Transition metal ion

Transition metal ion" refers to the ionic form of any element from the transition metals, a group found in the d-block (groups 3–12) of the periodic table. Common transition metal ions in biology include iron (Fe), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), cobalt (Co), and nickel (Ni). These ions serve as indispensable cofactors in metalloenzymes, enable electron transfer in biochemical pathways, contribute to catalysis, oxygen transport (e.g., hemoglobin relies on iron), signal transduction, and structural stabilization of proteins. Their variable oxidation states and ability to coordinate with biomolecules underpin a wide range of biochemical processes[2][4][6][8]. Dysregulation of transition metal ion homeostasis has been implicated in diseases such as cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, metabolic syndromes, and infections. However, "transition metal ion" is not a single, specific molecular entity or target, but a broad chemical category encompassing many different ions with distinct biological roles[6][2][4]. Therefore, it is not considered a discrete therapeutic target nor a precise biomolecular entity. Notes: - "Transition metal ion" is too generic for a canonical biomedical target—each specific metal ion (e.g., Iron(II) ion, Copper(II) ion) may be considered as its own entity and potential target or cofactor. - Many transition metal complexes and metalloenzymes are honest drug targets, but "transition metal ion" itself is not.[2][6][4]

Other names

Transition metald-block elementtransition element