Cesium ion and Thallium ion (null)

Cesium ion (Cs+) and thallium ion (Tl+) are monovalent inorganic cations of the elements cesium and thallium, respectively. Cesium is an alkali metal with chemical properties resembling potassium; it participates in biological processes primarily by mimicking potassium ions, although it is not required for normal physiology and is toxic at elevated concentrations. Thallium is a post-transition metal that is also able to mimic potassium in biological systems, which underlies much of its high toxicity; it can substitute for potassium in transport and enzymatic systems, disrupt mitochondrial function, cause oxidative stress, and rapidly affect multiple organ systems. Neither cesium nor thallium ions act as "targets" in the sense used in pharmacology or drug discovery (such as receptors or enzymes), but both can serve as targets for chelation therapy (most importantly with Prussian blue) in cases of poisoning, particularly for radiological emergency management. Both are toxic, with thallium in particular noted for lethality as a poison and severe neurological and dermatological effects; cesium is hazardous mainly due to disruption of potassium balance or radioactive isotopes. Thus, "Cesium and Thallium ions" are *not* canonical molecular targets for drug or mechanistic action, but rather ions which can cause toxicity and may be the subject of detoxification or chelation interventions.

Other names

Cs+Cesium cationCaesium ionThallium cationTl+Thallous ion

Prussian blue: Binds cations in GI tract to prevent reabsorption and enhance elimination