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Speciation of Trace Elements

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Essentials of Medical Geology

Abstract

The determination of trace elements has assumed a place of prominence in the life sciences. Elements present at even minimal concentrations in biological and environmental matrices can have a significant influence on vital functions, depending on the amount present. The study of, for example, pathophysiological processes in the human body requires the determination of elements at concentrations measured in μgL−1, ngg−1, and even pgg−1. The higher concomitant amounts of organic and inorganic components make it difficult to determine the presence of trace elements. Moreover, it is a complex process that progresses from an initial trace element analysis to the final statement of biological implications, one that requires close collaboration between the analytical chemist and life scientist. Furthermore, it should be kept in mind that the concept of zero tolerance for potentially toxic elements has been replaced by the more scientific notions of safe ranges of exposure and range of safe intake.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. German Research Center for Environmental Health, Helmholtz Center Munich, Munich, Germany

    Bernhard Michalke

  2. Community Reference Laboratory, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy

    Sergio Caroli

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  1. Bernhard Michalke
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  2. Sergio Caroli
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Correspondence to Bernhard Michalke .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Geological Survey of Sweden, Uppsala, Sweden

    Olle Selinus

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Michalke, B., Caroli, S. (2013). Speciation of Trace Elements. In: Selinus, O. (eds) Essentials of Medical Geology. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-007-4375-5_27

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