Chromium: celebrating 50 years as an essential element?

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Nutritional Science
• Mineral Metabolism

Background:

• Chromium (Cr) was proposed as essential for mammalian carbohydrate and lipid metabolism 50 years ago.
• Cr supplements gained popularity for weight loss and muscle gain, becoming major mineral supplements.
• The lack of identified Cr-binding biomolecules and mechanisms has led to recent re-evaluation of its essentiality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review research on the biochemistry of chromium(III) (Cr(III)) over the past two decades.
• To assess how recent findings impact the current understanding of Cr's essentiality in mammals.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on Cr(III) biochemistry research from the last 20 years.
• Analysis of studies investigating chromium's role in metabolic processes.
• Evaluation of evidence for and against chromium's essential nutrient status.

Main Results:

• The review synthesizes recent biochemical findings concerning Cr(III).
• Evidence regarding the specific biomolecules and mechanisms of chromium action remains incomplete.
• The essentiality of chromium is being critically reassessed based on current biochemical data.

Conclusions:

• The precise biochemical mechanisms and binding molecules for chromium are still not fully elucidated.
• The status of chromium as an essential element for mammals requires further investigation and re-evaluation.
• Understanding Cr(III) biochemistry is crucial for resolving its role in human health.