Role Of Trace Elements Research Articles

Role of Trace Elements in Pregnant Women with Malaria: A Case-Control Study

Role of Trace Elements in Pregnant Women with Malaria: A Case-Control Study

Changes of Target Essential Trace Elements in Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

(1) Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, complex, and demyelinating disease closely associated with altered levels of trace elements. Although the first studies into the role of trace elements in MS were published in the 1970s, for five decades it has remained unknown whether trace elements can be part of this heterogeneous neurological disease. (2) Materials and methods: To drive toward at a potential solution, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to elucidate whether there were differences in circulating levels of neurologically important essential trace elements (Zn, Fe, Co, Cu, Mn, and Se) between MS cases and controls. (3) Results: This study revealed significantly lower serum/plasma Zn and Fe levels and higher Cu levels in MS-affected individuals compared to controls. At the same time, no significant differences were found between the MS cases and controls regarding their serum/plasma levels of Co, Mn, or Se. Thus, the loss of Fe and Zn should be considered in supplementation/nutrition strategies for MS patients. On the other hand, since high serum Cu levels indicate a burden on the bloodstreams of MS patients, Cu should be excluded from mineral supplement strategies. Furthermore, all three trace elements (Fe, Zn, and Cu) should be considered from an etiological point of view, and, most importantly, their levels in the bloodstreams of MS patients should be monitored. (4) Conclusions: This study highlights the way for personalized and targeted strategies in the management of MS.

Analysis of the Concentration of Selected Elements in Teeth Hard Tissues and Their Role in Biomineralization Processes

The role of trace elements, heavy metals, and their effect on the development of hard tissue mineralization balance is poorly documented and the available results are often contradictory. The aim of the present study was the assessment of the concentration of the selected elements in the teeth of deer (Capreolus capreolus) and red deer (Cervus elaphus) with respect to their potential role in maintaining biomineralization balance in teeth hard tissues. Moreover, the aim was to determine whether trace elements accumulate in teeth with age. This study was conducted on 22 molar teeth of red deer (Cervus elaphus) and 54 molar teeth of roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) from Poland. Samples were analyzed with the use of inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry equipped with a concentric nebulizer and cyclonic spray chamber in order to determine their Al, Ba, Cd, Fe, K, Li, Mg, Na, Ni, Pb, Sr, and Zn contents. There were strong positive correlations between strontium and zinc with heavy metals, particularly in dentine, which may affect the neutralization of the negative effects of heavy metals on tooth tissue and, consequently, maintaining ionic balance. The accumulation of trace elements with age in serenades has not been confirmed.

Overweight, Obesity, Hypertriglyceridemia, and Insulin Resistance Are Positively Associated with High Serum Copper Levels in Mexican Adults.

Recently, the role of trace elements in the pathophysiology of obesity, insulin resistance (IR), and metabolic diseases has been explored. In this cross-sectional study, we aimed to assess the association of overweight, obesity, and cardiometabolic traits with serum copper (Cu) levels in 346 Mexican adults. Serum Cu level was measured by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Anthropometrical data were collected, and biochemical parameters were measured. The triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index was used as a surrogate marker to evaluate IR. Overweight and obesity status was positively associated with the serum Cu level (β = 19.434 ± 7.309, p = 0.008). Serum Cu level was observed to have a positive association with serum triglycerides level (β = 0.160 ± 0.045, p < 0.001) and TyG (β = 0.001 ± 0.001, p < 0.001). Additionally, high serum Cu level was positively associated with overweight and obesity status (odds ratio [OR] = 1.9, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.1-3.4, p = 0.014), hypertriglyceridemia (OR = 3.0, 95% CI 1.7-5.3, p < 0.001), and IR (OR = 2.6, 95% CI 1.4-4.6, p = 0.001). In conclusion, our results suggest that overweight, obesity, hypertriglyceridemia, and IR are positively associated with serum Cu levels in Mexican adults.

The effect of carbon content on the printability and mechanical properties of Ni-based superalloy in laser additive manufacturing

The role of trace elements in additively manufactured superalloys remains a subject of ongoing discussion. It is crucial to investigate the effective mechanism and control range of trace elements in superalloys for additive manufacturing (AM). In this study, C was focused on and investigated to analysis the effect of C content on the printability and mechanical properties of a dedicated additive manufacturing superalloy. The results indicated that the cracking susceptibility of the alloy firstly increased and then decreased when the C content increased within a certain range (0–0.092 wt%). The alteration of C content affected the precipitation temperature and size of γ′ precipitates, and changed the freezing range of the alloy. As a result, a nonlinear relationship was observed between cracking susceptibility and C content. Furthermore, under thermal cycling, the gradually grown carbides filled microporosity and reduced the porosity of the alloy. The dispersion of carbide particles could effectively prevent dislocation movement and enhanced the strength of the alloy. These findings clarify the influence of C content within a certain range on the printability and mechanical properties of the alloy and provide guidance for the regulation of C content in subsequent alloy design.

Biochemical properties of winter wheat (Triticum vulgare L.) under Zn and Cu balance in the soil-culture system

The role of trace elements as a factor in the formation of biochemical features of grain crops is a debatable and extremely understudied issue. At the same time, the ecological importance of the balance of nutritional elements for the normal functioning of plants is widely highlighted in biology and agronomy. The purpose of the study was to determine the interdependence of biochemical and biogeochemical features and to determine the influence of the biogeochemical balance of Zn and Cu on the biochemical parameters of wheat in various agrolandscapes of the forest-steppe of Ukraine. We has been developed an original method of regional spatial correlation between the balance of micronutrients in the soil-crop system and biochemical indicators of the quality of plant products. Spatial correlation was implemented in wheat growing areas in two agrolandscapes, namely, with dark gray podzolized soils in the Kyiv region and gray podzolized soils in the Vinnytsia region. Regional features of the distribution of Zn and Cu in the agricultural landscape are summarized by their biogeochemical formulas, which highlight 5 evaluation characteristics of the soil-culture system in subsoil rocks, soils, and grain crops. Features of the quality of wheat in the territory of agrolandscapes are determined by statistical data on the content of protein, gluten, and vitreousness. The result of the spatial correlation of the specified characteristics is the determination of the interdependencies of the biochemical parameters of the nutritional quality of wheat and the balance of Zn, Cu in the investigated agrolandscapes. The determined differences between the features of the links of the biogeochemical chains of zinc and copper indicate the possibility of a decrease in the vitreousness and protein in wheat grains as a result of the lack of this nutrient microelement, even under the conditions of their natural and agrogenic accumulation in the soil. The inconsistency of the processes in the soil and the agrocenosis of the agrolandscape indicates the expediency of changes in soil protection and agrochemical melioration systems. Special attention needs to be paid to research on foliar nutrition of wheat culture, as a factor in increasing the biophilicity of nutrient microelements and the corresponding increase in the protein content and vitrification of wheat grain.

The Role of Trace Elements in Cardiovascular Diseases.

Essential trace elements play an important role in human physiology and are associated with various functions regulating cellular metabolism. Non-essential trace elements, on the other hand, often have well-documented toxicities that are dangerous for the initiation and development of diseases due to their widespread occurrence in the environment and their accumulation in living organisms. Non-essential trace elements are therefore regarded as serious environmental hazards that are harmful to health even in low concentrations. Many representatives of these elements are present as pollutants in our environment, and many people may be exposed to significant amounts of these substances over the course of their lives. Among the most common non-essential trace elements are heavy metals, which are also associated with acute poisoning in humans. When these elements accumulate in the body over years of chronic exposure, they often cause severe health damage in a variety of tissues and organs. In this review article, the role of selected essential and non-essential trace elements and their role in the development of exemplary pathophysiological processes in the cardiovascular system will be examined in more detail.

Minerals and Trace Elements Profile of Apparently Healthy Horses in Ibadan ‎Polo Club, Oyo State, Nigeria

Roles of trace elements and minerals in the overall performance, health and wellbeing of horses cannot be underestimated vis a viz deleterious effects on normal functioning of living organisms posed by prolonged exposure to toxic metals. We evaluated the levels of some minerals and trace elements and compared these parameters among different breed, age and gender. Forty-six apparently healthy horses in Ibadan Polo Club, Ibadan, Nigeria were used for this study. Minerals and trace elements analyses were performed using the inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) (Varian Vista Pro®, Varian Medical Systems, Inc., California, USA) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) (Varian 820 MS®, Varian Medical Systems, Inc., California, USA). Student’s T-test was applied to establish differences in the values of minerals and trace elements in relation to breed, gender, and age. The results revealed statistically significant differences in the levels of Magnesium (Mg), Iron (Fe), and Iodine (I) and in the level of Silicon (Si), Chromium (Cr), and Iridium (Ir) in minerals and trace elements respectively with significantly higher values in Sudanese compared to Cross-bred horses. Mg, Fe, I, Cr, and Ir values were significantly higher in Mares compared to Stallion. Fe, I, Si, Mo and Cr values were significantly higher in young horses than in adult horses. Conclusively, significant variations were observed in the minerals and trace elements values regarding breed, sex, and age of Horses in Nigeria. Regular supplements of minerals lick and trace elements are advised especially for Cross-bred, Stallion, and adult horses.

Nutrition and melanoma: the contribution of trace elements in onset, progression, and treatment of melanoma.

Melanoma is a highly malignant and drug-resistant disease that imposes a substantial economic burden on the world. There are many studies linking trace elements to diverse types of cancers, including melanoma. This review elucidates the relationship between trace elements exposure and melanoma. It was identified that copper, manganese, selenium, zinc, iron, and many other trace elements were associated with melanoma in humans. In terms of epidemiology, different elements have different correlations with melanoma. These trace elements affect the occurrence and development of melanoma through various mechanisms, such as oxidative stress and the MAPK pathway. The literature on the role of trace elements in the pathogenesis and treatment of melanoma depicts promising prospects for this field.

Effect of Aqueous Ethanolic Extract of Andrographis paniculata and Adathoda vasica and Role of Trace Elements in Type 2 Diabetic Rat Model

Effect of Aqueous Ethanolic Extract of Andrographis paniculata and Adathoda vasica and Role of Trace Elements in Type 2 Diabetic Rat Model

The Role of Trace Elements and Minerals in Osteoporosis: A Review of Epidemiological and Laboratory Findings.

The objective of the present study was to review recent epidemiological and clinical data on the association between selected minerals and trace elements and osteoporosis, as well as to discuss the molecular mechanisms underlying these associations. We have performed a search in the PubMed-Medline and Google Scholar databases using the MeSH terms "osteoporosis", "osteogenesis", "osteoblast", "osteoclast", and "osteocyte" in association with the names of particular trace elements and minerals through 21 March 2023. The data demonstrate that physiological and nutritional levels of trace elements and minerals promote osteogenic differentiation through the up-regulation of BMP-2 and Wnt/β-catenin signaling, as well as other pathways. miRNA and epigenetic effects were also involved in the regulation of the osteogenic effects of trace minerals. The antiresorptive effect of trace elements and minerals was associated with the inhibition of osteoclastogenesis. At the same time, the effect of trace elements and minerals on bone health appeared to be dose-dependent with low doses promoting an osteogenic effect, whereas high doses exerted opposite effects which promoted bone resorption and impaired bone formation. Concomitant with the results of the laboratory studies, several clinical trials and epidemiological studies demonstrated that supplementation with Zn, Mg, F, and Sr may improve bone quality, thus inducing antiosteoporotic effects.

High urinary trace element concentrations: A possible indicator of urolithiasis in goats?

BackgroundUrolithiasis is a common urinary tract disorder among male goats. The role of trace elements in the crystallization of supersaturated urine has garnered considerable interest in other species, whereas their role in urolithogenesis has not been studied so far in goats. This study investigated the possible roles of urinary trace elements (Mn, Fe, Cu, and Zn) in the pathogenesis of urolithiasis in goats. Materials and methodsEight male goats with obstructive urolithiasis were used in the study. A celiotomy with tube cystostomy was performed after the diagnosis. Urine samples collected intra-operatively were used for physico-chemical examination, microscopy, and trace element quantification by atomic absorption spectroscopy. Urinary sediments were also used for chemical functional group determination by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. ResultsMultiple coffin-top-shaped urinary crystals were observed in all the goats. Mean urinary Mn, Fe, and Zn concentrations were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in urolithic goats than in healthy controls. The mean urinary Cu concentration was found to be non-significantly higher in urolithic goats than in healthy controls. FTIR spectroscopy confirmed the presence of PO43−, NH4+, and OH− chemical functional groups in the selected urinary sediments. ConclusionsThe findings suggest that high urinary Mn, Fe, Cu, and Zn concentrations in goats play a role in the urolithogenesis of phosphate stones.

Trace elements in hair or fingernail and gastroesophageal cancers: results from a population-based case-control study.

Growing evidence suggests that environmental factors probably play important roles in the development of gastroesophageal cancers (GOC), however, the effects of trace elements on GOC remain unclear. To assess the effect of trace elements on GOC and the effect modification by other factors. Hair and fingernail samples were collected from GOC cases and controls in a population-based case-control study in Taixing, China, and were used to detect the concentrations of 12 trace elements using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Unconditional logistic regression models were used to calculate the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for concentrations of 12 trace elements in association with GOC after adjusting the other factors. A total of 830 hair samples (581 controls and 249 cases) and 895 fingernail samples (559 controls and 336 cases) were included. Compared to the lowest-tertile concentration, the higher tertiles of Ca, Zn, Fe, Al, Cr, Pb, Se, and V were positively associated with GOC, while the higher tertiles of Mg, Mn, Sr, and As were inversely associated with GOC. Significant interactions between the hair level of Cr and two other risk factors, including smoking (P for interaction = 0.044) and alcohol drinking (P for interaction = 0.028), were observed in association with GOC. The current study reveals that these 12 trace elements in hair and fingernails are associated with GOC to varying degrees. Further studies and animal experiments are needed to clarify the associations and explore potential mechanisms. The role of trace elements in the development or inhibition of gastroesophageal cancers (GOC) remains unclear. In this study, we further explored the associations between 12 trace elements and GOC based on a population-based case-control study conducted in Taixing, China. Higher levels of Ca, Zn, Fe, Al, Cr, Pb, Se, and V were positively associated with increased GOC, while inverse associations between higher levels of Mg, Mn, Sr, As, and GOC were observed. Observed associations were consistent in hair and fingernail samples. Moreover, interaction effects between hair level of Cr and smoking or alcohol drinking were identified.

Evaluation of the ratio of different major and trace elements in the lens of dogs with cataract.

Understanding the elements that support cataract development and searching for available therapeutic methods is essential for scientific and social interest. For that purpose, the role of trace elements has been investigated in this study to better understand the development of cataracts in dogs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ratio of the major and trace elements by X-ray fluorescence spectrometry in dog cataract lenses to contribute to diagnostic, non-surgical, and ophthalmological preventive data. A single lens with a cataract from each of a total of 88 dogs (cataract group) and a healthy lens from each of 6 dogs (control group) were evaluated. The elements calcium (Ca), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), magnesium (Mg), manganese (Mn), and potassium (K) were analyzed by energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence and X-ray microfluorescence. The results indicated an increase of Ca, Fe, Cu, and Zn, in association with the reabsorption mechanism of hypermature cataracts. The ratio of elements Ca, Fe, Cu, and Zn was different in cataract lenses than in healthy lenses, and our results may support the development of therapeutic strategies for cataracts in dogs. The Ca concentrations were distinct in the cataract development stages, and the Fe concentration was relatively higher in males when compared to females. Finally, this research stands out with a particular contribution to the understanding of both cataract formation and prevention.

Essential elements as critical players against SARS-CoV-2 activity

Background: SARS-CoV-2 virus is currently one of the main causes of death worldwide. Several studies have suggested that various trace elements play a vital role in the immune activity during viral infection, being an important tool to understand the SARS-CoV-2 infection and its systemic behavior, which affects different organs.&#x0D; Purpose: To summarize recent studies that report the effect of trace elements on the immune system and their role in fighting SARS-CoV-2 infection, presenting potential biochemical routes.&#x0D; Method: The main databases (ScienceDirect®, Scopus®, PubMed®) were consulted to search for works published up to October 2022, focusing on the role of trace elements in the immune activity against viral infection, including SARS-CoV-2.&#x0D; Conclusion: Many elements can act both in the activation of the host’s immune activity and in the survival of the virus since these processes occur with the participation of essential metals to guarantee the integrity of their functions. However, the relationship between trace elements and viral infection is complex, and requires further studies, mainly, focusing on the systemic behavior of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Role of microelements in the development of endocrine pathology

Due to the continual increase in the incidence of endocrine diseases in the world, their prevention and treatment have become topical. Diseases of the endocrine system are often accompanied by the development of comorbidities and complications, which negatively affect the quality of life and survival of patients. Currently, research is focused on the status of trace elements in patients with various diseases. Numerous current studies are devoted to investigating the influence of the balance of trace elements on the etiology and pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus, obesity, and some thyroid diseases, including autoimmune ones. The role of iodine, selenium, iron, zinc, and copper in the development and progression of these diseases has been established, but the findings of these studies are sometimes contradictory.&#x0D; This review focuses on national and foreign studies on the role of trace elements in the development of endocrine pathology, and gives a brief description of the most significant mineral substances, as well as the effect of their imbalance on the structure and function of the organs of the endocrine system. This review recommends further studies on this issue incorporating concomitant diseases, as well as the mutual influences of mineral substances on each other, which can lead to a change in the concentration of trace elements in the body.

Metalloprotein status in Indian patients with beta thalassemia trait

Introduction and Aim: Beta Thalassemia trait (BTT) is the most prevalent heterozygous hemoglobinopathy in Asian population. The current study aims to evaluate plasma antioxidant metalloproteins like SOD, ceruloplasmin, ferritin and correlate them with the trace elements in patients with BTT. Materials and Methods: The subjects included in the study were divided into two groups comprising of 40 BTT patients in group I and 40 age and sex matched normal individuals in group II. Cation exchange HPLC was used for hemoglobin variant analysis. Plasma iron, copper, ceruloplasmin and SOD were assayed using the spectrophotometric method while zinc was determined by atomic absorption spectrometry and ferritin by ECLIA. Results: There was a marked reduction in plasma trace elements in BTT compared to healthy controls. The decrease in zinc (p&lt;0.001) and copper (p&lt;0.04) was statistically significant. Both SOD and ferritin levels were significantly lower in BTT patients (p&lt;0.001). However, an apparent decrease was observed in ceruloplasmin levels. Iron and ferritin showed a significant positive correlation (r=0.84 p=0.01), similarly copper and ceruloplasmin correlated positively (r=0.92 p=0.001) in BTT patients. Interestingly HbF correlated negatively with all the three trace elements. Conclusion: It can be concluded that decreased antioxidant metalloproteins may lead to free radical toxicity in BTT. The study highlights the indirect role of trace elements in oxidative stress and draws attention on the requirement for regular and timely assessment of metalloenzymes and periodic administration of trace elements in reduction of free radical damage and associated complications in BTT patients.

Prevalence of iron deficiency anaemia in patients of cholelithiasis undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Background: Gallstone disease (GSD) is a very common condition worldwide and the key event in the cholesterol stone formation is the supersaturation of bile with cholesterol. The role of trace elements like iron, calcium has been suggested in the pathogenesis of gallstones. Both iron deficiency and GSD are more prevalent in India. With this background, we studied the frequency of iron deficiency anaemia in GSD patients.Methods: This prospective observational study enrolled 150 adult patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy for symptomatic GSD in a north-Indian tertiary care hospital. Complete hemogram, serum ferritin, iron and unbound iron-binding capacity (TIBC) were performed in all patients. To simplify interpretation, anaemia was defined as Hb &lt;12 gm/dl; iron deficiency was defined as either ferritin value lower than the reference range, or, if the ferritin was within the reference range, reduced % transferrin saturation with normal-or-high TIBC.Results: Anaemia was present in 66% and 77.3% were having iron deficiency; of which 84.5% were females. Iron deficiency with anaemia was present in 85.3%; therefore remaining patients had latent iron deficiency. Serum ferritin was normal or raised in 52 (68.1%) patients with iron deficiency, indicating that it is insensitive as a stand-alone test for iron deficiency.Conclusions: At a public health level, our results may suggest that addressing the problem of endemic iron deficiency may also reduce the possible development of GSD in the community. Thus, pre-operative assessment of iron status appears to be a cautious choice in all patients planned for cholecystectomy as indirectly it will address the problem of anaemia in the population.

Serum Levels of Copper, Zinc, Magnesium, Iron and Ferritin in Libyan Patients with Vitiligo Vulgaris: A Case Control Study

Background: Vitiligo is the most common acquired pigmentary skin disorder, with an estimated worldwide incidence of 0.5-4%. Although the pathogenesis of vitiligo remains largely unknown, there are different theories explaining its pathogenesis, including; genetic, autoimmune, auto-cytotoxic, oxidative stress and neurogenic. Oxidative stress has been postulated to causes cellular disruptions that provoke an autoimmune response in genetically susceptible individuals leading to melanocytes destructions. Trace elements considered as antioxidants protecting the body against cytotoxicity of melanocytes and inhibition of tyrosinase in oxidative stress. Aim of the study: to evaluate the serum levels of copper, zinc, magnesium, iron and ferritin in patients with vitiligo vulgaris and compare it with control subjects. Also to determine the association between serums trace elements levels and disease activity. Patients and Methods: This study included 50 patients with vitiligo attending the Outpatient Clinic of Dermatology Department, Eljumhoria Hospital, Benghazi, Libya, and 50 healthy age and sex-matched volunteers who had no dermatological or systemic diseases. Blood samples for serum levels of copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), magnesium (Mg), iron (Fe) and ferritin were obtained from patients with vitiligo vulgaris and healthy controls. Results: Serum Cu, Zn and Mg were higher in patients, serum ferritin was lower in patients than control subjects and this difference was statistically non- significant (P&lt;0.05). Whereas, there was no difference in serum Fe between patients and control subjects. There was no significant correlation between the serum level of these TE with activity of the disease, duration or family history of vitiligo. Conclusions: Serum Zn, Cuand Mg levels in patients with vitiligo were found to be higher than that of controls. The role of trace elements in the pathogenesis of vitiligo needs to be investigated in further large sample sized population-based studies.

Calcium intake may explain the reduction of colorectal cancer odds by dietary selenium - a case-control study in Poland

BackgroundColorectal cancer (CRC) has been placed among top three cancer sites in high income countries. Although there are several inconsistencies across studies it is widely accepted that diet contributes to approximately 70% of CRC. Several dietary factors have been investigated; however, the knowledge about the role of trace elements and their interplay with other dietary factors in CRC odds is limited. The aim of the study was to estimate the odds ratio of colorectal cancer associated with the content of selenium in diet, and to check whether dietary calcium is a modifier of selenium effect in the population characterized by low selenium intake.MethodsFace-to-face interviews were used to gather data on dietary habits (by 148-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire) and covariates among 683 histologically confirmed incident colorectal cancer cases and 759 hospital-based controls in a case-control study. Data was collected in a period between 2000 and 2012. Setting: Lesser Poland, Central Europe. Logistic regression models were used to assess the role of dietary selenium intake and calcium-selenium interaction in colorectal cancer odds.ResultsAfter the adjustment for several covariates dietary selenium was associated with the decrease of colorectal cancer odds by 8% (OR = 0.92, 95%CI: 0.84–0.99 for every 10μg Se/day increase). In individuals with lower (< 1000 mg/day) calcium content the odds of colorectal cancer was decreased by 13%(for every 10μg Se/day) and by 44% and 66% depending on the categories of selenium intake (60 to < 80 μg/day and ≥ 80 μg/day, respectively). The effect of dietary selenium was modified by dietary calcium (p for interaction < .005).ConclusionsThe study has shown a beneficial effect of dietary selenium for colorectal cancer and a modification effect of dietary calcium in a population characterized by lower levels of selenium intake. The results provide the basis for well-planned controlled trials to confirm the findings.