Clinical implications of trace elements in endocrinology

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Nutritional Science
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Essential trace elements play vital roles in numerous physiological processes.
• Endocrinological functions, including thyroid, growth, and metabolic regulation, are particularly sensitive to trace element status.
• Deficiencies in trace elements can lead to significant biochemical and clinical disturbances.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the implications of essential trace elements in various endocrinological processes.
• To highlight key trace elements involved in endocrine function and their modulatory roles.
• To explore the therapeutic potential of trace elements beyond correcting nutritional deficiencies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on trace elements and endocrinology.
• Analysis of the physiological impact of elements such as iodine, zinc, selenium, copper, chromium, manganese, and vanadium.
• Examination of clinical and biochemical modifications associated with trace element status.

Main Results:

• Trace elements significantly influence thyroid function, growth, gonadal and adrenal hormone production, prolactin levels, glucose homeostasis, calcium-phosphorus metabolism, and thymulin activity.
• Iodine, zinc, selenium, copper, chromium, manganese, and vanadium are identified as key elements in these processes.
• Adequate supplementation can prevent or correct deficiency-related issues.
• Some trace elements exhibit pharmacological effects, offering therapeutic benefits independent of deficiency correction.

Conclusions:

• Essential trace elements are critical modulators of endocrine and metabolic functions.
• Supplementation is effective for correcting deficiencies and can have therapeutic applications.
• Further research is warranted to fully elucidate the therapeutic potential of certain trace elements.