Chemical elements on the periodic table have isotopes. Isotopes are identifiable forms of the same element with diverse numbers of neutrons located in their nuclei. When introduced to the human body, these isotopes can become detectable by radiative means for research studies.
Why are stable and unstable radioactive isotopes important for studying the human body? What specialty scientific equipment or advanced technology helps us use them? Let’s closely examine these questions to uncover further details about their value for modern scientists and medical professionals.
For Definitive Disease Diagnosis
The first medical application of radiation occurred with x-rays for diagnostic purposes. Interestingly enough, the creation of radioisotope carbon-14 and other unstable isotopes are now critical to life-saving medical diagnostics and treatment. Radioisotopes have opened a new window to the human body.
Using innovative diagnostic imaging tools, such as PET scans or MPI scans, professionals can track radioactive movement to detect any internal blockages or abnormalities. After a patient swallows a radiolabeled isotopic tracer or receives one via injection, the detector can follow and identify the isotope to examine key areas of the body in greater detail. No other method can evaluate health on a similar scale.
For Serious Nutritional Studies
Why are isotopes important for studying the human body? They’re essential for biological research. Analyzing isotopes present in the human body can provide useful information on nutritional intake, metabolism, and uptake. In particular, stable isotopes assist the monitoring of mineral movement throughout the human body. Professionals can clearly identify current issues of malabsorption through analysis.
For example, a nutrition scientist can give a test subject a determined dose of an isotope and then monitor the presence of diverse amounts in the blood or other biological samples using a mass spectrometer. Over time, they can accurately assess how the subject’s body processes that element.
For Geographical Location Identification
Improved and advanced instrumentation has helped detect isotopes for identification purposes. The level of isotopes existing within the human body can vary. It depends on where the individual was born and where they have lived. Keep in mind that elements and their isotopes occur naturally in nature. Consequently, people absorb them through their local environment. Ergo, every time someone breathes air, consumes food, or sips water, they may be ingesting minuscule amounts of isotopic properties.
Ingestion and absorption don’t heighten radiation-related health risks. Rather, their presence offers perspective and knowledge for present-day researchers and scientists. For this reason, isotopes help give insight into changes in the human body and the lives of people in various societies.
