Chelation
Chelation
Chelation (pronounced: kee-LAY-shun) is a type of bonding of ions and molecules to metal ions. It involves the formation or presence of two or more separate coordinate bonds between a polydentate (multiple bonded) ligand and a single central atom.
Etymology
The term chelation is derived from the Greek word "chele," which means claw, referring to the claw-like manner in which the metal ion is enveloped by the chelating agent.
Process
Chelation involves the formation of a complex between a metal ion and a molecule or ion that can donate atoms to form coordinate covalent bonds. The molecule or ion that binds to the metal ion is known as a chelating agent or chelator. Chelators are often organic compounds that have two or more groups capable of binding to the metal ion to form a ring structure.
Medical Use
In medicine, chelation therapy is used to treat heavy metal poisoning, such as lead or mercury poisoning. The chelating agent binds to the toxic metal ion, forming a stable complex that can be excreted from the body. Some common chelating agents used in medicine include EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid), DMPS (dimercapto-propane sulfonate), and DMSA (dimercaptosuccinic acid).
Related Terms
- Chelating agent: A substance that can bind to metal ions to form a stable, soluble complex.
- Heavy metal poisoning: A condition caused by the accumulation of certain heavy metals in the body, often treated with chelation therapy.
- EDTA: A common chelating agent used in medicine and in a variety of other fields.
- DMPS and DMSA: Other common chelating agents used in medicine.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Chelation
- Wikipedia's article - Chelation
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