Essential metals in health and disease.
Level 5 - mechanism / opinion, no new human data
Narrative review without systematic methodology or primary experimental data.
PubMed 36152810 · doi:10.1016/j.cbi.2022.110173
What was done
This paper presents a narrative review detailing the chemical and biological roles of the ten metals considered essential to human physiology (Na, K, Mg, Ca, Mn, Fe, Co, Cu, Zn, Mo), their cellular regulatory mechanisms, and the consequences of disrupted metal homeostasis.
What was found
The abstract reports no primary quantitative data or statistical analyses. It outlines that four main-group elements (Na, K, Mg, Ca) and six transition metals (Mn, Fe, Co, Cu, Zn, Mo) are biologically essential. Disrupted control of redox-active transition metals (specifically Fe and Cu) facilitates Fenton-type reactions, generating hydroxyl radicals that damage DNA, proteins, and cell membranes. Deficiencies or excesses of these metals are noted to contribute to neurodegenerative conditions (Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's diseases), mental health disorders, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes.
Why it matters
It provides a broad conceptual framework linking bioinorganic chemistry with human pathophysiology, emphasizing the dual risk of deficiency and toxicity for essential transition metals.
Limits
The paper is a non-systematic narrative review providing no original human data, sample size details, search protocol, or quantitative synthesis.
Cited by
- supports Electrolytes such as sodium, magnesium, and potassium are vital for the normal functioning of all cells, especially neurons.