Preparation and Evaluation of a Combination of Chelating Agents for the Removal of Inhaled Uranium

Abstract

Inhalation of aerosolized uranium is recognized as a principal mode of exposure, posing significant risks of damage to the lungs, kidneys, and other vital organs. To enhance nuclide elimination from the body, chelating agents are employed; however, single-component chelators often exhibit limited spectral activity and low effectiveness, resulting in toxicologically relevant concentrations. We have developed a composite chelating agent composed of 3,4,3-Li(1,2-HOPO), DFP, and HEDP in optimized ratios, demonstrating marked improvements in eliminating inhaled uranium. The selection of these components was initially guided by an agarose gel dynamics method, focusing on uranium binding and removal efficacy. Optimization of the formula was conducted through response surface methodology in a cellular model. The compound’s ability to enhance survival rates in mice subjected to acute uranium inhalation was confirmed, showing a dose-dependent improvement in survival in severely affected mice. Comparative assessments indicated that this multifaceted chelating agent substantially surpasses the uranium tissue clearance achieved by individual chelating agents.

Keywords

• uranium exposure
• aerosol inhalation
• chelating agent
• decorporation
• HOPO