satisfied, the non-parametric Mann-Whitney U test was
applied. To evaluate the relationship between the
quantity and duration of hashish consumption and
serum metal levels, Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r)
was computed. A p-value ≤ 0.05 was considered
indicative of statistical significance.
RESULTS
A total of 104 participants were enrolled, comprising 53
chronic hashish users and 51 non-users. The
demographic and clinical characteristics of both groups
are presented in Table 2. The groups did not differ
significantly in age, BMI, or blood pressure (all p >
0.05). However, total cholesterol and creatinine
clearance were significantly higher in the hashish user
group compared with non-users (p < 0.05). The mean
serum concentrations of selected trace metals are
summarized in Table 3. Hashish users had significantly
higher serum iron levels (2.6 ± 0.3 µg/dL) compared
with non-users (2.4 ± 0.2 µg/dL; p = 0.05). Serum
copper was also elevated in users (0.5 ± 0.1 µg/dL)
relative to controls (0.3 ± 0.02 µg/dL; p < 0.05). No
statistically significant differences were observed for
zinc (p = 1.0), lead (p = 0.8), or cadmium (p = 0.34).
Pearson’s correlation coefficients assessing the
association between hashish consumption patterns and
serum metal concentrations are presented in Table 4.
Neither the duration of hashish use nor the average
daily quantity consumed showed significant
correlations with serum iron, copper, zinc, lead, or
Essential and Toxic Trace Metals Status in Chronic Hashish
6
J Gandhara Med Dent Sci
October - December 2025
Table 4: Pearson Correlation between Serum Concentration of
Metals and (a) Duration of Hashish use in Years, (b) Quantity of
Hashish Use Per Day
Serum trace
metals (µg/dl)
Correlation with R-value P-value
Iron
Duration of Hashish use
(Years)
0.970 0.891
Quantitiy of Hashish use
per day (g)
0.120 0.423
Zinc
Duration of Hashish use
(Years)
-0.015 0.912
Quantitiy of Hashish use
per day (g)
-0.251 0.055
Copper
Duration of Hashish use
(Years)
0.173 0.169
Quantitiy of Hashish use
per day (g)
0.029 0.826
Lead
Duration of Hashish use
(Years)
0.033 0.981
Quantitiy of Hashish use
per day (g)
0.182 0.165
Cadmium
Duration of Hashish use
(Years)
0.210 0.221
Quantitiy of Hashish use
per day (g)
0.219 0.093
Table 2: Characteristics of the Study Subjects in the Current
Study
Parameter Non-users
(N=53)
Hashish
users(N=51)
P-Value
Mean ± SD
Age (Years) 36.8 ± 1.4 36.2 ± 6.3 0.63
BMI (Kg/m
2
) 22.3 ± 3.7 21.7 ± 4.8 0.11
FBS (mg/dl) 91.8 ± 8.8 90.5 ± 9.5 0.59
T. Cholesterol (mg%)
180.2 ± 22.1 211 ± 40.2 < 0.05*
CrCl (ml/min) 105.4 ± 19.2 152.2 ± 39.6 < 0.05*
Duration of Hashish
Use (Years)
N/A 19.1 ± 8.8 -
Quantity of drug
consumption per day
(gms)
N/A 3.2 ± 1.5 -
Table 3: Trace Metal Concentrations in Serum Samples of the
Study Groups in the Current Study
Serum trace metals
(µg/dl)
Non-users
(N=53)
Hashish users
(N=51)
P-Value
Mean ± SD
Iron (Fe) 2.4 ± 0.2 2.6 ± 0.3
0.05*
Zinc (Zn) 0.1 ± 0.01 0.1 ± 0.01 >0.99
Copper (Cu) 0.3 ± 0.02 0.5 ± 0.1
< 0.05*
Lead (Pb) 0.5 ± 0.01 0.6 ± 0.1 0.80
Cadmium (Cd) 0.3 ± 0.03 0.3 ± 0.05 0.34
*Statistically significant at p < 0.05
cadmium levels (all p > 0.05).
applicable
*Statistically significant at p < 0.05 | BMI: Body mass Index; FBS:
Fasting Blood Sugar; CrCl: Creatinine Clearance; N/A: Not
DISCUSSION
This study demonstrated significantly elevated serum
concentrations of iron and copper among individuals
with chronic hashish use compared to non-users. Both
metals are redox-active and central to oxidative
biology, where excessive accumulation can catalyze the
formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) through
Fenton and Haber-Weiss reactions, leading to oxidative
injury and cellular dysfunction. These findings are
consistent with earlier reports that substance abuse
alters trace metal homeostasis and weakens antioxidant
defenses.
24,25,26
Recent studies confirm that iron
overload can accelerate oxidative stress-mediated tissue
injury, while copper imbalance contributes to
cardiometabolic and neurodegenerative pathologies
through mitochondrial dysfunction and redox
cycling.
26,27,28
In addition to trace metals, significant
differences were observed in total cholesterol and
creatinine clearance between the two groups (Table 2).
The higher cholesterol levels among hashish users may
reflect disruptions in lipid metabolism, as cannabinoids
interact with CB1 receptors, altering appetite and
hepatic lipid synthesis. Large-scale analyses, including
NHANES, have shown associations between cannabis
use, altered lipid profiles, and increased
cardiometabolic risk.
29
Moreover, elevated iron and
copper may promote lipid peroxidation, further
aggravating dyslipidemia and atherosclerosis.
30
The
elevated creatinine clearance in users may represent
early glomerular hyperfiltration, a compensatory
response linked to subclinical nephron stress, which can
progress to chronic kidney disease if sustained.
Cannabis exposure has also been implicated in altered
renal function, though results are inconsistent. Trace
metal dysregulation, particularly copper and cadmium,
may act synergistically to exacerbate renal oxidative
injury.
31,32
One plausible explanation for the elevated
iron and copper concentrations is contamination of
cannabis products during cultivation and processing,
since cannabis is a known hyperaccumulator of
environmental metals. Recent studies confirm that
cannabis grown in contaminated soils can accumulate
lead, cadmium, and copper to levels exceeding WHO
safety limits.
12,33
However, since this study did not
analyze hashish samples directly, this explanation
remains speculative. Future work must include trace
metal analysis of locally consumed hashish to confirm
whether environmental contamination contributes to the
observed elevations. Serum zinc levels did not differ
significantly between groups. We suggested this may
indicate preserved zinc-dependent antioxidant
responses. Zinc is a critical cofactor for antioxidant
enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD).
However, without functional assays, such as measuring
SOD activity, this interpretation remains hypothetical.
Recent clinical studies report reduced SOD and
glutathione peroxidase activity in substance users
despite normal zinc concentrations, suggesting that
preserved zinc status may not translate to intact
antioxidant defense.
34,35
Future studies should therefore
incorporate enzymatic biomarkers to clarify the role of
Essential and Toxic Trace Metals Status in Chronic Hashish
7
J Gandhara Med Dent Sci
October - December 2025
zinc in cannabis-related oxidative stress. Overall, our
findings support the hypothesis that chronic hashish use
is associated with altered trace metal homeostasis,
which may contribute to oxidative stress, metabolic
dysregulation, and renal changes. Nevertheless, the
mechanisms linking cannabis exposure, environmental
contamination, and trace metal imbalance remain
incompletely understood. Future studies should
incorporate dietary intake assessments, direct analysis
of hashish products, and measurement of oxidative
stress biomarkers, ideally within larger longitudinal
cohorts that include both sexes, to elucidate causal
pathways and assess public health implications. Future
research should analyze the trace metal content of
hashish samples commonly consumed in Pakistan to
establish a direct link between cannabis use and heavy
metal exposure. Dietary assessments must be integrated
to control for nutritional influences, particularly on iron
and copper levels. Incorporation of validated
biomarkers of oxidative stress and antioxidant enzyme
activity would help clarify mechanistic pathways
linking cannabis exposure to redox imbalance. Larger,
longitudinal studies involving both men and women are
needed to improve generalizability and determine
causal and dose-response relationships. Multicenter
collaborations may also provide a broader
understanding of cannabis-related toxicological risks
across diverse populations.
LIMITATIONS
This study has several limitations that should be taken
into account when interpreting the findings. First, a
non-probability convenience sampling method was
employed, which may introduce selection bias and limit
the generalizability of the results. Second, information
on the duration and quantity of hashish use was
obtained through self-report, which is subject to recall
bias and may affect accuracy. Third, the cross-sectional
design precludes any inference of causality; therefore,
longitudinal studies are necessary to establish temporal
relationships. Additionally, female participants were
excluded due to cultural sensitivities, which limited the
generalizability of the findings to males. Dietary intake,
which influences trace metal levels-particularly iron
and copper-was not assessed and may have contributed
to the observed differences. Finally, although
individuals with regular tobacco or alcohol use were
excluded, occasional or unreported smoking among
hashish users cannot be ruled out. Since tobacco is a
known source of cadmium, lead, and oxidative stress,
this remains a potential confounder. Despite these
limitations, the study also has notable strengths. To our
knowledge, it is the first investigation from Pakistan to
evaluate essential and toxic trace metals in chronic
hashish users, thereby addressing a significant
knowledge gap in a high-prevalence region. The use of
a locally matched control group, rigorous sample
handling, and validated atomic absorption
spectrophotometry methods enhanced the reliability of
the biochemical analyses, providing novel evidence
with public health relevance.
CONCLUSIONS
This study demonstrated significantly elevated serum
concentrations of iron and copper in chronic hashish
users compared with non-users, suggesting disturbances
in redox-active metal regulation. While environmental
contamination of hashish may partly explain these
findings, this hypothesis was not directly tested. Other
unmeasured factors, including dietary intake,
environmental exposures, and genetic variability, could
also have influenced the results. The absence of dietary
data and functional oxidative stress biomarkers
represents an important limitation.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The authors are grateful to the Higher Education
Commission of Pakistan for funding this project and to
the Centralized Resource Laboratory (CRL) at the
University of Peshawar for providing analytical
facilities. The authors are also thankful to the Study
participants.
CONFLICT OF INTEREST: None
FUNDING SOURCES:
The study was funded by the Higher Education
Commission of Pakistan through scholarship funds to
the principal author, PIN No. HEC Scholar PIN NO.
213-52616-2BM2-044, Phase II, Batch II, Indigenous
program.
REFERENCES
1. Jomova K, Valko M. Advances in metal-induced oxidative
stress and human disease. Toxicology. 2011;283(2-3):65-87.
doi:10.1016/j.tox.2011.03.001. PMID: 21414382.
2. Klotz L-O, Kröncke K-D, Buchczyk DP, Sies H. Role of
copper, zinc, selenium and tellurium in the cellular defense
against oxidative and nitrosative stress. (supplement).
2003;133(5):1448S-51S. PMID: 12730440.
3. Cheng Y, Chen H. Aberrance of zinc metalloenzymes-induced
human diseases and its potential mechanisms. Nutrients.
2021;13(12):4456. doi:10.3390/nu13124456. PMID: 34960004.
4. Valko M, Morris H, Cronin M. Metals, toxicity and oxidative
stress. Curr Med Chem. 2005;12(10):1161-208.
doi:10.2174/0929867053764635. PMID: 16226317.
5. Palmer AE, Franz KJ. Introduction to -cellular metal
homeostasis and traffickingǁ. Chem Rev. 2009;
(intro/chapter):4533-5. doi:10.1021/cr900293t. PMID:
19778037.
6. Rosenzweig AC. Metallochaperones: bind and deliver. Curr
Opin Chem Biol. 2002;9(6):673-7. doi:10.1016/S1074-
5521(02)00156-4. PMID: 12079778.
Essential and Toxic Trace Metals Status in Chronic Hashish
LICENSE: JGMDS publishes its articles under a Creative Commons Attribution Non-Commercial Share-Alike license (CC-BY-NC-SA 4.0).
COPYRIGHTS: Authors retain the rights without any restrictions to freely download, print, share and disseminate the article for any lawful purpose.
It includes scholarlynetworks such as Research Gate, Google Scholar, LinkedIn, Academia.edu, Twitter, and other academic or professional networking sites.
8
J Gandhara Med Dent Sci
October - December 2025
AUTHORS CONTRIBUTION
The authors accept responsibility for all aspects of the work
and will ensure that any concerns regarding the accuracy or
integrity of any part are properly investigated and resolved.
Asmat Ullah - Concept & Design; Data Acquisition;
Data Analysis/Interpretation; Drafting Manuscript; Final
Approval
Abad Khan - Concept & Design; Data Acquisition; Data
Analysis/Interpretation; Drafting Manuscript; Critical
Revision; Supervision; Final Approval
Asif Ali - Concept & Design; Data Acquisition; Data
Analysis/Interpretation; Drafting Manuscript; Final
Approval
7. Aslam A, Naz A, Shah SSH, Rasheed F, Naz R, Kalsom A, et
al. Heavy metals contamination in vegetables irrigated with
wastewater: a case study of underdeveloping regions of
Pakistan. Environ Geochem Health. 2023;45(12):8911-27.
doi:10.1007/s10653-023-01662-0. PMID: 37354255.
8. Riyazuddin R, Nisha N, Ejaz B, Khan MIR, Kumar M, Ramteke
PW, et al. A comprehensive review on the heavy metal toxicity
and sequestration in plants. Biomolecules. 2021;12(1):43.
doi:10.3390/biom12010043. PMID: 35053191.
9. Ercal N, Gurer-Orhan H, Aykin-Burns N. Toxic metals and
oxidative stress part I: mechanisms involved in metal-induced
oxidative damage. Curr Top Med Chem. 2001;1(6):529-39.
doi:10.2174/1568026013394831. PMID: 11895129.
10. Galaris D, Evangelou A. The role of oxidative stress in
mechanisms of metal-induced carcinogenesis. (review).
2002;42(1):93-103. doi:10.1016/S1040-8428(01)00212-8.
PMID: 11923071.
11. Manoj K, Padhy P. Oxidative stress and heavy metals: an
appraisal with reference to environmental biology. Int Res J
Biol Sci. 2013;2(10):91-101.
12. Dryburgh LM, Bolan NS, Grof CP, Galettis P, Schneider J,
Lucas CJ, et al. Cannabis contaminants: sources, distribution,
human toxicity and pharmacologic effects. Br J Clin Pharmacol.
2018;84(11):2468-76. doi:10.1111/bcp.13695. PMID:
29953631.
13. Valko M, Leibfritz D, Moncol J, Cronin MT, Mazur M, Telser
J. Free radicals and antioxidants in normal physiological
functions and human disease. Int J Biochem Cell Biol.
2007;39(1):44-84. doi:10.1016/j.biocel.2006.07.001. PMID:
16978905.
14. Halliwell B. Free radicals, antioxidants, and human disease:
curiosity, cause, or consequence? Lancet. 1994;344(8924):721-
4. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(94)92211-X. PMID: 7915779.
15. Wrześniak M, Kepińska M, Królik M, Milnerowicz H. The
influence of tobacco smoke on protein and metal levels in the
serum of women during pregnancy. PLoS One.
2016;11(8):e0161342. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0161342.
PMID: 27548057.
16. El-Deeb MMK, El-Sheredy HG, Mohammed AF. The role of
serum trace elements and oxidative stress in Egyptian breast
cancer patients. AiBCR / Asian International Breast Cancer
Research (2016);5(1):37-47. doi:10.2147/AIBCR.S106950.
17. Rono JK, Sun D, Yang ZM. Metallochaperones: A critical
regulator of metal homeostasis and beyond. Gene.
2022;822:146352. doi:10.1016/j.gene.2022.146352. PMID:
35183685.
18. Asmat U, Abad K, Ismail K. Diabetes mellitus and oxidative
stress - A concise review. Saudi Pharm J. 2016;24(5):547-53.
doi:10.1016/j.jsps.2015.03.013. PMID: 27752226.
19. Zerihun A, Chandravanshi BS, Debebe A, Mehari B. Levels of
selected metals in leaves of Cannabis sativa L. cultivated in
Ethiopia. SpringerPlus / (or Scientific Reports equivalent);
2015;4:1-10. doi:10.1186/s40064-015-1145-x. PMID:
26191486.
20. Zafar A, Zaffar S, Jamila I, Yaseen W. Heavy Metals and
Pesticides on Contaminants of Concern in Cannabis. In:
Cannabis sativa Cultivation, Production, and Applications in
Pharmaceuticals and Cosmetics. IGI Global; 2023. p.129-42.
doi:10.4018/978-1-6684-5718-4.ch009.
21. McGraw K, Nigra A, Klett J, Sobel M, Hu X, Oelsner E, et al.,
editors. Blood and urinary metal levels among exclusive
marijuana users in the National Health and Nutrition
Examination Survey (2005-2018). ISEE Conference Abstracts;
2022. doi:10.1289/isee.2022.O-PK-11.
22. Gao W, Tong L, Zhao S, Sun M, Fang J, Xu Y, et al. Exposure
to cadmium, lead, mercury, and arsenic and uric acid levels:
Results from NHANES 2007–2016. Biol Trace Elem Res.
2023;201(4):1659-69. doi:10.1007/s12011-022-03309-0. PMID:
35809185.
23. Alhusaini AM, Faddah LM, El Orabi NF, Hasan IH. Role of
some natural antioxidants in the modulation of some proteins
expressions against sodium fluoride-induced renal injury.
Biomed Res Int. 2018;2018:5614803.
doi:10.1155/2018/5614803. PMID: 30050936.
24. Kubiliene A, Mickute K, Baranauskaite J, Marksa M, Liekis A,
Sadauskiene I. The effects of Cannabis sativa L. Extract on
oxidative stress markers in vivo. Life (Basel). 2021;11(7):647.
doi:10.3390/life11070647. PMID: 34357019.
25. Jomova K, Alomar SY, Valko R, Nepovimova E, Kuca K,
Valko M. The role of redox-active iron, copper, manganese, and
redox-inactive zinc in toxicity, oxidative stress, and human
diseases. EXCLI J. 2025;24:880-954. doi:10.17179/excli2025-
8449. PMID: 40933952
26. Anderson GJ, Frazer DM. Current understanding of iron
homeostasis. Am J Clin Nutr. 2017;106(Suppl 6):1559S-66S.
doi:10.3945/ajcn.117.155804. PMID: 29070551.
27. Cobine PA, Brady DC. Cuproptosis: Cellular and molecular
mechanisms underlying copper-induced cell death. Mol Cell.
2022;82(10):1786-7 (commentary).
doi:10.1016/j.molcel.2022.05.001. PMID: 35594843.
28. Chen P, Bornhorst J, Aschner M. Manganese metabolism in
humans. Front Biosci (Landmark Ed). 2018;23(9):1655-79.
doi:10.2741/4665. PMID: 29293455.
29. Meier MH, Pardini D, Beardslee J, Matthews KA. Associations
between cannabis use and cardiometabolic risk factors: a
longitudinal study of men. Psychosom Med. 2019;81(3):281-8.
doi:10.1097/PSY.0000000000000665. PMID: 30589665.
30. Fu Y, Hou L, Han K, Zhao C, Hu H, Yin S. The physiological
role of copper: Dietary sources, metabolic regulation, and safety
concerns. Clin Nutr. 2025. doi:10.1016/j.clnu.2025.03.023.
31. Cortinovis M, Perico N, Ruggenenti P, Remuzzi A, Remuzzi G.
Glomerular hyperfiltration. Nat Rev Nephrol. 2022;18(7):435-
51. doi:10.1038/s41581-022-00559-y. PMID: 35365815.
32. Tahir I, Alkheraije KA. A review of important heavy metals
toxicity with special emphasis on nephrotoxicity and its
management in cattle. Front Vet Sci. 2023;10:1149720.
doi:10.3389/fvets.2023.1149720. PMID: 37065256.
33. Saragoça A, Silva AC, Varanda CM, Materatski P, Ortega A,
Cordeiro AI, et al. Current Context of Cannabis sativa
Cultivation and Parameters Influencing Its Development.
Agriculture (Basel). 2025;15(15):1635.
doi:10.3390/agriculture15151635.
34. Abdel-Salam OM, Nada SA, Salem NA, El-Shamarka ME-S,
Omara EJ. Effect of Cannabis sativa on oxidative stress and
organ damage after systemic endotoxin administration in mice.
Comp Clin Pathol. 2014;23(4):1069-85. doi:10.1007/s00580-
013-1745-1.
35. Raja A, Ahmadi S, de Costa F, Li N, Kerman K. Attenuation of
oxidative stress by cannabinoids and cannabis extracts in
differentiated neuronal cells. Pharmaceuticals (Basel).
2020;13(11):328. doi:10.3390/ph13110328. PMID: 33105840.
Essential and Toxic Trace Metals Status in Chronic Hashish