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ESSENTIAL TRACE METALS IN MAN: MOLYBDENUM.

H A Schroeder¹, J J Balassa, I H Tipton

¹Department of Physiology, Dartmouth Medical School, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA.

Journal of Chronic Diseases

|August 28, 2015

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Molybdenum, an essential trace metal, is found in human tissues globally. Dietary intake is around 350 μg daily, primarily from legumes and grains, with potential roles in preventing dental caries and uric acid metabolism.

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Area of Science:

Environmental Science
Biochemistry
Human Physiology

Background:

Molybdenum (Mo) is a trace metal essential for life.
Understanding human exposure levels and distribution is crucial for health assessments.

Purpose of the Study:

To survey human exposure to molybdenum by analyzing tissues and diet.
To investigate molybdenum's distribution in human organs and its relationship with age and geography.
To explore dietary sources and potential health implications of molybdenum intake.

Main Methods:

Analysis of human tissues (liver, kidney, adrenals) from 381 global subjects using emission spectroscopy.
Analysis of foods and beverages using a colorimetric method.
Correlation analysis of molybdenum with other trace metals in tissues.

Main Results:

Molybdenum was detected in all examined human livers, kidneys, and adrenals.
Total body molybdenum content in US subjects was under 9 mg; concentrations varied with age, peaking in the second decade.
Foreign subjects showed higher molybdenum levels and broader tissue distribution compared to US subjects.
Daily dietary intake averaged 350 μg, with legumes and whole grains as primary sources.
Low molybdenum intake in rats correlated with higher serum uric acid.
High molybdenum intake may prevent dental caries and influence uric acid metabolism.

Conclusions:

Human exposure to molybdenum is widespread, with dietary intake and tissue distribution varying geographically and with age.
Molybdenum plays a role in uric acid metabolism and may have protective effects against dental caries.
Further research is warranted to elucidate molybdenum's precise physiological functions and health impacts.