Metalloids in Biology: From Function to Toxicity

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 ...