Fluoride Ion

**Semantic type:** Element, Ion, or Isotope

**Definition:** Considered a trace element, fluoride is any combination of elements containing the fluorine atom in the -1 oxidation state (fluoride ion). Due to its reactivity, fluorine is found in nature as fluorine compounds or fluorides. Fluoride inhibits various enzyme systems, erythrocyte glycolysis and binds Ca++, causing anticoagulation and other toxic effects. In addition, fluoride is a mitogen for osteoblasts and stimulates bone formation. (NCI)

**Synonyms:** - F- - FLUORIDE ION - Fluoride - Fluoride - Fluorine- - fluoride