Zinc is an essential trace element for humans, playing a crucial role in various physiological processes. While acute zinc intoxication is rare due to the body's efficient homeostatic mechanisms, long-term high-dose zinc supplementation can interfere with copper absorption, leading to copper deficiency. Zinc's toxicity is primarily exerted at the cellular level, influencing apoptosis and neuronal death. In the brain, zinc accumulation during ischemia or trauma can cause cytotoxicity. Zinc deficiency, on the other hand, is a more common and severe health issue, affecting growth, neuronal development, and immunity. The widespread occurrence of zinc deficiency, particularly in developing countries and among the elderly, highlights its significant impact on human health. The review discusses zinc homeostasis, the effects of exposure to zinc, and the role of zinc in cell death, emphasizing the importance of maintaining zinc balance for optimal health.Zinc is an essential trace element for humans, playing a crucial role in various physiological processes. While acute zinc intoxication is rare due to the body's efficient homeostatic mechanisms, long-term high-dose zinc supplementation can interfere with copper absorption, leading to copper deficiency. Zinc's toxicity is primarily exerted at the cellular level, influencing apoptosis and neuronal death. In the brain, zinc accumulation during ischemia or trauma can cause cytotoxicity. Zinc deficiency, on the other hand, is a more common and severe health issue, affecting growth, neuronal development, and immunity. The widespread occurrence of zinc deficiency, particularly in developing countries and among the elderly, highlights its significant impact on human health. The review discusses zinc homeostasis, the effects of exposure to zinc, and the role of zinc in cell death, emphasizing the importance of maintaining zinc balance for optimal health.