Boron and marine life: a new look at an enigmatic bioelement

Mar Biotechnol (NY). 2009 Jul-Aug;11(4):431-40. doi: 10.1007/s10126-009-9191-4. Epub 2009 May 8.

Abstract

On the occasion of the 200th anniversary of the discovery of boron, we review the oceanic biogeochemistry of boron as well as suitable analytical techniques for its determination. This overview includes aspects of biogeochemistry including geochemical stable isotope variations, uptake, transport, storage, nutritional value, toxicity, and distribution within biological materials, providing a framework for discussion of the role of boron in marine organisms, which remains largely enigmatic.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Bacteria / metabolism
  • Biological Products / biosynthesis
  • Boron / chemistry*
  • Boron / metabolism
  • Eukaryota / metabolism
  • Oceans and Seas

Substances

  • Biological Products
  • Boron