Effect of zinc on immune functions and host resistance against infection and tumor challenge

K P Singh1, S I Zaidi, S Raisuddin

  • 1Preventive Toxicology Division, Industrial Toxicology Research Centre, Lucknow, India.

The effect of zinc treatment on immune function and resistance against infection and tumor challenge was studied in mice. Swiss albino mice were treated with zinc acetate (3 mg/kg body weight) in one or two intraperitoneal injections. Various immune function assays were performed in treated animals. Zinc treatment to normal animals caused potentiation of T-lymphocyte and macrophage functions. Zinc treatment was also found to increase host resistance against Candida albicans and Semliki Forest virus infections. Increased resistance against endotoxin shock and Ehrlich's ascites tumor challenge was also observed in zinc treated animals. It can be stated from this study that zinc treatment potentiates the cell mediated immunity and host resistance against infection and tumor challenge.

Related Concept Videos

Factors Affecting the Risk of Infection01:26

Factors Affecting the Risk of Infection

The hosts' susceptibility to infection depends on several factors. The integrity of the skin and mucous membranes helps protect the body against microbial attacks. When the skin is altered, the chance of infection, limb loss, and even death increases.
The integrity and count of the white blood cells help the body resist pathogens and fight infection. When impaired, it reduces the body's resistance to pathogens. The acidic pH levels of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary tracts, and skin create...