Zinc in Human Health: A Comprehensive Review of its Biological Roles and Clinical Implications
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48048/tis.2025.11556Keywords:
Zinc, Public Health, Immunity, Metabolism, DiseaseAbstract
Zinc (Zn) is an essential micronutrient involved in enzymatic activity, protein and membrane structure, gene regulation, and immune and antioxidant functions. Both excess and deficiency influence health, affecting reproduction, skin, bones, endocrine balance, immunity, and the nervous system. Zinc deficiency remains a major global public health problem, particularly in low-income countries, and is often underdiagnosed due to the lack of reliable biomarkers. This review examines the role of zinc in human health, the clinical consequences of imbalance, and its therapeutic potential in disease prevention and management. Evidence shows that zinc supports antioxidant defense, wound healing, cell proliferation, and immune function. Supplementation may enhance immunity, promote tissue repair, and reduce infection and metabolic risk, especially in vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and patients with chronic conditions. Excess intake, however, can be harmful, leading to drug interactions and impaired copper absorption. In summary, zinc plays diverse roles in health and disease and holds promise for evidence-based dietary strategies. Its use should be tailored to individual nutritional needs to maximize benefits and minimize risks.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Comprehensive review of zinc’s biochemical, physiological, and clinical roles in human health.
- Analysis of zinc’s impact on immunity, reproduction, neurological function, and chronic disease prevention.
- Discussion of zinc deficiency, toxicity, drug interactions, and implications for public health policy.
- Integration of mechanistic insights with clinical evidence to guide safe and effective zinc use.
- Identification of research gaps and future directions in zinc-related biomedical studies.
GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT
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