Figure 1.

Lead as a specific example of effects on innate immune function. During early development, a single immunotoxicant, the heavy metal, Pb, can target macrophages, dendritic cells and T cells producing innate immune dysfunction, hyperinflammation and Th2 bias. The elevated health risks from developmental exposure to Pb extend beyond the risk of allergic disease to include a variety of innate immune cell-influenced conditions.