Serum Zinc Research Articles

Psoriasis vulgaris (PV) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder in which oxidative stress, redox imbalance, and genetic susceptibility play crucial roles. Glutathione peroxidase-3 (GPx-3), a selenium-dependent antioxidant enzyme, regulates redox homeostasis by detoxifying reactive oxygen species. Variants in the GPx-3 gene may alter antioxidant defense and trace element metabolism, thereby contributing to PV pathogenesis. This case-control study investigated the association between the GPx-3 +1494A/G polymorphism and serum trace element levels in PV. A total of 71 patients with PV and 71 age- and sex-matched healthy controls were genotyped using allele-specific polymerase chain reaction (AS-PCR) followed by agarose gel electrophoresis. Serum zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), and iron (Fe) concentrations were measured by atomic absorption spectrometry. Statistical analyses were performed using chi-square (χ²) and Mann-Whitney U tests. The AG genotype was significantly more prevalent in PV patients than in controls (88.7% vs. 50.6%, p = 0.002). Among AG carriers, PV patients exhibited higher Zn levels (p < 0.001), lower Fe concentrations (p = 0.037), and a reduced Cu/Zn ratio (p = 0.025). Additionally, the AG genotype was associated with increased body mass index (p = 0.049). This study demonstrates a significant association between the GPx-3 +1494A/G polymorphism and serum trace element levels in PV. The AG genotype was more prevalent among patients and accompanied by elevated Zn, reduced Fe and a lower Cu/Zn ratio, suggesting genotype-related alterations in trace element balance. These findings indicate that the +1494A/G variant may contribute to psoriasis susceptibility by modulating oxidative stress and redox homeostasis.

Background: Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains one of the deadliest cancers, largely due to late diagnosis and the lack of reliable non-invasive biomarkers. Altered trace element homeostasis has been implicated in tumor biology and systemic inflammation, but comprehensive metallomic profiling in PDAC is still limited. Methods: Using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), we quantified 20 serum and 15 urinary metals in 71 PDAC patients and 69 matched controls. Statistical analyses included univariate Wilcoxon testing, correlation with systemic inflammatory indices (NLR, MLR, SIRI, AISI, HGB/RDW, PCT), and multivariate chemometric modeling (PCA-LDA). K-means clustering was applied to identify patient subgroups with distinct biochemical signatures. Results: PDAC patients showed significantly elevated urinary antimony, chromium, cadmium, and vanadium, whereas controls exhibited higher serum selenium, zinc, barium, vanadium, and cobalt (all p &lt; 10−5). The PCA-LDA model achieved 99% classification accuracy (Monte Carlo cross-validation, 1000 iterations), highlighting complementary diagnostic contributions of serum and urinary profiles. Serum selenium was inversely associated with SIRI and NLR, while urinary cobalt correlated positively with NLR. Clustering revealed three PDAC subgroups with different inflammatory and metallomic patterns, suggesting underlying biological heterogeneity. Conclusions: PDAC is characterized by opposite serum-urine metal signatures, indicating altered absorption-excretion dynamics. Selenium depletion may represent a protective biomarker, whereas urinary cobalt excretion reflects systemic inflammation. This integrative ICP-MS–chemometric approach provides a promising diagnostic tool for improving early detection and patient stratification in clinical practice.

Background Zinc deficiency may contribute to cognitive decline through neuroinflammation and synaptic dysfunction; however, epidemiological evidence linking zinc deficiency to incident dementia remains limited. We investigated whether zinc deficiency is associated with an increased risk of new-onset dementia in a large healthcare population. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the TriNetX Research Network and analyzed adults aged ≥50 years who underwent serum zinc testing between January 2010 and December 2023. Patients were stratified by zinc levels: deficiency (&amp;lt;70 μg/ml) vs. normal (70–120 μg/ml). After excluding those with pre-existing cognitive impairment or conditions affecting zinc metabolism, we performed 1:1 propensity score matching based on demographics, comorbidities, medications, and laboratory parameters. The primary outcome was new-onset dementia within 3 years. Cognitive impairment was assessed as an additional outcome, whereas pneumonia was included as a positive control outcome to validate the study's analytic approach. Results After propensity score matching, 34,249 patients were included in each group. Zinc deficiency was associated with a 34% increased dementia risk (adjusted HR 1.34, 95% CI 1.17–1.53, p &amp;lt; 0.001) and 72% increased pneumonia risk (adjusted HR 1.72, 95% CI 1.63–1.81, p &amp;lt; 0.001). Cognitive impairment showed no significant association in the primary analysis (adjusted HR 1.08, 95% CI 0.92–1.28, p = 0.339) but became significant when the analysis was restricted to the pre-pandemic period (2010–2019, adjusted HR 1.38, 95% CI 1.11–1.72, p = 0.004). A clear dose-response relationship emerged when comparing both mild-to-moderate deficiency (50–70 μg/ml, adjusted HR 1.26, 95% CI 1.10–1.46) and severe deficiency (&amp;lt;50 μg/ml, adjusted HR 1.71, 95% CI 1.36–2.16) against normal zinc levels. Conclusion Zinc deficiency represents an independent, modifiable risk factor for new-onset dementia with a clear dose-response relationship. These findings support the consideration of zinc status assessment and optimization in dementia prevention strategies. Future randomized controlled trials are warranted to establish causality and determine optimal intervention protocols.

This paper aims to identify hypomineralization in patients with beta-thalassemia minor through an analysis of serum calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, copper, and zinc concentrations in a series of patient subpopulations. In the 50 subjects studied, mineral concentration differences between clusters were assessed by Welch's ANOVA with Games-Howell post hoc tests. K-means clustering and principal component analysis were performed to identify and visualize the biochemical profiles of mineral intercorrelations via Pearson correlation analysis. The results showed significant variations in mineral concentrations between clusters. Calcium levels averaged 8.31 mg/dL in the cohort, with deficiencies noted in Cluster 2, which had a mean of 7.7 mg/dL. Iron levels varied significantly: Cluster 0 indicated chronic iron overload with a mean of 304.0 µg/dL, while Cluster 2 exhibited lower levels with a mean of 96.8 µg/dL. Magnesium concentrations were generally normal; however, Cluster 3 showed mild deficiencies (mean: 2.23 mg/dL), suggesting susceptibility to oxidative stress. Increased phosphorus levels were observed (mean: 5.1 mg/dL), while copper concentrations were highest in Cluster 1 (mean: 164.2 µg/dL) and zinc levels were lowest in Cluster 3 (mean: 81.2 µg/dL), reinforcing the need for individualized supplementation programs. The Pearson correlation showed moderate positive correlations between calcium and magnesium (p &lt; 0.01) and between copper and zinc (p &lt; 0.05), indicating potential interrelationships among these essential minerals.

Zinc deficiency among preschool-age children is a significant global public health concern, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, with severe consequences for growth and development. However, research on zinc deficiency among preschoolers in Ethiopia, including the Sidama region, remains limited. To address this gap, we assessed the prevalence and factors associated with zinc deficiency among preschool-age children in rural Sidama. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from September 17 to October 3, 2024, involving 364 children aged 24–59 months. Study participants were selected via systematic random sampling. Serum zinc concentration was analyzed at the Ethiopian Public Health Institute’s nutrition laboratory, and anthropometric indices were computed using WHO Anthro 2007 Software. We collected the data using KoboCollect. Modified Poisson regression was employed to identify factors associated with zinc deficiency using Stata 17. Among the preschool-age children surveyed, 203 (55.77%) were male, with a mean age of 43.99 months (standard deviation [SD] = 12.14). The overall prevalence of zinc deficiency was 53.57% (95% confidence intervals [CI]: 48.41%–58.66%). Preschool-age children in households with five or more members had a 53% higher prevalence of zinc deficiency compared to those in smaller households (Adjusted Prevalence Ratio (APR) = 1.53, 95% CI: 1.24–1.90). The prevalence was 22% higher in children with unmet dietary diversity (APR = 1.22, 95% CI: 1.01–1.46) and 26% higher in anemic children (APR = 1.26, 95% CI: 1.04–1.51). The high prevalence of zinc deficiency among preschool-age children in rural Sidama highlights a critical public health concern. Contributing factors include larger family size, unmet dietary diversity, and anemia. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach. Interventions should focus on promoting zinc-rich foods through education and diet diversification, raising awareness about birth spacing to mitigate the impact of large family size, and implementing measures to prevent and manage anemia.

Background and objective: End-stage renal disease (ESRD), particularly in patients undergoing haemodialysis (HD), often results in altered serum mineral and electrolyte levels, which can lead to additional health complications. This study aims to assess serum zinc levels, electrolyte concentrations, and renal function markers in HD, providing a comprehensive analysis of these parameters for the first time in this population. Methods: This cross-sectional study, which included a comparison group, enrolled 65 ESRD patients undergoing regular HD at the Erbil Dialysis Centre and 65 healthy control subjects individuals from Erbil City. Information on dietary intake, medication use, and demographic factors was gathered through structured interviews, medical record reviews, and serum analysis, which measured kidney function biomarkers, serum zinc levels, and electrolyte levels. Results: Serum zinc levels were significantly lower, and potassium concentrations were notably higher in HD patients compared to the control group. Zinc depletion was more pronounced in HD patients with hypertension than in those without. These alterations showed a negative correlation with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) levels among HD patients, with hyperkalaemia being significantly associated with lower eGFR values. Conclusion: Monitoring serum zinc levels and electrolyte balance is crucial in HD patients, as zinc deficiency appears independently linked to hypertension. Addressing this deficiency may improve patient outcomes, through larger sample-size studies.

Abstract Background and Aims Based on the NHANES database, this study explored the correlation between serum zinc concentration and all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality in patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), aiming to provide data support for improving the prognosis of CKD patients. Method The participants in this study were 973 CKD patients from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES 2011-2016). The mortality status and cause of death of the study participants were obtained from the National Death Index (NDI). Participants were divided into four groups based on serum zinc concentrations (µmol/L) quartiles to compare the general clinical data of CKD patients at different serum zinc levels. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was employed to estimate the cumulative risk of all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality across varying zinc concentrations. A restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis combined with a multivariate-adjusted COX regression model was employed to assess the relationship between serum zinc levels and all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality in CKD patients. Results During the follow-up period, 191 deaths (20%) were recorded, with 68 (35%) attributed to cardiovascular disease. Comparisons across different zinc levels revealed that higher serum zinc concentrations were associated with lower cardiovascular mortality rates. As serum zinc levels increased, total cholesterol, hemoglobin, total protein, albumin, blood calcium, serum iron, and eGFR levels were higher, while the neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio and serum creatinine levels were lower. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that CKD patients with higher serum zinc concentrations had higher survival rates during the follow-up period. The cumulative survival rates for all-cause mortality across different quartiles of zinc concentration (Q1 to Q4) were 57.4%, 68.5%, 72.2%, and 81.8%, respectively (P &amp;lt; 0.05). After multivariable adjustment, COX regression model results indicated that the hazard ratios (HR) for cardiovascular death risk across different quartiles (Q1 to Q4) were 1 (reference), 0.25 (0.10, 0.64), 0.53 (0.26, 1.08), and 0.34 (0.16, 0.74), respectively (P-trend &amp;lt; 0.05). Conclusion Higher serum zinc concentration was independently associated with a decreased risk of all-cause and CVD mortality in patients with CKD. These findings suggest that serum zinc levels may be a modifiable risk factor for improving the prognosis of CKD patients, warranting further investigation in prospective studies.

Abstract Background Magnesium (Mg) and zinc (Zn) are essential trace elements involved in insulin signaling, glucose metabolism, and antioxidant defense. Their imbalance has been linked to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), yet data from Egyptian populations remain limited. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted at Kasr Al-Ainy Hospital including 43 patients with T2DM and 80 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Demographic, anthropometric, and biochemical parameters, including fasting blood glucose (FBG), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), lipid profile, serum magnesium, and zinc, were assessed. Statistical analyses evaluated between-group differences and correlations with clinical variables. Results Compared to controls, patients with T2DM had significantly higher BMI, FBG, HbA1c, total cholesterol, and triglyceride levels (all p &lt; 0.05). Mean serum magnesium (1.3 ± 0.1 vs. 2.6 ± 0.1 mg/dL) and zinc (48.0 ± 0.8 vs. 63.5 ± 0.6 µg/dL) concentrations were markedly lower in T2DM (both p &lt; 0.001). No significant correlations were found between trace elements and glycemic indices, lipid profile, age, BMI, or diabetes duration. Gender-based subgroup analysis showed no differences. Conclusion Serum magnesium and zinc are significantly reduced in Egyptian patients with T2DM, independent of demographic or clinical factors. Regular monitoring and potential supplementation may represent cost-effective strategies to improve metabolic control and reduce diabetes-related complications.

Aims: This study aimed to evaluate serum zinc concentrations in individuals diagnosed with FMF and to explore whether zinc status may influence the inflammatory episodes characteristic of the disease. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients with FMF, who were under the follow-up of our nephrology-rheumatology center between 2018 and 2025. Results: One hundred twelve FMF patients (M/F=52/60) with a mean age of 11.9±5.1 years were included in this study. 35 (31.3%) of the patients have compound heterozygous mutation and 77 (68.8%) have heterozygous mutation. There was no difference in mean of leucocyte count and zinc level between these mutation groups. The mean pre-treatment sedimentation was signifanctly higher in patients with frequent attacks (p=0.021). However there was no difference between the attack frequency groups in mean of gender age, both of pre and post-treatment CRP, zinc, leucocyte count and post- treatment sedimentation.(p&gt;0.05). There was a positive correlation between mean zinc and mean leucocyte, CRP levels (p=0.019, r=0.334 and p=0.016,r=0.344 respectiely), but not with sedimentation. Conclusion: Notably, in our current study, while zinc level correlate with inflammatory markers, serum zinc levels demonstrated a significant relationship with them.

Preeclampsia is a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy associated with significant maternal and perinatal morbidity. Emerging evidence suggests that deficiencies in micronutrients such as magnesium and zinc may contribute to its pathogenesis. This study aimed to compare serum magnesium and zinc levels between pregnant women with preeclampsia and healthy controls and to evaluate their association with preeclampsia risk. In this case-control study conducted at Fatemieh Hospital, Hamadan, Iran (2023-2024), 89 pregnant women diagnosed with preeclampsia and 81 matched healthy pregnant controls were enrolled. Serum magnesium and zinc concentrations were measured using commercial kits and biochemical analyzers. Comprehensive demographic, obstetric, and laboratory data were gathered, and statistical analyses were performed using independent t-tests and multivariate logistic regression. Serum magnesium (1.08 ± 0.23 mg/dL vs. 1.21 ± 0.32 mg/dL, p < 0.001) and zinc levels (68.5 ± 7.8 µg/dL vs. 91.5 ± 10.9 µg/dL, p < 0.001) were significantly lower in the preeclampsia group compared to controls. Multivariate analysis indicated that each unit increase in serum magnesium and zinc was associated with decreased odds of preeclampsia (OR = 0.024; 95% CI: 0.002-0.277 and OR = 0.720; 95% CI: 0.625-0.829, respectively). Blood group and proteinuria also independently predicted preeclampsia risk. No significant correlations were found between micronutrient levels and demographic or other laboratory variables (p > 0.05). The findings suggest that lower maternal serum magnesium and zinc concentrations are significantly associated with increased risk of preeclampsia. Routine monitoring and appropriate supplementation of these micronutrients during pregnancy may help identify at-risk women and reduce adverse outcomes.

The global prevalence of insulin resistance is increasing and it plays a significant role in the pathophysiology of chronic non-communicable diseases. Lipid metabolism disorder is a key mediator of insulin resistance. This cross-sectional study investigated the possible association between serum zinc (SZn) concentration and distinct surrogates of insulin resistance (IR). SZn were measured using flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS) in 3078 adults (mean age of 48.8 ± 14.5, and 39.8% were male) participated in the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (2009–2011). The associations between SZn concentrations and surrogates of IR including homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index, the TyG-body mass index (TyG-BMI index), the metabolic score for insulin resistance (METS-IR), and the triglyceride-to-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (TG-to-HDL-C ratio), were assessed using multivariable logistic regression analysis. The mean serum zinc concentration was 112 ± 37.1 µg/dL. Serum zinc concentrations exceeding 119 µg/dL were significantly associated with a 32% increased probability of IR, identified by elevated TyG index (OR = 1.32; 95% CI = 1.08–1.59). Similarly, SZn concentrations greater than 91.3 µg/dL and 119 µg/dL were associated with a 30% and 34% increased probability of IR, as identified by the TG-HDL-C ratio, respectively. Our study revealed that elevated SZn concentrations, probably due to exposure to environmental pollutants, may be associated with increased probability of IR, identified by the high TyG index and TG-to-HDL-C ratio.

Background: A cataract is a clouding of the normally clear lens that obscures the passage of light, effectively reducing clarity and sharpness of vision. Although this disease can affect both children and adults, the most common type is the age-related cataract (ARC). The literature describes many potential agents associated with cataract development. However, this study focuses on modifiable factors, especially nutritional ones and those that may induce oxidative stress. The objective of the present study was to assess serum selenium (Se), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) concentrations, as well as the copper/zinc molar ratio (Cu/Zn molar ratio), total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), and oxidative stress index (OSI), of patients with ARC in relation to their dietary habits. Methods: A total of 68 patients with ARC and 64 healthy volunteers, with ages ranging from 48 to 92 years, were included in this study. The experimental material collected from the participants consisted of blood samples, which were tested for Se, Cu, and Zn concentrations using atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). Oxidative stress (OS) parameters, such as TAS and TOS, were estimated spectrophotometrically. In addition, a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was used to collect information on the dietary habits of ARC patients. Results: Statistical analysis of the data revealed that the concentrations of Se, Cu, and Zn in serum were significantly lower in ARC patients compared to the controls. In the ARC group, some elements of dietary behavior had a significant effect on the levels of the examined elements and OS parameters. Conclusions: Thus, eventual alterations to one’s diet appear to be worth considering in the context of maintaining homeostasis and adequate mineral levels in ARC patients.

&amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Introduction&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;: During HIV infection, the virus and antiretroviral (ARV) treatment generate oxidative stress. The aim of this study is to determine the level of oxidative stress based on changes in CD4+ T-cell counts and the age of people living with HIV in Côte d&amp;apos;Ivoire using the copper/zinc (Cu/Zn) ratio. &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Methodology&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;: 254 people (127 HIV-infected individuals on ARV and 127 controls) were recruited for this study. CD4 counts were performed by flow cytometry (FacsCalibur). The COBAS Integra 400 Plus was used to measure biochemical parameters. Serum copper and zinc levels were determined by air/acetylene flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry (Varian AA20 Pattern®, France). The Cu/Zn ratio was obtained by dividing the copper concentration by the zinc concentration.&amp;lt;i&amp;gt; Results&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;: Among HIV+ patients, the average age was 32 ± 0.50 years, with Cu/Zn ratios greater than 2 in 31.4% of females and 80.7% of males. A positive correlation (r = 0.190; p = 0.032) was found between the Cu/Zn ratio and age. For CD4+ counts below 200 cells/mm&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;3&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt;, high Cu/Zn ratios were observed in females (1.75 ± 0.49) and males (1.91 ± 0.19). &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Conclusion&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;: High levels of oxidative stress associated with progression of the inflammatory process with age were observed in patients undergoing antiretroviral therapy, particularly those with CD4+ T-cell counts &amp;lt; 200 cells/mm&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;3&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt;. It would be interesting to consider the Cu/Zn ratio, oxidative stress levels, age and CD4+ T lymphocyte counts when treating people living with HIV in Côte d&amp;apos;Ivoire. However, this study should be supplemented by an assessment of the Cu/Zn ratio in relation to the different types of ARVs prescribed to patients.

Two cases of long-term zinc acetate hydrate administration in patients with a zinc deficiency taste disorder with copper deficiency after upper gastrointestinal resection.

BackgroundIntracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) accounts for 10–20% of all strokes but contributes disproportionately to stroke-related mortality and disability. Zinc, an essential trace element crucial for vascular integrity and antioxidant defense, may influence cerebrovascular health through mechanisms affecting endothelial function and blood–brain barrier stability. However, no large-scale longitudinal study has examined the association between zinc deficiency and ICH risk.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective cohort study using the TriNetX Research Network database, including adults who underwent serum zinc testing between 2010 and 2023. Patients were categorized into zinc deficiency (serum zinc <70 μg/dL) and control groups (70–120 μg/dL). After applying exclusion criteria and 1:1 propensity score matching based on demographics, comorbidities, medications, and laboratory values, we analyzed the association between zinc deficiency and 12-month outcomes, including ICH, mortality, pneumonia, poor blood pressure control, and major adverse cardiac events (MACEs), using Cox proportional hazards regression.ResultsThe final matched cohort included 147,302 patients (73,651 per group). Zinc-deficient patients demonstrated a significantly elevated risk of ICH [hazard ratio (HR): 1.75, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.35–2.25, p < 0.001], all-cause mortality (HR: 1.90, 95% CI: 1.77–2.03, p < 0.001), pneumonia (HR: 1.50, 95% CI: 1.40–1.60, p < 0.001), poor blood pressure control (HR: 1.26, 95% CI: 1.20–1.32, p < 0.001), and MACEs (HR: 1.12, 95% CI: 1.07–1.18, p < 0.001). A clear dose–response relationship was observed, with severe zinc deficiency (<50 μg/dL) conferring a greater ICH risk (HR: 2.44, 95% CI: 1.50–3.95, p < 0.001). The ICH association remained consistent across patient subgroups, with no significant effect modification. Multivariate analysis confirmed zinc deficiency as an independent ICH predictor (adjusted HR: 1.87, 95% CI: 1.53–2.29, p < 0.001).ConclusionZinc deficiency is a novel, independent, and potentially modifiable risk factor for ICH. The dose-dependent relationship and consistency across patient populations supports biological plausibility. These findings suggest that routine zinc assessment and targeted supplementation in deficient patients may offer new opportunities for ICH prevention, warranting prospective intervention trials to establish causality and optimal therapeutic strategies.

Objective: to determine the impact of serum zinc and selenium levels on the etiology and risk of febrile seizures in children. Methods: From August 2024 to June 2025, a case control study was carried out at al-Azhar University Hospital for 80 children with complex febrile seizures (CFS) and 40 healthy children to evaluate the impact of serum zinc and selenium on the etiopathogenesis of children with febrile seizures. Results: According to serum selenium levels, there was no discernible difference between CFS patients and healthy controls (P=0.214). However, CFS patients had a considerably lower serum zinc level (92.18 ± 15.47) than healthy controls (134.93 ± 17.06) (P&lt;0.001). At AUC 0.580 (P=0.156), the sensitivity was 91.9%, with a cutoff threshold of serum selenium levels of &gt;49.9. Additionally, the sensitivity was 96%, specifically 89.8% at AUC 0.974 (P&lt;0.001), and the cutoff value for serum zinc levels was &gt;91.1. Conclusion: Because zinc lowers oxidative stress and raises the seizure threshold, it may be a major factor in preventing febrile seizures. Supplementing with zinc may help shield kids from the negative consequences of febrile seizures and enhance the overall effectiveness of treatment.

BackgroundChronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Although nutritional deficiencies are increasingly recognized as modifiable factors in COPD progression, the relationship between zinc status and clinical outcomes remains poorly understood. This study examined the association between zinc deficiency and clinical outcomes in patients with COPD.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective cohort study using the TriNetX Research Network to analyze patients aged ≥18 years with established COPD, who underwent zinc testing between January 2010 and June 2023. Patients were categorized into zinc deficiency (serum zinc <70 μg/dL) and control groups (70–120 μg/dL). Using 1:1 propensity score matching, we created balanced cohorts controlling for demographics, comorbidities, and medications. The primary outcome was 6-month mortality, whereas secondary outcomes included COPD exacerbations, pneumonia, intensive care unit (ICU) admissions, hospital admissions, and hyperglycemic episodes. We also analyzed the impact of severe zinc deficiency (<50 μg/dL) and high zinc levels (>120 μg/dL) on prognosis.ResultsAfter matching, 3,525 patients were included in each group. Zinc deficiency was associated with a significantly increased 6-month mortality risk (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.94, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.49–2.52, p < 0.001). The secondary outcomes demonstrated consistent patterns of increased morbidity, including higher risks of pneumonia (HR 1.24; p = 0.031), hyperglycemia (HR 1.28; p < 0.001), ICU admission (HR 1.61; p < 0.001), and hospital admission (HR 1.28; p < 0.001), with no significant difference in the risk of COPD exacerbations. Severe zinc deficiency exhibited dose-dependent effects, with markedly elevated risks across all outcomes. Interestingly, high zinc levels were also associated with increased mortality (HR, 1.74; p = 0.005), suggesting a U-shaped relationship between zinc status and mortality risk.ConclusionZinc deficiency represents a significant and independent risk factor for mortality and morbidity in patients with COPD, with evidence of dose-dependent effects and a U-shaped risk relationship. These findings suggest that assessing and optimizing zinc status may represent an important yet under-recognized component of comprehensive COPD management strategies.

Abstract Grazing cattle usually has deficiencies in trace minerals leading to productive and reproductive problems. Therefore, the objective of this research was to evaluate a liquid trace mineral supplement for grazing cows. A previous mineral study of soil, water, forages and cows from a farm in the semi-arid region of México demonstrated copper and zinc deficiencies, and manganese excess. An oral drench (G1) that included copper, iodine, cobalt, zinc and selenium was formulated. It provided, at least, requirements of given minerals for four days. This drench was compared to injectable Multimin® 90 (G2) in an estrus synchronization protocol of fifty multiparous grazing cows. The protocol lasted nine days: on day one, the CIDR® device was placed and estradiol cypionate (2 mg) was injected. On day 7, CIDR® was withdrawn, and cows were injected with 400 IU ECG, sodium colprostenol (0.5 mg) and estradiol cypionate (1 mg). Forty-eight hours after the removal of the CIDR®, fixed-time insemination was done. G1 was given on day one and seven of the protocol, while G2 was applied 30 days before the protocol. Variables measured were mineral concentrations of copper, zinc and selenium in blood serum at days one and nine of synchronization protocol. Gestation was determined with an ultrasound Siui CTS-800® at day 35. Blood samples were centrifuged at 2500 rpm for 10 minutes to extract blood serum, which was frozen until mineral analysis. The mineral determinations were made using an atomic absorption spectrophotometry technique (PerkinElmer A700). The mineral concentrations were analyzed with the GLM and mixed procedures with 2x2 factorial arrangement (types of mineral supplements and protocol days). The mineral trajectories were determined by proc sgplot, and pregnancy rate was analyzed using the bootstrapping technique. Concentrations of copper, zinc, and selenium in cows blood serum were not affected by the supplements (p&amp;gt;0.05). However, blood serum copper and zinc concentrations were lower (p&amp;lt; 0.01) and also deficient at day 9 of the protocol vs day one. Supplemente x day interaction caused higher (p&amp;lt; 0.01) concentrations in cows receiving oral drench at day 9 in comparison with all treatments. The oral drench caused a smaller decrease (p&amp;lt; 0.05) in copper concentrations and a greater increase (p&amp;lt; 0.05) in selenium concentrations over time, compared to cows that received G2; while zinc was not affected (p &amp;gt;0.05). The best response to oral drench was probably due to closeness to the synchronization protocol and a better status was achieved for copper and selenium. Cows that received oral drench were superior in gestation rate (p=0.001) than cows injected with G2: 68 vs 40 %. Strategic supplementation with a liquid product of trace minerals, coupled to an estrus synchronization program, proved to be effective to improve pregnancy rate in beef cows.

It is quite common for patients diagnosed with chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) to have abnormal sperm parameters. Studies have shown that zinc ameliorates male sperm parameters and ameliorates prostatitis. This study aims to investigate the effect of zinc on ameliorating ventral prostatitis in a rat model with experimental autoimmune prostatitis (EAP) by inhibiting the IKKβ/IκBα/NF-κB pathway mediated by inflammatory factors. It also aims to demonstrate that zinc treatment can attenuate a range of abnormal sperm parameters induced by experimental autoimmune prostatitis. Sixteen rats were used to obtain the prostate antigen, and three groups of eight were used as experimental groups. The control group (NC group), the model group (EAP group), and the model + zinc group (EAPZ group). Following the official start of the experiment, the EAP was induced by multipoint intradermal immunization using a mixture containing 30 mg/ml prostate antigen and complete freund's adjuvant (CFA) on days 0 and 28 in the EAP and EAPZ groups, respectively. In contrast, the rats in the NC group were immunized with an equal volume mixture of normal saline and CFA at the same site and at the same time. After the model matured on day 42, rats in the EAPZ group received zinc gavage treatment (10 mg/kg/day) for 4 weeks. Rats in both the NC and EAP groups were given the same amount of normal saline by gavage. All rats were killed at 22 weeks of age. Prostate, epididymis, and serum were extracted from rats for further experiments. The study revealed that rats in the EAP group exhibited elevated levels of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in the ventral prostate lobe and higher expression levels of acid phosphatase (ACP) in serum. The total sperm count, viability, motility, and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) decreased significantly. Furthermore, serum zinc levels and ventral prostate zinc levels were reduced. Free zinc was also reduced in the ventral prostate and sperm of rats. The ventral prostate lobe tissues from EAP rats showed decreased protein expression of ZNT4, ZNT9, ZIP1, ZIP8, and ZIP14, while protein expression levels of IKKβ, IκBα, p-IκBα, p-NF-κB were increased. The overall data demonstrated damage to ventral prostate tissue, imbalance of zinc homeostasis, activation of inflammatory pathways, and impairment of sperm parameters in EAP rats. In the EAPZ group, there was a reduction in the expression levels of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. Conversely, sperm parameters and mitochondrial membrane potential exhibited an increase, while serum zinc and ventral prostate zinc levels demonstrated a rise. Additionally, the expression levels of the aforementioned zinc transporter and pathway proteins were restored. The above phenomena indicating that zinc supplementation could restore the balance of zinc homeostasis in the EAP rats, thereby reducing inflammation and damage to sperm parameters.

Abstract Background The progression of monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) to multiple myeloma (MM) largely depends on the alteration of the bone marrow microenvironment. However, cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival within the bone marrow microenvironment depend on the availability of essential trace metals. Recent studies have shown that trace metal levels in hematologic malignancy patients are associated with the severity of the tumor. This study aims to determine copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and Selenium (Se) concentrations, as well as the Cu/Zn ratio in MM and MGUS patients. Methods Serum samples from 491 patients with MM that were newly diagnosed, undergoing treatment, or with a history thereof, a history of MGUS, or an abnormal kappa/lambda ratio and 357 control patients with normal serum protein electrophoresis patterns, no history of M protein, and a normal kappa/lambda ratio were included in the study. The serum Zn, Cu, and Se levels were determined using a triple quadrupole inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (Agilent 8900 ICP-QQQ), while kappa and lambda light chain concentrations were measured using turbidimetry (Optilite, ThermoFisher). Unpaired t-tests and one-way ANOVA tests were performed. Results The average age of 491 patients with MM (410) and MGUS (81) is 69 ± 10 years, while the average age of the control group (357 subjects) is 61 ± 16 years. Zinc levels were lower in MM patients versus Control (86.86±23.35 µg/dL vs. 96.58± 23.37µg/dL, p&amp;lt;.001), as well as those with a history of MGUS (86.86±23.35 µg/dL vs. 96.43±25.34 µg/dL, p=0.003). Conversely, the Zn level was not significantly different between MGUS and the control group (P&amp;gt;0.05). The Se level was markedly lower in MM vs controls only (128.78±35.9µg/L vs. 139.82±34.3µg/L, p&amp;lt;.001). Despite the critical role of Cu in metabolic functions, it was not significantly different among the groups (P&amp;gt;0.05). However, Cu/Zn ratio was higher in MM versus control and MGUS groups (MM vs. Control: 1.35±0.52 vs. 1.20±.36, p&amp;lt;.001; MM vs. MGUS: 1.35±0.52 vs. 1.16±0.31, p=0.001). Conclusion The Zn and Se concentrations and Cu/Zn ratio in MM vs. controls, as well as the Zn concentration and Cu/Zn ratio in MGUS vs. controls, suggest these trace metals may play a critical role in the pathophysiology of MM. This might help understand the role of trace metals in the progression of MGUS to MM, treatment options, and patient prognosis, as well as guide future therapies.