Role of lithium in living systems-an outlook

While the direct evidence of Li+ for the human metabolism is somewhat less clear, there are still strong indications that lithium in the range of nano equivalents per litre is an essential element. The specific character of phospholipid membranes regulates the permeation of lithium and the other ions such as Ca, Mg, Na, and K. There are now indications that Li+ may contribute to homeostasis, thereby exerting its therapeutic value. Magnesium ion promotes the penetration of lithium into RBC's, which is another example of the intimate correlation of these two ions. It can be stated unequivocally that an understanding of the many effects of lithium in living systems is only possible in the context of the regulation of the composition of the electrolyte. The chelation theory may serve as a first step toward this goal.