Fluoride plus aluminum: useful tools in laboratory investigations, but messengers of false information

Physiol Res. 2002;51(6):557-64.

Abstract

Aluminofluoride complexes (AlF(x)) form spontaneously in aqueous solutions containing fluoride and traces of aluminum ions and appear to act as phosphate analogs. These complexes have become widely utilized in laboratory investigations of various guanine nucleotide-binding proteins. Reflecting on many laboratory studies, a new mechanism of fluoride and aluminum action on the cellular level is being suggested. The long-term synergistic effects of these ions in living environment and their hidden danger for human health are not yet fully recognized.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aluminum / pharmacology*
  • Biological Availability
  • Drug Interactions
  • Fluorides / pharmacology*
  • GTP-Binding Proteins / drug effects
  • GTP-Binding Proteins / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Phosphates / pharmacology
  • Signal Transduction / drug effects*

Substances

  • Phosphates
  • Aluminum
  • GTP-Binding Proteins
  • Fluorides