Microbial transformation of metalloids

Microbial transformation of metalloids refers to the complex series of biochemical reactions—including oxidation, reduction, methylation, and demethylation—performed by microorganisms to process elements such as arsenic, selenium, and antimony (Gadd, 2010). These transformations allow microbes to utilize metalloids as electron donors or acceptors for energy, or to convert toxic ions into less harmful or volatile forms as a survival mechanism (Rosen, 2002). Within the human body, the gut microbiota significantly contributes to the biotransformation of ingested metalloids, which can profoundly alter their bioavailability and systemic toxicity (Sun et al., 2022). While certain transformations serve as detoxification, others can produce highly reactive intermediates, such as monomethylarsonous acid, which are more toxic than the parent compounds (NIH). Although not a traditional pharmacological target, this process is a critical area of study in toxicology and environmental bioremediation, as it directly influences the development of diseases like arsenicosis and various cancers (PubMed; Wikipedia).

Other names

Microbial metalloid metabolismBiotransformation of metalloidsMicrobial redox of metalloidsMicrobial metalloid detoxification

Not applicable; this is a broad biological process rather than a specific molecular drug target.