Sulfate

Sulfate is a polyatomic anion with the chemical formula SO₄²⁻. It consists of one sulfur atom surrounded by four oxygen atoms, arranged in a tetrahedral shape. It carries a −2 charge and is commonly found in biological systems, minerals, water supplies, and industrial products.

Chemical Properties:

PropertyDescription
FormulaSO₄²⁻
Charge−2
ShapeTetrahedral
BondingOne sulfur atom double-bonded to two oxygens and single-bonded (with negative charge) to two oxygens
SolubilityMost sulfates are water-soluble (except BaSO₄, PbSO₄, etc.)

Biological Roles of Sulfate:

RoleDescription
Component of biomoleculesFound in glycosaminoglycans like chondroitin sulfate and heparan sulfate
DetoxificationIn the liver, sulfate conjugation helps in drug metabolism and detoxifying xenobiotics
Structural functionSulfated molecules in cartilage and ECM contribute to hydration, elasticity, and resilience
Hormone regulationInvolved in modifying thyroid hormone precursors and steroids

Dietary and Health Relevance:

  • Sources: Naturally present in water, vegetables (like Brussels sprouts and broccoli), eggs, and protein-rich foods.
  • Sulfate in supplements: Seen in compounds like magnesium sulfate (Epsom salt) or glucosamine sulfate.
  • Human metabolism: Sulfate is produced during the breakdown of sulfur-containing amino acids (cysteine and methionine).

Environmental and Industrial Importance:

Use/OccurrenceExample
FertilizersAmmonium sulfate
DetergentsSodium lauryl sulfate
Water treatmentSulfate levels monitored in drinking water
MiningSulfate compounds can contribute to acid mine drainage

Clinical Relevance:

  • Sulfate deficiency is rare but may affect cartilage and detoxification capacity.
  • High sulfate in drinking water can cause a laxative effect, especially in infants.
  • Sulfation (adding sulfate groups) is a critical biochemical process in drug metabolism, hormone regulation, and molecular recognition.

Summary Table:

PropertyDescription
Chemical FormulaSO₄²⁻
StructureTetrahedral
Charge−2
Found InBiological molecules, water, soil, industrial products
Biological RolesStructural, detoxification, hormone processing
Clinical ImportanceSulfation in drug metabolism, ECM integrity