Trace elements, despite being required in minute quantities, are crucial for various biological functions.
How to explain
They participate as cofactors in enzymatic reactions, contributing to metabolic processes essential for growth, development, and overall health.
For instance, zinc is essential for immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis. However, an excessive intake of zinc can lead to toxicity symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and impaired immune function.
Analytical techniques such as atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) are commonly employed to determine trace elements in biological samples.
AAS measures the absorption of specific wavelengths of light by the atoms of the trace element, allowing quantification of its concentration.
Using zinc as an example, biological samples can be prepared through digestion and then analyzed by AAS.
This method provides precise measurements of zinc concentrations in tissues or fluids, aiding in assessing nutritional status or identifying potential toxicity risks associated with elevated levels.
The Complete Question
In the field of nutritional chemistry and toxicology, trace elements play a vital role in both human health and potential toxicity. Explain the significance of trace elements in biological systems, highlighting their role in nutrition and potential toxicity.
Additionally, discuss a method used in analytical chemistry to determine trace elements in biological samples. Provide an example of a trace element, its importance in human health, potential toxicity, and a method commonly used to measure its concentration in biological samples.