Metals in Medicine (Inorganic Chemistry)

Metals are used in medicine for diverse diagnostic and treatment purposes. It is noteworthy that metals are toxic for the human body when in high quantities. Mercury, lead, cadmium, plutonium, etc. are some toxic metals. The ingestion of metals or faulty metabolic pathways can lead to metal poisoning. Humans however require certain metals for normal functioning. Metals such as iron, sodium, zinc, magnesium, etc. are needed for their role as cofactors or prosthetics in enzymes and for the catalysis of specific reactions. Metal complexes can be used for radioisotope imaging or as contrast agents in magnetic resonance imaging. Technetium is the most common radioisotope agent that is used for imaging. Gallium-68 is used as a source of positrons in positron emission tomography. Metals are also used for various treatments. They can be used to treat cancer, by specifically attacking cancer cells and interacting with the DNA. Lithium compounds can be used for the management of manic-depressive disorder. Silver can be used to prevent infection, while gold salt complexes are used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. This book is a compilation of chapters that discuss the most vital concepts and emerging trends in the use of metals in medicine. Coherent flow of topics, student-friendly language and extensive use of examples make this book an invaluable source of knowledge.