Human Biochemistry Volume 1 - Murray R. 1993

Biomolecules and Biochemical Methods
Elemental Composition of the Human Body

The approximate Elemental Composition of The Human Body is presented in Table 2.1. Most Biomolecules consist primarily of carbon, oxygen, hydrogen, and nitrogen. Phosphate is an important component of Nucleic Acids and other molecules; in its ionized form, it is widely distributed throughout the human body. Calcium plays a key role in numerous biological processes, a topic that remains at the center of much modern research. The elements listed in the third Column of the table perform a variety of Functions. Many of these are encountered almost daily in medical practice, such as cases of electrolyte imbalance (K+, Na+, Cl-, and Mg2+), anemia associated with iron deficiency (Fe2+), or thyroid disorders (1).



Last update: 06/08/2026

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