Process of binding metallic ions in solution.
The binding of metal cations (metal atoms or molecules possessing a positive electrical charge) by toms possessing unshared electrons (thus the electrons can be “donated” to a bond with a cation). The binding of the metal (cation) to the (electron-excess) chelator atom (ligand) results in formation of a chelator/metal cation complex. The intra-atom bonds thus formed are given the name of coordination
bonds.
The properties of the chelator/metal cation complex frequently differ markedly from the “parent” cation. Both carboxylate and amino (molecular) groups readily bind metal cations. One of the most widely used chelators is EDTA (ethylenediamine tetraacetate). It has a strong affinity for metal cations possessing two (bi) or more positive (electrical) charges. Each EDTA molecule binds one metal cation. The EDTA molecule can be visualized as a “hand” (having only four fingers) which grasps the metal cation. Some enzymes (which require metal cations for their activity) are inactivated by EDTA (and otlier chelators) in that the chelators preferentially remove the metal from the enzyme.
Chemical bonding used to remove some substances (e.g., metals) from tissues. Legitimately used against some types of toxicity (e.g., lead, iron), chelation has also been falsely promoted as an effective treatment for atherosclerosis.
The combining of metallic ions with certain heterocyclic ring structures so that the ion is held by chemical bonds from each participating ring.
The administration of substances that can chelate or form a complex with metal ions within the human body via oral or intravenous routes is a therapeutic intervention commonly employed for the treatment of arterial ailments.
The process wherein a molecule envelops and adheres to a metal, consequently extracting it from the surrounding tissue.