Molybdenum is an essential trace element required for the function of several metalloenzymes including sulphite oxidase, xanthine oxidase, and aldehyde oxidase. These enzymes are involved in the metabolism of sulphur-containing amino acids, purines, and certain drugs and toxins. Molybdenum deficiency is exceptionally rare, as dietary requirements are very low and the mineral is widely available in food.
Clinical molybdenum deficiency has been documented primarily in people receiving long-term parenteral nutrition without adequate trace element supplementation. Toxicity can occur with extreme occupational exposure or very high supplement intake, potentially causing gout-like symptoms through xanthine oxidase-mediated uric acid accumulation.
FAQs
Is molybdenum deficiency common?
No. Dietary molybdenum deficiency is extremely rare as requirements are very low (45 mcg per day) and the mineral is widely distributed in food. Clinical deficiency has been documented almost exclusively in people receiving poorly formulated parenteral nutrition over long periods.
What does molybdenum do in the body?
Molybdenum is a cofactor for three enzymes: sulphite oxidase (metabolises sulphur amino acids), xanthine oxidase (metabolises purines to uric acid), and aldehyde oxidase (metabolises drugs and toxins). Without these enzymes, sulphite, xanthine, and other metabolites accumulate.
Can molybdenum supplements cause problems?
Very high molybdenum intake can inhibit copper absorption (as copper and molybdenum interact in ruminants) and theoretically cause gout-like symptoms through excess xanthine oxidase activity and uric acid production. Supplementation beyond dietary needs is not generally recommended.
Why is molybdenum in some multivitamins?
Molybdenum is included in many multivitamin-mineral formulations to ensure intake of this essential trace element. At amounts typically found in supplements (50-100 mcg), there is no evidence of harm in healthy individuals.
