Phytoliths – From the Formation of Biominerals to the Risks of Oxalate Ingestion in Plants – Mini Review Part I
Keywords:
phytoliths, oxalates, plants, human and animal risksAbstract
The presented mini review examines phytoliths in plants and microorganisms, focusing on their formation, physico-chemical properties, content in plant, and effects on livestock and human health. Phytoliths are primarily inorganic solid materials - biominerals, often formed by organic acids within plant tissues. They are relatively insoluble, enduring diverse environmental conditions (pH 3–9). Phytolith content in plant tissue varies significantly - from 2.5% to 70% - influenced by plant species, fertilizer use, climate, and agronomic practices. Two main types, oxalates, and silicon dioxides in opal form, are most commonly studied. Oxalates, found in both animal and human diets, can bind essential cations like calcium and magnesium, reducing their bioavailability and potentially increasing toxicity risks. When ingested, these oxalates may form insoluble compounds linked to physiological effects leading to risks associated with kidney failure. Phytolith research is interdisciplinary, spanning fields like archaeology, medicine, agriculture, nanotechnology, ecology, and environmental science. The Part I of this mini review explores the basic principles of the biomineral formation and their diversity. It goes into more detail about oxalates, their typical properties and occurrence in plants with risks for human and animal health after ingestion. The Part II of the mini review will discuss phytolith classifications, their utility, and factors influencing the formation of the second most common phytoliths made of silicon dioxide.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Marek Kolenčík, Tomáš Vician, Nikola Kaššovicová, Dávid Ernst, Viktor Straka, Yu Qian, Joyce Govinden Soulange, Gabriela Kratošová, Martin Šebesta
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