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Zinc homeostasis in humans
J C King1, D M Shames, L R Woodhouse
1USDA/ARS Western Human Nutrition Research Center, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
The Journal of Nutrition
|May 10, 2000
Summary
Maintaining cellular zinc homeostasis is vital for health. The body primarily uses intestinal zinc absorption and excretion, with secondary adjustments like urinary excretion and tissue zinc retention occurring during low intake.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Nutritional Science
- Homeostasis
Background:
- Cellular zinc nutrition, or homeostasis, is critical for normal physiological function.
- In animals and humans, maintaining zinc homeostasis relies on regulating zinc absorption and endogenous intestinal excretion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the mechanisms by which the body maintains zinc homeostasis.
- To understand the interplay between gastrointestinal and secondary homeostatic adjustments.
Main Methods:
- The study reviews existing literature on zinc metabolism and homeostasis.
- It analyzes the roles of intestinal absorption, endogenous excretion, and secondary regulatory pathways.
Main Results:
- Gastrointestinal adjustments in zinc absorption and endogenous excretion are synergistic in maintaining homeostasis.
- Endogenous excretion responds rapidly to changes in zinc intake, while absorption adapts more slowly but handles larger fluctuations.
- Secondary mechanisms, including urinary excretion and tissue zinc redistribution, support homeostasis during prolonged or severe zinc deficiency.
Conclusions:
- The body employs a sophisticated, multi-tiered system to maintain zinc homeostasis.
- Gastrointestinal mechanisms are primary, with secondary adjustments providing crucial support under challenging intake conditions.