It ’s Elementary: Celebrating National Chemistry Week

Happy National Chemistry Week! In honor of this celebration, we’re showcasing posts that focus on elements crucial for human health and scientific exploration. NIGMS-supported scientists are studying how each of these elements (and many others) can impact human health. Check out the list below to learn more, and let us know what your favorite element is in the comments section! Credit: Adapted from Compound Interest. CC BY-NC-ND 4.0. Helium: An Abundant History and a Shortage Threatening Scientific Tools Scientists first discovered helium burning on the surface of the sun. Today, liquid helium plays an essential role in supercooling vital scientific and medical equipment, such as magnetic resonance imaging machines that take images of our internal organs. Unfortunately, our complex history with the element has led to a recent shortage that threatens some types of scientific research. Credit: Adapted from Compound Interest. CC BY-NC-ND 4.0. Pass the Salt: Sodium’s Role in Nerve Signaling and Stress on Blood VesselsMeals just wouldn’t be the same without salt, the most common sodium compound. And the human body wouldn’t be the same without it, either. Our nerves and muscles both require the element to function properly. But too much of it can cause high blood pressure. Credit: Adapted from Compound Interest. CC BY-NC-ND 4.0. Phosphorus: Glowing, Flammable, and Essential to Our CellsPhosphorus is an important component of flares and firew...
Source: Biomedical Beat Blog - National Institute of General Medical Sciences - Category: Research Authors: Tags: Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmacology Source Type: blogs