Medical Researches
Possibly Effective
Based on 6 Researches
Zinc supplementation benefits MS modelsDietary zinc status is associated with ZnT3 (SLC30A3), IL-6 gene expressions and spinal cord tissue damage in spinal cord tissue in a cuprizone-induced rat Multiple Sclerosis model.
Study highlights zinc's impact
We explored how dietary zinc levels influence spinal cord damage and gene expressions associated with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) using a cuprizone-induced rat model. The study included 46 adult male Wistar rats divided into five groups, with some receiving zinc supplementation while others followed a zinc-deficient diet.
After eight weeks of treatment, we found that the rats with MS symptoms showed elevated markers of tissue damage and inflammation, particularly in the groups that lacked zinc. Notably, those receiving zinc supplementation exhibited significantly reduced levels of harmful substances, bringing them back closer to control levels.
Our findings highlight zinc's protective effects in a model of MS, suggesting that incorporating zinc into treatment plans could help alleviate some symptoms associated with this autoimmune disorder. This is promising for future treatment strategies for those affected by MS.
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Zinc intake benefits RA bone healthThe association between dietary zinc intake and osteopenia, osteoporosis in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
Directly addresses autoimmune relationships
We aimed to understand how dietary zinc intake influences the risk of developing osteopenia and osteoporosis in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Our study relied on data collected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, spanning several years. Through careful analysis using univariate and multivariate logistic regression models, we were able to uncover significant associations between dietary zinc levels and bone health in this population.
What we found was encouraging: higher zinc intake appeared to lower the chances of these serious bone conditions among RA patients. Our research also went further by examining various factors such as age, body mass index (BMI), and pre-existing health issues like diabetes and hypertension. This comprehensive approach led us to conclude that adequate dietary zinc is crucial for maintaining bone health in individuals with RA, though we noted the need for more extensive long-term studies to corroborate these findings and delve deeper into the underlying mechanisms at play.
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We identified an important link between zinc transport and autoimmune disorders, specifically focusing on the protein SLC39A10 and its role in T cells. Through our study, we discovered that two specific genetic variations in the SLC39A10 gene are associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). To further explore this connection, we created genetically modified mice with a targeted deletion of the Slc39a10 gene in T cells.
Our findings revealed that the loss of SLC39A10 significantly protects against the progression of both IBD and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Notably, we also observed that the absence of this transporter led to increased cell death, independent of common pathways usually associated with apoptosis. This indicates that SLC39A10 plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of T cells by facilitating zinc import, which is essential for DNA replication when T cells are activated.
Our research contributes to a deeper understanding of how zinc homeostasis impacts immune function. The insights gained from this study suggest that targeting zinc transport could present new therapeutic options for managing T cell-related autoimmune diseases.
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Zinc's role in alopecia areataAssociation Between Serum Trace Elements Level and Alopecia Areata: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
High relevance to zinc effects
We analyzed how zinc levels in the body relate to alopecia areata (AA), an autoimmune disorder that affects hair loss. Our research involved a systematic review of 34 studies, gathering data from nearly 5,000 participants across 16 countries. By examining various studies, we sought to understand if zinc supplementation could be beneficial for those suffering from AA.
The results were striking. We found that individuals with alopecia areata had significantly lower levels of zinc and vitamin D compared to healthy individuals. Specifically, the data indicated that those with vitamin D deficiency faced a heightened risk of developing AA. This suggests that replenishing these nutrients might help manage the disease.
Importantly, we didn't find a significant difference in copper levels between AA patients and healthy controls, indicating that not all trace elements play the same role in this condition. Overall, our findings highlight the potential of zinc and vitamin D as targeted treatments for alopecia areata, offering new hope for those affected by this condition.
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We aimed to explore how zinc supplementation might influence immune responses, particularly focusing on neutrophil activity in the context of autoimmune diseases. To do this, we simulated inflammatory conditions typically seen in such disorders using specific cytokines, interleukin-17 (IL-17) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α.
Our findings indicated that elevating zinc levels significantly reduced the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), which are often implicated in tissue damage during autoimmune flare-ups. We also discovered that zinc supplementation lowered the expression of a protein called peptidyl arginine deiminase 4 (PAD4), which is associated with NET formation.
Interestingly, zinc not only decreased harmful neutrophil activity but also boosted the production of beneficial proteins like interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA) and IL-8 in the activated cells. Overall, maintaining adequate zinc levels seems crucial for preserving healthy immune function and preventing the harmful overactivity of neutrophils, suggesting its potential as an adjunct treatment in managing autoimmune conditions.
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User Reviews
I always keep zinc in my first aid kit and ordered this for my sister on her dermatologist's recommendation. After two weeks of taking it, her wounds healed better, and her overall health improved, including reduced hair loss.
My husband had a taste disorder due to coronavirus, and since I've been taking this zinc, my recovery seems rapid.
I read that zinc is important for hair, so I ordered this product. After five days of taking it, my dandruff disappeared, my hair became less oily, and my skin improved with no new rashes. My immune system also feels better.
Zinc plays a key role in cell division, healing, and metabolic processes. I've noticed less hair loss while taking it, especially crucial during the coronavirus period.
My hair was falling out, and after my doctor prescribed zinc, I ordered it from iHerb. The 100 tablets lasted a long time, and my problem improved significantly.