metüülmerkur

Metüülmerkur is an organometallic compound with the chemical formula Hg(CH3)2. It is a highly toxic substance that occurs naturally in the environment, primarily through the biological methylation of inorganic mercury by certain microorganisms. This methylation process can occur in aquatic environments, such as lakes and oceans, where mercury can be converted into methylmercury and subsequently enter the food chain.

Methylmercury is lipophilic, meaning it dissolves in fats, and therefore bioaccumulates in the tissues of organisms. As it moves up the food chain, its concentration increases through biomagnification. This can lead to high levels of methylmercury in predatory fish, which are often consumed by humans.

Exposure to methylmercury can have serious health consequences, particularly for the developing nervous system. Symptoms of methylmercury poisoning can include neurological damage, developmental delays in children, and sensory impairments. The severity of these effects depends on the dose and duration of exposure. Due to its toxicity, regulatory agencies worldwide have established guidelines for mercury levels in food, especially fish, to protect public health.