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Arsenic biochemistry is the set of biochemical processes that can use arsenic or its compounds, such as arsenate. Arsenic is a moderately abundant element in Earth's crust , and although many arsenic compounds are often considered highly toxic to most life, a wide variety of organoarsenic compounds are produced biologically and various organic ...
The arsenic (As) cycle is the biogeochemical cycle of natural and anthropogenic exchanges of arsenic terms through the atmosphere, lithosphere, pedosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere. Although arsenic is naturally abundant in the Earth's crust, long-term exposure and high concentrations of arsenic can be detrimental to human health. [1] [2]
Arsenic, which is chemically similar to phosphorus, while poisonous for most life forms on Earth, is incorporated into the biochemistry of some organisms. [29] Some marine algae incorporate arsenic into complex organic molecules such as arsenosugars and arsenobetaines. Fungi and bacteria can produce volatile methylated arsenic compounds.
A new study finds that honeybees forging across the U.S. ingest local pollutants, including arsenic and lead, which are detected in their honey. More than 260 samples were taken between 2020 and ...
Arsenic is a ubiquitous naturally occurring chemical element, and the 20th most common element on Earth. [13] Arsenic levels in the groundwater vary from around 0.5 parts per billion to 5000 parts per billion, depending on an area's geologic features, and possible presence on industrial waste.
Arsenic is added in small quantities to alpha-brass to make it dezincification-resistant. This grade of brass is used in plumbing fittings and other wet environments. [110] Arsenic is also used for taxonomic sample preservation. It was also used in embalming fluids historically. [111] Arsenic was used in the taxidermy process up until the 1980s ...
Inorganic arsenic and its compounds, upon entering the food chain, are progressively metabolized to a less toxic form of arsenic through a process of methylation. [7] Organoarsenic compounds arise via biomethylation of inorganic arsenic compounds, [ 8 ] via processes mediated by enzymes related to vitamin B 12 . [ 9 ]
Inorganic arsenic is more toxic to humans than the naturally occurring form of the mineral arsenic, and the health effects from exposure are more severe, according to the U.S. Food and Drug ...