The effects of iridium on the renal function of female Wistar rats

Despite the widespread use of iridium (Ir) in catalytic converters for improved capacity for reducing carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbon (HC) and nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, there is a lack of studies that have assessed possible toxicological hazards of exposure to Ir. The present investigation indicates that female Wistar rats exposed to Ir in the drinking water for 90 days displayed renal toxicity based on the elevated urinary retinol binding protein (RBP) and albumin. The RBP was more sensitive to albumin, showing significant increases at 0.01 mg/L.

► Iridium in catalytic converters is a source of environmental contamination.
► Low doses of iridium induced renal toxicity in Wistar rats.
► This is the first investigation of the health effects of iridium on renal function.