An element present in the human hormone thyroxine is obtained from laminaria, polysiphonia, porphyra, or gelidium.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The element present in the human hormone thyroxine that is obtained from laminaria, polysiphonia, porphyra, or gelidium is iodine.
Explanation:
Thyroxine is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland in humans and plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, growth, and development. One of the key components of thyroxine is iodine. This hormone contains four iodine atoms in its molecular structure, which makes iodine essential for its synthesis and function.
Iodine is not naturally abundant in many soils and freshwater sources, so humans often get iodine through diet, particularly from seafood and seaweed. Laminaria, polysiphonia, porphyra, and gelidium are types of seaweeds or marine algae known for their high iodine content. These marine plants absorb iodine from seawater, making them rich natural sources of iodine.
- Laminaria is a brown seaweed commonly known as kelp and is especially rich in iodine.
- Polysiphonia is a red seaweed also containing iodine.
- Porphyra is another red algae, known as nori in sushi, and it contains iodine.
- Gelidium is a genus of red algae used in producing agar and also has iodine.
Because iodine is vital for the production of thyroid hormones like thyroxine, deficiencies in iodine can lead to disorders such as goiter and hypothyroidism. In many countries, iodine is added to table salt to prevent iodine deficiency.
In summary, iodine is the essential element obtained from these types of seaweed, which humans use to synthesize thyroxine. The marine algae serve as an important dietary source of iodine, supporting proper thyroid function and overall health.