Question

Which of the following acts as an antidote to \(\mathrm{HgCl}_{2}\) poisoning? (a) yellow of egg (b) egg of fish (c) white of egg (d) egg

Short answer

(c) white of egg acts as an antidote to \(\mathrm{HgCl}_2\) poisoning.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Poisoning

The given compound, \(\mathrm{HgCl}_2\), is mercuric chloride, which is a form of mercury poisoning. In such cases, the antidote usually binds to or reacts with the mercury to neutralize its effects.

Possible Antidotes

Among the options provided, we identify substances that have known properties or components which can react with or bind to mercury, neutralizing its toxic effects.

Identifying Protein Sources

We consider which of the options are rich in proteins or particularly albumin. Protein substances like albumin can bind to heavy metals and help in reducing their toxicity. Options containing egg components, such as white of egg, may have albumin.

Selecting the Correct Option

White of egg is known to contain albumin, a protein that can act as a chelating agent, binding with heavy metals like mercury, thus acting as an antidote. In contrast, the other options do not specifically refer to this component.

Key concepts

Mercuric Chloride Poisoning

Mercuric chloride (\(\mathrm{HgCl}_2\)) is a highly toxic compound. It is one of the more dangerous forms of mercury compounds because it easily absorbs into the body. This type of poisoning can have severe effects on the kidneys, gastrointestinal tract, and nervous system. The symptoms of mercuric chloride poisoning might include abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and even kidney failure in severe cases. These symptoms highlight the crucial need for an effective treatment or antidote.
To neutralize its toxic effects, it is essential to use a substance that can bind to mercury and render it less effective. It is similar to using a magnet to attract and hold onto the metal particles. This process involves using chemical reactions or formations that interact with the mercury ions, thereby stopping or reducing its harmful effects in the body.

Albumin as Chelating Agent

Albumin, a type of protein, is known for its ability to act as a chelating agent. A chelating agent is a substance that can bind to metal ions and create a stable complex that is easier for the body to handle or eliminate. In the case of \(\mathrm{HgCl}_2\) poisoning, albumin present in egg whites can bind to the mercury ions.
This action effectively decreases the toxicity of the mercuric chloride, as the mercury is no longer free to interact and disrupt biological processes. Albumin, through its chemical structure, has the potential to attract and hold onto these mercury ions tightly, forming a non-toxic complex that the body can excrete.

• Useful in reducing heavy metal poisoning
• Helps in forming stable, non-toxic complexes
• Found abundantly in the white of the egg, which makes it accessible

Protein Binding to Heavy Metals

Proteins in our body, like albumin, often have the capability of binding to heavy metals. This binding is a defensive mechanism, which helps in reducing the metals' harmful effects. When a heavy metal like mercury enters the body, it can disrupt essential biological processes.
Proteins, due to their structure, can act like a sponge – absorbing and then holding onto these heavy metal ions. They then form a protective shield around these ions, preventing them from causing cellular damage. The effectiveness of this mechanism hinges on the proteins' ability to bind firmly and create more stable compounds that the body can then safely eliminate.

• Prevents critical disruption of biological processes
• Reduces metal-associated toxicity
• Facilitates safer elimination from the body

Understanding this process highlights the importance of proteins in detoxifying the body from hazardous substances like mercuric chloride.