Metalloids in BiologyFrom Function to Toxicity

ISBN : 9781032673561

Author : Geetika Sirhindi

Publisher : CRC Press

Year : 2025

Language : English

Type : Book

Description : Metalloids belong to class of elements that exhibit physiochemical characteristics intermediating between those of metals and non-metals. Some are quasi-essential for the overall growth and development of plants. Silicon, for instance, enhances plant structural integrity, while boron is crucial for cell wall formation, and selenium acts as an antioxidant but some are toxic, like germanium (Ge) and arsenic (As), as they threaten the soil ecosystem and human health. Metalloid toxicity hinges on their cellular concentrations ,where low levels aid plant development ,whereas high levels cause harmful effects. Thus, it is crucial to encompass the underlying detoxification mechanisms behind metalloid uptake by root system, their transport to other tissues, and their redistribution within and between cells. This book provides a comprehensive elucidation of the valuable insights of metalloids in green agriculture emphasizing management strategies to mitigate their adverse effects through various detoxification pathways, including cell complexation, cell wall binding, efflux, vacuolar sequestration and ultimately redistribution.

Please register to recommend this book to the library.