Role of Minor Elements in Living Organisms

Minor elements play a crucial role in the proper functioning of living organisms. They are also known as trace elements because they are required in small quantities. The major role of minor elements is as follows:

Co-factor of Enzymes
Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up the chemical reactions in living organisms. Many enzymes require minor elements as co-factors to function properly. For example, zinc is a co-factor for the enzyme carbonic anhydrase, which is involved in the regulation of acid-base balance in the body.

Building Blocks of Important Amino Acid
Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, which are essential for growth and repair of tissues in the body. Some minor elements such as sulfur and selenium are required for the synthesis of important amino acids like cysteine and methionine.

Constituents of Hormones
Hormones are chemical messengers that are produced by various glands in the body. Some minor elements like iodine are essential for the synthesis of hormones like thyroxine, which regulates the metabolism of the body.

Binder of Cell Structure
Minor elements like calcium and phosphorus are essential for the formation and maintenance of the structure of cells in the body. Calcium plays a crucial role in the formation of bones and teeth, while phosphorus is important for the formation of cell membranes and DNA.

In conclusion, minor elements play a crucial role in the proper functioning of living organisms. They are required in small quantities but are vital for various biological processes in the body.