Lithium and boron in human blood.

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Biogeochemistry
• Nuclear Physics

Background:

• Accurate quantification of trace elements like lithium and boron in biological matrices is crucial for understanding physiological processes and potential toxicities.
• Existing methods for lithium and boron determination may have limitations in sensitivity or sample throughput for biological materials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a new analytical method for determining lithium (Li) and boron (B) concentrations in biological samples.
• To establish reference ranges for lithium and boron in human blood.
• To investigate the potential correlation between lithium and boron levels in healthy individuals.

Main Methods:

• Neutron irradiation of biological samples.
• Subsequent measurement of helium-3 and helium-4 isotopes using static mass spectrometry.
• Analysis of blood samples from seven healthy donors.

Main Results:

• A new method for lithium and boron determination in biological material was successfully developed.
• Lithium concentrations in blood averaged 2.64 +/- 0.94 ng/gm dry weight.
• Boron concentrations in blood averaged 97 +/- 22 ng/gm dry weight.
• A statistically significant correlation (p < 0.05) was observed between lithium and boron concentrations in the studied blood samples.

Conclusions:

• The developed neutron irradiation and mass spectrometry method provides a reliable means for quantifying lithium and boron in biological samples.
• The established blood concentration ranges offer valuable reference data for healthy individuals.
• The observed correlation suggests a potential interplay between lithium and boron metabolism or homeostasis in humans.