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Chelating agents are chemical compounds that react with metal ions to form a stable, water-soluble complex. They are also known as chelants, chelators, or sequestering agents.

Chelating agents have a ring-like center which forms at least two bonds with the metal ion allowing it to be excreted. Chelating agents are usually organic compounds (a compound that contains carbon).

Specific chelating agents bind iron, lead, or copper in the blood and can be used to treat excessively high levels of these metals. Chelating agents may also be used in the treatment of heavy metal poisoning.