Boron

Boron is a naturally occurring element present in the form of borates in oceans, sedimentary rocks, coals, shale, and some soils. Inorganic borate compounds are used in industrial and medical applications. Boron can be released into air, water, or soil after natural weathering of soils and rocks. The major sources of boron exposure are food, and to a lesser extent, water. Although boron is indispensable for growth and development in mammals and plants, it has also been shown to adversely affect humans and animals at higher doses, with developmental and reproductive effects being the most critical. In vitro studies showed no evidence of carcinogenicity or genotoxicity. According to the World Health Organization, the acceptable safe range for the population was established as 1–13 mg boron/day. This chapter describes the reproductive and developmental effects of borates in mammals.