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Updated: Jul 24, 2026
09:13
Hydroponics: A Versatile System to Study Nutrient Allocation and Plant Responses to Nutrient Availability and Exposure to Toxic Elements
Published on: July 13, 2016
[Trace elements: biological role and nutritional aspects for humans]
G Ingrao1, G Santaroni, G Tomassi
1Istituto Nazionale della Nutrizione, Roma.
Annali Dell'Istituto Superiore Di Sanita
|January 1, 1995
Summary
This study outlines methods to determine essential trace elements in the human body, such as cobalt (Co) and iron (Fe). It details their biological functions, recommended daily intake, and bodily distribution for key elements.
Area of Science:
- Human Physiology
- Nutritional Science
- Biochemistry
Context:
- Trace elements are crucial micronutrients present in the human body at very low concentrations.
- Determining the essentiality of these elements requires rigorous methodological approaches.
- Understanding trace element roles is vital for human health and nutrition.
Purpose:
- To illustrate the methodological approaches used to ascertain the essentiality of trace elements in humans.
- To summarize the biological functions and metabolic pathways of essential trace elements.
- To provide data on human body accumulation, organ distribution, and recommended daily intake for key trace elements.
Summary:
- Essential elements exhibit defined physiological functions, are present in specific concentration ranges, induce reproducible effects, and can prevent/treat deficiency symptoms upon supplementation.
- The study details the biological roles, body burden, organ distribution, uptake pathways, and recommended daily intake for cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), iodine (I), manganese (Mn), selenium (Se), and zinc (Zn).
- Acknowledges that synergistic or antagonistic interactions with other substances can influence trace element absorption and metabolism.
Impact:
- Provides a foundational understanding of trace element essentiality and their significance in human health.
- Offers valuable data for nutritionists, healthcare professionals, and researchers involved in human metabolism and dietary recommendations.
- Highlights the complexity of trace element interactions, emphasizing the need for holistic nutritional assessment.
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