Cobalt(II) mesoporphyrin is a chemical compound of cobalt. Cobalt is a metallic element with the atomic number 27. It is found naturally in rocks, soil, water, plants, and animals. In small amounts cobalt is an essential element for life, as it is part of vitamin B12. However, excess exposure is known to exhibit toxic effects. (2, 3)
Structure for CHEM000591: Cobalt(II) mesoporphyrin
Synonyms
Not Available
Chemical Formula
C34H36CoN4O4
Average Molecular Mass
623.607 g/mol
Monoisotopic Mass
623.207 g/mol
CAS Registry Number
21158-51-0
IUPAC Name
λ²-cobalt(2+) ion 10-(2-carboxyethyl)-14-(2-carboxylatoethyl)-5,20-diethyl-4,9,15,19-tetramethyl-21,22,23,24-tetraazapentacyclo[16.2.1.1³,⁶.1⁸,¹¹.1¹³,¹⁶]tetracosa-1,3,5,7,9,11(23),12,14,16(22),17,19-undecaen-21-ide
Traditional Name
λ²-cobalt(2+) ion 10-(2-carboxyethyl)-14-(2-carboxylatoethyl)-5,20-diethyl-4,9,15,19-tetramethyl-21,22,23,24-tetraazapentacyclo[16.2.1.1³,⁶.1⁸,¹¹.1¹³,¹⁶]tetracosa-1,3,5,7,9,11(23),12,14,16(22),17,19-undecaen-21-ide
Cobalt is believed to exhibit its toxicity through a oxidant-based and free radical-based processes. It produces oxygen radicals and may be oxidized to ionic cobalt, causing increased lipid peroxidation, DNA damage, and inducing certain enzymes that lead to cell apoptosis. Cobalt has also been shown to block inorganic calcium channels, possibly impairing neurotransmission. Cobalt can also chelate lipoic acids, impairing oxidation of pyruvate or fatty acids. In addition, cobalt may inhibit DNA repair by interacting with zinc finger DNA repair proteins, and has also been shown to inhibit heme synthesis and glucose metabolism. Cobalt may activate specific helper T-lymphocyte cells and interact directly with immunologic proteins, such as antibodies (IgA and IgE) or Fc receptors, resulting in immunosensitization. (2)
Metabolism
Cobalt is absorbed though the lungs, gastrointestinal tract, and skin. Since it is a component of the vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin), it is distributed to most tissues of the body. It is transported in the blood, often bound to albumin, with the highest levels being found in the liver and kidney. Cobalt is excreted mainly in the urine and faeces. (2)
Exposure to high amount of cobalt can cause heart, lung, kidney, and liver damage. Skin contact is known to result in contact dermatitis. Cobalt may also have mutagenic and carcinogenic effects. (2, 3)
Symptoms
Cobalt inhalation can cause asthma-like breathing problems. Skin contact is known to result in contact dermatitis, which is characterized by irritation and rashes. Ingesting large amounts of cobalt may cause nausea and vomiting. (6)
