Fluoride ion

Fluoride ion is the simplest inorganic, monatomic anion of fluorine, with the chemical formula F−. It is formed when a fluorine atom gains an electron to achieve a full octet, resulting in a –1 charge. Fluoride ion occurs naturally as a trace element in many minerals (such as fluorite, apatite, and topaz), and is present at low concentrations in water. In biological systems, fluoride serves primarily as a structural agent, most notably by increasing the resistance of tooth enamel to acid through incorporation into the mineral matrix. In laboratory settings, the fluoride ion and some salts (e.g., sodium fluoride, potassium fluoride) are used as enzyme inhibitors – particularly of serine/threonine phosphatases. Fluoride is not a classical drug target such as a protein or receptor; rather, it is an ion with physicochemical and indirect biochemical effects. High concentrations are associated with toxicity, including acute poisoning and dental/skeletal fluorosis, due to effects on tissues and enzymes. Caveat: Fluoride ion is not a biological macromolecule, receptor, enzyme, transporter, or classical therapeutic target. It is an inorganic ion, more appropriately classified as a chemical/trace element than as a druggable biomolecule. Its effects are chemical or physical rather than arising from specific, target-mediated pharmacologic modulation.

Other names

fluorideF-fluoride anionfluorine ionperfluoride

Enhances resistance and strength of tooth enamel by integrating into hydroxyapatite. Inhibits certain enzymes by mimicking nucleophilic hydroxide ion or phosphate analogs (biochemical tool).