10 November 2011 | Christos T. Chasapis · Ariadni C. Loutsidou · Chara A. Spiliopoulou · Maria E. Stefanidou
Zinc is a crucial trace element essential for various biological processes and human health. It plays multiple roles as a catalyst, structural component, and regulatory ion, and is involved in homeostasis, immune function, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and aging. Zinc deficiency can lead to anorexia, loss of appetite, impaired taste and smell, and adverse effects on the immune system, increasing the risk of diseases such as atherosclerosis, malignancies, neurological disorders, and autoimmune diseases. Zinc supplementation has been shown to be effective in managing these conditions by reducing oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokine production. However, excessive zinc intake can be toxic, and the optimal zinc levels must be maintained within a suitable range to avoid adverse effects. The paper reviews the multifaceted role of zinc in health and its therapeutic potential in treating various chronic diseases.Zinc is a crucial trace element essential for various biological processes and human health. It plays multiple roles as a catalyst, structural component, and regulatory ion, and is involved in homeostasis, immune function, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and aging. Zinc deficiency can lead to anorexia, loss of appetite, impaired taste and smell, and adverse effects on the immune system, increasing the risk of diseases such as atherosclerosis, malignancies, neurological disorders, and autoimmune diseases. Zinc supplementation has been shown to be effective in managing these conditions by reducing oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokine production. However, excessive zinc intake can be toxic, and the optimal zinc levels must be maintained within a suitable range to avoid adverse effects. The paper reviews the multifaceted role of zinc in health and its therapeutic potential in treating various chronic diseases.