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Is lithium biologically an important or toxic element to living organisms? An overview

journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-21, 12:16 authored by Shahzad, B, Mughal, MN, Mohsin TanveerMohsin Tanveer, Gupta, D, Abbas, G
Industrialized world is exposing living organisms to different chemicals and metals such as lithium (Li). Due to their use in common household items to industrial applications, it is imperative to examine their bioavailability. Lithium belongs to the group IA and also has wider uses such as in batteries, air conditioners to atomic reactors. Lithium occurs naturally in soil and water, mostly at low concentrations, and enters the food chain. It is not one of the essential minerals though various studies indicate that low levels of Li have beneficial effects on living organisms, whereas high levels expose them to toxicity and related detrimental effects. This review suggests that Li could be biologically important to living organism depending upon its concentration/exposure. Little is known about its biological importance and molecular understanding of its accumulation and mode of action, which might have future implications for Li's long-term effects on living organisms.

History

Publication title

Environmental Science and Pollution Research

Volume

24

Pagination

103-115

ISSN

0944-1344

Department/School

Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture (TIA)

Publisher

Ecomed Publishers

Place of publication

Rudolf-Diesel-Str 3, Landsberg, Germany, D-86899

Rights statement

Copyright 2016 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg

Repository Status

  • Restricted

Socio-economic Objectives

Expanding knowledge in the environmental sciences

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