Metals in Medicine

Question 1

What is the importance of s block elements?

Answer 1

• Most abundant metal ions in biology - occur in most cells at high concentrations
• Difficult to monitor
• Trigger a wide range of biochemical processes
• Activators of enzyme action
• Stabilisers of biochemical structures

Question 2

What is the importance of p block elements?

Answer 2

• Constituents of living matter

- C,H,N and O comprimise 99% of human body

Question 3

What is the importance of d block elements?

Answer 3

• Usually prevalent in trace quantities
• Easier to monitor
• Highly relevant in the function of metalloproteins
• Key participants in electron transfer reactions, respiratory chain, oxygen storage and transport