ABSTRACT
Silica is the second most prevalent element and as such is found in the many living systems. —is element can be found naturally or synthetically and is classi™ed either as crystalline or amorphous. Crystalline materials are by far the most common, as much of the natural element is comprised in quartz, the main component in several rock types and sand. While silica is still considered to be nonessential to sustain life, it does appear to play an important role in maintaining homeostasis and the health of many living organisms (Richmond and Sussman 2003, Martin 2007). It is incorporated in various supplemental plant fertilizers to help maintain growth, mineral nutrition, and ward oŸ fungal diseases (Epstein 1994, Richmond and Sussman 2003). Interestingly, several plant and marine life forms also include cellular pathways that are able to take natural elemental forms of silica and process it into an alternative organic form (Crookes-Goodsodson et al. 2008, Perry 2009). —e organic form has proven to play a principle role in plant and animal life, assisting in structural and developmental characteristics in a variety of fashions, such as strengthening of cell walls, bone, and cartilage (Epstein 1994, Martin 2007). Individuals and animals who lack organic silica as a dietary supplement have shown increased risk for cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and Alzheimer’s (Sahin et al. 2006, Gillette et al. 2007). Much of this is linked to the ability of silica to interact chemically with native metallic ions such as aluminum and iron (Depasse and Warlus 1976, Gillette et al. 2007, Slowing et al. 2009). It however remains unclear at what pivotal concentration level and chemical composition silica switches from a bene™cial to detrimental state.
